Things to do in November 2019

New month, new things to do!
Here’s what’s happening in November in Salem, Oregon!
(Don’t see your event here? Sent us an email and let us know about it!)

November 1

Oregon Symphony in Salem presents Stephen Hough Plays Mendelssohn. Pianist Stephen Hough will perform Mendelssohn’s glittering Piano Concerto, a hidden gem full of fire and drama. Before the concert, there will be a talk featuring Sprague High Schools premier orchestra group Camerata with Oregon Symphony associate concertmaster Peter Frajola as the soloist.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1. Preconcert talk 6:30 to 7 p.m.
Where: Smith Auditorium at Willamette University (preconcert talk at Cone Chapel)
Cost: $35 to $50
Info: 503-228-1353, orsymphony.org 

November 1-2

In Triplicate: Matt Romein in Performance. Willamette University alum Matt Romein ’10 is an artist and performer working at the intersection of live performance, generative computer art and multimedia installation. Matt’s eccentric, cutting-edge performance and installation, In Triplicate, accompanies a guest artist residency at the Theatre Department, involving students in this original brain-to-tech-to-stage extravaganza.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 and 2
Where: M. Lee Pelton Theatre, Willamette University
Cost: $20
Info: willamette.edu/arts/theatre

Quiltopia: Reach for the Stars. View quilts, shop vendors, restock your stach. This year’s featured guest is Janae King from Janae King Designs. Janae is a multi-talented and enthusiastic designer who enjoys sharing her passion of making. In addition to having a booth at the show, Janae will be giving a talk on Friday evening in the Dye House.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. November 1 and 2
Where: Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. SE
Cost: $7; $5 for WHC members ($10 Friday night lecture)
Info: www.quiltopiaoregon.com

November 1-3

Enlightened Theatrics’ continues The Rocky Horror Show, a musical theater production about sweethearts Brad and Janet, who discover the eerie mansion of transvestite scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter and a houseful of other wild characters. Through song and dance, the doctor reveals his latest creation: a muscle man named Rocky.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1-3 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 3.
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre
Cost: $25 to $29
Info: 503-585-3427; enlightenedtheatrics.org

November 1-9

Pentacle Theatre continues the Tony Award-nominated play Mothers and Sons, which brings us the story of Katharine Gerard (Pamela Abernethy)— a woman who lost her son to AIDS 20 years ago. When she pays a visit to her son’s partner, Cal (Clyde Berry), and his husband Will (Taylor Husk) and child Bud (Simon Watson), she begins to understand the life her son might have led. Mothers and Sons was nominated for two Tony Awards, a Drama Desk Award and two Drama League awards. Don’t miss a play The Chicago Tribune called “intensely resonant.” By Terrence McNally. Directed by Jo Dodge.

SPECIAL EXHIBIT — Sections of the internationally celebrated AIDS Memorial Quilt – the 54-ton, handmade tapestry that stands as a memorial to more than 96,000 individuals lost to AIDS – will be on view in Pentacle Theatre’s lobby throughout the run of Mothers and Sons. This free display of The AIDS Memorial Quilt is hosted by Pentacle Theatre and is open to the public 45 minutes prior to every performance.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1-2, 6-9 and 2 p.m. Nov. 3
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW
Cost: $25 to $29
Tickets: Advance tickets are available at the Pentacle ticket office, 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.
Info: 503-485-4300, pentacletheatre.org 

November 2

Start your weekend with peace, joy and relaxation. Take in a one-hour Free Guided Meditation Class for beginners and beyond with Jessica Amos.
When: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, November 2
Where: Bellywood Dance Studio, 495 State Street, Basement Suite 101

November 2-3

The Hemp and Cannabis Fair is a weekend of expert learning, live music and vendors selling hemp and cannabis products, accessories, tools, equipment and more.
When: 12 to 8 p.m. Nov. 2 and 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 3
Where: Oregon State Fair & Expo Center, 2330 17th St. NE
Cost: $15 weekend.
Info: thcfair.com 

November 3

Better Together: How to Pair Cheese & Wine. Learn the basics of pairing wine and cheese together from Cheesemonger Kristen Kidney with a guided pairing through Trinity Vineyards’ wines. Know what to do (and what not to do) for your next gathering or date night in to maximize taste and enjoyment.
When: 12 to 2 p.m. Nov. 3
Where: Trinity Vineyards, 1031 Wahl Ln S
Cost: $45, includes glass of wine.
Info: trinityvineyards.com

