Thursday, Sept. 18
Mass of Healing and Hope: A Mass of healing and hope will be offered at 7 p.m. at Holy Angels Church, 8 Atkinson Depot Road, Plaistow, N.H. Celebrant will be Reverend Father Michael Monette. Participants will be anointed with Holy Oil after the Mass. Prayer Teams will be available for prayers after the Mass. All are welcome.
Nature Tots: Terrific Tidepools: Introduce your preschooler to the wonderful world of tidepools from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Parker river national wildlife refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. This program is designed for ages 3 to 5. Parental supervision and sturdy shoes are required. Shorts or pants that can be rolled up and shoes that can get wet are recommended. Participants should meet at the first parking lot at Sandy Point State Reservation at the southern end of Plum Island. This program is free. Advanced registration is required. For more information or to register, call 978-465-5753. Registration is not complete until you have received confirmation from a staff member.
Friday, Sept. 19
Greek wine tasting: The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church will host a Greek wine tasting and silent auction from 7 to 10 p.m. at 7 Harris St., Newburyport. There will be a variety of Greek wines to sample as well as Greek appetizers. The silent auction will feature about 50 items, including paintings, gift certificates and services. Tickets are $35 ahead of time or $40 at the door. Senior price is $25. For more information or tickets, call 978-465-5757.
Fall bulb and perennial sale: The Middlesex Conservation District has its annual fall sale from 3 to 6 p.m. at the 4H Fairgrounds in Westford. Offerings include daffodils, tulips, specialty bulbs, perennials and various hard goods.Items are sold on a first-come first-serve basis. Visit www.middlesexconservation.org or call 978-692-9395.
World music: KAL will perform at 8 p.m. at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville. A seven-piece band from Belgrade brings Romani (Gypsy) musical traditions from Bosnia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Macedonia and Serbia into the 21st century. Balkan blues, flamenco guitar, Middle Eastern rhythms and Turkish clarinets are all part of the disparate sounds of KAL. Tickets are $28. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 617-876-4275 or visit www.WorldMusic.org.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Indoor yard sale: Volunteers from The Birchtree Center, Seacoast United and Liberty Mutual Group will host a giant indoor yard sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Seacoast United Indoor Arena, 311 Winnacunnet Road, Hampton, N.H. Proceeds will benefit educational programs at Seacoast United and The Birchtree Center. Sales are by cash only. Parking is available on site and admission is free. For more information, call 603-294-4452 or visit www.seacoastunited.org.
Open auditions: Open auditions will be held for "The Phantom Tollbooth" by Norton Juster from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Firehouse Center for the Arts, Market Square, Newburyport. Most roles are open for adults, young adults and children ages 8 and up. Interested parties are asked to come prepared to read from the script, bring a head shot or recent photograph, and resume if available. Please bring your measurements for costuming purposes. For more information, email bonnielake@comcast.net.
Ham and bean supper: A ham and bean supper will be held from 5 to 6:45 p.m. at the Kensington Congregational Church on Route 150 in the center of Kensington, N.H. Menu includes two kinds of home cooked beans, best quality ham, old fashioned brown bread, rolls, potato salad, cole slaw, home cooked pies and coffee or milk. Cost is $6 adults, $2.50 children, and includes all you can eat. For more information, call 603-772-5821.
Bean supper: Holy Family Parish of Amesbury will serve a bean supper from 4 to 6 p.m. in the main hall off Spark Street. Supper includes navy and kidney beans, hot dogs, ham, potato salad, cole slaw, homemade relish, bread, drink and dessert. Cost is $6 for adults, $4 children 12 and under. For more information, call 978-388-1654.
Fall bulb and perennial sale: The Middlesex Conservation District will be holding its annual fall sale from 8 a.m. to noon at the 4H Fairgrounds in Westford. Offerings include daffodils, tulips, specialty bulbs, perennials and various hard goods. Items are sold on a first-come first-serve basis. Visit www.middlesexconservation.org or call 978-692-9395.
Creative nature journaling workshop: Join local artist Paula Kulas and learn how to keep a creative nature journal in this terrific hands-on workshop from 9 a.m. to noon at parker river national wildlife refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. She will share tips and techniques on turning your nature experience into lasting treasured memories through art and writing. Time will be taken to explore the Refuge. No artistic or creative experience necessary. This program is for ages 16 and up. Cost is $15 per person. Part of the proceeds will benefit the Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. For more information, call 978-465-5753.
World music: Al-kindi and the Whirling Dervishes of Damascus will perform at 8:30 p.m. at the Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., Cambridge. The Al-kindi ensemble is devoted to the classical musical traditions of the Near and Middle East. Showcasing the Sufi repertoire from Damascus's Great Mosque of Omeyyad these master musicians from Syria, Egypt and France create an inspiring blend of sacred and earthly music. Tickets are $28, $32 or $40 depending on location of seating. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 617-876-4275 or visit www.WorldMusic.org.
Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Jack and the Beanstalk" by Spring Valley Puppets will be performed at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Puppet Plave Theater, 32 Station St., Brookline. When Jack trades the family cow for a few magic beans that grow into a beanstalk overnight, he climbs it to find adventure and fortune. Along the way he meets a feisty and funny chicken, the magic singing harp and one real rat of a giant. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Prepaid reservations are recommended. Tickets are $10 per person or $8 for members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 671-731-6400.
