Here’s a look at what’s happening in May in Salem, Oregon.
Events are free unless otherwise listed.

THURSDAYS

Each week, the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the “Infamous Open Mic” – 3 poems or five minutes whichever is shortest. May 2 features the Merry Clarkster, May 9 features Tia Borkowski, May 16 features Claggett Creek Middle School Poetry Club, May 23 features Rebecca Smolen and May 30 features Doug Stone.
When: 7 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Ike Box, 229 Cottage St. NE
Info: facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject

SATURDAYS

The arrival of spring welcomes the return of the Salem Saturday Market featuring more than 150 vendors, plus in addition to fresh produce and local artisan products, you’ll find live music (beginning in May), entertainment, demonstrations and more.
When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday, April 6 through October 26
Where: Lot at 865 Marion St NE
Info: salemsaturdaymarket.com

SUNDAYS

Drop-in for an afternoon of art at Family Clay Sunday to get your hands dirty with a creative clay project each week.
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays through June 2 (closed May 26)
Where: Willamette Art Center, 1820 Silverton Road NE
Cost: $10 for up to 4 in a family. $3 for each extra person.
Info: willametteartcenter.com

Through MAY 4

Pentacle Theatre presents Yellow by Del Shores. Directed by Heather Dunkin Toller. The Westmorelands are the perfect family: Son Dayne is a football star and daughter Gracie an actress, but everything falls apart when tragedy rocks the family. Featuring the music of Salem band, True North, Yellow explores themes of cowardice, intolerance, family secrets and forgiveness. This comedic drama is suitable for audiences who can handle its profanities, sexual references, religious epithets, derogatory terms and a depiction of family violence. See our feature story in issue 6 then catch the show through May 4.
When: 7:30 p.m. May 1-4
Cost: $24 to $29
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW.
Tickets: Purchase in advance at Pentacle’s ticket office at 145 Liberty St. NE or by calling 503-485-4300 or online at pentacletheatre.org. Tickets also available at the theater box office 45 minutes before each show.
Info: 503-485-4300

Through  MAY 19

Enlightened Theatrics presents The Odd Couple: Female Version. Unger and Madison are at it again! Florence Unger and Olive Madison, that is, in Neil Simon’s hilarious contemporary comic classic: the female version of The Odd Couple. Instead of the poker party that begins the original version, Ms. Madison has invited the girls over for an evening of Trivial Pursuit. The Pidgeon sisters have been replaced by the two Constanzuela brothers. But the hilarity remains the same. Read our feature story in Press Play Salem issue 6 then snag your tickets to the show.
When: 7:30 p.m. May 1-4, 8-11, 15-18, and 2:30 p.m. May 2, 9 and 19
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St. NE
Cost: $25 to $29; $15 youth/student
Info: 503-585-3427, enlightenedtheatrics.org

MAY 1

Go downtown on First Wednesday for live music, games, beer, food, local vendors and the return of the alley fair!
When: 5 to 8 p.m. May 1
Where: Downtown Salem
Cost: Free
Info: facebook.com/salemfirstwednesday

Wednesday Film Series features “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” In 1936, archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before Adolf Hitler’s Nazis can obtain its awesome powers. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford. (1981; PG; 1 hour, 55 minutes; action/adventure)
When: 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 1. Doors open 45 minutes prior to show.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

2019 Annual Barrel Tasting. Join the Wine Studies program for an evening of food, fun and festivities as they celebrate the achievements of the program and its alumni. Enjoy the beautiful views overlooking our vineyard and the valley along with live music, appetizers and award-winning wines produced in Oregon by Wine Studies program alumni. RSVP at 2019barrelltasting.typeform.com/to/oGU6i4
When: 5 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 1
Where: Northwest Wine Studies Center, Chemeketa Eola, 215 Doaks Ferry Road NW
Info: 503-584-7254, chemeketacellars.com

May 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

2019 AmeriTitle Idol is a live band karaoke competition, featuring The Flextones, raising funds for a different local nonprofit each week. Tables fill quickly so come early to ensure a good seat.
When: 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
Where: Half Penny, 3743 Commercial St SE
Cost: $10
Info: facebook.com/AmeriTitleIncSalem

MAY 2

New York Times best-selling author Therese Oneill returns to the library to chat about her new book, Ungovernable, a hilarious illustrated book about the perils of Victorian parenting.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, May 2
Where: Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library
Info: salemlibrary.org

Elsinore Theatre Presents FRIENDS! The Musical Parody, the comedic musical that lovingly pokes fun at TV’s Friends, celebrating the adventures of your favorite group of 20-something friends as  they navigate the pitfalls of work, life, and love in 1990s Manhattan. It’s a typical day at New York’s only coffee shop, Central Perk, until an unexpected runaway  bride enters the picture and kicks the whole gang out of second gear! This new musical recreates our favorite  moments from all 10 years of Friends through an uncensored, fast-paced, music filled romp. Recommended for mature audiences.
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 2
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $27 to $49. Students $17 to $39
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

