Things to do in March in Salem

Here’s a look at what’s happening this March in Salem…

All Month Long

Hallie Ford Museum of Art presents Depth of Field: Selections from the Bill Rhoades Collection of Northwest Photography — For the past 24 years, collector Bill Rhoades of Madras, Oregon has donated hundreds of examples of Northwest art to the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, including paintings, prints, drawings, sculpture, Native American art, and most recently, photography. Organized by curator Jonathan Bucci, the exhibition presents a range of Northwest photographs donated by Rhoades over the past few years, including works by Robert Adams, Imogen Cunningham, Jim Lommasson, Mary Randlett, and Terry Toedtemeier, among others.

Level 2 Gallery at the Salem Convention Center features Woven Journals — See a collection of mixed media studio work created since the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic by West Salem artist Kristin Kuhns. While staying close to home, she and her family took comfort in their regular walks through Minto Brown Park, a familiar place of respite and for exercise in Kuhns’ life for years.  The works in this exhibit chronicle familiar elements from Minto Brown with a subtext of living during a global pandemic. The pieces weave contrasting images of comfort and disturbance, and written notes and thoughts are journaled within the woven patterns. Info: www.oregonartistsseries.com 

Through March 11

See the work of Black Rectangle Collective featuring the art of Joshua Blue, Seth Allen, Bryan Hammond and Gary Westford in the Gretchen Schuette Art Gallery at Chemeketa Community College, 4400 Lancaster Dr NE. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday. Info: 503-399-2533.

Through March 26

Hallie Ford Museum of Art presents Arvie Smith: Scarecrow — Arvie Smith (American, born 1938) is a nationally recognized Portland, Oregon African American painter and professor emeritus from the Pacific Northwest College of Art who explores issues of race, identity, and systemic racism in his work. Organized by director John Olbrantz, the exhibition features 26 paintings that span a twenty-five-year period on loan from public and private collections throughout the United States. The museum is located at 700 State St. Learn more at willamette.edu/arts/hfma, or call 503-370-6855.

Explore the work of featured artist Stephanie Brockway, who is a creator of carved wood curiosities. She was featured on OPB’s Oregon Art Beat in 2018. Come see her exhibit Urban Folk Art for a fun escape featuring interactive found objects using reclaimed wood and paintings with a twist. Salem on the Edge features work by PNW artists in a variety of media both for purchase and in rotating exhibits. Stop in and visit at 156 Liberty St. NE. Info: salemontheedge.com.

See Prelude To Spring-Floral Art Show — A juried showing of floral works by local and nationally-known artists. Opening Reception: 3 to 5 p.m. March 5. Located within Elsinore Framing & Fine Art Gallery at 444 Ferry St. SE, Gallery 444 hosts monthly exhibits highlighting artists from in and around Salem. Info: 503-581-4642, elsinoregallery.com

March 2

The Elsinore Theatre’s Cult Film Series features Hedwig and the Angry Inch, 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 2. A gender-queer punk-rock singer from East Berlin tours the U.S. with her band as she tells her life story and follows the former lover/band-mate who stole her songs. Directed by John Cameron Mitchell. Starring John Cameron Mitchell, Miriam Shor and Stephen Trask. (R, 1 hour 35 minutes) Cost: $10 (includes 2 free kids age 12 and younger per ticket). Buy here.

Think you’re funny? Try your stuff at Comedy Open Mic 8 to 11 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, at Infinity Room. Take the stage to test out new material, or go to support local comedy. This recurring event happens on the first Wednesday of the month. Doors open at 7 p.m. No cover, but two item minimum for audience members and comics. To sign up, email comedy@irsalem.com. Sets are 5 minutes. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. 

March 3

Infinity Room’s Music and Poetry Open Mic takes place 8 to 10 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month. Signup to take the stage by clicking here. Hosted by Brina Lorentz!

Take in a night of the classical with the University Chamber Orchestra & Wind Ensemble Concert 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 3, in Hudson Concert Hall at Willamette University. The University Chamber Orchestra (UCO) leads off the event. Featured soloist Connor Cordes (’22), winner of the 2021 University Concerto Competition, leads the UCO in Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto. Willamette’s Wind Ensemble follows, presenting the latest in American orchestral music.

