The InstigatorFebruary is here and despite this month being shorter than all the rest, there is plenty to do in Salem, Oregon.
February 1-3
Salem Winter Brewfest is a 21+ event that features over 100 handcrafted beers and ciders on tap, live entertainment and a variety of food options.
When: 4 to 10 p.m. Feb. 1; 4 to 11 p.m. Feb. 2; and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Feb. 3
Where: Oregon State Capitol Park, 900 Court St NE
Cost: $5 Thursday; $15 in advance/$20 at event Friday & Saturday. $25 in advance/$30 at event for a weekend pass. Friday and Saturday tickets include commemorative glass and 4 taste tickets.
Age: 21 and older
Info: 503-881-6066, www.salemwinterbrewfest.com
February 3-March 31
Check out High St. Gallery for Volume Two Exhibition featuring works by Susan Napack, Gary Westford, Fiona McGuigan and Carol Hausser. The opening reception takes place Feb. 3.
When: Noon to 5 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays
Where: High St. Gallery, 700 High St. NE Suite 180. Gallery entrance is located at the back of the building.
Cost: Free
Info: www.TheBruinCo.com
Through February 10
Pentacle Theatre’s production of “Dancing at Lughnasa,” by Brian Friel and directed by Loriann Schmidt, is a step back in time to Ireland 1936 and the story of the five Mundy sisters. Visit the Pentacle website for information about ticket deals and promotions.
When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 1-3, and 7-9, plus 2 p.m. Feb. 4 and 10.
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW (off Highway 22, about 6 miles west of downtown Salem)
Cost: $24-$29. Advance tickets are available at Pentacle’s downtown ticket office at 145 Liberty St. NE or by calling 503-485-4300 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, or online anytime at www.pentacletheatre.org. Tickets are also available at the theater box office 45 minutes before each performance.
Tickets for low-income persons: In partnership with Salem for All, Pentacle Theatre offers half-price tickets to Oregon Trail Card holders. For information, go to www.salemforall.org.
February 2-23
The Chemeketa Planetarium Show delves into Mayan Archaeoastronomy in a full-dome presentation that explores six different Mayan archaeological sites in Mexico and their connection to the Universe.
When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, through March 16
Where: Chemeketa Planetarium, Salem Bldg. 2, Rm. 171, 4000 Lancaster
Drive NE
Cost: $5. Children and Chemeketa students are $4.Tickets on sale at the door beginning at 7:15 p.m.; cash only
Info: www.chemeketa.edu/community-partners/planetarium
February 2-27
Salem Reads, the community-wide reading project that invites everyone in Salem to read the same book, take part in discussions, and enjoy related programs runs through the month of February. Official kick off takes place 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 6, at the Salem Public Library with a giveaway of the chosen title “Outcasts United.”
Get all the program details, plus see a full list of activities happening during the month, at www.splfoundation.org/salem-reads.html
February 6
This month’s First Tuesday Art Talk features Salem Art Association Gallery Director David Wilson who will offer insights into his curatorial process when installing exhibitions.
When: 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 6
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
February 7
Salem Multicultural Institute presents the opening of a photographic interpretation of refugee resettlement in Salem. The exhibit gives Salem’s refugee residents the opportunity to share their stories and allows other residents to see Salem through their eyes. It will feature the gifts the refugees bring to our community as well as the challenges of fleeing conflict or persecution.
When: 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7 (opening reception) Exhibit runs through April 2018
Where: World Beat Gallery at the Reed Opera House
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemmulticultural.org
February 8-9
Elsinore Theatre presents “DISENCHANTED!: The Hilarious Hit Musical” featuring Snow White and her posse of princesses who are tossing their tiaras to bring their hilariously subversive, not-for-the-kiddies story to the stage. The feature is being directed by show co-creators Dennis T. Giacino (book, music and lyrics) and directorial consultant Fiely Matias.
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, and Friday, Feb. 9
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $29 to $55
Tickets: Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location. Service fees may apply.
Age: 14 and older
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
February 9
Kick up your heels at the Second Friday Ceili, a monthly social dance featuring live, traditional Irish music. This month’s featured performers are Elizabeth Nicholson and Bob Soper. No experience or partner is needed. Refreshments are provided.
When: 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St. NE
Cost: $5 to $10
Age: Family friendly
Info: www.ceiliofthevalley.org
February 9
Oregon Symphony in Salem will perform Tchaikovsky’s Pathetique
When: 8 to 10 p.m. Friday, February 9
Where: Smith Auditorium at Willamette University, 900 State St.
Cost: $35 to $50; $10 student.
Info: 503-364-0149, www.orsymphonysalem.org
February 11
Get a behind the scenes peek at the Elsinore including an in-depth history of the theatre and the city followed by a demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer – the largest theatre organ in the Pacific Northwest.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $5 at the door. RSVP requested by calling 503-375-3574.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
February 11
Head to Arcane Cellars for a special wine and chocolate pairing with Missionary Chocolates from Portland, featuring live music by Jackie & Jason (1 to 3 p.m.) and a locally designed jewelry trunk show, plus special Valentine’s Day menu with Bleu Belle Mobile Kitchen.
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, February 11
Where: Arcane Cellars Tasting Room, 22350 Magness Rd. NW
Cost: $10
Info: 503-868-7076, www.arcanecellars.com/valentines-day-chocolate-and-wine-pairing/
February 14
Rise to end violence against women with One Billion Rising, a call to action based on the staggering statistic that 1 in 3 women on the planet will be beaten or raped during her lifetime. This free, community-engaging event features a dance by Tippy Toes and more.