MAY 2 to 18

The Verona Studio presents Life Sucks, Aaron Posner’s revisioning of Anton Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya about “a group of old friends, ex-lovers, estranged in-laws, and lifelong enemies [who] gather to grapple with life’s thorniest questions—and each other.” Grab the current issue of Press Play Salem for a preview story about the show
When: 8 p.m. May 2-4, 10-11, 17-18 and 2 p.m. May 11 and 18
Where: The Reed Opera House, 189 Liberty St., Suite 215
Cost: $20. Get tickets at brownpapertickets.com/event/3414918
Info: 805-657-7538, theveronastudio.com

MAY 2 to 4

North Salem High School presents Student Directed One Acts. Each year three or four talented upperclassmen choose a one-act play and direct it.
When: 7 p.m. May 2-4
Where: North Salem High School Auditorium, 765 14th St. NE
Cost: TBA
Info: nshstheater.com

MAY 3

One night only, stop by the Gray Lab for Glimpse: A Pop-up Art Gallery displaying the work of Joshua Blue and B. Hammond.
When: 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 3
Where: The Gray Lab, 125 Liberty St. NE
Info: facebook.com/events/836653856689586

CASA of Marion Co. presents Light of Hope: An Evening with Antwone Fisher. Spend an evening with award-winning film and literary writer Antwone Fisher. Born in an Ohio prison to a teenage mother, Antwone became a ward of the state and was placed in foster care. He has worked in Hollywood for 20 years as a writer and producer, with an impressive fourteen writing projects or assignments with the major studios. Among those projects is the feature classic, Antwone Fisher, directed by and starring Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington, written by Antwone and based on his own life. The film garnered numerous nominations and awards. Antwone received the renowned Humanitas Prize, the Screenwriter of the Year Award from the National Association of Theater Owners.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 3
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $31 to $46
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

An Evening with David Roth. Roth is a gifted folk musician and entertainer. He is also a generous man who shares his talents and credits with young kids on the edge who he works with to create lyrics, people who are otherwise abled, and by creating open mic nights where the donated proceeds go to the needy in the community. He regularly returns to Salem to support our local food banks.
When: 7 p.m. May 3
Where: Unity Salem, 1777 Fabry Road
Cost: Suggested donation of $20
Info: www.facebook.com/events/unity-of-salem/an-evening-with-david-roth/1057846604416678/

MAY 3 and 4

Cinco de Micro Brewfest features more than 100 beer and cider on tap, including many spring releases, for your tasting pleasure, plus a variety of musical entertainment.
When: 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 3, and 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Where: Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St. SE
Cost: $25-$35 in advance; $25-$40 at the door. Designated driver $5. $1 per additional taste.
Age: 21 and older
Info: cincodemicro.com

The Marion County Master Gardeners Association annual Plant and Yard Sale features a variety of annuals, perennials, vegetables and grafted vegetables, herbs, trees & shrubs, fuchsias, beneficial plants and pollinator attractors, native plants, edible container plants, plus a yard sale with garden related treasures. Workshops, demonstrations and advice from Master Gardeners will be available.
When: 10 a.m to 7 p.m. Friday, May 3 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Where: Columbia Hall at Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE
Info: marioncomga.org

MAY 4

Find inner peace, rest + relaxation during these free one-hour guided meditation classes. All experience levels welcome.
When: 9 to 10 a.m.  May 4
Where: Bellywood Dance Studio, 495 State Street, Basement Suite 101 Salem, OR 97301
Info: Jessica Amos at souldocent@gmail.com, staywithyourself.com/classes

May the Forth Be With You: Star Wars Fun for All Ages! Use the force to enjoy photo opportunities with costumed
members of the Cloud City Garrison as well as crafts, Star Wars Lego fun, and a scavenger hunt.
When: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Where: Floor 2 and 3 at Salem Public Library, 585 Liberty St. SE

See Salem’s soccer sirens compete. Capital FC Atletica VS Yakima. Learn more about the team in the current issue of Press Play Salem
When: 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Where: Capital FC, 5201 State St.
Info: cfcwomenssoccer.com

At Godforsaken Grapes, taste rare, cool-weather varieties unknown to most consumers with resident geek Mark, who will be planting some of these on Bjornson’s new vineyard.
When: 12 to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Where: Bjornson Vineyard, 3635 Bethel Heights Road NW
Cost: $30 to $40
Info: 503-687-3016, bjornsonwine.com

Salem Underground Market at Blast Off! Vintage features a unique collection of vendors selling a variety of handmade arts, crafts and goods. Check it out and support our local and unusual artists!
When: 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Where: Blast Off Vintage, 860 High St NE

Prince Tribute. Erotic City delivers a high energy show that features classic Prince songs from his ultimate collection. Party like its 1999, with the high heels, the lace pants, the ‘infamous’ purple coat and all of the sexiness you want from a Prince show.
When: 9 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Where: Venti’s Cafe + Basement Bar, 325 Court St NE
Cost: $5
Age: 21 and older

