The InstigatorAs the saying goes, March is in like a lion, so let’s get to it! There’s a lion’s share of things to do in Salem, Oregon this month.
Through 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 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: Through March 31. Opening reception noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 10
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
March 1
The Salem Poetry Project features Portland’s Lex Runciman. Runciman, has published six collections of poems, including Salt Moons: Poems 1981-2016, from Salmon Poetry. An earlier volume won the Oregon Book Award. The chapter discussing his work concludes Erik Muller’s new book, Durable Goods: Appreciations of Oregon Poets. Followed by the Infamous Open Mic: 3 poems or five minutes whichever is first.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 1
Where: Barrel & Keg, 1190 Broadway St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: www.facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject
March 2
Take in An Evening of A Cappella featuring a variety of Oregon groups, including singers from University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Willamette University, Chemeketa Community College and several Salem-Keizer schools.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, March 2
Where: Chemeketa Community College, Auditorium, Building 6
Cost: $15. All proceeds donated to the Marion-Polk Food Share.
Info and tickets: Purchase online at boxofficetickets.com or by calling 503-881-5794.
MARCH 2-3
The Verona Studi’s presentation of the Pulitzer Prize Drama Winner “ ’Night, Mother,” written by Marsha Norman. Directed by Gregory Jolivette and featuring Jenni Bertels and Robynn Hayek, wraps the first weekend of March. 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. March 2-3 and 2 p.m. 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
March 2 through 24
Meet the “Calendar Girls” March 2 through 24 at Pentacle Theatre. This heartwarming, humorous and a little naughty play is about a group of women, aiming to raise money for a new settee in the local hospital waiting room, who decide to pose nude for an “alternative” calendar. Written by Tim Firth; Directed by Jill Sorensen. Note: show contains mild adult themes and suggested nudity with female actors wearing strategically placed costume elements.
When: March 2 through 24
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW
Cost: $24 to $29
Tickets: Advance tickets are available at Pentacle’s downtown Salem 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 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 salemforall.org.
March 3
GetJumpin’ and Jivin’ with Gail Gage Jazz with Salem Pops Orchestra and Gail Gage Jazz in a night of classic jazz, swing and original works.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, March 3
Where: Chemeketa Community College Auditorium Building 6
Cost: $15, $5 for students and $2 for ages 6 and younger
Info: www.salempopsorchestra.org
March 3
Salem’s junior roller derby league, Cherry Blossoms, will bout against Portland’s Rose Buds in a co-ed bout of skaters 18 years and younger. Food, beer and cider will be available for purchase.
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 3. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Where: “The Madhouse,” 1335 Madison St. NE
Cost: $10 advance, $12 at the door. Kids 6 and younger are $5. General admission seating. Get tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com
Info: www.cherrycityrollerderby.com
March 4
Celebrate the 90th Academy Awards on the big screen at the Elsinore Theatre with an Oscar Party atmosphere, red carpet treatment and the Who’s Who of Salem. The Elsinore Theatre will live-stream the awards ceremony in an evening peppered with entertainment, prizes, food, drinks, and more. Come dressed to impress and ready to celebrate at this exclusive evening soirée.
When: 5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 4
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $60 to $100. Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
March 6
Hear about the process behind photographer Aaron Wilson’s images during the First Tuesday Art Talk. Born in Salem, Oregon, Aaron is a digital photographer who takes a large amount of his inspiration from life experiences that shape his overall worldview. He is also the Salem Art Association’s Emerging Artist for 2018
When: 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 6
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
March 7
Wednesday Film Series features “Psycho,” Alfred Hitchcock’s black & white thriller about a Phoenix secretary embezzles $40,000 from her employer’s client, goes on the run, and checks into a remote motel run by a young man under the domination of his mother. (1960; R; 1 hour, 49 minutes; Horror, Mystery, Thriller)
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 7. Doors and box office open at 6:15 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
March 7-25
Enlightened Theatrics presents “The Foreigner,” a comedic play that follows shy guy Charlie as he navigates a visit to a rural Georgia fishing lodge. Desperate to be left alone, Charlie pretends to be a non-English speaking foreigner; but he soon finds himself an unwitting confidant and advocate for the other residents of the lodge who are mixed up in their own misunderstandings.
