Here's a look at what's happening this month...
Through Nov 17
Willamette University Theatre presents Urinetown — In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity's most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides he's had enough, and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom! Urinetown is a hilarious musical satire of the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, populism, bureaucracy, corporate mismanagements, municipal bonds and….musical theatre!
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov 1-2, 6-9, 13-17 and 2 p.m. Nov 3, 9 and 16
Where: Pelton Playhouse at Willamette University
November 1
Head downtown for the First Friday Art Walk, 5 to 8 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. It's a free, leisurely opportunity to explore the heart of Salem and discover new shops, artwork, crafters and more. Pick up a raffle passport from any of the participating businesses and collect stamps from a number of locations, ten turn in your completed passport to enter a raffle to win a prize (usually a basket overflowing with items from all the participating businesses). Watch for details at facebook.com/SalemArtWalk
The Black Jacket Symphony Presents: Led Zeppelin’s “IV” — Remember putting on an album and listening from start to finish? Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony recreates the iconic album Led Zeppelin IV live in its entirety—note for note, sound for sound—plus a full set of Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, November 1
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Experience Throwbacks to the Future — 90s/2000s R&B/Hip-Hop classics blended with today’s best with live DJ Motaz, 10 p.m. to late, Friday, Nov 1 at Mykie’s Bar & Lunge
There’ll be a S’Karaoke Costume Party starting at 9 p.m. Nov 1 at The Best Goose Bar in Fork Forty Food Hall.
November 1-2
Xicha Brewing will host a Día de los Muertos Celebration Nov 1 and 2. Friday, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. features Mariachi los Palmeros, followed by Gema 8 to 10 p.m. The celebration continues Saturday with A Cara o Cruz, ombining cumbia and rock, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. There will also be a Catrín/Catrina contest at 9:30 p.m.
Quiltopia Oregon
Quiltopia returns with Quilting: A Novel Idea featuring special guest artist Marie Bostwick, New York Times bestselling author of The Cobbled Court Quilt Series and Esme Cahill Fails Spectacularly, as well as quilts for show and sale, vendors, vintage linens, a quilt challenge, re-stash boutique and raffles. Quiltopia benefits Helping Hands Resources, a Salem nonprofit organiation that provides clothing and household items to people in need.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov 1 and 2
Where: Willamette Heritage Center
Cost: $7 | quiltopiaoregon
Salem Fiberarts Guild hosts its annual Fiber Arts Sale featuring a variety of handmade fiber items from rug hookers, hand stitchers, lace makers, tatters, weavers, spinners, knitters and more, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov 1 and 2 at Willamette Heritage Center. Learn more here.
You and your group. Alone. Lights out. One glow stick. Creatures around every corner. The Nightmare Factory, Oregon’s oldest-running haunted house goes Pitch Black, 7 to 11 p.m. Nov 1 and 2 at Oregon School for the Deaf, 999 Locust St NE. $20 up to 8 people. 503-378-3827 Click here for info.
Catch the interactive horror experience Ghosts of the Grand before it closes for the season on Nov 2. Starting at $22. Get tickets and more details here.
November 1-3
Holiday Marketplace is a shopping, food and entertainment event featuring 140 plus vendors, door prize, raffles, live performances, festive food and drink, photos and visits with Santa and more, 5 to 8 p.m. Nov 1, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov 2, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov 3 in the Jackman Long Building at Oregon State Fair and Expo Center. Free to $5 (for early admission). Parking is $5 per vehicle. Learn more here.
November 2
Dia De Muertos 2024 is a multi-faceted, family-friendly community cultural celebration. The event consists of a community altar where attendees can share pictures of their deceased loved ones as well as place their favorite objects on the community altar. There will also be a variety of activities such as sugar skull decorating, paper flower making, Dia de los Muertos face painting, loteria (Mexican Bingo), traditional arts and crafts, and more. Attendees will be greeted at the door with free hot chocolate and pan dulce (traditional Mexican pastries). Come shop, celebrate culture and enjoy a day of live entertainment.
When: 12 to 8 p.m. Nov 2
Where: McKay High School, 2440 Lancaster Dr NE
Rave of the Dead - A Celebration of Life & Death is a community celebration with local dance music and DJ's from around Oregon. This event aims to bring together electronic music lovers, local art, visual and sound fans, foodies and community members for an evening of creativity, entertainment, and cultural enrichment, 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov 2 at Mykie’s Bar & Lounge, 155 Liberty St NE #130. $7 to $9. Click here for tickets. Age 21 and older.