MAY 4 and 5

Willamette Master Chorus presents Mendelssohn Elijah Spring Concert, a masterpiece of the classical period depicting events in the life of the Biblical prophet Elijah. This semi-staged performance will include an orchestra of local musicians to accompany the chorus and soloists Laura Aguero, Laura Thoreson, Les Green and Anton Belov.
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, May 4, and Sunday, May 5
Where: Hudson Hall in Rogers Music Center at Willamette University 
Cost: $20 to $30
Info: 503-580-0406, willamettemasterchorus.org

MAY 5, 9 and 19

Gaiety Hollow open gardens begin this weekend and The Lord & Schryver Conservancy welcomes visitors to tours the Gaiety Hollow gardens. Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver frequently opened their gardens to visitors eager to see their timeless beauty and the Lord & Schryver continues that tradition. Mature hedges and shrubs form the backdrop and “bones” to the seasonal display flowers. Docent-led Garden Tours will take place during Open Garden at 2 p.m. Sundays. Learn about the unique design principles of Lord and Schryver and experience the garden as they intended. Visit the Lord & Schryver website for more open garden dates/times.
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 5 and 19. Docent-led tour at 2 p.m. 5 to 8 p.m. May 9
Where: Gaiety Hollow, Lord & Schryver Conservancy, 545 Mission St. SE
Cost: $5. Free for youth under age 16.
Info: lordschryver.org

MAY 7

High School Art Mentorship Program Exhibition — After completing a full academic year of art activities and studies, the Salem Art Association High School Art Mentorship Program students showcase their art to the public. Participating students are Angie Fox, Annabelle Ramey, Chloe Elmore, Diana Castaneda, Elizabeth Orlov, Kate Swenson, Kimberly Ockerman, Matthew Montegna, Yanna Butte, Maya Merrill, Monet Gaudette, Morgan Forrester, Paige King and Paige Schmelling.
Exhibition Reception: 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 7
Where: IKE Box, 299 Cottage St. NE

MAY 9

Open Studios at the Mill. Browse the art and studios of the Salem artist collective located on the second floor of the old Wool Warehouse at the Willamette Heritage Center where you will find artful gifts at affordable prices including fine art, textiles, jewelry and more
When: 6 to 8 p.m. May 9
Where: Studios at the Mill, 1313 Mill St. SE
Info: facebook.com/artistsatthemissionmill

MAY 10

On Your Feet Friday! returns. This community series, now brought to you by Salem Main Street Association, encourages people to get active and have fun while exploring downtown Salem in a scavenger hunt-like walk/run. Each month features different checkpoints and new this year, there will be live music following the run.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. May 10 (recurring on the second Friday of the month)
Where: Electric Alley (alley at 249 Liberty St. SE)
Info: salemmainstreetassociation.org

Kick up your heels at the Second Friday Ceili, a monthly family-friendly social dance featuring live, traditional Irish music. No experience or partner is needed. Refreshments are provided. Live music and dancing begins at 8 p.m. Recurring on the second Friday of every month.
When: 7 to 11 p.m. May 10
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St. NE
Cost: $10; $5 student; $30 family.
Info: ceiliofthevalley.org

Beloved for his intimate, confessional live shows, Colin Hay is widely known for being the influential and celebrated frontman of Men At Work with multi-platinum hits that include Down Under, Who Can It Be Now, and Overkill to name a few. This show will feature Colin Hay and his fantastic band of LA based musicians playing songs from both the Grammy winning Men at Work catalog and his solo work. He is bound to tell some amusing stories that are such a stalwart feature of his intimate solo shows too. The range of artists who have chosen to cite him as a muse or who have found themselves on stage with him in the past year spans the genre landscape from heavy metal, to Americana, to Cuban rhythms and beyond. His inclusion as a playlist favorite from the likes of Metallica to The Lumineers reflects his continuing relevance and broad appeal.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 10
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $30 to $55
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Oregon Symphony in Salem: Peer Gynt. Experience the redemptive journey of Peer Gynt, from his humble peasant village to the troll-infested mountains of Norway with conductor Carlos Kalmar and soprano Jane Archibald.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 10
Where: Smith Auditorium at Willamette University, 900 State St.
Cost: $35 to $50
Info: orsymphonysalem.org

Concert to Save the Salem Peace Mosaic. Jan Michael Lookingwolf, Native American flutist and 2019 Global Music Award winning artist will perform a concert including songs from his new album Beautiful to benefit the preservation of the Salem Peace Mosaic. Light refreshments will be served.
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 10
Where: First Church of Christ, Scientist, 935 High St SE
Cost: Suggested donation of $10
Info: savethesalempeacemosaic@gmail.com

Author Talk. Take in an evening with Shauna Tominey, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Practice & Parenting Education Specialist at Oregon State University. Shauna will be discussing her book, Creating Compassionate Kids: Essential Conversations to Have With Young Children.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 10
Where: The Book Bin, 450 Court St NE

May 10 through 31

Iris Bloom Season. Explore and tour the 10-acre display gardens. There will be live demonstrations every Saturday, plus other activities throughout the month. Visit website for details.
When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 10 though 31 (rain or shine)
Where: Schreiner’s Iris Gardens, 3625 Quinaby Road NE
Cost: $5 per car
Info: www.schreinersgardens.com