The Camerata Musica Society presents the Salem String Quartet with guest cellist Noah Seitz. The free concert will feature String Quartet in B flat major K 589 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and String Quintet in C, op. post. 163 Franz Schubert.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, November 3
Where: St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 790 Marion St NE

Warren Miller’s Timeless is more than a ski and snowboard film, it’s an experience 70 years in the making. Explore the enduring spirit of winter across the globe, from the slopes of the ColoradoRockies to the rooftop of the Alps, and the steeps at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, toMustang Powder Lodge in the Monashee Mountains in British Columbia. All moviegoers receive discounts on lift tickets, gear, swag and more.
When: 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $19; $20 on day of show. Discount for groups of 10 or more.
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

Salem Cinema’s Reel Change For Our Community presents On The Waterfront benefiting Salem Symphonic Winds. SSW will feature the music of Leonard Bernstein at its Nov. 17 concert at the Elsinore Theatre, including Suite from On The Waterfront, his only score for movies. There will be a short feature on Bernstein’s scoring for the film following the feature.
When: 7 p.m. Nov. 3
Where: Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway St. NE
Cost: $12 in advance; $15 day of event
Info: salemcinema.com 

Saintly Sundays with Saint Syndrome. Saint Syndrome has made a name for herself as a premier drag entertainer after years competing as a classical pianist nationally and internationally. Originally a native of Salem, she’s left the concert hall and fled to the cocktail lounge where she has been delighting diverse audiences across the Pacific Northwest with her signature musical renditions, shelarious parodies, jazz standards, and originals. She has opened for multiple stars, including contestants from the hit TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race, and is well-known for her rich vocals and virtuosic piano playing. Her monthly show, “Saintly Sundays with Saint Syndrome,” has been running for three years and has now found a new home at Taproot! No two shows are ever the same and each month is always full of surprises. She is the lowest bass with the smallest waist and Oregon’s only piano-playing, live-singing drag queen. See what all the fuss is about, and don’t miss this one-of-a-kind entertaintress every first Sunday.
When: 8 to 10 p.m. Sunday, November 3
Where: Taproot Lounge & Cafe, 356 State Street
Info: 503-363-7668, www.facebook.com/events/2305666976365566/ 

November 5

Art Talk Tuesday: Kim Fink. Salem Art Association hosts a free art talk with painter and printmaker Kim Fink. Kim studied painting and printmaking in Portland, where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Pacific Northwest College of Art in 1975. In 1979, he graduated from Tyler School of Art at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA and Rome, Italy with a Master of Fine Arts in Printmaking. He has had more than 250 solo and group exhibitions nationally and internationally, lectured and taught at numerous colleges and universities and has held multiple artist-in-residencies. Currently, Fink has retired as Professor Emeritus, at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, teaching art and printmaking.
When: 10 a.m. November 5
Where: Bush Barn Art Center
Info: https://salemart.org

November 6

Go downtown on First Wednesday for live music, games, beer, food, local vendors and more.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 6
Where: Downtown Salem
Info: facebook.com/salemsfirstwednesday 

Wednesday Film Series features Alfred Hitchcock’s 1951 film-noir thriller Strangers on a Train about a psychopath who forces a tennis star to comply with his theory that two strangers can get away with murder. Starring Farley Granger, Robert Walker and Ruth Roman.
When: 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

Ties That Bond: Making Gardens Together. The Bobbie Dolp Lecture Series hosts its inaugural lecture featuring Bill Noble. Gardening is a cooperative venture, connecting plants, people and place. It can also be a collaborative effort, involving as many different types of partnerships as there are gardeners. In this talk, Bill Noble will explore a number of garden collaborations, historic and contemporary, touching on partnerships between engaged amateurs as well as professionals, with special attention to gardens made by women in the Pacific Northwest. Bill is a garden designer and gardener, with an interest in garden history and preservation, based in Norwich, Vermont. Guests are invited to stay for a wine and dessert reception following the lecture.
When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. November 6
Where: Dye House at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE
Info: Seating is limited. Please RSVP to Pam Wasson at pam@lordschryver.org by November 1.