Sunday, Sept. 21
Open auditions: Open auditions will be held for "The Phantom Tollbooth" by Norton Juster from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Firehouse Center for the Arts, Market Square, Newburyport. Most roles are open for adults, young adults and children ages 8 and up. Interested parties are asked to come prepared to read from the script, bring a head shot or recent photograph, and resume if available. Please bring your measurements for costuming purposes. For more information, email bonnielake@comcast.net.
Model Railroading Show: Worcester Model Railroaders has an open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Steven Linen Building, 137 Schofield Ave., Dudley. Visitors will be able to observe club members operating steam and diesel trains as well as operate a train. Admission is $2 per person. Children under 12 admitted free. For information, call Ralph A. Kimball Jr. at 508-755-1873.
Sunday morning with the birds: Join Refuge volunteer Sue McGrath on a guided bird walk exploring the Refuge's varied habitats from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at parker river national wildlife refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. Interpretive materials are provided. All skill levels are welcome including children age 8 and older accompanied by an adult. Participants should meet at Refuge Parking Lot No. 4 and wear sturdy walking shoes. Registration is required. To register, call 978-465-5753.
Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Jack and the Beanstalk" by Spring Valley Puppets will be performed at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Puppet Plave Theater, 32 Station St., Brookline. When Jack trades the family cow for a few magic beans that grow into a beanstalk overnight, he climbs it to find adventure and fortune. Along the way he meets a feisty and funny chicken, the magic singing harp and one real rat of a giant. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Prepaid reservations are recommended. Tickets are $10 per person or $8 for members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 671-731-6400.
WEDNESday, Sept. 24
MRFRS Annual Meeting: The Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society welcomes Oprah show regular and author Cheryl Richardson, who will share her story of how adopting a MRFRS cat changed her life. Tickets are $50 per person; $35 for society volunteers. Includes buffet dinner and cash bar. Tickets for a privarte reception with Richardson are $100. Meeting is from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Phoenix Room of Newburyport, 19 Inn St.
Rogers Center film series: "A Night at the Opera" will be shown at 7 p.m. at the Rogers Center for the Performing Arts, 315 Turnpike St., North Andover, at Merrimack College. The Marx brothers considered this their best film and the "stateroom sequence" is possibly the funniest five minutes in screen history. The boys have a great time poking fun at grand opera and at wealthy dowager Mrs. Claypool, played by Margaret Dumont, in particular. This screenings is free of charge and includes a commentary half an hour before screening. This film series is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. For more information, call 978-837-5355 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Sir George and the Dragon" by Pumpernickel Puppets will be performed at 10:30 a.m. at Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Join an adventurous princess as she journeys to Mystery Mountain to visit the Great Green Dragon. Along the way, the audience is introduced to several quirky characters. This show is recommended for ages 3 and up. Prepaid reservations are recommended for all events. Tickets are $10 per person or $8 for members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 671-731-6400.
thursday, Sept. 25
Sales development workshop: Sandler Training will be conducting a free sales development workshop for business owners, sales managers and sales executives titled "Sales Person as Trusted Advisor" from 9 to 11 a.m. at 100 Cummings Center, Beverly. Participants will learn a sales process that differentiates them from their competition so they can prospect more effectively and close more business. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call Kevin Donahue at 978-232-9041 or visit www.sixsigma.sandler.com.
Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Sir George and the Dragon" by Pumpernickel Puppets will be performed at 10:30 a.m. at Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Join an adventurous princess as she journeys to Mystery Mountain to visit the Great Green Dragon. Along the way, the audience is introduced to several quirky characters. This show is recommended for ages 3 and up. Prepaid reservations are recommended for all events. Tickets are $10 per person or $8 for members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 671-731-6400.
Friday, Sept. 26
Trails and Sails: A Weekend to GO! The Essex National Heritage Commission presents its seventh annual Trails and Sails weekend from Sept. 26 through 28. The weekend event is designed to showcase the unique array of historic, cultural and natural resources within the Essex National Heritage Area and includes more than 200 free events spread out over 135 locations throughout Essex County. The weekend features guided hikes, walks, sails, paddles, historical tours and special art happenings for all ages, skill levels and interests. A kick-off celebration titled "A Taste of Trails and Sails" will be held on Thursday, Sept. 25 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Willowdale Estate in Bradley Palmer State park, Topsfield. The commencement celebration features fresh native produce, local cheeses and spirits from area wine and beer makers, live music and star gazing under the summer night's sky. Tickets are $25. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 978-740-0444 or visit www.trailsandsails.org.
Saturday, Sept. 27
Wine tasting fundraiser: Anna Jaques Hospital will hold its annual wine tasting event from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Maudslay Arts Center, Newburyport. All proceeds benefit the purchase of state-of-the-art vascular ultrasound equipment for Anna Jaques Hospital. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased directly from Leary's Fine Wines & Spirits, 202 Merrimac St., Newburyport; John Farley Clothiers, 31 Water St., Newburyport, or online at www.ajh.org. For more information, call the Anna Jaques Community Health Foundation at 978-463-1176.