Show off at First Thursday Open Mic 7 p.m. March 3 at Venti’s Cafe + Basement Bar. Hosted By Ronan Baker. Sign ups begin at 6 p.m. for this free, all-ages welcome night of entertainment.

March 4

First Friday of the month = The Salem Art Walk! From 5 to 7 p.m. Friday throughout downtown Salem, gather your friends and enjoy local art & happenings in the heart of the city. Learn more here.

Prepare your hometown spirit! March 4 is opening day for the Salem Capitals. Tip-off takes place at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for general admission; $5 for military, seniors and youth; and $20 for the Ox Box (21 and older section with hard alcohol). Get season tickets for 12 games with reserved seats for $100. Games take place at The Salem Armory, 2310 17th St NE. For more info visit: salemcapitalsbasketball.com

In Concert! Willamette Jazz Collective and Willamette Singers will play 7:30 p.m. Friday, in Rogers Hall at Willamette University. The evening features old and new music for jazz ensemble and jazz voices and features works by Charles Mingus, Billy Stayhorn, Christine Jensen, and more. Admission is free, but space is limited so arrive early. COVID policy in place.

March 4 through 26

See the Young Artists’ Showcase, Rivers Series #2 | Sara Swanberg and Traces at the Bush Barn Art Center & Annex at 600 Mission St. SE. Visit the center 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  There is no charge to visit, but donations are accepted. For more information, call 503-581‑2228 or visit salemart.org. 

March 5

The arrival of spring welcomes the return of the Salem Saturday Market. With more than 150 rotating vendors, the market is the ultimate spot for shopping local, from fresh produce to artisan products. New this year, the market will close at 2 p.m. Happening everyday Saturday, March through October at 865 Marion St NE. Learn more at salemcommunitymarkets.com 

Catch RiverCity Rock Star Academy’s Preview Show featuring students from the kids, teens and adult programs performing short sets of some great, catchy tunes. The all-ages, free show begins at 5 p.m. at the Ike Box.

Rock out with Wild Ire and Light Vessels 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE. Wild Ire plays a fusion of pop rock and progressive music and their love of jazz and funk makes appearances throughout their melodies and riffs. Light Vessels is a new progressive post-rock project from some talented Salem musicians. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for this all ages show. Cost is $12 in advance; $18 at the door. Click here for tickets.

March 6

The Elsinore presents Serie de Películas para la familia en Español: Shrek 4 p.m. Sunday, March 6. The film is dubbed in Spanish. Cost: $10 (includes 2 free kids age 12 and younger per ticket). Buy tickets here.

Hear the Oregon Wind Quintet 4 p.m. Sunday, March 6 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Jacqueline Cordova-Arrington, flute; Dieter Koch, oboe; Wonkak Kim, clarinet; Steve Vacchi, bassoon; and Lydia Van Dreel, horn, are all members of the School of Music Faculty at the University of Oregon. The program will center around Paul Taffanel’s 1876 Wind Quintet in G minor. The quintet will also perform two sets of chorales and chorale preludes: the first shares historical precedents by Thomas Tallis, Michael Praetorius, and J.S. Bach; the second is borrowed from the Classical and Romantic orchestral tradition- Ignaz Pleyel, Johannes Brahms, Edward Elgar, Jean Sibelius, and Gustav Holst. The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are accepted at the door or online. Masks and proof of vaccination are required to attend in person. The concert will also be live-streamed on the YouTube Channel. Go to stpaulsoregon.org 

March 7

Strap on your skates because Cherry City Roller Derby hosts open recruitment 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 7 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. The league welcomes junior and adult skaters, officials, and volunteers. No experience is necessary.

March 9 

The Elsinore Theatre’s Family Film Series presents Shrek 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 9. This 2001 animated film is about a mean lord who exiles fairytale creatures to the swamp of a grumpy ogre, who must go on a quest and rescue a princess for the lord in order to get his land back. Starring Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz. (PG, 1 hour 30 minutes) Cost: $10 (includes 2 free kids age 12 and younger per ticket). Buy tickets here.