MAY 10-11

Aidan Park Live Stand Up Comedy. Aidan is a comedian, actor and amazing advice giver from Los Angeles originally from South Korea. He performs comedy at some of the most respected comedy clubs in Hollywood including Comedy Store, Hollywood Improv and has a monthly show “Rainbow Pop” at the Laugh Factory. Aidan tours all over the country headlining for comedy clubs, fundraisers, parades. He has appeared on Comedy Central, Tosh.0, NBC, TV Guide Channel, and Hulu.
When: 9:30 p.m. May 10 and 11
Where: Capitol City Theater, 210 Liberty St SE Ste 150
Cost: $18 online and $20 at the door
Info: capitolcitytheater.com/calendar

MAY 10-11 and 17-18

Chemeketa Players present Scenes from an Execution by Howard Barker. Directed by Jay Gipson-King.. Famed artist Anna Galactia is commissioned to paint the Battle of Lepanto, the greatest triumph in Venetian history. When she instead chooses to paint the horror of war, art and the state collide. Will Galactia survive as she speaks truth to power? Featuring Christa Fenton, Jeff Sanders and the students of Chemeketa CC. Adult language and brief nudity.
When: 7:30 p.m. May 10-11, 17 and 18
Where: Building 6 Auditorium at Chemeketa Community College
Cost: $10, $5 students
Info: jay.gipson.king@chemeketa.edu

South Salem High School presents The Pink Panther Strikes Again, the comedic play about the world’s most unusual criminologist, Chief Inspector Jacques Clouseau.
When: 7 p.m. May 10-11, 17-18 and 2 p.m. May 18
Where: South Salem High School, 1910 Church St. SE
Cost: TBA
Info: 503-399-3252

SKIT Theatre presents Annie, based on Little Orphan Annie, the popular comic strip by Harold Gray.
When: 7 p.m. May 10, 17-18 and 2 p.m. May 11 and 18
Where: Salem First Free Methodist, 4455 Silverton Road
Cost: $10; $8 students and seniors; $6 children age 3-12
Info: 503-689-7588, skittheatre.com

MAY 10 through 31

Iris Bloom Season Open House. During bloom season display garden is open daily. The 10-acre display garden contains over 500 named iris varieties and countless companion plants. Fresh Iris bouquets available. Enjoy the gift shop and wine tasting. This event is dog friendly on leash.
When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 10 through 31
Where: Schreiner’s Iris Gardens, 3625 Quinaby Road NE
Cost: $5 per car
Info: 503-393-3232, schreinersgardens.com/iris-bloom-season

MAY 11

Take a Walk in the Park 2019 is a family-friendly fun walk through Riverfront Park beginning at the Pavilion, crossing over and back across the Minto Island bridge and the Union Street Railroad bridge. Collect passport stamps along the way at designated stations. Turn in your completed passport to be entered in the drawing. Cookies for everyone when they finish their walk. Dog friendly per City of Salem regulations and leash laws.  Walking starts at 9 and must be completed by 12.
When: 9 am. To 12 p.m. Saturday, May 11
Where: Riverfront Park, 200 Water St NE
Info: facebook.com/events/329088471144327

See Salem’s soccer sirens compete. Capital FC Atletica VS NCWA. Learn more about the team in the current issue of Press Play Salem
When: 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 11
Where: Sparks Field, 515 12th St. SE
Info: cfcwomenssoccer.com

Second Saturday Storytime.will be reading her picture books: Hannah and Sugar, Mae’s First Day of School and The Summer Nick Taught His Cats to Read.
When: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 11
Where: The Book Bin, 450 Court St NE

Make a furry friend at the annual Sheep to Shawl Festival. From duck races to the yarn bombs, there’s something for the whole family at this annual event that encourages the community to learn about the wool production process and heritage crafts.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 11
When: Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE
Info: www.willametteheritage.org/sheep-to-shawl

Cherry Blossoms vs. Rose Buds. Cherry City Roller Derby’s junior team, Cherry Blossoms, will face off against the Rose City Rosebuds. These all gender teams are made-up of skaters under 18 years of age, but their big hits are to not be underestimated! This is sure to be an intense match.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, May 11
Where: The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE
Cost: $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Kids age 6 and younger are $5. Tickets are also sold at Santiam Brewing, Keizer Mart *Hit This! Derby Gear, and *Kay’s World of Wigs. (*Cash only) 

Tim Hawkins’s gut-busting comedy show entertains the entire family while doubling down on the funny, a daunting task in an age where the obscene has become routine. His act is 1 part gifted + 2 parts twisted – the only certainty being his on-the-nose observations that expose the ridiculousness of daily life while marveling in its hilarity. The perils of marriage, homeschooling, and growing up in the Midwest may not exemplify the rock star life, but they make for really good punchlines.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, May 11
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $24 to $49. Uber Fan Package $79
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Mel Brown Septet. Mel is Portland’s preeminent jazz drummer, having cut his teeth at Motown recording sessions with the likes of Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and Stevie Wonder, then going on to share the stage with Diana Ross along with many other legends. And the rest of the band ain’t no slouches either.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11 (recurring on the second Saturday)
Where: Christo’s Pizzeria & Lounge, 1108 Broadway St NE
Cost: $16 advance, $20 door. Call 503-371-2892 during business hours to reserve tickets.