Photographica '08: Photographica '08, a show and sale sponsored by the Photographic Historical Society of New England, Inc., will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Americal Civic Center, 467 Main St., Wakefield. The event will feature more than 70 tables from vintage camera and image dealers from throughout the U.S, Europe and Asia. Show dealers are always buying cameras and interesting photographs from the public. General admission is $5, PHSNE members $3, students and seniors $4. Early bird admission at 7 a.m. is $30. For more information, visit www.phsne.org.
Antique and Heirloom Day: The Brentwood Historical Society will sponsor an "Antique and Heirloom Valuation Day" from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Historical Society Museum, 140 Crawley Falls Road, Brentwood, N.H. Dealers from Three Sisters Antiques in Kingston, N.H., will be on hand to provide information and an opinion of value to those who want to learn more about antiques and their family heirlooms. For a donation of $5, participants may submit three items for examination and information. There are no restrictions on what may be submitted. Light refreshments will be available at no charge. For more information, call Alma Vahey at 603-679-8635 or Linda Rousseau at 603-772-4534.
Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Rumpelstiltskin" by Dream Tale Puppets will be performed at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Once upon a time there was a miller who bragged that his daughter could spin straw into gold. When the king heard of this, he demanded the girl spin for him. The girl had no idea how to accomplish the impossible task until the funny looking little man appeared and caused more problems. The story turns into a most exciting one with an unexpected happy ending. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Prepaid reservations are recommended. Tickets are $10 per person or $8 for members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 671-731-6400.
Hike through the habitat: Explore the different wildlife habitats of Plum Island from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. This 1.4 mile guided hike will take you through dunes, maritime shrubland and forest, as well as freshwater and salt marshes. Limited to 25 participants. All ages are welcome with an adult. Participants should meet at Parking Lot No. 4. For more information or to register, call 978-465-5753. Registration is not complete until you have received confirmation from a staff member.
World music: Vieux Farka Toure will perform at 8 p.m. at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville. Vieux Farka Toure crafts Malian blues songs in the rich Sonrai tradition of his late father, Ali Farka Toure. Joined by a quintet, Toure draws on haunting Saharan blues and traditional Malian melodies and infuses them with his own global influences to create an Afro-pop sound. Tickets are $25 to $30 depending on location of seating. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 617-876-4275 or visit www.WorldMusic.org
Sunday, Sept. 28
Photographica '08: Photographica '08, a show and sale sponsored by the Photographic Historical Society of New England, Inc., will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Americal Civic Center, 467 Main St., Wakefield. The event will feature more than 70 tables from vintage camera and image dealers from throughout the U.S, Europe and Asia. Show dealers are always buying cameras and interesting photographs from the public. General admission is $5, PHSNE members $3, students and seniors $4. For more information, visit www.phsne.org.
Cancer walk: A Care for Cancer Walk will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Caritas Holy Family Hospital, featuring an all-you-can-eat family barbecue. Proceeds benefit the William L. Lane Cancer Management Center. For sponsorship and registration information, call the foundation office at 978-687-0156, ext. 2104.
Puppet Showplace Theatre: "Rumpelstiltskin" by Dream Tale Puppets will be performed at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Once upon a time there was a miller who bragged that his daughter could spin straw into gold. When the king heard of this, he demanded the girl spin for him. The girl had no idea how to accomplish the impossible task until the funny looking little man appeared and caused more problems. The story turns into a most exciting one with an unexpected happy ending. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Prepaid reservations are recommended. Tickets are $10 per person or $8 for members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 671-731-6400.
Refuge kayak tour: Join Refuge staff on an informative kayak/canoe paddle through the great marsh from 9 a.m. to noon at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. This event is limited to 12 boats. Adults and children over 12 accompanied by an adult are welcome. Participants must bring their own kayak or canoe and personal flotation device. Boats will not be provided. Reservation are required. Participants should meet at Refuge Parking Lot No. 1. To reserve a spot, call 978-465-5753.
PLAN AHEAD
Dyslexia seminar: New England Dyslexia Solutions will hold a free information seminar on Monday, Sept. 29 at 6:30 p.m. at 25 State St., Suite 203, Newburyport. Seating is limited and preregistration is required. For more information or to register, call 978-337-7753, email info@ne-dyslexia.com or visit www.ne-dyslexia.com/calendar.html.
Craft fair: The Kingston Area Junior Women's Club will hold their annual craft and antique fair on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the historic Kingston Plains, Kingston, N.H. The event will feature jewelry, home accessories, clothing and other handmade items. Refreshments will also be available. Limited vendor tables are still available. For more information, contact Sue at 603-642-7312 or email sp61@comcast.net.
Fall fair: The Ladies Guild of St. Gregory Armenian Church of the Merrimack Valley will hold its annual Fall Fair on Friday, Oct. 17 and Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Jaffarian Hall, 158 Main St., North Andover. A buffet will be served starting at 11 a.m. and a dinner buffet from 5 to 8 p.m. The event features a country store, Armenian foods and pastries and handcrafted gift items. Free and open to the public. For more information, call the church at 978-685-5038 or Rose Soghigian at 978-256-0594.
Magic show: Magician and illusionist Jason Bishop will bring his innovative, high-energy magic show to the Discovery Series at the UMass Lowell Center for the Arts on Sunday, Oct. 5 at 2 and 4 p.m. Bishop, a former foster child, reserves a portion of seats at each show for local foster families. The show will take place at Durgin Hall, 35 Wilder St., Lowell. Tickets are $12 for adults and children, $10 per ticket for a group of 10 or more, $6 UMass Lowell students, faculty, staff and alumni. For tickets, call 978-934-4444 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday or visit www.uml.edu/centerforarts.com.