March 11

Kick up your heels at the Céili of the Valley Society’s Second Friday Ceili (kay-lee) on March 11 at the VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE. No experience, partner or special shoes needed for this all-ages welcome social dance. Instruction will be provided by Maldon Meehan, with live music by Bob Soper and Joe Root. Doors open at 7 p.m. with dance instruction at 7:15 and live music at 8. Cost is $10. Bottle water will be available for purchase, or bring your own. Note: Proof of full vaccination from Covid-19 required or a negative Covid test within 72 hours of the event.

Confluence Willamette Valley LGBT Chorus will sing about LOVE, 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 11, at First Congregational UCC, 700 Marion St. NE. Conducted by Raymond Elliott, Founding Artistic Director, the chorus will perform legendary songs by The Carpenters, Nat King Cole, Dionne Warwick, The Beatles, along with many other great familiar tunes. Tickets are available in advance for $15, $12 students and seniors. At the door, cost increases to $18, $15 students and seniors. No one is turned away due to lack of funds. COVID-19 requirements will be followed. All concert attendees must wear masks and show proof of full vaccination before entering. Click here for tickets. 

March 11 and 12

TWO NIGHTS: Catch the great Adam Ray (HBO, NBC, Netflix and more!) supported by Bernice Ye (New York Comedy Festival, San Diego Comedy Festival, Crazy Woke Asians, and more!) and TikTok legend Collin Everett. The Friday Show takes place at 7:30 p.m., with doors at 6:30. The Saturday show is at 6 p.m. with doors at 5 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Get your tickets here. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. 

March 12

Join the St. Patrick’s Walk-About on Saturday, March 12. The group will gather at 11:30 a.m. at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, 101 Front St NE, then parade through the park with music beginning at 12 p.m. The event will be physically distanced and masked. If you forget yours, one will be provided. Learn more at ceiliofthevalley.org.

Don’t wait! Lipstick Divas presents Makeup & Mimosas Drag Brunch 12:30 to 2 p..m. March 12 at Infinity Room. Hosted by Kharisma. Bloody Mary, mimosa and brunch specials available. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for this 18 and older event. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. Click here for tickets.

Pick your favorite treat – er, team – at Candywars: Roller Derby Mashup DoubleHeader 4 p.m. March 12, at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. The Cherry City rookies will battle in a modified contact bout, and then the juniors will take the track to find out who truly is the sweetest. Tickets are $20. Purchase here.

Take in the official debut of Salem supergroup Wywolf with Mons La Hire and Vortex Remover at a double album release show 9 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at Infinity Room. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. for this 21 and older show. Cost is $12 in advance; $18 at the door. Click here for tickets.

March 13

See a screening of What’s More American Than Socialism? 7:15 p.m. Sunday, March 13, at Salem Cinema. This documentary delves into the rich history of the American socialist movement and journeys with the people striving to build a socialist future today. Following the film will be a discussion. Please register for this free event here.

Salem Symphonic Winds presents Represent, a bold and expressive statement of American musical diversity that aims to expand your awareness of band music genres. Featured vocals is Hannah Penn. Conductor John Skelton will offer a pre-concert talk about the music at 2:15 p.m., followed by a short chamber music performance. Note: Proof of vaccination and ID or verified negative Covid-19 test required. The concert takes place 3 p.m. Sunday, March 13, at the Elsinore Theatre. Cost is $13 to $33. Buy tickets here.

March 16

The Elsinore Theatre’s Cult Film Series features The Thing 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 16. This 1982 John Carpenter classic is about a research team in Antarctica that is hunted by a shape-shifting alien that assumes the appearance of its victims. Starring Kurt Russell, Wilford Brimley and Keith David. (R, 1 hour 49 minutes). Cost: $10 (includes 2 free kids age 12 and younger per ticket). Buy tickets here.

March 17

Willamette Valley Pipes and Drums will play for the St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl on March 17, at Half Penny Public House, 3743 Commercial St SE. The band will play twice: 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. The Willamette Valley Pipes and Drums is a nonprofit organization that aims to serve our community by providing entertainment through Scottish music, develop the musical abilities of its members and enjoy the friendship shared because of their love of pipe and drum music. Find out more at wvpnd.band. 