MAY 12

Mother’s Day Tours of Bush House Museum. Enjoy a relaxing guided tour of Bush House Museum with your Mom. Light refreshments will be served in the Bush Barn Art Center, where you can pick up your complimentary museum tour tickets, while supplies last, beginning May 7. After your guided tour of the Museum, spend time wandering through the historic 1882 Conservatory and stroll through thousands of blooming roses in the Civic Rose Garden. Be sure to bring your camera for photographs on the historic front porch and in the various gardens around the Museum.
When: 1, 2, 3 & 4 p.m. Sunday, May 12
Where: Bush’s Pasture Park at High & Bush Streets
Cost: Free
Info: 503-363-4714

MAY 15

Wednesday Film Series features “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” the 1958 drama about an alcoholic ex-football player Brick, played by Paul Newman, who drinks his days away and resists the affections of his wife, Maggie, played by Elizabeth Taylor. His reunion with his father, Big Daddy, who is dying of cancer, jogs a host of memories and revelations for both father and son.
When: 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 15. Doors open 45 minutes prior to show.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

Bad Girls Comedy Show is coming to Salem for a night of impishly awesome entertainment featuring the effervescent Gabby Jesus, incandescent Cienna Jade and totally irreverent Jane Malone, with special guests Portland comedy darling Rochelle Cote and the infamous enigma that is Tina Högström. Hosted by Salem-local Emma Jonas.
When: 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 15
Where: Capitol City Theater, 210 Liberty St SE Ste 150
Age: 18 and older
Cost: $10
Info: capitolcitytheater.com

MAY 16

Taco Crawl Salem 2019. A handful of downtown eateries will be serving up tacos. Get the low-down in our story in the current issue of Press Play Salem.
When: 4:30 to 11:30 p.m. Thursday, May 16
Where: Downtown Salem
Info: salemoregonbroker.com

MAY 16 to 18

West Salem High School presents As You Like It, William Shakespeare’s pastoral comedy.
When: 7 p.m. May 16-18
Where: West Salem HS Auditorium, 1776 Titan Dr. NW
Cost: TBA
Info: 503-399-5533, westsalemdrama.com

MAY 16-18 and 23-25

Sprague High School presents Steel Magnolias, the dramatic comedy about a group of Southern women in Louisiana.
When: 7 p.m. May 16-18 and 23-25
Where: Sprague High School, 2373 Kuebler Blvd S
Cost: $8
Info: 503-399-3261, spraguehs.com

MAY 17-18 and 24-25

McKay High School presents Clue: On Stage, the madcap comedy based on the cult classic film and popular board game that will keep you guessing until the final twist.
When: 7 p.m. May 17-18, 24-25 and 2 p.m. May 25
Where: Douglas McKay High School, 2440 Lancaster Dr. NE
Cost: TBA
Info: royalscotstheatre.wix.com/site  

MAY 17

Celebrate the change of seasons at the Spring Food Truck Frenzy. In addition to a variety of food trucks, this pet-friendly, family-friendly event features pup playgroups, live music, adoptable animals, beer, and more. Funds raised support the animals at the shelter.
When: 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 17
Where: Willamette Humane Society, 4246 Turner Road SE
Info: whs4pets.org/event/spring-2019-food-truck-frenzy

Author Talk: Take in an evening with Dana Haynes, author of St. Nicholas Salvage & Wrecking.  Michael Patrick Finnigan, an ex-New York cop, and Katalin Fiero Dahar, an ex-soldier, spy and assassin for Spain, work together to track down the worst of the world’s worst and to deliver them to the International Criminal Court.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 17
Where: The Book Bin, 450 Court St NE

Uncorked Revelry. Kicking off Family Building Blocks annual fundraiser, Uncorked Revelry features Oregon wineries, breweries, handcrafted cocktails, a silent auction and more. Cocktail attire encouraged.
When: 7 to 10:30 p.m. May 17
Where: Zenith Vineyard, 5657 Zena Rd NW
Age: 21 and older
Cost: $75. Tickets available at www.familybuildingblocks.org

MAY 18

Uncorked Live. Support Family Building Blocks through a luxurious evening with exclusive access to the finest Oregon wines, decadent hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet three-course dinner and a live auction offering unmatched experience packages. Black tie encouraged.
When: 5:30 to 10 p.m. May 18
Where: Zenith Vineyard, 5657 Zena Rd NW
Age: 21 and older
Cost: $300. Tickets available at www.familybuildingblocks.org

DELGANI IV — Mozart’s Clarinet. Delgani Quartet wraps up its fourth season with a performance featuring guest clarinetist Wonkak Kim, Assistant Professor of Clarinet at the University of Oregon. Programming includes Samuel Barber’s only string quartet, featuring his timeless Adagio, a playful and impetuous Clarinet Quintet by American composer Ellen Taaffe Zwilich, and a celebrated favorite: Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet.
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, May 18
Where: Christian Science Church, 935 High St. SE
Cost: $28; $10 student
Info: delgani.org