Leonid & Friends — A Tribute to the Music of Chicago — This 11-piece band captures the spirit, musicality, and fire of American supergroup Chicago and more.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, November 2
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Ramon Ayala Final Tour — After 50 years of entertainment, Ramon Ayala goes on his final tour “El Principio de Un Final” for his final round in the U.S., 8 to 11 p.m. November 2 at Oregon State Expo Center. Tickets $49 to $129. Parking $10 per vehicle. Click here for tickets.
Joanne Broh Band featuring Garry Meziere — 8 to 11 p.m. Nov. 02, at the Half Penny Public House, 3743 Commercial St S.
November 2-3
Salem Philharmonia Orchestra presents “German Romantics,” directed by SPO Artistic Director,
The program opens with Wagner’s Tannhäuser Overture, followed by Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, and concludes with Brahms’s magnificent Symphony No. 3. Maestro DeBruyn’s preconcert talks begin 45 minutes before each concert.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov 2 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov 3.
Where: East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave. NE
Cost: $23; $20 (Students 18-64/Srs. 65+); Free for children/youth through age 17. Click here for tickets.
November 3
Delgani Quartet presents The Heart of Invention exploring the meeting place between the counterpoint and conversation of four voices and deep feeling. After opening with haunting arrangements of Bach’s Art of Fugue by Stefano Scodanibbio, we turn to the rarely heard second quartet of Czech composer Vítězslav Novák. Schumann’s richly expressive first quartet closes the program. Violist Mara Gearman from the Seattle Symphony will be joining Delgani for this set.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov 3
Where: Unitarian Universalist Congregation
Cost: $30; $10 student; Free for age 12 and younger. Click here for tickets.
November 5
There will be a Free Gallery Talk with docent, 12:30 p.m. Nov 5 and Dec 3, at Hallie Ford Museum of Art.
Puerto Rican-born composer and multi-instrumentalist Angélica Negrón will give a lecture/question answer presentation to the Willamette community on 11:20 a.m. Tuesday, November 5 in the Rogers Music Center. All are invited to attend and observe. Admission is free.
November 6
Grace Goudy Distinguished Artist Series presents Angelica Negron — Puerto Rican-born composer and multi-instrumentalist Angélica Negrón writes music for accordions, robotic instruments, toys, and electronics as well as for chamber ensembles, orchestras, choir, and film. Her music has been described as “wistfully idiosyncratic and contemplative” (WQXR/Q2-New York) while The New York Times noted her “capacity to surprise.”
The first half of the concert will feature three separate works, all involving solo instruments in conjunction with electronics. The pieces are: “ Iniri”, “El Ruido de Mis Ojos” and “Disco Giratorio” performed respectively by two brilliant artist associates: cellist Kathryn Brunhaver, tenor- saxophonist Jonathan Hart, and Willamette University pianist, senior Trinity Goff. The second half of the concert Negron will take over and present a collection of her works with an eclectic assortment of instruments, many of which she has invented.
When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 6
Where: Hudson Concert Hall, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center at Willamette University
November 7
Salem Poetry Project featuring David Goodrum — David A. Goodrum is the author of the recent collection Vitals and Other Signs of Life and the chapbook Sparse Poetica. David is also the new president of the Oregon Poetry Association. Recent and forthcoming journal publications include Tar River Poetry, Gyroscope, San Antonio Review, Cirque, Willawaw Journal, The Inflectionist Review, and Banyan Review. David lives in Corvallis, Oregon. See more at www.davidgoodrum.com.
Each week the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the Infamous Open Mic: three poems or five minutes whichever is first. Featured reader begins at 7:00 and the open mic will directly follow.
For the month of November the Salem Poetry Project will meet at Marco Polo Global Restaurant. The reading will be in the banquet room. Check it out 7 to 9 p.m. Nov. 07, at Marco Polo Global Restaurant, 300 Liberty St SE
November 8
Ceili of the Valley Society hosts its Second Friday Céilí featuring live music and called dances so no experience and no partner are needed. This month features music by Eliot Grasso & Glen Waddell. Eliot plays a number of instruments, including uilleann pipes, flutes and whistles; Glen plays guitar. Sam Keator, certified dance instructor, will lead the dances. There is a dance lesson at about 7:15, followed by live music from 8 to 11. Cost is Free to $30. Friday, Nov 8 at VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE. Click here for more information.