Open house and haunted maze: Guard Up! Family Swordsmanship, the largest swordsmanship training facility in the country, will celebrate its 10th anniversary by opening its doors to visitors ages 4 and up to join a free class or two for one week only, Oct. 27 through Nov. 1. On Sunday, Nov. 2 there will be a Haunted Adventure for ages 10 and older from 3 to 6 p.m., as well as a Not-So-Scary Haunted Maze for ages 4 through 9 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Admission to the Haunted Adventure is $10 per person for nonmembers, $5 per person for the Haunted Maze for nonmembers. Guard Up facility is at 141 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington. For more information, call 781-270-4800 or visit www.guardup.com.
Zooarchaeology lab open house: The Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology will hold an free open house for the Zooarchaeology Lab, where experts work with archaeologists to identify animal bones from excavations all over the world, on Monday, Oct. 13 from noon to 4:30 p.m. The Peabody Museum is at 11 Divinity Ave., Cambridge. For more information, call 617-496-1027 or visit www.peabody.harvard.edu.
Grant awards luncheon: The Women's Fund of Essex County will its annual grants awards luncheon on Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Peabody Marriot Hotel, 8 Centennial Drive, Peabody. The luncheon will celebrate and honor the recipients of the 2008 grants awarded to Essex County agencies that fund programs supporting women and girls. Recipients are: Beverly Hospital: Connecting Young Moms-Doula Program, Catholic Charities North: Healthy Living for Young Mothers, The Family Self-Sufficiency Center: Health Literacy: Risk, Recognition and Response; Greater Lynn Senior Services: Older Battered Women's Program, Health Quarters: Cervical Cancer Prevention Program, Lynn YMCA: My Time, North Shore Health Project: Healing Our Community Collaborative, and the YMCA of Greater Lawrence: Women's Health Advocacy Program. For more information or to purchase tickets, email thewomensfund@gamil.com or visit www.thewomensfundec.org.
Farm festival: Annual Woodsom Farm Festival will be Saturday, Oct. 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Woodsom Farm, Lionsmouth Road, Amesbury. Applications are being accepted for crafters, artists, flea market and antique vendors who wish to take part in the festival. For more information regarding fees and participating, call 978-388-8562, email dpare2008@yahoo.com or visit www.woodsom.org. Rain date is Sunday, Oct. 19.
Class reunion: The Methuen High Class of 1983 will have its 25-year class reunion on Nov. 29 at the Wyndham Hotel in Andover. Please send correct mailing addresses to methuenhigh83@comcast.net or call 978-346-4860 for more information.
Native American arts and crafts sale: Irma Bailey Native American Arts and Crafts Show and Sale Oct. 2 through 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology, Harvard University, 11 Divinity Ave., Cambridge. This year Irma will select some of the finest Native American-crafted silver and turquoise jewelry, baskets, ceramics and rugs to offer at the museum, handmade work that is rarely displayed in the Northeast. The show will also include antique and contemporary works by Hopi, Navajo, Pueblo and Zuni artists. This event is free with museum admission. Museum admission is $9 adults, $7 students and seniors, $6 children ages 3 through 18. Museum is free to Massachusetts residents on Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 617-496-1027 or visit www.peabody.harvard.edu.
Village People to perform: North Shore Women Lawyers' Association presents "Topsfield Fair Village People Night" on Thursday, Oct. 9 at the Topsfield Fairgrounds, Route One, Topsfield. Fair hours are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a grandstand showtime of 7 p.m. A NSWLA wine and cheese reception will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. in the Hospitality Tent for advance ticket holders only. Tickets are $8 for members, $9 nonmembers. Discounted ride tickets are also available for $20 for 11 rides. Please RSVP by Sept. 25 and enclose check and self-addressed, stamped envelope to N.S.W.L.A. c/o Ann Dillingham Savage, Esquire, 33 Jeffreys Neck Road, Ipswich, MA 01938. For more information, call 978-356-2074 or email asavagelaw@verizon.net.
Backyard woods workshop: Fred Borman, extension educator of Forest Resources for Rockingham County, will conduct a workshop for the owners of small woodlots on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Northwood Meadows State Park, Route 4, Northwood, N.H. Cost is $10 per family to cover the expense of a tree ID booklet and a Backyard Woods Guide. For more information, call Fred Borman at 603-679-5616 or email fred.borman@unh.edu. To download a flyer, visit www.NHWoods.org. This workshop will be held rain or shine so dress for the weather.
Hometown American Idol: The Rotary Club of Greater Georgetown is seeking talented performing artists for its third annual talent show on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 7 p.m. at Georgetown High School, 11 Winter St., Georgetown. Those interested in participating should mail a VHS or DVD with their name, age, hometown, cell phone and home numbers and a demonstration of their talent to the Rotary Club at c/o RCGG, 7 Parish Road, Georgetown, MA 01833 by Sept. 26. Cash prizes will be awarded on the night of performance; first prize will receive $500, second prize will receive $250 and third prize will receive $150. For more information, call 978-352-6774 or 978-352-8881.