November 7

Studios at the Mill artist collective hosts Open Studios where the public can explore work created by Elizabeth Bauman, Dayna Collins, Mona Cook, Carol Green, Jim Hockenhull, Bonnie Hull, Leonard Kelly, Susan Napack, James O’Shea, Ross Sutherland and Jane Taliaferro. This is the studio’s special holiday show and sale and a perfect stop if looking for gifts.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 7
Where: Second floor, Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. SE
Info: facebook.com/artistsatthemissionmill

Cheap Date Night! November Edition. November is the second favorite month around Epilogue, and the month in which both the owners were born, so the menu for this Cheap Date night will feature vegetarian and vegan takes on some childhood favorites. There will almost certainly be a mac and cheese dish. There will probably be a casserole, and we’ll think about some vegetable and dumpling soup ,too. Still working it out, but that’s where our head is at! Call to make your reservations, and please note, payment due at the time of reservation. Cheers and see you soon!
When: 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, November 7
Where: Epilogue Kitchen and Cocktails, 130 High St. SE
Call for reservations: 503-581-1880

Each week, the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the “Infamous Open Mic” – 3 poems or five minutes whichever is shortest. This week’s featured reader is Poet/Publisher/Producer/Performer C. Steven Blue. His poetry stands outside the normal conventions of modern poetry, at the crossroads of poetry and music; produces and hosts BURNIN’ DOWN THE BARNES, a monthly literary series at Eugene Barnes & Noble; has seven published books; has been published and interviewed widely in the literary world. The featured reader begins at 7 p.m. and the open mic directly follows.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, November 7
Where: Ike Box, 229 Cottage St NE
Info: facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject

November 7-23

Every Brilliant Thing. You’re six years old. Mum’s in the hospital. Dad says she’s done something stupid. She finds it hard to be happy. So you start to make a list of everything that’s brilliant about the world. Everything that’s worth living for. 1. Ice cream. 2. Kung Fu movies. 3. Burning things. 4. Laughing so hard you shoot milk out your nose. 5. Construction cranes. 6. Me. You leave it on her pillow. You know she’s read it because she’s corrected your spelling. Soon, the list will take on a life of its own. A play about depression and the lengths we will go to for those we love. Written by Duncan Macmillan. Directed by Patricia Wylie and Mathieu Voisine. Starring Tom Hewitt. Learn more in the feature story in Press Play Salem.
When: 8 p.m. Nov. 7-9, 15-16, 22-23 and 2 p.m. Nov. 16 and 23. There will be a talkback after each performance.
Where: The Verona Studio, Reed Opera House, 189 Liberty St NE, Suite 215
Cost: $20. Purchase tickets at brownpapertickets.com/event/4236684
Info: theveronastudio.com 

November 8

A Tribute to Veterans. Pay tribute to our military veterans at our annual event. The presentation of the colors will begin at noon followed by a choral performance from the Oregon Spirit Chorus. There will be a World War II exhibit in the Galleria, and refreshments will be served.
When: 12 to 2 p.m. November 8
Where: Capitol Rotunda at the Oregon State Capitol

Holiday Showcase Preview Party! is an evening of art, live music, and photos with Santa. Don’t miss out on the first chance to purchase ceramics, jewelry, traditional art, textiles, tree ornaments, and more from over 50 artists. , With food from Roth’s Fresh Markets and the SAA Gallery Guides, plus a glass of Bryn Mawr Vineyards wine or Gilgamesh Brewing beer is included with entry for those 21 and over.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. November 8
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St.
Cost: Free for SAA Members, $10 for Non-Members
Info: 503-581‑2228, salemart.org

Music Movement Meditation: A Winter Yoga Experience. Roll out your yoga mat and sink into this guided movement and meditation practice, fused with an incredible soundscape of healing instruments to help you keep warm as the weather gets colder.
When: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, November 8
Where: The Gray Lab, 125 Liberty St.
Cost: $40 per person
Info: www.facebook.com/events/1336986283142629/ – or – chantalbartonyoga.com/yoga-classes

Dance your way into the weekend at the Ceili of the Valley Society’s Second Friday Ceili Mor, an Irish social dance featuring live Celtic music. No experience or partner needed, and if you’re not a dancer, you can always just go for the tunes. There is also a free lesson included with cost of admission.
When: 7 p.m. Nov. 8
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE
Cost: $10; $5 student; $30 family
Info: ceiliofthevalley.org

Richard Marx is a Grammy-nominated performer, songwriter and producer. His nearly three-decade-long career has had innumerable highlights including selling more than 30 million albums worldwide, starting with his self-titled debut which went to #8 and spawned four Top 5 singles.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $29 to $47. $5 more on day of show. VIP Meet-n-Greet available.
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