Hear SamaZama Koto/Cello Duo, a collaboration of the Koto – a Japanese traditional musical instrument played By Masumi Timson and the Cello played by Joseph Harchanko. “Samazama” is the Japanese word for variety and the duo combines the esoteric nature of traditional and contemporary Japanese music with tango, jazz, blues and western classical music, blending the instruments and music of Eastern and Western cultures in a moving and uncommon musical synthesis. The concert takes place 6 p.m. Nov 8 in Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library.
Taken By The Sky – Fleetwood Mac tribute captures audiences with their authentic performance of the iconic band at the height of their career, representing the music known & loved by millions. The 6-piece from Portland, OR has taken flight with their gorgeous harmonies, unmistakable musicianship and captivating stage show.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, November 8
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $25-$35. Click here for tickets.
Birth of Happiness with DTW — 7 p.m. November 8 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. Cost: $15 in advance; $20 day of show. All ages. Click here for tickets.
Sip and Shop at GA at Home. Enjoy an evening of shopping and a selection of holiday-inspired beverages and light bites. Take advantage of exclusive event-only discounts and promotions. Bring your friends and family, and get into the holiday spirit, 5 to 9 p.m. Nov 8 at GA At Home, 5711 Gaffin Road SE
November 9
The Fanciest 5K. Ever. 2024. — Run in your fanciest duds with your fanciest buds to raise money and awareness for local survivors of sex trafficking. This is a recreational, fun, community race where everyone participating runs in formal wear from fancy dresses to tuxedos to top hats and tiaras. Money raised supports Safety Compass, a local organization that provides free, confidential advocacy for sex-trafficking survivors in the mid-Willamette Valley. $50. 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov 9, at West Coast Strength, 290 Moyer Lane NW. Click here to register.
INDUS invites you to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with a family-friendly event featuring Indian dance, music, food and fun, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov 9 at Blanchet Catholic School, 4373 Market St NE. Tickets are $25 each. Seniors age 60 and older and kids age 5-10 are $15 each. Free parking. Click here for tickets.
J BOOG: Fall Tour — Born and raised on the West Coast and influenced heavily by his Polynesian upbringing, J Boog is undoubtedly one of the top reggae singers in recent years. Mentored by island reggae icon Fiji, he fine tuned his sound and style creating a unique blend that transcends across continents. The two-time Grammy nominee has toured all over the world and performed at numerous festivals, gaining fans both on and off stage with his humble demeanor, universal catalog, and passion for music.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov 9
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Paint ‘n sip during Wine & Watercolor. Try out watercolor painting in a friendly atmosphere with a glass of wine in hand. No experience necessary, artists of all levels are welcomed and encouraged. All materials and instruction are included in price. Wine tasting and/ or bottles of wine to be purchased separately.
When: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, November 9
Where: Chemeketa Cellars Tasting Room, 215 Doaks Ferry Rd NW
Cost: $40. Click here to register.
Descartes a Kant: After Destruction USA Tour — This genre-blurring sextet from Guadalajara, Mexico, melds punk, metal, pop, shoegaze, and cabaret into a theatrical live experience that defies categorization. Acclaimed for their surreal performances, even The Wall Street Journal concedes that “trying to describe their music is to do it a disservice,” praising their intense, imaginative style. Led by powerful female voices, they rose to prominence with Paper Dolls and Il Visore Lunatique, albums exploring complex themes like identity and mental health, and shared stages with legends like Sonic Youth and Slayer. Their latest release, Victims of Love Propaganda, produced by Steve Albini, dives into the emotional wreckage of love, and has taken them to major festivals worldwide, including Roskilde and Rock al Parque, establishing them as leaders in the Mexican experimental underground poised for broader international acclaim.
When: 8 p.m. November 9
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre
Cost: $15. Click here for tickets.
All ages.
Take in a special Trivia After Dark 18 and older event with adult-oriented categories. There will also be specialty cocktails, raffles between rounds, and bonus Pictionary plays to earn more team points, 9 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov 9 at Sparky’s Brewing Company, 1252 23rd St SE #110. Reservations recommended! Call Sparky’s taproom at 503-931-9417 to reserve your table.