Auditions: Coro Stella Maris will audition for its 2008-2009 season. Openings are available in all voice sections. Choral experience and good reading required. Auditions will be by appointment only through September. For more information or to make an appointment to audition, call 867-919-4218 or 617-964-6609.
Polar Express: Tickets for the Polar Express will be available on Oct. 18 from 9 to 11 a.m. at St. Michael School, 80 Maple Ave., North Andover. Tickets are $20 per person. The Polar Express will begin running on Nov. 29. Join Santa's elves for a reading of Chris Van Allsburg's "The Polar Express," cocoa, dessert and visits from some special Christmas friends. Trains depart from the Newburyport MBTA station at 11:35 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 3:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit the Cor Unum Meal Center in Lawrence. Donations of new hats, mittens, scarves and sweaters will be accepted at the train station and will be distributed by Cor Unum and the Department of Children and Families to those in need. For tickets after Oct. 18, call 978-686-1862 or visit www.saintmichael.com.
Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society: MRFRS needs wet and dry cat and kitten food to feed more than 250 cats and kittens. Canned food is most needed. Ground or classic style food is preferred rather than sliced, chunks or shredded food. Items may be dropped off at anytime at the MRFRS adoption centers in Salisbury, Danvers and Danville, N.H. To access a complete wish list or for more information, call 978-462-0760 or visit www.mrfrs.org.
Walk for autism: New Hampshire Walk for Autism on Sunday, Oct. 5, in Greeley Park, Nashua, N.H. Registration is at 10 a.m. The walk will begin at 11 a.m. To register for the walk, visit www.walknowforautism.org/nh. For more information, e-mail newhampshire@autismspeaks.org.
USS Columbus shipmates reconnect: Navy and Marine Corps shipmates who served on the USS Columbus (CA-74/CG-12) from 1944 through 1976 and the USS Columbus SSN-762 past and present who would like to share memories and camaraderie with old friends or make new ones, contact Allen R. Hope at 260-486-2221 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time or e-mail hope4391@comcast.net.
Artists wanted: The Firehouse Center for the Arts Gallery is accepting submissions from artists for their work to be exhibited in the gallery until Dec. 31. Artists may submit proposals for exhibition of two-dimensional work in any medium. Exhibits consist of one or two people, group or themed shows, and normally run for four weeks. Submissions to include: an artist biography and resume; 10 to 20 images, preferably in a digital format, of work that is indicative of the current style of the artist; and a cover letter with name and contact information. If digital images are not available, 35 millimeter slides are acceptable. There is a $20 submission fee. Printed guidelines are available at www.firehouse.org or by calling 978-499-9931.
Support group: "DivorceCare" support group will meet every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Atkinson Community Center, 4 Main St., Atkinson, N.H. The weekly seminar will focus on ways to heal from the hurt of divorce. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call Jean at 603-362-4753 or Denise at 603-489-1172 after 6 p.m.
Rogers Center for the Arts
"An Evening with Groucho" on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 7:30 p.m. Award-winning actor/director/playwright Frank Ferrante recreates his PBS-, New York- and London-acclaimed portrayal of legendary comedian Groucho Marx in this fast-paced 90 minutes of hilarity. The two-act comedy consists of the best Groucho one-liners, anecdotes, and songs including "Hooray for Captain Spalding," and "Lydia, the Tattooed Lady." The audience literally becomes part of the show as Ferrante ad-libs his way throughout the performance in grand Groucho style. Accompanied by his onstage pianist, Jim Furmston, Ferrante portrays the young Groucho of stage and film and reacquaints the audience with the likes of brothers Harpo, Chico, Zeppo, and Gummo; Charlie Chaplin, W.C. Fields; Greta Garbo; Marx foil Margaret Dumont; and MGM's Louis B. Mayer. A show perfect for all ages.
"The Capitol Steps" on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 7:30 p.m. The Capitol Steps began as a group of Senate staffers who set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them. In the years that followed, many of the Steps ignored the conventional wisdom ("Don't quit your day job!"), and although not all of the current members of the Steps are former Capitol Hill staffers, taken together the performers have worked in a total of 18 congressional offices and represent 62 years of collective House and Senate staff experience.
Devil Music Ensemble presents "Red Heroine" on Friday, Oct. 4, at 7 p.m. The DME will present an original soundtrack to a virtually unknown silent film of social, cultural, and artistic greatness. With the help of the Asian Community Development Corp., the DME negotiated a performance license for this 1929 film by Wen Yimin, from the Poly Asian Co., located in Beijing. This is the only extant silent Chinese martial arts film still in existence. Tickets are $12.
Sol y Canto present "Noche de Muertos" on Thursday, Oct. 30, at 7 p.m. A multimedia collaboration featuring projected images by photographer Susan Wilson of the whimsical, yet deeply spiritual, Mexican "Day of the Dead and Night of the Dead" celebration with original and popular Mexican and Pan-Latin compositions by Sol y Canto's guitarist/composer Brian Amador. Also featuring the soaring vocals of Rosi Amador, a sextet and special guest violist/violinist Rebecca Strauss of Melodic Vision. Advance tickets are $15 general admission, $12 for college employees, students and seniors. All tickets at the door are $18.