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Potatoe Famine. The local Irish punk/folk band will play an all-ages welcome show at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 17, at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance, $12 at the door. Purchase online at showpass.com/potatoe-famine. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. 

March 18

Take in a night of Comedy with Jake Silberman 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 18, at Stomp Tasting Room, 5475 River Rd S. Jake Silberman is a Portland-based stand-up, voted “Portland’s Funniest Person” by the Willamette Week in 2018. He is a regular feature at Helium comedy club, where he has opened for the late Norm Macdonald, Mark Normand, and Kyle Kinane, amongst others. With opening comics Seth Allen and Dylan Jenkins. Cost is $5 and tickets are required for this 21 and older show.

Laugh yourself silly with the incredible talents of Chad Opitz (Amazon, Sketchfest, Doug Loves Movies) along with Neeraj Srinivasan (Portlandia), Elena C. Hayden and Ross Passeck 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 18, at Infinity Room. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door for this 18 and older show. Get tickets here. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. 

March 18 and 19

The Deepwood Plant Sale takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19, at Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 1116 Mission St SE. Shop for hard-to-find native and companion plants, yard decor, pottery and more and support a good cause while you are at it. A portion of all proceeds benefit Deepwood’s preservation and programs. Free admission to the sale. Keep an eye on deepwoodmuseum.org for details.

March 18 through 20

Explore the Mid-Valley Yard, Garden & Home Show March 18 through 20 at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. Whether looking to find a vendor or learn about do-it-yourself options, this event boasts hundreds of new and innovative products and services for your home and garden. See the latest in outdoor living, gardening trends, design ideas, tools for the yard and garden and more. Get all the details at homebuildersassociation.org/yard-garden/ 

March 19

Check out the 10-year Anniversary Acoustic Showcase featuring Danny Shaw, Matthew Price, Ben Thede, Ashley Lute, Abbey Pope, Hannah Wood, Jon Fro and Cory Wilson. The free show starts at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 19 at The Triangle.

March 20

Celebrate the Spring Equinox with Yoga Escape 10 a.m. Sunday, March 20, at GreenSpaceDesign by Jude, 990 Commercial St SE. Welcome Spring with this one-hour class surrounded by plants to remind you of rebirth. Cost: $17 per person (includes class plus juice and muffins and fruit). Limited space. Register here.

The Elsinore presents Serie de Películas para la familia en Español: Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa 4 p.m. Sunday, March 20. The film is dubbed in Spanish. Cost: $10 (includes 2 free kids age 12 and younger per ticket). Buy tickets here.

March 21 through 25

Wrangle the kids for the Spring Break Passport to Fun happening March 21 through 25. The Oregon State Capitol, State Capitol State Park, Willamette Heritage Center, Hallie Ford Museum of Art, World Beat Gallery, Deepwood Museum and the City of Salem Public Library will be serving the community with free activities during Spring Break week. 

Take in a night of Stand Up Comedy 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 3, at The Yard Food Park. The show features Jane Malone and Julia Corral with headliner Susan Rice, who was voted Willamette Weekly 2015 ‘ Funniest Person in Portland” and is known for her conversational hysterics. Cost: $10 suggested donation.

March 23

Salem Art Association hosts Lunch & Learn (virtually) with Tammy Jo Wilson 1 to 2 p.m. March 23. Tammy Jo Wilson is the curator of Black Matter, an upcoming exhibition at SAA this May. If you are curious to see how an exhibition comes together and want to hear about Wilson’s inspirations for this show that highlights Black Oregon artists, this is a great opportunity to learn more. RSVP to Laura@SalemArt.org to attend.

The University Chamber Orchestra (UCO) and Wind Ensemble Concert takes to the stage 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 3, at Willamette University. The concert begins with UCO accompanied by soloist Connor Cordes (’22), winner of the 2021 University Concerto Competition, who will lead the group in Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto. The Willamette’s Wind Ensemble follows, presenting the latest in American orchestral music. Admission is free. COVID vaccination policy applies. See ___ for details.