VETcare will host their inaugural VETFEST benefit concert featuring Ty Curtis and the Ty Curtis Band, Johnny Wheels and the Swamp Donkeys, and David Welch of Guitars 4 Vets’ Salem, OR Chapter. All proceeds will support the continued operation of VETcare, a non-profit 501(c)(3) service organization that provides a variety of supportive services for Veterans in Marion and Polk counties.
When: 4 to 10 p.m. Nov 9
Where: Salem Armory Auditorium, 2320 17th St NE
November 9-10
Willamette Master Chorus presents the 20th Annual Veterans Concert, 3 p.m. November 9 and 10 in Hudson Hall at Willamette University. “Requiem” by Gabriel Fauré will be the featured piece with orchestra. The greatest hits from the past 20 Veterans Concerts will also be highlighted. Tickets are $27. Click here for tickets.
November 10
Camerata Musica presents a free chamber concert with Ian Scarfe and Friends, 2:30 p.m. November 10 at The Unitarian Universalist Church. Click here for more info.
Legends of the Celtic Harp is a musical journey into the heart of a legendary instrument. Three of the premier Celtic harpers in the world, Patrick Ball, Lisa Lynne and Aryeh Frankfurter, have created a dramatic ensemble that takes you deep into the myths, stories, magic and fabled history of this most captivating instrument.
When: 6 p.m. November 10
Where: Salem's Historic Grand Theatre
Cost: $25. Click here for tickets.
November 11
Lord & Schryner Conservancy presents Oregon's Cultural Landscapes: How to Better Understand and Protect These Special Places with Laurie Matthews, 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, November 11 in the Dye House at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St NE. Laurie Matthews, Director of Preservation Planning + Design at MIG and a faculty member with the University of Oregon’s Landscape Architecture and Historic Preservation Departments. She is a nationally recognized expert on cultural landscapes and has been instrumental in maintaining and managing some of the most iconic historic places in the country such as Yosemite National Park, Point Reyes National Seashore, and Crater Lake National Park. Reserve your ticket today by emailing your name to info@lordschryver.org. Seating is limited. A suggested $10 donation may be made at the door. Click here for more info.
November 12
Explore the power of words at Chemeketa Writes with Lydia Kiesling. Meet and learn from the talented writer, Lydia Kiesling, author of Mobility and The Golden State. This is an opportunity to gain insights, tips, and inspiration from a successful author. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this event is sure to spark your creativity and passion for writing. This is a unique chance to connect with fellow writers and enhance your skills.
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov 12
Where: Chemeketa Community College, 4000 Lancaster Dr NE
Cost: $50, $25 student ticket. Click here for tickets.
November 13
Celebrate the Holiday Season with Jake Shimabukuro’s Holidays in Hawai’i. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magical spirit of the holidays as the ukulele virtuoso and beloved ambassador of aloha, Jake Shimabukuro, presents his highly anticipated seasonal extravaganza: Jake Shimabukuro, Holidays in Hawai’i! This festive show promises to be a sensational gift to music lovers worldwide, delivering an unforgettable experience filled with joy, warmth, and the infectious charm of the ukulele.
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov 13
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
November 14
Matt Mathews: Boujee On A Budget Tour — Widely known and celebrated for his relatability and situational humor, Matt discusses a variety of topics and personal experiences in his stand-up, including his daily life of living on a farm, his career as a boudoir photographer, relationships, and more. The comedian will also bring his ever-popular “Confessions with Matt” video series to the live stage, where he provides a real-time comedic take on audience members who voluntarily spill their deepest, darkest secrets.
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov 14
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Hear the Willamette Singers and Songwriters Collective during a free performance where all are welcome, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, November 14 in Rogers Rehearsal Hall at Willamette University.
Salem Poetry Project featuring Corban University Poetry Class — Students from Colette Tennant’s Corban University poetry class will present their work.
Each week the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the Infamous Open Mic: three poems or five minutes whichever is first. Featured reader begins at 7:00 and the open mic will directly follow.
For the month of November the Salem Poetry Project will meet at Marco Polo Global Restaurant. The reading will be in the banquet room. Check it out 7 to 9 p.m. Nov. 14, at Marco Polo Global Restaurant, 300 Liberty St SE
Gratitude Yoga — Take a one-hour yoga class led by Catherine Albertini focusing on gratitude and the blessings in your life. During this special gratitude class you will center and feel kindness toward yourself and others, while appreciating what you and what you are thankful for. The class includes this yoga tank or t-shirt, created by Roanna specifically for our class. Afterward, you will get to shop at CreativiTee + rofe designs while enjoying wine and snacks. Special discounts will be announced at the class. Space is limited, so sign up soon to (a) make sure you get a spot and (b) guarantee that your top will be ready to wear to class, 6 to 8 p.m. Nov 15 at Creativitee, 110 Commercial St NE. Click here to register.