"War Bonds: Songs and Letters of World War II" on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 7:30 p.m. Take a sentimental musical journey through a war that redefined the world. This multimedia living history cabaret is interspersed with personal letters from the Front and headline news of the war. Twenty-two period songs lift the mood and juxtapose the anguish of war. Award-winning artists Serena Ebhardt and David zum Brunnen fill the stage with wartime memories and nostalgic tunes.
"The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion" on Friday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m. The Spencers have redefined the art of illusion and are shattering stereotypes of the traditional magician and assistant. They are the only artists to be named Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year for six consecutive years and have twice been named America's Best Entertainers. These skilled performers combine theatrical elements (music, movement, storytelling, dramatic lighting, and more) in an original way with state-of-the-art illusions and audience interaction. Advance tickets are $18 general admission; college employees, students, seniors, $15; and $20 at the door.
The Rogers Center for the Arts is at 315 Turnpike St., North Andover at Merrimack College. Advance tickets for all events are $22 general admission, $20 college employees, students, seniors and $25 at the door unless othwerwise indicated. Prior reservations are recommended for all events. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 978-837-5355 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or visit www.merrimack.edu/rogers.
Rogers Center for the Performing Arts Free Film Series
"Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles" on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 7 p.m. From three-time Academy Award-nominated director Zhang Yimou comes a moving story told with wisdom and wit about a Japanese father's journey to a remote region of China seeking reconciliation with his estranged son.
"To Be and To Have" on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m.This beautiful and inspirational film concerns dedicated and gifted teacher whose world is a one-room school house in the French countryside. The film charts teacher and class over the course of one academic year and takes a warm and serene look at primary education at its best.
"Bride of Frankenstein" on Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m. James Whale's wild and gothic concoction is generally acknowledged as the best film in the Frankenstein series. The monster has never been more sympathetic than he is in this film. The laboratory scene in which Dr. Frankenstein creates a mate for the monster is, perhaps, the most spectacular climax in this genre's history. Starring Boris Karloff and Colin Clive.
"L'Auberge Espagnole" on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 7 p.m. This film captures a moment in a life, seemingly about nothing and everything at once. Seven sexy co-eds, one Spanish apartment, no rules. A single year of learning turns into a an outrageous adventure of a lifetime in this fresh comedy that has audiences and critics cheering around the world.
The Rogers Center for the Performing Arts is at 315 Turnpike St., North Andover, at Merrimack College. All screenings are free of charge and include a commentary half an hour before screening. This film series is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. For more information, call 978-837-5355 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Merimack Valley Philharmonic Orchestra 2008-2009 Season
Program No. 1 on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 2:30 p.m. features Claude Debussey "Prelude to the Afternoon of Faun" and "Danses Sacred and Profane for Harp and Strings," Maurice Ravel "Introduction and Allegro for Harp and Orchestra," Emily Halpern Lewis, harp soloist and Sergei Prokofiev "Symphony No. 6 in e-flat minor, Op. 111.
Program No. 2 on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2:30 p.m. features "Family Holiday Concert" with The Andover Choral Society, directed by Allen Combs.
Program No. 3 on Sunday, March 1, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. features Felix Mendelssohn "Hebrides Overture, Op. 26, Fingal's Cave," Richard Wagner "Wesendonck Songs," Susan Trout, soprano and Franz Schubert "Symphony No. 9 in C Major, D 944, "The Great."
Program No. 4 on Sunday, May 3, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. features Richard Rodgers "Slaughter on Tenth Avenue" from "On Your Toes," William Grant Still "Symphony No. 1 Afro-American Symphony," George Gershwin "Concerto in F Major for Piano and Orchestra" and Louis Stewart, piano soloist.
All Merrimack Valley Philharmonic Orchestra events take place at The Rogers Center for the Arts, 315 Turnpike St., North Andover at Merrimack College. Tickets are $60 general admission, $42 seniors and students ages 13 to 18 or with college ID. For more information, call 978-685-3505 or visit www.mvpomusic.org.
Museum House Tours
The Great house at Castle Hill will be open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from now until Oct. 11. The cost is $10 adults, $5 children, members free.
Castle Hill landscape tours on Thursdays and Saturdays beginning at 10 a.m. from now through Oct. 11. Full tours last 90 minutes; half tours last 45 minutes.
The Stevens-Coolidge Place will be open every weekend from 1 to 3 p.m. from now through Oct. 12. The cost is $8 adults, $5 children, members free.
The Paine House at Greenwood Farm will be open the first weekend of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. from now through Oct. 12. The cost is $8 adults,$5 children, members free.
All museum houses offer one-hour tours unless otherwise indicated. All tours are recommended for children ages 8 years or older. For more information, call The Trustees of Reservations at 978-921-1944 ext. 4009.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
Berry picking permits: Beginning this year, a permit will be required for picking beach plums and cranberries at the refuge. Permits may be obtained free of charge at the refuge headquarters and visitors center at 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. Failure to obtain a permit prior to berry picking may result in a citation and fine. For more information, call 978-465-5753 or to download a copy of the berry picking regulations, visit parkerriver.fws.gov/berrypicking.
Volunteers needed: The Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge needs volunteers to help staff The Plover's Nest gift shop and bookstore at the Refuge Headquarters and Visitor Center. The store will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers will be needed to help customers and act as cashiers during those times. Training will be provided. The store is expected to open in May. For more information or to volunteer, call Kate Toniolo at 978-465-5753.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is at 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. For more information or to register for any event above, call 978-465-5753. Registration is not complete until you have received confirmation from a staff member.