Willamette Master Chorus hosts Gala 2019, a fundraiser featuring performances and tribute in recognition of Dr. Paul Klemme’s 20 seasons as artistic director, live auction and paddle raise, wine & appetizers with a plated dinner by Amadeus.  Cocktail attire. RSVP appreciated by May 6.
When: 6 to 8:30 p.m. May 18
Where: Bryn Mawr Vineyard, 5935 Bethel Heights Road NW
Cost: $100-$1500
Info: 503-580-0406, www.willamettemasterchorus.org

MAY 19

Willamette Valley Marathon and Half Marathon. A scenic city run through the heart of Salem starting at the capitol and finishing at Riverfront Park with wine tasting.
When: Sunday, May 19
Where: Start at the Oregon State Capitol
Cost: $65 to $120
Info: willamettevalleymarathon.com

Willamette Valley Wine Festival. Sip and sample from a variety of award-winning Willamette Valley wineries in scenic downtown Salem.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 19
Where: Riverfront Park
Cost: Free entry. $15 in advance; $20 day of event. Includes wine glass and 10 tasting tokens.
Age: All ages welcome. Tasting for age 21 and older.
Info: willamettevalleywinefestival.com

Salem Symphonic Winds joins together with Festival Chorale Oregon to present Tolga Kashif’s “The Queen Symphony,” a magnificent symphonic treatment of the music of Freddie Mercury and Queen. A British composer, Tolga weaves together themes from Queen’s most popular melodies into a lush work that will feature Salem Symphonic Winds, Festival Chorale Oregon, cello soloist Georgienne Young and more. Hear “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Killer Queen,” “Scaramouche,” “We Are the Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Who Wants to Live Forever” and more, all cloaked in some of the most beautiful symphonic writing one can imagine. Celebrate the music of Queen performed by an expanded symphonic wind ensemble with choir and soloists. All Hail to the Queen! Grab the latest issue of Press Play Salem for a preview story about the show.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, May 19
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $35 reserved, $25 general admission, $15 student (K through college. Show student ID at the door)
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

You’re invited to Jarred Venti’s Narcissistic Birthday Show featuring The Pink Floyd Sound playing “dark side of the moon;” Jarred’s Narcissistic Birthday Band, an all-star band with a surprise setlist; The Cream starring Todd McPherson, Jarred Venti and Jason Carter and the British invasion revival Lords of Blackpool.
When: 5 p.m. Sunday, May 19
Where: The Space Concert Club, 1128 Edgewater St NW
Cost $10. Get tickets in advance at narcissistic2019.brownpapertickets.com
Age: All ages welcome

MAY 21

Salem Progressive Film Series will screen the documentary Tomorrow, which sets out to showcase alternative and creative ways of viewing agriculture, economics, energy and education offering constructive solutions to act on a local level to make a difference on a global level. A Q&A will follow the film, which is the final show of the season.
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 21
Where: Grand Theater, 191 High St. NE
Cost: $5
Info: 503-881-5305, salemprogressivefilms.net

MAY 23-25

North Salem High School presents Anatomy of Gray, a unique coming of age story set in Indiana during the late 1800’s that deals with death, loss, love and healing.
When: 7 p.m. May 23-25 and 2 p.m. May 25
Where: North Salem High School Auditorium, 765 14th St. NE
Cost: TBA
Info: nshstheater.com

MAY 24

Timbers U23 Home Opener. The Timbers U23, a development team affiliated with the Portland Timbers of Major League Soccer, face off against Seattle Sounders U23.
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 24
Where: McCulloch Stadium, 890 Mission St. SE
Cost: $9, $5 children age 4-12
Info: 503-673-6708, timbersu23.com/tickets

Author Talk: Kate Hope Day with If, Then. If, Then centers on four neighbors—an ambitious surgeon, her husband who is a wildlife scientist, their young neighbor reeling from the recent death of her mother, and another neighbor who is a new mother—and how they find their lives upended when they begin to see themselves in a parallel reality.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 24
Where: The Book Bin, 450 Court St NEv

MAY 24 through JUNE 9

Pentacle Theatre presents Fools by Neil Simon. Directed by Dani Potter. Leon Tolchinsky is ecstatic. He’s landed a teaching job in a small town, but when he arrives, he finds people sweeping dust from the stoops back into their houses and people milking cows upside down to get more cream. The town has been cursed with chronic stupidity for 200 years, and its Leon’s job to break the curse. Friendships form, love prevails and the sheep are always missing in this fast-paced comedy, which is suitable for middle-school age audiences and older.
When: 7:30 p.m. May 24-25, 30-31, June 1, 5-8, 12-15  and 2 p.m. May 26, June 2 and 9
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW.
Cost: $24 to $29
Tickets: Purchase in advance at Pentacle’s ticket office at 145 Liberty St. NE or by calling 503-485-4300 or online at pentacletheatre.org. Tickets also available at the theater box office 45 minutes before each show.
Info: 503-485-4300