November 15-16
Oregon Humane Society Thrift Store Holiday Bazaar — Shop, Donate, and Help Shelter Animals in Need! When you shop at the OHS Thrift Store during our annual Holiday Bazaar, you are supporting the lifesaving services at Oregon Humane Society Salem Campus, including spay/neuter, pet adoption, and protection from cruelty and neglect, 11 a.m. to 7 p .m. November 15-16, at 548 High St. NE
November 16
Get three games for the price of one at this Cherry City Roller Derby Triple Header featuring bouts with the Cherry Blossoms (junior team), Renegades and 8 Wheel Assassins. $12 to $30. Saturday, Nov 16 at The Madhouse, 1335 Madison St NE. cherrycityrollerderby.com
The World Beat hosts its inaugural Holiday Night Market, 1-9 p.m. Nov 16 in the Spinning Room at Willamette Heritage Center. In addition to cultural vendors, there will be live music, food and drink. There is a $5 admission fee. Funds raised support the Salem Multicultural Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Get a ticket for free admission by visiting the World Beat Gallery at 390 Liberty St SE before Nov 16. Click here for more info.
An Evening with Curtis Salgado — Award-winning vocalist, instrumentalist and songwriter Curtis Salgado, the man NPR calls “an icon” with “a huge voice,” is revered worldwide for his ability to wring every ounce of soul out of every song he performs. Salgado is famed not only for his powerhouse live shows and eleven previous albums, but also for his passionate and insightful original songs.
When: 8 p.m. November 16
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre
Cost: $25 in advance; $30 day of show. Click here for tickets.
Oregon Conferences for Women — Feeling stuck in life or ready for a big change? Learn the best strategies of finding the right mentor and support network to elevate your career and business. This event is designed to give you exactly what you need: proven strategies to find the right mentor, build a powerful network, and leverage relationships to open doors to new opportunities, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, November 16 at Holman Riverfront Park Hotel, 195 Commercial St SE. Click here to buy tickets.
November 17
Salem Cinema hosts a special 40th anniversary screening of Amadeus, a "Reel Change For Our Community" benefit supporting Festival Chorale Oregon, 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov 17 at Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway St NE. Winner of 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, the film follows a fierce (though fictional) rivalry between renowned composers Mozart and Salieri. Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 on the day of the event. Note: Festival Chorale Oregon does not perform. Get tickets here.
The Moth & Flame Makers Market returns. Get you into the holiday spirit and get a jump on your holiday shopping. The first 50 people through the doors will be given free tickets to a 50/50 raffle. You can buy additional tickets for $5 dollars a piece or 5 for $20. More than 30 makers will be showcasing their creations.
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov 17
Where: Reed Opera House Ballroom
The Anne Wilson: The Rebel Tour happening Nov 17 at the Elsinore Theatre is sold out! Consider yourself lucky if you got tickets.
November 18
Helen Gillet — THis renowned cellist, composer, and singer-songwriter seamlessly blends avant-garde jazz, classical, pop, and experimental music using live looping technology. Known for her mastery of the cello and haunting vocals, Gillet weaves intricate, hypnotic soundscapes, drawing inspiration from her Belgian roots and global experiences. With accolades from Offbeat and Downbeat Magazine, and performances at festivals worldwide, her innovative solo act is a captivating journey of rhythm, melody, and texture. Join us for a night of immersive, genre-defying music!
When: 7 p.m. November 18
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre
Cost: $15 in advance; $20 day of show. Click here for tickets.
November 19
Hear the Jazz Collective and Willamette Septet in a free performance where all are welcome, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 19, in Rogers Rehearsal Hall at Willamette University.
November 20
Take in a free performance of the Sonic Arts Ensemble and Contemporary Ensemble, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 20 in Rogers Rehearsal Hall at Willamette University. All are welcome.