Navy reunions
USS Columbus CA-74/CG-12/SSN-762 Oct. 1 through 4 at the Holiday Inn North, Dayton, Ohio. For more information, contact Allen R. Hope at 260-486-2221 or hope4391@comcast.net.
Art
Chameleon Arts Ensemble opens season: Chameleon Arts Ensemble opens its 2008-09 chamber music season with two performances of "transcendent music I have heard" on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. at the Goethe-Institut Boston, 170 Beacon St., Boston. Program includes Claude Debussy, Sonata for flute, viola and harp; Krzysztof Penderecki, Sextet for clarinet, horn, string trio and piano; and Johannes Brahms, Piano Trio No. 1 in B Major, Op. 8. Tickets are $38, $28, $18, $5 off for students and seniors. For more information or tickets, call 617-427-8200 or visit www.chameleonarts.org.
New Hampshire Art Association: NAA announces the opening of two new exhibits in its downtown Portsmouth gallery, 136 State St. "Layers of Text and Texture" displays work from several members of the association and represents the application of different mediums, techniques and processes that explore the use of text and texture. It will be displayed in the Main Salon. "Painting the Voices," which will be displayed in the East Gallery, highlights the works of NHAA members Sharleene Hurst and Sarah J. Sims. Both exhibits will be on display now through Sept. 21.
University Gallery at UMASS Lowell
Original Illustrations by Timothy Basil Ering will be on exhibit through Oct. 3. This series of 24 original illustrations from his popular children's book "The Story of Frog Belly Rat Bone" tells the tale of a boy who finds strange, speck-like treasures and the unforgettable creature who watches over them while they grow. With subtle, delicate tones, fantastical creatures and bursts of glowing color, the surreal artwork conveys all the whimsey of an inspired imagination.
Selected works by Blake Shirley will be on exhibit from Oct. 14 through Nov. 6. This exhibition features large-scale paintings that straddle that curious space between figuration's story and abstraction's crashing waves of paint. These stylistic shifts create a sense of impermanence that references the history of painting and investigates how we exist in a state of flux. The series evolved as a reaction to the intricacies and complexities of life. Artist talk and reception will be held on Oct. 15 from 3 to 5 p.m.
"Grid" by Jamey Morrill will be on exhibit from Nov. 17 through Dec.11. "Grid" is a modular site-specific installation made of PVC pipe and wood. Its floor-based, interconnected forms use a pared-down aesthetic to represent engineering projects such as aqueducts, electrical substations and oil refineries. It is intended as a tribute to the natural evolution of complex infrastructure from simple forms. Artist talk and reception will be held on Nov. 19 from 3 to 5 p.m.
The University Gallery at UMASS Lowell is located at the McGauvran Student Union, 71 Wilder St., Lowell. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment. For more information, call 978-934-3491 or 978-934-3494.
Faculty exhibition: New Hampshire Institute of Art will host its annual faculty exhibition from now through Oct. 1 in the French Building, 148 Concord St. and the Amherst Street Gallery, 77 Amherst St., Manchester. Both exhibitions are free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, contact Alison Williams at 603-836-2573 or awilliams@nhia.edu or visit www.nhia.edu.
"Art Quilts Lowell 2008: A National Juried Exhibition" will be on display through Oct. 26 at The Brush Art Gallery, 256 Market St, Lowell. The exhibition provides an overview of art quilts by artists representing many of the states in the U.S. It includes work by 33 quilt artists whose nontraditional quilts reflect the expanding boundaries of the art quilt movement. For more information, call 978-459-7819.
New England Wild Flower Society's Garden in the Woods presents the Big Bugs Sculpture Exhibit and Web-of-Life Extravaganza through Oct. 31. The exhibit features an 18-foot, 1,200-pound praying mantis and 12 other enormous natural sculptures by New York artist David Rogers. There will be special events each weekend. Schedule: "Monarch Migration" on Sept. 20 and 21, "Grasshoppers" on Sept. 27 and 28, "Assassin Bugs" on Oct. 4 and 5, student art show on Oct. 5, "Spiders" on Oct. 18 and 19, "Bye Bye Bugs" on Oct. 25 and 26. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 students and seniors, $4 youths 3 through 18, free for members and children younger than 3. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 31, rain or shine. Tours are on weekdays at 10 a.m. and weekends at 2 p.m. and are included with admission. All proceeds support the conservation. New England Wild Flower Society is at 180 Hemenway Road, Framingham. For information, call 508-877-7630 or visit www.newenglandwild.org.
"Fishes of the Bahamas" watercolor paintings by Newburyport artist John Soward, on exhibit at MASS Audubon's Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, through Sept. 21. For more information, call 978-462-9998.
Nights on the Neck, a series of music, dance, lectures, readings and other forms of entertainment as well as gallery receptions, will be held the first Thursday of the month from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Bryan Gallery, 53 Rocky Neck Ave., through October. To speak or perform, contact Amanda at NoTeaParty@yahoo.com.
Music
Solo organist recital: Organist Andrus Madsen presents a solo recital of chorale preludes, toccatas and fugues by Johann Pachelbel on Sunday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. at West Parish Church, 129 Reservation Road, Andover. Admission is a suggested donation of $15. All proceeds will benefit the music program at West Parish Church. For more information, call 978-475-3528.