When: 7:30 p.m. March 7-10, 14-17, 21-24 and 2:30 p.m. March 11, 18 and 25
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand, 191 High St. NE
Cost: $23 to $28
Info: www.enlightenedtheatrics.org
March 8
The Salem Poetry Project features Charles Goodrich and Donald Levering. After working together as groundskeepers at Marylhurst College in the 1970s, they have gone on to publish many books. Followed by the Infamous Open Mic: 3 poems or five minutes whichever is first.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 8
Where: Barrel & Keg, 1190 Broadway St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: www.facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject
March 8
Julie Goldman’s stand-up is delightfully in-your-face, honest and aggressively funny. Headlining throughout the US at clubs, colleges, festivals and events; she’s been described as “unapologetically un-PC ” by Go Magazine “a hilariously irreverent, butch lesbian” by Afterellen and Autostraddle writes, “watching someone be outraged has never been so fun.” She’s been seen on Bravo’s The People’s Couch, co-hosting “Vanderpump Rules After Show”, and on LOGO’s “Big Gay Sketch Show and Skit Happens,” plus HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm.
When: 8 p.m. Thursday, March 8
Where: Capitol City Theater, 210 Liberty St. SE
Cost: $15 in advance, $22 at the door. Get tickets at https://goo.gl/sQZPnD
Info: 971-599-1871, www.capitalcitytheater.com
March 8 through 17
South Salem High School presents the classic Shakespeare tragedy “Romeo and Juliet.”
When: 7 p.m. March 8-9 and 16-17, and 2 p.m. March 17
Where: South Salem High School, 1910 Church St. SE
Cost: $10; $8 for students and seniors.
Info: www.facebook.com/SaxonDrama
March 8 through 17
North Salem High School’s Theatre Department is proud to present “Big Fish: A Musical of Epic Proportions.” Based on the 2003 film by Tim Burton and transformed to fit the stage, we explore beginnings and endings, love, and adventure. Edward is a man who is larger than life itself and his son Will just wants to know who he is, really. This moving story between father and son is an epic roller coaster of emotion. We explore Edward’s past and present with show-stopping numbers, the magic of theater, and of course, a spectacular tap routine. May not be suitable for young children.
When: 7 p.m. March 8-10, 16-17, and 2 p.m. March 17
Where: North Salem High School Theatre Department, 765 14th St NE
Cost: $9 adult; $6 student
Info: www.nshstheater.com
March 8 through 17
“Rock of Ages“ is a rock/jukebox musical built around classic rock songs from the 1980s, especially from the famous glam metal bands of that decade.
When: 7:30 p.m. March 8-9, 16-17, and 2 p.m. March 10
Where: Blanchet Catholic School, 4373 Market St NE
Cost: $8; $6 student. Get info & tickets here.
March 8 through 18
An original performance written and directed by Salem resident Rachel Ost, “Alice” is the story of a a runaway who finds herself in a strange land of talking animals and a violent queen.
When: 10:30 a.m. March 8, 7:30 p.m. March 9 and 10 and 15-17, and 2:30 p.m. March 18
Where: Psalm Performing Arts Center at Corban University, 5000 Deer Park Dr SE
Cost: $12; $10 for students with ID and seniors (62+), and $8 for children 10 and younger.
Info: inside.corban.edu/theatre
March 9
Mingle with artists and art enthusiasts, sip wine, and enjoy complimentary snacks while you absorb the creative atmosphere. On view will be Diane Beals’ portraits of local young women in Braids and Brawn: The Power of Girls; art from four Oregon State University students in (Co)Habitants; and classically-inspired oil paintings in Aron Michael Johnston: The Art of Observation. Also on view, but with a separate Awards Reception on Saturday, will be hundreds of pieces of student art in the Young Artists’ Showcase. Join the Salem Art Association for this celebration of new exhibits at the Bush Barn Art Center.
When: 5:30 p.m. Friday, March 9
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
March 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 Mikey Beglan, Bob Soper, and Joe Root, with caller Geraldine Murray. No experience or partner is needed. Refreshments are provided.
When: 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, March 9
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St. NE
Cost: $5 to $10
Age: Family friendly
Info: www.ceiliofthevalley.org
March 9
Take in an enchanting evening of music, wine and fun with a gourmet dinner, concert and auction raising funds for the Oregon Symphony in Salem. Cocktail attire recommended.
When: 5 to 9 p.m. March 9
Where: Zenith Vineyard, 5657 Zena Road NW|
Cost: $80
Info: www.orsymphonysalem.org
March 9 through 11
The second annual Cherry Blossom Theatre Festival, organized by the Salem Theatre Network, features 15 performances and five workshops in six venues across the city. The network, which is an alliance of 12 theater organizations, has a mission of supporting, promoting, and uniting theatre communities in and around Salem. Celebrating all things theatre, the festival has something for everyone: from fully staged performances to staged readings to a Spanish-language play to improvisational comedy to educational workshops.
When: Friday, March 9, through Sunday, March 11
Where: In and around Salem
Cost: $65 all access pass, $35 general admission, $25 for students and Oregon Trail card members.