November 21
Celebrate wine at the Nouveau Release Party where Chemeketa Cellars and other local wineries pouring nouveau and gamay varietals in celebration of this famous French holiday. Beaujolais Nouveau is a red wine made from Gamay in the Beaujolais region of France to celebrate the end of harvest. Nouveau is traditionally released on the third Thursday of November every year at festive release parties and is meant to be consumed immediately after bottling. Chemeketa’s festivities will include tastings of Nouveau with food pairs, plus live music by jazz trio UpFront Band. 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, November 21 at Northwest Wine Studies Center, 215 Doaks Ferry Road NW. $20. chemeketacellars.com
Watercolors Made Easy: Flower Bouquet — Come with a friend or by yourself for an evening of painting watercolors with Western Rose Studios! No drawing or painting experience is needed for this class. A line drawing of the flower bouquet will be already on the watercolor paper and students only need to paint with watercolors. Preregistration is required so that all the materials are ready for you when you arrive for class. Elizabeth will demonstrate different watercolor painting techniques and Elizabeth will be available for one on one help as time allows. All materials provided. 6 to 8 p.m. Nov 21 at Creativitee, 110 Commercial St NE. Click here to register.
Salem Poetry Project featuring Judith H. Montgomery — Judith H. Montgomery’s poems appear in the Tar River Poetry, Epiphany, Poet Lore, and elsewhere. Her chapbook Passion received the Oregon Book Award for Poetry. Her second full-length collection, Litany for Wound and Bloom, a finalist for the Marsh Hawk Prize, appeared in 2018. Her prize-winning narrative medicine chapbook, Mercy (2019) was followed by The Ferry Keeper (Grayson Books 2024 Chapbook Prize).
Each week the Salem Poetry Project presents a featured reader followed by the Infamous Open Mic: three poems or five minutes whichever is first. Featured reader begins at 7:00 and the open mic will directly follow.
For the month of November the Salem Poetry Project will meet at Marco Polo Global Restaurant. The reading will be in the banquet room. Check it out 7 to 9 p.m. Nov. 14, at Marco Polo Global Restaurant, 300 Liberty St SE
Drag Time! with RiRi Calienté — Every third Thursday, get a head start to your weekend with Drag Time hosted by Salem's fabulous drag mother RiRi Calienté! Join us for a night of dazzling drag entertainment paired with exquisite food and signature cocktails, 8 p.m. Nov. 21 at Infinity Room210 Liberty St. SE Ste. #150. Click here for tickets. (And stick around after the show for karaoke with the queens!)
November 22
Straight No Chaser: Top Shelf Tour — If the phrase “male a cappella group” conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs on ivied campuses… think again. Straight No Chaser (SNC) are neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, but neither are they vaudeville-style kitsch. They have emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase and a long list of accomplishments including 2 RIAA Gold Certified albums, over 1.5 million concert tickets sold, over 1 billion streams on Pandora, and over 2 million albums sold worldwide. Straight No Chaser is the real deal, the captivating sound of nine unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense… and with a sense of humor.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov 22
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Stand up Comedy with Sean Jordan and Geoff Tate — Sean Jordan is a stand up comedian and podcaster who co-hosts the wildly popular podcast All Fantasy Everything and hosts the always-good-news podcast What’s Dank That I’m Stoked On. Geoff Tate is a seasoned comedian with a career spanning nearly two decades, known for his sharp wit and relatable storytelling. If you're a podcast fan, you've likely heard Geoff on some of the most popular shows in comedy, including WTF with Marc Maron, Your Mom's House with Tom Segura and Christina P., and Doug Loves Movies, where he’s made hundreds of appearances.
When: 8 p.m. November 22
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre.
Cost: $20 in advance; $25 day of show. Click here for tickets.
Dylan Santiago is a baritone-ukulele playing, singer/songwriter. As a classically-trained tenor, he likes to add powerful vocals to memorable melodies accompanied by the acoustic, harp-like sound of the baritone ukulele. Since 2021, he’s become a full-time musician — publishing more than 80 original songs, playing over 350 shows, and amounting over 700 hours on stage. Hear him perform November 22 at Stomp by Croft Vineyards, 5475 River Rd S. Full food menu along with wine and other beverages will be available for purchase. RSVP by text or call 503-364-3085.