November 8-16

You’re in for a ride when The Chemketa Players bring Suzan-Lori Parks’s 365 Days/365 Plays to life on stage presenting 20 to 22 short plays as a theme park attraction. Learn more in the feature story in Press Play Salem.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov 8-9, 14-16 and 2 p.m. Nov. 1
Where: Chemeketa Community College, Building 6 Auditorium, 4000 Lancaster Drive NE
Cost: $10; $5 students and Oregon Trail Card holders (Cash only)
Info: facebook.com/events/2323251324606727

November 9

See some of the strongest women in the PNW compete to determine who is Oregon’s Strongest Peach 2019. Athletes will compete in tests of strength over 5 grueling events.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 9
Where: The War Room PNW, 1705 Silverton Road NE
Cost: $75
Info: facebook.com/thewarroompnw/

Celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with INDUS. This family-friendly event features Indian dance, music, food and fun.
When: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 9
Where: Blanchet Catholic School, Address: 4373 Market St NE
Cost: In advance $20; $15 age 5 to 12. At the gate $25; $20 age 5 to 12. Buy tickets online at salemindus.org/indus-diwali-2019

Spend An Evening with Katie Harman & Friends. Oregon’s own Miss America 2002 returns to Salem for an unforgettable evening of musical theater, opera and jazz favorites bringing with her a scintillating lineup of fabulous musical friends to help her celebrate the past, present and future of Salem’s theatrical gem: the Elsinore…including a preview of the Oregon Rising Star Project, the theater’s exciting new youth program.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 9
Cost: $29 to $59
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

November 9-10

Willamette Master Chorus presents its 15th Annual Veterans concert, featuring “Requiem” by John Rutter with orchestra, chorus, and soloist and including the third annual WMC High School Honor Choir with students from area schools, plus Soprano Soloist Joannah Ball. American Folklore, Broadway musicals, and popular music will also be performed.
When: 3 p.m. November 9-10. Box office opens at 2:30 p.m.
Where: Hudson Hall, Rogers Music Center at Willamette University
Cost: $20 to $30
Info: www.willamettemasterchorus.org/

November 10

Tour The Elsinore and get a behind-the-scenes peek of the theater followed by a demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer — the largest theater organ in the Pacific Northwest. Please RSVP by calling 503-375-3574.
When: 3 p.m. Nov. 10
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $5 cash at the door.
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

A Night with Janis Joplin. Janis exploded onto the music scene in 1967 and, almost overnight, became the queen of rock & roll. The unmistakable voice, filled with raw emotion and tinged with Southern Comfort, made her a must-see headliner from Monterey to Woodstock. From Broadway to the cinema screen, share an evening with the woman and her musical influences in this Tony Award® nominated Broadway musical sensation. Salemite Vincenzo Meduri, Executive Artistic Director and Founder of Enlightened Theatrics, worked as Producing Assistant for Daniel Chilewich and Todd Gershwin on the Broadway Production prior to its opening in October of 2013. He will share his experience following the screening.
When: 6 p.m. Sunday, November 10
Where: Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway NE
Cost: $12 in advance; $15 day of the event; tickets available at the Salem Cinema box office or online at boxofficetickets.com
Info: www.salemcinema.com

November 13

November 14

Each week, the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the “Infamous Open Mic” – 3 poems or five minutes whichever is shortest. This week’s featured reader is Jayme Sue. At an early age Jamye discovered her creative side with the help of role models and teachers. Jamye says art is a way to communicate more succinctly and emotively with others. She was raised in Oregon; she now works and lives in the Willamette Valley. The featured reader begins at 7 p.m. and the open mic directly follows.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, November 14
Where: Ike Box, 229 Cottage St NE
Info: facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject 

November 15

Robert Dubac’s Book of Moron crashes headfirst into the barriers of sex, race, religion, politics and the media. Inner voices who come to life with precision and wit. One by one they pull him into a hysterical alternative universe of critical thought in search of the bigger picture.
When: 8 p.m. Nov. 15
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $59. SPECIAL $29.50 – call the theater to purchase
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

The Beautiful Dudes are California Rockers out of Nevada City and their formula is simple: guitar, bass, drums, vocals. That’s it. The Dudes want you to feel rad. This night of music will open with Salem emo-pop/punk favorites Sadgasm and D. Fox for a killer night of rock and roll.
When: 9 p.m. Friday, November 15
Where: The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters, 471 Court St NE
Age: 21 and older