MAY 25

Roger Yost Gallery Presents…. “Meet me at the Vick” A Trans-Historic Pop up Escape! The Vick Building is Salem’s first automobile showroom! This large, historic building is housing a massive, interactive and colorful experience collaborating historic 1920 Vick building’s architecture with a radical Pop up discovery full of hidden rooms and fascinating artistic storytelling. Discover scandals and hidden messages in paintings. 12,000 sq ft , 16 exhibit rooms, 6 personal, photo masterpiece stations.
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat, May 25
Where: 525 Trade St SE
RSVP: 503-374-8031 or get free tickets here

Tedeschi Trucks Band stops in Salem on its Signs 2019 Tour with special guests Los Lobos.
When: 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 25. Doors at 4:30 p.m.
Where: L. B. Day Amphitheatre, 2330 17th St. NE
Age: All ages
Cost: $24.50 to $84.50, + $5 on day of show
Tickets: 800-745-3000 or bit.ly/2SGp13n

MAY 26

Tour the Elsinore. Get a behind-the-scenes peek at the Elsinore including an in-depth history of the theatre followed by a demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer — the largest theatre organ in the Pacific Northwest. Please RSVP by calling 503-375-3574.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, May 26
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $5 at the door
Info: 503-375-3574, elsinoretheatre.com

The Timbers U23, a development team affiliated with the Portland Timbers of Major League Soccer, face off against Calgary Foothills FC.
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 31
Where: McCulloch Stadium, 890 Mission St. SE
Cost: $9, $5 children age 4-12
Info: 503-673-6708, timbersu23.com/tickets

MAY 31

Confluence Choir presents Awesome 80’s
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 31
Where: First Congregational United Church of Christ, 700 Marion St. NE
Cost: TBA
Info: confluencechorus.org

And in the arts…

Gretchen Schuette Art Gallery

Through May 3

Setareh Ghoreishi: Cultural Conventions from Iran to America — Ghoreishi’s work conveys her experience of coming from Iran to the United States. Through provocative combinations of imagery and installation (large scale artworks) the artist explores the combination of her traditional Iranian culture and the consumer culture of the United States. Ghoreishi cleverly uses her training in graphic design to subvert everyday object like fast food packaging and the credit card. The viewer is left to wonder about the dominant aspect of consumer culture in the American lifestyle.
Where: Chemeketa Community College, building 3, 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE
When: Through May 3. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday.
Info: 503-399-2533.

Hallie Ford Museum of Art

The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is Oregon’s third largest art museum. It features works by Pacific Northwest and Native American artists, a diverse collection of traditional European, American and Asian art, as well as artifacts that date from antiquity. Frequently changing exhibitions include lectures, special events, tours, artist demonstrations and educational opportunities for children and adults.

The museum is located at 700 State Street. Cost to explore is $6, $4 for seniors and $3 for students 18 and older. People age 17 and younger are admitted free, and admission is free for everyone on Tuesdays. For more information, visit willamette.edu/arts/hfma, or call 503-370-6855.

Through May 19

Alexandra Opie: Wonder Box — Each spring, Hallie Ford pairs its annual senior art majors exhibition with a small solo exhibition of recent work by one of the faculty members in the art department at Willamette University. This year, the exhibition will focus on recent work by Alexandra Opie (American, born 1974), who serves as chair of the art department and teaches courses in photography and electronic media. 

Senior Art Majors 2019 — Each spring, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art features the work of senior art majors at Willamette University. The exhibition represents the culmination of their four years at Willamette. 

May 11 through August 11

John Stahl: Oregon Artist — John Stahl was a multi-talented artist, educator, and environmental activist who graduated from the Museum Art School in Portland and who lived and worked near Tillamook on the Oregon Coast. Organized by professor emeritus and senior faculty curator Roger Hull, the exhibition will feature a range of Stahl’s artwork from the past 35 years, including paintings, assemblages, and works on paper drawn from the Hallie Ford Museum of Art’s permanent collection and several private collections.

Salem Art Association

Founded in 1919, the Salem Art Association aims to engage the community in the appreciation of the arts through contemporary art exhibitions and events, arts education for youth and adults, and the preservation and interpretation of our shared cultural heritage.

Events and exhibits are located in the Bush Barn Art Center at 600 Mission St. SE. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. There is no charge to visit, but donations are always accepted. For more information, call 503-581‑2228 or visit salemart.org.

Exhibition Reception: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 3

May 4 to June 23

Featured Artist: Gregory Poulin is an art instructor at Western Oregon University where he teaches painting, drawing, studio design, and life drawing. Born in Vermont, Poulin studied with his father, who is an illustrator, and with noted artist Bill Brauer. He continued his studies at the Rhode Island School of Design, where he received his BFA in 1999, and at the University of New Hampshire, where he received his MFA in 2009.

Help Me: an intimate portrayal of mental illness is a collection of intimate artwork, installations and interactive experiences from several local and international artists who live with mental illness in varying capacities. We are representing artists who live with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar 1 & 2, Major Depression Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia & Schizoaffective Disorder, Dysthymia, Psychosis and all the gaps and overlap in between them all.