All Ireland Champions in music, song and dance in concert on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 2 p.m. at the Rogers Center, Merrimack College, 315 Turnpike St., North Andover. This concert is presented by the Irish Foundation, The Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. Tickets are $22. Reserved seating. For tickets, call 978-837-5355, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
World Music
Lo Cor de la Plana will perform Friday, Oct. 3, at 8 p.m. With deep Mediterranean roots, African influences and touches of Gregorian chant, Lo Cor de la Plana stirs the soul. Singing in the medieval Occitan language of southern France, the groups intricate a cappella harmonies transcend translation with lively songs that soar between the dissonant and the sacred. Tickets are $28.
Carolina Chocolate Drops will perform on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 8 p.m. The Carolina Chocolate Drops revitalize the old-time string and jug-band music of the Piedmont region with velocity and virtuosity. Raw and evocative arrangements of the music are played by the group's three young musicians: Justin Robinson and Rhiannon Giddens on fiddle, banjo and vocals and Dom Flemons on guitar, banjo, harmonica, jug and snare. Tickets are $22 to $28 depending on location of seating.
Lura will perform on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 8 p.m. at the Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. Lura is a captivating performer steeped in traditional Cape Verdean styles but also influenced by a vast range of international pop sounds. Tickets are $28, $32 or $37 depending on location of seating.
Celtic Tap: An Evening with James Devine on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 19 at 3 p.m. at the Institute of Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave., Boston. A thrilling mix of tap, step dance and urban rhythms, Celtic Tap features Irish tap dancer James Devine — the Guinness World Record's "Fastest Dancer in the World." Tickets are $35.
Toumani Diabate will perform on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 8 p.m. Toumani Diabate is regarded by many as the greatest living kora player. He performs a very special concert of beautiful solo work, a timeless blend of traditional melodies, original compositions and impressive improvisations. Tickets are $22 to $28 depending on seating location. A free pre-performance question-and-answer session will be held from 6 to 6:45 p.m.
Philadanco will perform on Friday, Nov. 14, at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 15 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 16 at 3 p.m. at the Institute of Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave., Boston. Philodanco performs joyous and adventurous works with universal appeal that blends African-American based dance with ballet, jazz and modern dance. Tickets are $35. A free pre-performance talk with dance critic Debra Cash will begin one hour before each show. A post-performance question-and-answer session will be held Friday, Nov. 14.
Huun Huur Tuva will perform on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 8 p.m. From the independent republic of Tuva, bordering Mongolia, Huun Huur Tuva performs an ear-twisting vocal technique called khoomei, where two or three notes are simultaneously produced in a low drone along with a high pitched whistle. Accompanied by traditional string and percussion instruments, the four-member ensemble sings rhythmic songs that capture the magic of the Siberian steppe. Tickets are $28. A throat-singing workshop with Huun Huur Tuva will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $25.
World Music is at 720 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. All events take place at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville, unless otherwise noted. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 617-876-4275 or visit www.WorldMusic.org.
The Boston Early Music Festival 2008-09 concert series consists of these performances:
Collegium Vocale Gent under guest director and fortepianist Kristian Bezuidenhout on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 8 p.m. at First Church Congregational, 11 Garden St., Cambridge. Their program, titled "The Haydn Songbook," will feature songs written by Joseph Haydn during the 1790s.
Jordi Savall leading the eight-piece instrumental ensemble Hesperion XXI in a program of "Music from the Time of Cervantes" on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 8 p.m. at Sanders Theatre at Harvard University, 45 Quincy St., Cambridge.
Chamber Opera Series on Saturday, Nov. 29, at 8 p.m. at New England Conservatory's Jordan Hall, 30 Gainsborough St., Boston. The evening will feature John Blow's "Venus and Adonis" and Marc Antoine Charpentier's "Acteon," each of which depicts the fates of two fortunate hunters when they encounter powerful female deities.
Venice Baroque Orchestra directed by harpsichordist Andrea Marcon and joined by violinists Giuliano Carmignola and Viktoria Mullova for a program of "Music of Vivaldi, Galuppi and Albinoni" on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, at 8 p.m. at Emmanuel Church, 15 Newbury St., Boston.
Sarasa Ensemble with guest artists Dominique Labelle and Michael Chance in a program of "Arias and Duets by Handel, Purcell and Pergolesi" on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009, at 8 p.m. at First Church Congregational, 11 Garden St., Cambridge.
Concerto Palatino, directed by cornetto players Bruce Dickey and Charles Toet, will perform "A Magnificent Noise: Music from Venice to Hamburg" on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009, at 8 p.m. at Wellesley College's Houghton Chapel, 106 Central St., Wellesley.
Violinist Petra Mullejans and fortepianist Kristian Bezuidenhout in a new program titled "Mozart Sonatas and Variations" on Saturday, March 21, 2009, at 8 p.m. at Paine Hall at Harvard University, Oxford Street, Cambridge.
Tallis Scholars directed by Peter Phillips in "Music for Double Choir by Palestrina, Lassus, Gibbons, Praetorius and others" on Friday, April 3, 2009, at 8 p.m. at St. Paul Church, Bow and Arrow St., Cambridge.
For information about these events, contact executive director Kathleen Fay at 617-661-1812 or kathy@bemf.org.