Info & Tickets: 503-485-4300, www.facebook.com/events/2414244998799792
March 10
Lights, Comedy, Laughs! stand-up comedy features Oregon International Comedy Competition winner Tyler Boeh, and Portland’s Todd Armstrong, who represented PDX for Comedy Central’s “Comics to Watch”.
When: 7 and 9 p.m. Saturday, March 10
Where: Northern Lights Theatre Pub, 3893 Commercial St SE
Cost: $10
Age: 21 and older
Info: www.northernlightstheatrepub.com
March 10
Willamette University’s Native and Indigenous Student Union’s 16th annual Social Pow wow features native arts & crafts, dancers, drum groups and food vendors. With Master of Ceremonies Bob Tom, Arena Director Deitz Peters and Host Drum Algin Scabby Robe.
When: 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 10. Grand entry at 4 p.m.
Where: Cone Field House, Sparks Athletic Center at Willamette University
Cost: Free
Info: willamette.edu/offices/oma/events/powwow/index.html
March 10
Six Salem stars will strut their stuff at the annual Dancing with the Salem Stars fundraiser. With this year’s theme, “TV Night,” each star will dance to music and as characters from iconic TV shows…from Gilligan’s Island to Baywatch to Game of Thrones. After the local stars compete, the Utah Ballroom Dance Company will perform its award-winning showcase “Hollywood: A ballroom dance tribute to the silver screen.”
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $15 to $40. Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in
person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
March 10
Thanks to a successful Indiegogo campaign, Salem all-girl punk band Hot Sheets are releasing their EP with a night of music. Salem’s Chromatic Colors will open.
When: 9 p.m. Saturday, March 10
Where: The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters, 471 Court St NE
Cost: Free
Age: 21 and older
Info: www.facebook.com/hotsheetsband
March 10-11
It’s a foodie’s delight at Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine, Pear & Cheese Jubilee which brings together Oregon wines with local pears and artisan cheeses. The weekend also includes an exclusive educational Seated Tasting in the Barrel Cellar of selected Griffin Creek wines with small bites led by one of WVV’s knowledgeable Winery Ambassadors, who will lead you through the tasting sharing stories of our winery and the history of Oregon wines.
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 10, and Sunday, March 11
Where: Willamette Valley Vineyards Estate Tasting Room, 8800 Enchanted Way SE
Cost: $20, $10 for wine club members, owners and their guests.
Info: www.wvv.com, 503-588-9463
March 10 through April 21
Now in its 9th year, the Young Artists’ Showcase (YAS) has grown into a highly anticipated event for K-12 students, teachers, and parents in Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties. The exhibit features artwork by hundreds of students at the Bush Barn Art Center, which is operated by the Salem Art Association (SAA).
When: March 10 through April 21. Awards reception noon to 3 p.m. Saturday,
March 10. Awards at 1.
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
Moments of Sgt. Pepper
Aron Michael Johnston: The Art of Observation. Johnston, a self taught oil painter, explores the two complementary aspects of observation and memory while developing artistic expertise. His body of work reflects the current state of his evolution as an artist and interprets observed reality in paint.
When: March 10 through April 21. Opening reception 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. March
9
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
(Co)Habitants features recent artworks by Oregon State University students Michael Burke, Alec Landon, Jennifer McCloskey, and Suehade Soto. These artists explore individual narratives and their environments.
When: March 10 through April 21. Opening reception 5:40 p.m. March 9
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
March 11 and 17
Gaiety Hollow Open Garden is a unique opportunity to discover the beautiful, historic garden at the home of Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver at your leisure. Open Gardens occur monthly on the 2nd Sunday and 3rd Saturday of each month March-September. Hosted by Lord & Schryver Conservancy.
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 11, and Saturday, March 17
Where: Gaiety Hollow, 545 Mission St SE
Cost: $5 age 16 and older. Children are free and welcome.
Info: www.lordandschryverconservancy.org
March 11
Keith Weathers, John Skelton, and the Salem Concert Band to perform 25th Anniversary Edition of “In The Steps of Sousa,” featuring a wide variety of musical numbers and styles—from light classical to popular song, featuring soloists, marches, and humorous musical numbers as well.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, March 11. Doors open at 2 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $20 to $30 adult; $10 to $30 student. Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
March 15
John McEuen has assembled a unique cast, including Les Thompson on bass, vocals and bouzouki; John Cable on guitar and vocals; and Matt Cartsonis on vocals, mandola and guitar, for a special night to share the music and memories of the landmark Will the Circle Be Unbroken platinum album and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s incredible career. The show also features special guest Mary Flowers as Maybelle Carter. Explore the incredible journey of the NGDB through this multimedia show featuring archival photographs, film, and narrative interwoven with rare Dirt Band favorites.