The show will consist of affecting visual, auditory, tactile, and other sensory pieces in an attempt to connect with their audiences in a way that would provide insight into their illness and how they view the world. The goal of this show is to create a broader understanding of mental illness and mental health as a spectrum, and how it affects everyone.

Anonymous presents an installation of empowering mixed media artworks inspired by the artist’s experience and recovery from an abusive relationship. The artist will donate 50% of all commissions from this exhibit to The Center For Hope and Safety.  She hopes to raise awareness of this organization and their good work in our community. Representatives from the Center For Hope and Safety will be available during the reception for questions and further information.

May 1-31

Matthew Boulay: Yellow Squares, or The Opposite of War

“Why paint a square? Because the square is simple and straightforward and honest. The square doesn’t deceive us – the square simply is what it is, and that’s encouraging.” – Matthew Boulay

The painted square occupies a special place in the history of contemporary art: In 1915, the Russian avant-garde artist Kazimir Malevich unveiled a radically abstract painting of a black square on a white canvas. His “Black Square” was a dramatic break from hundreds of years of representational painting and historians still refer to it as the first abstract painting. Malevich himself boasted that it represented the“zero point of painting.”

Forty years later, the New York-based artist Ad Reinhardt presented his black squares as the ultimate achievement in abstract painting; colorless, bearing no reference to anything outside of themselves. And then the minimalist Robert Ryman painted a series of “white squares” which he described as not being about anything other than what’s right before your eyes. “It’s about process and materials.”

More recently, the Iranian-born artist Shirazeh Houshiary created Veil, a black square that she presents as a protest against knowing, a kind of commentary on how difficult it is for us to perceive the nature of reality.

And so my yellow squares? I came home from the war in Iraq confused and angry. I came home from the war in Iraq confused and angry. I came home – that’s just it: I came home. A square is just a square and yet my yellow squares are more than that. My yellow squares are an expression of gratitude, a celebration of the life I get to live.

May 7-June 4

High School Art Mentorship Program Exhibition — After completing a full academic year of art activities and studies, the Salem Art Association High School Art Mentorship Program students showcase their art to the public. Stop by the IKE Box coffee shop at 299 Cottage St. NE to see the creativity of these talented students on display. Completed projects will include photography, animation, glass, painting, and more.

Participating students are Angie Fox, Annabelle Ramey, Chloe Elmore, Diana Castaneda, Elizabeth Orlov, Kate Swenson, Kimberly Ockerman, Matthew Montegna, Yanna Butte, Maya Merrill, Monet Gaudette, Morgan Forrester, Paige King and Paige Schmelling. Mentors for this year have been Dayna Collins, Kristin Kuhns, Marty Havran, Janet Neuberg, Corrine Loomis Dietz, Karen Saleen, Loie Naylor and Ellen Weinert.

May 4-June 23

See Me: Selections from the SAA Permanent Collection was inspired by Scotland’s See Me initiative, addressing mental health stigma and discrimination, this exhibit brings together portraits, and other artworks, selected from the SAA Permanent Collection by Chris Colip, Willamette University intern. This exhibit highlights artwork by notable Oregon artists and complements the “Help Me” exhibition in the A.N. Bush Gallery.

Gallery 444

May Flowers Invitational Show — Third annual show featuring 15 local artists in a variety of media but with an overarching theme celebrating Spring.
When: May 1 to 24. Opening Reception 5 to 8 p.m. May 1
Where: Gallery 444, Elsinore Framing & Fine Art Gallery at 444 Ferry St. SE.
Info: 503-581-4642 or visit elsinoregallery.com.

Oregon School of Massage

Dago Benavidez is the featured artist at Oregon School of Massage. Love of painting has always been Dago’s passion and is a major part of his life. “Painting gives me a perspective on things that I wish to put on canvas: things I feel in my heart and beauty I see with my eyes. It allows me to see beautiful colors or scenes in every day events.” Dago’s first memories of Lockney, Texas, in the panhandle where he was born, were of vivid colors of wildflowers forming a carpet-like scene as far as the eyes could see. This is what started his love of colors and the beautiful colors of nature.
When: Through June. 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
Where: Oregon School of Massage, 2111 Front St., Bldg. 3 through June
Info: 503-585-8912

Survivor Showcase

The Survivor Showcase is located in the lobby of the Salem Health Cancer Institute (Salem Hospital Building C) at  875 Oak St. SE, features creative inspirations by those who have been touched by cancer. Displays, which rotate regularly, aim to brighten the lobby bringing a sense of hope, healing and inspiration for patients, visitors and staff. It is open 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 503-814-1449 or email cancer.institute@salemhealth.org.

Salem Health Cancer Institute’s Survivor Showcase features the artwork of cancer survivor Leland Gilsen, which includes ethnic portraits created using natural dry pigment finger painting through May.

World Beat Gallery

Salem Multicultural Institute presents Discover Paradise: Samoa, The Heart Of Polynesia, an exploration of Samoa through historical artifacts, stories and more.
When: Through May 22
Where: World Beat Gallery, 390 Liberty St. SE
Info: salemmulticultural.org