Prohibition Casino Night. 2019 marks the 100th anniversary of the passing of the 18th Amendment and the beginning of Prohibition. Tipping our hats to the history of prohibition, we’re going to party like it’s 1919 – ‘cause you won’t be able to drink in 1920! Don’t get the heebie-jeebies – we won’t razz you for skipping the hooch. Plenty of fun awaits for teetotalers and giggle-water drinkers, too! There will be Craps, Roulette, Blackjack, Let’ Em Ride and Texas Hold’em plus horse races, spin the wheel and poker toss. Era-related cocktails, catered hors d’oeuvres, photos and music. 20’s themed dress is encouraged (check out Gatsby Salem…we featured the owner Katy Ogdahl in Press Play Salem 9!) This event benefits PCL.
When: 6 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, November 15
Where: Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE, Ste 200
Cost: $30 in advance; $40 at the door. $200 VIP.
Age: 21 and older
Tickets: pcl.schoolauction.net

November 15-23

Willamette University Fall Dance Concert features student choreographers joining with faculty dance instructors, as well as guest choreographers, for an evening of discovery and kinetic storytelling. Always intimate, always exploratory, and always…moving! $10 preview 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15-16, 21-23 and 2 p.m. Nov. 17 and 23.
Where: M. Lee Pelton Theatre, Willamette University
Cost: $12, $10 Senior
Info: willamette.edu/arts/theatre

November 16

Delgani String Quartet launches its fifth season with Sublimely Schumann featuring a collaboration with Salem-raised, Russian pianist Asya Gulua in a riveting performance of Schuman’s Piano Quintet. Asya, who completed her Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Oregon, made her Alice Tully Hall (NYC) debut in 2004, and has performed at the Lincoln Center. Also on the program are string quartets by Portland’s own Tomas Svoboda, and Mozart.
When: 3 p.m. Nov. 16
Where: Hudson Hall at Willamette University
Cost: $28; $10 student
Info: delgani.org

An Evening of Dark Cabaret featuring performances by Loki’s Labyrinth and Faerabella.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, November 16
Where: The Space Concert Club, 1128 Edgewater St NW
Info: 971-208-3995, www.facebook.com/events/699940920485301/

November 17

Take in a night of music with showstoppers Radkey with Salem’s RiverCity Royals!! Presale and more details forthcoming.
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, November 17
Where: The Space Concert Club, 1128 Edgewater St NW
Info: 971-208-3995, www.facebook.com/events/2382004925451089/

The Mushroom Show. Do you like to eat mushrooms, especially tasty wild mushrooms?  Would you like to learn how to safely identify delicious tasting mushrooms and collect them yourself with the help of experienced mushroom collectors?  Would you like to learn how to cook the mushrooms you collect or buy at a store? Would you like to learn how to grow mushrooms? Would you like your children to learn more about mushrooms? Are you interested in the science of mushrooms? Do you have a mushroom or other fungus you would like to have identified? Bring it!  Are you already a mushroom expert who would enjoy helping others learn about mushrooms? Then attend a free Mushroom Show hosted by the Willamette Valley Mushroom Society. Everyone is welcome (including the kids) to learn about growing, collecting, identifying, preserving and cooking wild mushrooms.  See examples of local wild mushrooms recently collected.  Discover the importance of mushrooms in our environment.  Meet some really nice people and maybe make some new friends.
When: 12 to 4 p.m. Sunday, November 17
Where: Painter’s Hall in the Pringle Creek Community, 3911 Village Center Dr. SE
Info: www.wvmssalem.org/events

November 16-17

Shop for a good cause at the Willamette Art Center’s 13th annual Empty Bowls sale benefiting Marion-Polk Food Share. The sale includes about 1200 pottery bowls and other functional kitchen items made by art center members and friends. It’s a fantastic way to stock your kitchen with beautiful handmade pottery, purchase holiday gifts at reasonable prices and give back to your community. Help them reach their annual goal of raising $20,000 for our local area food share. Free entry and parking.
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 16 and 12 to 4 p.m. Nov. 17
Where: Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE. Enter through the yellow gate off Silverton Road.
Info: 503-365-3911, willametteartcenter.com