The Elsinore Family Film Series presents Indiana Jones – The Last Crusade 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 23. This 1989 Spielberg classic stars Harrison Ford, Sean Connery and Alison Doody. In 1938, after his father Professor Henry Jones, Sr. goes missing while pursuing the Holy Grail, Professor Henry “Indiana” Jones, Jr. finds himself up against Adolf Hitler’s Nazis again to stop them from obtaining its powers. Directed by Steven Spielberg. Starring. (PG-13, 2 hours 7 minutes). Cost: $10 (includes 2 free kids age 12 and younger per ticket). Buy tickets here.

March 24

Get your cuddles in at Kittens & Beer 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 24, May 26 and June 23, at Santiam Brewing, 2544 19th St. SE. Organized by the Willamette Humane Society (WHS), the event aims to help the shelter’s kittens with human interaction so they may grow to be healthy, friendly and well-socialized adults. Kitten cuddling shifts are available every 15 minutes. It is not an adoption event, so there is no risk of taking home a kitten, plus Santiam will donate $1 for every pint sold. Minors are welcome. Watch for a story in the upcoming edition of Press Play Salem! Learn more at whs4pets.org. 

March 25

Hear the Rich McCloud Duo featuring Rich’s brand of acoustic soul hip-hop with Sky Audsley on guitar, 9 p.m. Friday, March 25 at Taproot Lounge, 356 State St. 

It’s time for Truth or Dare Live 7 p.m. Friday, March 25, at Infinity Room. Truth or Dare Live is a comedy party game show hosted by Emma Jonas where comedians reveal the truth and the audience picks the dares. Daringly unique and unforgettably funny, this edition features Danelle Porter, Thomas Lundy, Cam Strong, Eliza Butler, David Kildal, and Julia Corral. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for this 21 and older event. Click here for tickets. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. 

Varsity Vocals presents the International Competition of High School Acappella 7 p.m. Friday, March 25 at the Elsinore Theatre. This is the semifinal round for the West region featuring high school students making music with only their voices. Tickets are $20-$35. Buy tickets here.

March 26

The Varsity Vocals International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) is the only global tournament that showcases the art of college student a cappella singing. This semifinal event will feature the ten groups who already placed first or second in quarterfinals across the West region. The West Champion will move on to perform at the 2022 ICCA Finals in New York City in April. The show takes place 7 p.m. Saturday, March 26, at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $21-$36. Purchase here.

Through March 27

Willamette University Theatre presents Wayfinding, a fantastical, poignant comedy about Jane, an emotionally-numbed new widow, and Harrison, an inattentive, self-sabotaging fiancé. In seeking escape, these two strangers collide – both literally and figuratively – tangling their life lines and setting them on a time-bending journey involving an intercontinental plane crash, a magical forest, and a choice that leads them both to an unexpected destination. By Whitney Rowland. Directed by Lava Alapai. This show is a stage-to-film production featuring made-for-film staging — think Great Performances or Hamilton with views of all the action and closed captions. Tickets: $9 to $40. Get tickets and learn more here.

March 30

The Elsinore Theatre’s Cult Film Series features The Big Lebowski 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 30. Directed by Joel Coen and Ethan Coen, this film is about the ultimate L.A. slacker. When Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski is mistaken for a millionaire of the same name, he seeks restitution for a rug ruined by debt collectors, and enlists his bowling buddies for help while trying to find the millionaire’s missing wife. Starring Jeff Bridges, John Goodman and Julianne Moore. (R, 1 hour 57 minutes). Cost: $10 (includes 2 free kids age 12 and younger per ticket). Buy here.

March 30 through April 29

Explore Galactic Ping-Pong — Interdisciplinary Artist Kathryn Cellerini Moore is mounting a technology-intensive exhibition that includes installations in two spaces: Chemeketa’s Gretchen Schuette Gallery and the Media Production Studio. “This immersive, multimedia experience is like a science-art walk,” said self-professed nerd and space-maker Kathryn. Learn more in the Spring edition of Press Play Salem.

Updated: March 12, 2022

Author: The Instigator