When: Noon Wednesday, February 14
Where: Oregon State Capitol, 900 Court St NE
Cost: Free
Info: www.facebook.com/events/198439757376272/
February 14
The Wednesday Film Series is showing “La La Land,” the 2016 film starring Ryan Gosling as a jazz musician and Emma Stone as an aspiring actress.
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14. Doors and box office open at 6:15 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Tickets: Purchase tickets in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location. Service fees may apply.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
February 15-17, 23-24 and March 2-3
The Verona Studio presents the Pulitzer Prize Drama Winner “ ’Night, Mother,” written by Marsha Norman. Directed by Gregory Jolivette and featuring Jenni Bertels and Robynn Hayek, it’s the story of an aging mother and widow who lives with her daughter, a divorced mother of a hoodlum son, who – unsatisfied and depressed – struggles with life as an unemployed epileptic.
When: 8 p.m. February 15-17, 23-24 and March 2-3 and 2 p.m. Feb. 24 and March 3.
Where: The Verona Studio, The Reed Opera House, Suite 215, 189 Liberty Street NE
Cost: $17.50
Tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2998438
Info: 805-657-7538 or www.theveronastudio.com
February 15-24
Willamette University presents “Burn This,” the story of two outcasts in 1980’s New York who meet in the wake of the accidental death by drowning of a mutual friend and their determined struggle toward emotional honesty and liberation. It is written by Lanford Wilson and directed by Jonathan Cole.
When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15-24, and 2 p.m. Feb. 18 and 24.
Where: M. Lee Pelton Theater at Willamette University, 900 State St.
Cost: $8 to $10
Info: 503-370-6221, www.willamette.edu/arts/theatre/performances/index.html
February 17
Celebrate Oregon’s 159th Birthday at the Oregon State Capitol with costumed interpreters, historic reenactments, period music, and an assortment of activities for the whole family, plus free birthday cake while supplies last.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, February 17
Where: Oregon State Capitol, 900 Court St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: 503-986-1388, www.oregoncapitol.com
February 17
Take in a night of culture, music and dancing at Salem Multicultural Institute’s World Beat Bash featuring DJ Blas, guest performances, a silent auction, tapas and more. All proceeds support World Beat’s efforts to promote intercultural understanding in the community.
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, February 17
Where: The Reed Opera House, 189 Liberty St NE
Cost: $50 includes dinner.
Info: www.salemmulticultural.org
Through February 18
Matthew Boulay: Combat Grass continues. This interactive installation is inspired by Carl Sandburg’s poem, Grass, and honors the sacrifices of the more than 160 female soldiers who have died from war since Sergeant Winters.
When: Through Feb. 18
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
February 19
The Gilbert House Children’s Museum hosts the second annual Legacy of Play Day, honoring museum namesake and local inventor A.C. Gilbert’s spirit of tinkering, engagement, and discovery through a day of exploration.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, February 19
Where: Gilbert House Children’s Museum, 116 Marion St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: 503-371-3631, www.acgilbert.org/legacy-of-play-day
February 21
Ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro performs at the Elsinore.
When: 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $27 to $57
Tickets: Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location. Service fees may apply.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
February 22-March 31
Braids and Brawn: The Power of Girls is a photo documentary by Salem photographer Diane Beals. The exhibition features portraits of forty girls ages 6-18 showcasing their strengths and what empowers them. Each girl’s image is complimented by a quote written by them, beginning with the phrase “I am empowered by…”
When: February 22 through March 31
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
February 23
The Eugene Ballet brings its new choreography to Salem. Set to the music of Pink Martini, Sympathique And Everything But The Kitchen Sink is a tantalizing dance performance set to an eclectic mix of world jazz, pop and classical music. The show opens with San Francisco-based choreographer Val Caniparoli’s Tutto Eccetto il Lavandino.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $25 to $45. $15 to $35 for youth. Group of 10 or more $20 to $40 each.
Tickets: Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location. Service fees may apply.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
February 24
Young Dubliners will rock the Elsinore stage with their blend of Irish influenced modern rock ‘n’ roll that will have you dancing and singing along.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $20 to $25. $5 more on day of show.
Tickets: Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location. Service fees may apply.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
February 24
It’s lights, camera, auction at the Salem Art Association’s 19th Annual Clay Ball: Silver Screen, which aims to immerse guests in a night of old Hollywood glamour.
When: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, February 24
Where: Salem Convention Center
Cost: $85 by February 16, $95 February 17-23
Info: www.SalemArt.org/clay-ball
Through February 25
Nancy Lindburg – Images of Time: 65 Years of Art and Life; Featured Artist: Stephen Kekule (painter) and Emerging Artist: Aaron Wilson (photographer)
When: Through Feb. 25
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
February 27
Hear Warren St. John, author of the Salem Reads featured book “Outcasts United” speak.
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 27
Where: Loucks Auditorium at the Salem Public Library
Cost: Free. Tickets available at the Feb. 6 kick off
Info: www.splfoundation.org/salem-reads.html
February 28
Wednesday Film Series features Billy Wilder’s classic 1950 film noir “Sunset Boulevard,” about a screenwriter who is hired to rework a faded silent film star’s script only to find himself developing a dangerous relationship. The show stars William Holden, Gloria Swanson and Erich von Stroheim.
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28. Doors and box office open at 6:15 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Tickets: Purchase tickets in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location. Service fees may apply.
Information: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
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Carlee Wright