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 15. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $23 to $39. Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
March 15
The Salem Poetry Project features Juan Cervantes. Cervantes is currently Executive Director of Espiral Publishing and a long term member of the Silverton Poetry Association. He is a poet and enjoys other creative writing. Cervantes has published a book of his own poetry, Voces de Libertad (Voices of Freedom). Followed by the Infamous Open Mic: 3 poems or five minutes whichever is first.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 15
Where: Barrel & Keg, 1190 Broadway St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: www.facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject
March 16
Brahms’ Violin Concerto. One of the greatest violin concertos ever written, Brahms’ work is a stunning display of the violin’s emotional and virtuosic qualities. With conductor Carlos Kalmar, and featuring Vadim Gluzman on violin. The concert also features Dvorak: The Water Goblin and Hanson: Symphony No. 4 (Requiem)
When: 8 p.m. Friday, March 16, with pre-concert reception 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Smith Auditorium at Willamette University
Cost: $35 to $50
Info: orsymphonysalem.org, 503-364-0149
March 17
Explore Oregon’s heritage during Cherry Blossom Day at the Capitol which celebrates the rich impact of the Japanese culture on Oregon and the history of the cherry industry. This family-inclusive event features exhibits, booths, music and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 17
Where: Oregon State Capitol, 900 Court St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: 503-986-1388, www.oregoncapitol.com
March 18
The Delgani String Quartet presents Tales from Russia featuring Prokofiev’s String Quartet No. 2 in F Major, Op 92; Lev “Ljova” Zhurbin’s Culai (2012) and Alexander Borodin’s String Quartet No. 2 in D Major
When: 3 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 18
Where: Prince of Peace Episcopal Church, 1525 Glen Creek Road
Cost: $22 in advance; $25 at the door. Student ticket is $10
Info: www.delgani.org
March 18 through 31
During her time as the Salem Art Association’s Artist-in-Residence, Jo Hockenhull’s focus is on experimentation, and the combining and layering of various printmaking techniques. This includes traditional approaches such as drypoint, etching, monotype, collage, shaped plates, stencil, hand-coloring and chine colle; and non-traditional additions of materials such as fabrics and direct paint application. Besides layering and multiple-plate printing, the finished prints will eventually form multiple-print structures. Come visit with Jo and see her work in the Annex at the Bush Barn Art Center.
When: March 18 through 31
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Cost: Free
Info: www.salemart.org
March 21
Wednesday Film Series features “American Graffiti.” “Where were you in 62?” A couple of high school grads spend one final night cruising the strip with their buddies before they go off to college. Directed by George Lucas. (1973; PG; 1 hour, 50 minutes; Comedy, Drama)
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 21. Doors and box office open at 6:15 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
March 22
The Salem Poetry Project features Carol Hottle, a writer, editor, educator, and dancer who has lived in the Northwest for over 20 years. She teaches writing (including poetry) in colleges and universities and community settings. Her poetry has been published in Sing! Heavenly Muse, Farm and Ranch Living, and Highland County Journal. Her dance writing has appeared in Arterial. Followed by the Infamous Open Mic: 3 poems or five minutes whichever is first.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 22
Where: Barrel & Keg, 1190 Broadway St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: www.facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject
March 23
Rock out with The Fab Four, a Beatles tribute like no other featuring Ron McNeil as John Lennon, Ardy Sarraf as Paul McCartney, Gavin Pring as George Harrison, and Joe Bologna as Ringo Starr.
When: 8 to 10 p.m. Friday, March 23
Where: Smith Auditorium at Willamette University
Cost: $40 to $55; $10 with student ID. NOTE: Buy 1, get 1 free with promo code “Fab4”
Info: www.orsymphonysalem.org, 503-364-0149
March 29
The Salem Poetry Project features writer, poet, educator, and cultural arts activist Panina Taesali, who is author of Sourcing Siapo, a book of poetry that courageously uncovers lost family stories. During this event, Taesali will debut her latest work, a chapbook, Summons: Love Letters for the People. Followed by the Infamous Open Mic: 3 poems or five minutes whichever is first.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 29
Where: Barrel & Keg, 1190 Broadway St. NE
Cost: Free
Info: www.facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject
March 31
Brought to you by Varsity Vocals, The 2018 International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella West Semifinal is the largest international a cappella tournament exclusive to universities around the world. This event will include 10 college a cappella groups who have already placed first or second in events across the West Region. The group placing first in this event will be named ICCA West Champion and move on to the finals held in New York City’s Beacon Theatre on Saturday, April 21st, 2018. This is a family-friendly event, all ages welcome.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, March 31. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $25 to $35 adult; $20 to $30 student. Purchase tickets online at the Elsinore Theatre website, in person at the theatre box office or at any TicketsWest location.
Info: 503-375-3574 or go to www.elsinoretheatre.com
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Carlee Wright