November 17

A Taste of Place: The Cheese, Wine and Charcuterie of Northern Italy. Cheesemonger Kristen Kidney gives a guided tour through Northern Italy with tastes of some of the area’s most outstanding cheeses and charcuterie, all paired with Trinity Vineyards’ Barbera and Sangiovese. Buon Appetito!
When: 12 to 2 p.m. Nov. 17
Where: Trinity Vineyards, 1031 Wahl Ln S
Cost: $45, includes glass of wine.
Info: trinityvineyards.com

Salem Symphonic Winds – Leonard Bernstein Celebration. The Salem Symphonic Winds will celebrate Bernstein’s centennial with a performance of some of his most beloved works. Leonard Bernstein excelled as a composer, conductor, author, music lecturer and pianist. As a composer he wrote in many styles, including symphonic and orchestral music, film, opera, musical theatre and more. In this program we offer a sampling of his work in a diverse medium.
When: 3 p.m. Nov. 17
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $30 reserved; $20 general admission; $10 student.
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

November 19

“Torque Songs: Myth of Absence” Dana Reason, composer/piano/computer/fixed media artist, will present  Torque Songs: Myth of Absence is new song cycle that uses A.I. to generate textual, sonic and visual mashups created from letters/poems/autobiographies of the forgotten voices of female (or female-identified) artists/mothers/creatives.
When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 19
Where: Rogers Music Center’s Hudson Hall, 900 State Street
Info: 503-370-6255, Click here for info 

Salem Progressive Film Series presents Closing the Loop, a documentary that explores five key strategies for achieving circularity – reduce, reuse, recycle, renew and reinvent – by showcasing examples from Europe, Latin America, and Africa and featuring insights from experts from the likes of the World Economic Forum and the Universities of Cambridge and Harvard. Following the film, guest speaker Terry McDonald, the executive director of the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County, will answer questions about the circular economy and how it works in Oregon.
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 19
Where: Grand Theater, 191 High St NE
Cost: $5

November 20

Wednesday Film Series features Family Plot, Alfred Hitchcock’s final film about a phony psychic/con artist and her taxi driver/private investigator boyfriend who encounter a pair of serial kidnappers while trailing a missing heir in California. Starring Karen Black, Bruce Dern and Barbara Harris.
When: 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $6
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

Colorado singer-songwriter, Daniel Rod­­riguez, turns to his acoustic guitar for memorable, melodic hooks to accompany his poetic and contemplative folk songs. Enjoy music from his debut EP, released in February of 2019. All ages and free.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, November 20
Where: The Governor’s Cup Coffee Roasters, 471 Court St NE
Info: 503-581-9675, www.facebook.com/events/2366167810324905/

November 21

Each week, the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the “Infamous Open Mic” – 3 poems or five minutes whichever is shortest. This week’s featured readers are author Diane Forsberg, poet Steve Slemenda, and digital artist Joel Zak, who will present Never Solitary-Forward, a collection of prayers, poems and images. The publication is the third of a series that joins texts with images in a thought-provoking and appealing blend of complementary expressions. The book’s content will be projected as Forsberg, Slemenda and Zak present their contributions and discuss the rich process through which the book was realized. The featured reader begins at 7 p.m. and the open mic directly follows.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, November 21
Where: Ike Box, 229 Cottage St NE
Info: facebook.com/SalemPoetryProject 

Nouveau Release Party. Taste and learn more about Nouveau wines being produced in Oregon from Chemeketa Cellars and other local wineries, including Division Wines, Varnum Vintners, Ruby Vineyards and Anne Amie Vineyards. There will also be live music by talented Chemeketa staff and food pairings by Basil and Board.
When: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, November 21
Where: Northwest Wine Studies Center-Chemeketa Eola, 215 Doaks Ferry Road NW
Cost: $10
Info: 503-584-7256, www.chemeketacellars.com/events/Nouveau-Release-Party

November 22

Bizarre Bazaar. Local artist Autumn Steam and The Space Concert Club join together to bring the Bizarre Bazaar back to life after almost a decade! It’s a fun market where you are sure to find a unique gift created by area artists. Watch for a list of vendors.
When: 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, November 22
Where: The Space Concert Club, 1128 Edgewater St NW

November 23

John Tesh – Songs & Stories from the Grand Piano. Six music Emmys, two Grammy nominations, three gold records, seven Public Television specials and eight million records sold. After more than three decades as an international entertainer, John Tesh’s recording and live concert career continue to thrive today.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 23
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $39/$45/$59. $5 more on day of show. VIP Meet-n-Greet available.
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