November 23
Shop a variety of handcrafted bowls—more than 1,500—created by the volunteer artists of Willamette Art Center during Empty Bowls. Funds raised by this annual event help feed the hungry in our community through Marion-Polk Food Share, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 23 at Cascade Hall at Oregon State Fairgrounds (red gate). Info: 503-365-3911, willametteartcenter.com/event/empty-bowls/
Prepare for your Thanksgiving festivities with a festive 1K, 5K or 10K jaunt at the City of Salem’s Turkey Trot. $1-$10. Beginning at 9:30 a.m. Nov 23 at Riverfront and Minto-Brown Island Parks. egov.cityofsalem.net/ParksRec/Activity
Stock up on the essentials during the Pajama Sale - no, it’s not a sale on pajamas, but wear yours to get 15% off all regularly priced items (except turkeys). OK, Pajamas are necessary, but they are encouraged. Plus there will be giveaways, free samples and other fun. 6 to 10 a.m. Nov 23, at LifeSource Natural Foods, 2649 Commercial St SE. lifesourcenaturalfoods.com
Hillstomp — Portland’s own junkbox blues duo, HILLSTOMP, is known for transforming the forgotten corners of American roots music into a gritty, energetic fusion of hill country blues and punkabilly. Their live performances are an unfiltered blend of North Mississippi trance blues, Appalachian rhythms, and DIY percussion using buckets and BBQ lids, all electrified by rambunctious slide guitar. Hillstomp's unique sound and raw stage presence have captivated audiences across the spectrum, turning skeptics into true believers.
When: 8 p.m. Nov 23
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre
Cost: $20 in advance; $25 day of show. Click here for tickets.
November 24
The Amazing Bubble Man, Louis Pearl, has been thrilling audiences around the world for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. Catch his performance in Salem 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov 24 at Chemeketa Community College Auditorium. $12 to $17. Click here for tickets.
Festival Chorale Oregon: W.A. Mozart's Requiem — Requiem, W.A. Mozart's musical setting of the Mass for the Dead, is widely recognized as a choral masterpiece even though it remained unfinished upon his own death. Mozart's attention to and interpretation of the text of the mass, coupled with beautiful and lyrical music, make this work a favorite of both singers and listeners. Founding Artistic Director Dr. Solveig Holmquist conducts the chorale and orchestra with guest soloists Nicole Peldyak, Sarah Beaty, Les Green, and Brett Peldyak. The show takes place 4 p.m. Nov 24 at Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $5 to $40. Click here for tickets.
Dramatic Vocal Arts Presents Shakespeare in Song, 8 p.m. Sunday, November 24 in Smith Auditorium at Willamette University. The performance is free – All are welcome!
Nov 29- Dec 21
Pentacle Theatre presents Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley — A sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice set two years after the novel ends, MISS BENNET continues the story, only this time with bookish middle sister Mary as its unlikely heroine. Mary is growing tired of her role as dutiful middle sister in the face of her siblings’ romantic escapades. When the family gathers for Christmas at Pemberley, an unexpected guest sparks Mary’s hopes for independence, an intellectual match, and possibly even love. (Dramatists)
When: November 29-December 21
Where: Pentacle Theatre
November 29-30
Alpaca Joy is in store at Briarwood Acres. Pop in to this free holiday open house where you can feed the animal, see spinning demonstrations, tour the farm and shop local goods. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov 29 and 30 at 4150 Briarwood St NW. (Reoccurs Dec 7 and 14)
November 29 - December 2
Willamette Heritage Center’s beloved annual holiday celebration Magic at the Mill has new dates. The four-night event will now start on the Friday after Thanksgiving and wrap up on the Monday. Celebrating and connecting generations while interpreting Mid-Willamette Valley history, brighten your winter nights with thousands of twinkling lights. Check it out 5:30 to 8 p.m. Nov 29 through Dec 2 at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. Cost is $15 adult; $12 senior; $10 youth and free for kids age 5 and younger. Get tickets here.
November 30
The Oregon Opry presents Roman & The Long Haul, Dumpster Joe, and Simon Sharipoff — 7 p.m. November 30 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Cost: $15 in advance; $20 day of show. Click here for tickets.
Last Friday Open Mic — Open for solo musicians or duets, either acoustic or amplified, to perform during the first hour (7-8pm) and during the second hour (8-9pm) we'll have full bands perform and end with a jam session! Sign up to perform, and get a $10.00 gift card as a thank you! Free and open to all ages! 7 p.m. November 29 at RiverCityRock Star Academy, 2769 19th St SE.
Symmetry Symmetry Album Release Party! — w/special guest, Jordan Taylor Roach, 7 to 10 p.m. Nov 29 at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150. All ages. $8 in advance; $12 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Mark Seymour & Friends will play an afternoon of Americana folk rock and blues, 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov 30 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Rd S.