November 23-24

Salem Philharmonia presents music by Gustav Holst, Edward Elgar with mezzo-soprano soloist Alexis Hamilton, and Ralph Vaughan Williams. With a preconcert talk by Artistic Director, Travis Hatton, 45 minutes prior to show.
When: 7 p.m. Nov. 23 and 3 p.m. Nov. 24
Where: Chemeketa Community College, Bldg. 6 Auditorium
Cost: $20; $18 Seniors and students. Free for youth up to age 17.
Tickets & Info: salemphil.org/buy-tickets/

November 24

Festival Chorale Oregon performs Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. Listening to Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Christmas Oratorio” is a holiday experience like no other. FCO will perform the first four parts of Bach’s choral masterpiece, in English. The story begins with the birth of Jesus (for Christmas Day). The second and third parts feature the shepherds, and the fourth part describes the naming of Jesus (for New Year’s Day). Solveig Holmquist, Founding Artistic Director, conducts the 100-voice chorale, joined by soloists Nicole Lewey, soprano; Olga Valdes, alto; Les Green, tenor; and Brett Peldyak, baritone, and a large symphonic orchestra.
When: 4 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, November 24
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $25 to $35. $20 senior. $10 student. Oregon Trail Card holders can get $5 tickets at the box office one hour before the show.
Info: festivalchorale.org 

November 29

George Lopez: Live in Concert. His multi-faceted career encompasses television, film, stand-up comedy, and late-night television.
When: 8 p.m. Nov. 29
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $58 to $88
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

November 29-30

Pentacle Theatre presents Dashing Through the Snow. It’s four days before Christmas in the tiny town of Tinsel, Texas, at the Snowflake Inn. Trina, the harried yet upbeat innkeeper of this B&B, has more than she can handle coping with her eccentric, nuttier-than-a-fruitcake guests who include Mrs. Claus and one of Santa’s elves, a troupe of pompous B-level actors, a feuding family and a wacky wedding party. A fun-filled way to ring in the Christmas season. Written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, Jamie Wooten. Directed by Deborah Johansen. Suitability: This comedy is suitable for teenage and older audiences who can handle references to alcohol consumption and silly sexual innuendo.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29-30 (continues in December)
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW
Cost: $25 to $29
Tickets: Advance tickets are available at the Pentacle ticket office, 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.
Info: 503-485-4300, pentacletheatre.org

November 30

O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy. Fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seuss… Grab your Teacups! From the unbridled imagination of beloved British comedy duo James & Jamesy comes the rollicking holiday comedy O Christmas Tea. Reminiscent of classic British pantos, O Christmas Tea is rich with wordplay, comic physicality, and cleverly crafted interactive elements; however, it is James & Jamesy’s boundless imagination and endearing chemistry that bring to life the magic of this unique festive experience. During the action-packed production, a Christmas wish for tea is fulfilled in titanic proportions. The world floods with tea, leaving the duo to find innovative and hilarious solutions to keep them afloat as they try to make their way back home.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
Cost: $29 to $44 adult; $19 to $29 student
Info: 503-375-3574; elsinoretheatre.com

Art Exhibits

HALLIE FORD MUSEUM OF ART

The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is Oregon’s third largest art museum. It is located at 700 State St. Cost to explore is $6, $4 seniors and $3 students 18 and older. Admission free on Tuesdays. Info: 503-370-6855, willamette.edu/arts/hfma

Through December 1

Custom Made Imperatives: Watercolors by Carol Hausser is an immensely talented Salem watercolor painter and retired art instructor at Chemeketa Community College. Raised in Bozeman, Montana and educated at the University of Washington in Seattle, Hausser chose watercolor painting early on in her career and has since become a master of the medium. Organized by director John Olbrantz, the exhibition features a range of Hausser’s abstract watercolors from the past 35 years. Through December 20

What Needs to Be Said: Hallie Ford Fellows in the Visual Arts brings together the thirteen artists who have received the Hallie Ford Fellowship in the Visual Arts between 2014 and 2016, an award given annually to artists living in Oregon, that is based on accomplishment, depth of practice, and future potential. These artists—Karl Burkheimer, Ben Buswell, Tannaz Farsi, MK Guth, Anya Kivarkis, Geraldine Ondrizek, Tom Prochaska, Wendy Red Star, Jack Ryan, Blair Saxon-Hill, Storm Tharp, Samantha Wall and Lynne Woods Turner—evidence the rich and nuanced field of visual and cultural production in this region. There is no single theme that unifies their diverse practices, but rather, seen together they illuminate the breadth of approaches that define our globalized art world.

Make Your Mark: Prints from the Rick Bartow Print Archive — Rick Bartow (Wiyot, 1946-2016) was a renowned Oregon artist who worked in a variety of media, including painting, drawing and sculpture. He was also a prolific printmaker and over the years created etchings, lithographs and monoprints with different printmakers. This small exhibition focuses on Bartow’s devotion to drypoint etching, which represents his most favored printmaking technique.

Between 1997 and 2015, Bartow worked closely with Japanese printmaker Seiichi Hiroshima to create his drypoints. Their collaboration most often involved Hiroshima coming to Bartow’s studio on the Oregon Coast for one to two months, where they would develop the plates and edition the prints.

Bartow and his estate donated 362 prints to the collection of the Hallie Ford Museum of Art (HFMA) in 2016 and 2017. These donations comprise the bulk of Bartow’s print archive and joined the 46 prints that were already part of the collection. The HFMA’s collection represents the most comprehensive gathering of Bartow’s prints and contains 408 in total.

SALEM ART ASSOCIATION

Founded in 1919, the Salem Art Association hosts events and exhibits 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. Info: 503-581‑2228, salemart.org

November 5 through December 8

Latinos Unidos Siempre — A collaboration between Latinos Unidos Siempre (LUS) and Salem Art Association brings a graffiti art exhibition forward that reflects the work of LUS to combat local and national systemic and social issues impacting people of color and youth. This project discusses the complex history of graffiti as well as connects the social, political and cultural issues of graffiti through youth advocacy and representation in the urban arts. A community discussion will be held on the school-to-prison pipeline and how the criminalization of urban arts fuels this issue.

November 9 through December 24

James Kirk: This Is Absolutely, Positively the Very Last Art Show — Beloved Oregon artist James Kirk presents a collection of drawings and watercolor paintings in what he calls his “absolutely, positively very last art show.” Kirk has mentored numerous artists and educators throughout his long career as a professor at Oregon State University and Western Oregon University.

Holiday Showcase — This annual, gift-themed exhibition is a one-stop-shop for unique gifts. More than 50 artists will be selling traditional art, plus jewelry, ceramics, textiles, tree ornaments, greeting cards, and more at the Bush Barn Art Center.

WILLAMETTE HERITAGE CENTER

Stitches & Stories: Discoveries from the Oregon Quilt Project — For the past 10 years, volunteers with the Oregon Quilt Project have been working tirelessly to document the state’s quilts. This exhibit showcases some of the most interesting finds of the documentation process — both in terms of fantastic construction and heartfelt stories. When: Through December 23, at 1313 Mill St SE. Info: 503-585-7012, willametteheritage.org

ELSINORE FRAMING & FINE ART GALLERY

Art For A Cause — A benefit showing for Isaac’s Room. Reception: 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 6. Show: Nov. 6 to 29, at Elsinore Framing & Fine Art Gallery, 444 Ferry St. SE. Info: 503-581-4642, elsinoregallery.com

HOPHEADS

Check out a display of work by Oregon music photographer and writer Bob Gersztyn. His archive contains thousands of negatives, slides and digital still images of many major Oregon rock concerts spanning four decades and includes artists ranging from The Grateful Dead, Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Santana, Tom Petty, KISS and Steve Miller to Rage Against the Machine, Wallflowers, Greta Van Fleet, Sheryl Crow, Tab Benoit, and Bo Diddley. Concerts occurred at venues like the Elsinore Theatre, LB Day amphitheater, Salem Armory, Autzen Stadium, Rose Garden, Moda Center, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Roseland Theater, Aladdin Theater, Crystal Ballroom and Revolution Hall to name some. When: Through December at Hopheads, 150 High St SE. Click here for info

WORLD BEAT GALLERY

Sláinte: Celebrating Celtic Cultures — An exhibition exploring the seven Celtic cultures: Brittany, Cornwall, Galicia, Ireland, Isle of Mann, Scotland and Wales through customs, celebrations and more. Salem Multicultural Institute’s World Beat Gallery exhibits are curated by community members to help reflect and share their culture. When: Through Jan. 22, 2020, at World Beat Gallery, 390 Liberty St. SE. Info: salemmulticultural.org

Author: The Instigator