Four Romeros, photo by Mark Johnson, courtesy of Lobero Theater
Out of a land of royalty and knighthood, one family emerges to rewrite the meaning of classical guitar-ism—the Romeros. On April 14, come to Lobero Theater at 3 p.m. with a mind erased of those visions of medieval thrones and crowns as ”The Royal Family of the Guitar” takes the stage! A pre-concert lecture by Dr. Walter Aaron Clarkabout the Romero Family (he is currently writing a book about them) will take place at 2 p.m.
The Romeros have continued their musical legacy for three generations. Fathers pass down their guitar knowledge to their two- or three-year-old sons, and musical talent runs in the family blood. At the Lobero concert, four of the famous guitarists will celebrate the 100 year anniversary of Celedonio Romero, founder of the Romero guitar dynasty, through finesse and fine instruments (created by yet another talented Romero-man).
“The Royal Family of the Guitar” has performed in numerous settings (including Carnegie Hall and the White House) for countless individuals (like Pope John Paul II and Prince Charles of Whales), and has received many prestigious awards and honors (Remember my mention of knighthood? That was no joke…). For a more complete biography of the Romeros, click here.
Don’t neglect this fabulous opportunity to witness the Romeros is action, and don’t miss Dr. Walter Aaron Clark‘s pre-concert lecture about the Romero Family!
To purchase tickets, call 805/963-0761 or click here.
Filmmaker Aaron Lieber has captured the inspiring story of professional surfer (and Santa Barbara local) Lakey Peterson in the documentary Zero to 100: The Lakey Peterson Story, playing at the Lobero Theatre on February 10. In addition to tracking her success on the Women’s World Championship Tour, the documentary incorporates Peterson’s philanthropic side and her support for the grassroots campaign known as Hands4Others, or H4O.
Photo courtesy of Lakey Peterson
Peterson became involved with H4O after a surf trip to Rote, Indonesia where she was disheartened by the villager’s desperate need for safe and clean water. The organization, founded in the fall of 2008, aims to provide sustainable access to safe, drinkable water for those in need. With the help of generous contributions from supporters such as Peterson, in addition to Water Missions International, H4O has provided families in ten different countries with clean water.
To learn more about H4O, visit the website or check out the documentary on February 10, followed by live performances and sponsor giveaways and raffles. The raffle proceeds and a portion of the ticket costs will benefit Peterson’s favorite non-profits. To purchase tickets, click here.
If I had it my way, Santa Barbara would have a festival for sustainable, organic and local food every day of the year, much like the SOL Food Festival held on Saturday, September 29th from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Even though my dream of yearlong foodie heaven is nowhere close to becoming a reality, we can all rest assured that the next month or so of events leading up to the SOL Food Festival will get us in the right mindset to make sure we relish that Saturday’s bounty. Check out these local events occurring in anticipation of the festival.
Saturday, August 25th, 2-4 p.m. ‘Beekeeping Seminar’ Whole Foods
Learn about the importance of honeybees and how to house your own bees in your backyard from Paul Cronshaw, President of the SB Beekeepers Association.
Wednesday, August 29th, 6-9 p.m. ‘Chocolate and Wine / Pickles and Beer’
Join Jessica Foster Confections, Carr Winery, Bon Dea and Telegraph Brewery for some local libations, artisanal foods, and live music.
Saturday, September 1st, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. ‘Local Artist Market’ Whole Foods
Check out local artwork and enjoy live music by Ted Hoagland and The Hoagland Conspiracy. There will also be a BBQ Fundraiser for SOL Food from 12-2 p.m., so come hungry.
Saturday, September 1st, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. ‘SOL Fit & Health Day of Wellness’
Enjoy back-to-back donation-based group classes such as Belly Dancing, Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Hip Hop Cardio, Fit Over 50 and more! Don’t forget to get a complimentary Wellness Spinal Screening: Stress Assessment and Digital Postural Scan.
Thursday, September 6, 5-8 p.m. ‘Soul for SOL’ Warbler Records
Head to Warbler Records for an exhibit of thirty food-themed photos by Jeanine Brandi McLychok. Nurse a glass of Martian Vineyard wine while taking in some soul music on vinyl.
Tuesday, September 11th, 4-5 p.m. ‘Kids Club Gardening Workshop’ Whole Foods Marciano “Rocky” Chan teaches participants hot to plant and harvest seasonally, decorate a pot and take hom their own plant. Sign up with spsbrmarketing@wholefoods.com.
Saturday, September 15th, 2-3 p.m. ‘Farm to Table Cooking Class’Whole Foods
Join Melissa Costello, famed culinary nutritionist, as she demonstrates how to pick the best produce and make delicious plant based dishes. Sign up with spsbrmarketing@wholefoods.com.
Tuesday, September 18th, 6-8 p.m. ‘Green Drinks’Lobero Theater
Enjoy appetizers and beverages from Alma Rosa Winery and Firestone Walker Brewing Company on the Lobero Theater patio. First beverage is free with entry fee, with additional beverage sales benefiting SOL Food.
Don’t wait til the end of September to get your SOL fix. For the full listings and information, visit the Whole Foods website.
We often take the Lobero Theater for granted, seeing it as a venue for our favorite comedians and artists instead of for the architectural and historical gem that it is. Few know that Old Spanish Days Fiesta was originally created 88 years ago to commemorate the opening of the then-newly-renovated Lobero, and even fewer have had the opportunity to experience the Lobero in all its historical glory.
Lobero Workers, photo courtesy of Lobero Theatre
Well, all that is about to change with Encore: Lobero, a new campaign developed to honor and restore this historic building. With the improvements made through Encore: Lobero, the Lobero’s architectural and historical integrity will be preserved for future generations of history buffs and theater-goers.
The Lobero’s history didn’t begin 88 years ago. In fact, the Lobero is California’s oldest continuously operating theater, first opening its doors in 1873. The renovation in 1924 by two legendary architects (George Washington Smith and Lutah Maria Riggs) enhanced the original architecture and added features that we all adore today.
To take advantage of the Lobero’s historical restoration and exploration, come out to “First Fiesta to First Thursday” on August 2, the public’s first look at all the behind-the-scenes secrets of Smith and Riggs’s architectural feat and the restorations to come. At this event, attendees will learn novel details about the building, including its role in the early Old Spanish Days Fiesta, while enjoying interactive displays and information from the architect overseeing the renovations.
For more information, please visit the Encore: Lobero website.
Come to the artist reception July 13 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. to celebrate the kick off of Second Fridays Art for the month of July. The three talented artists part of “Summer Eclectic” include Dorothy Churchill Johnson, Rod Lathim, and Sharon Schock. For more information call 805/682-4722.
Come to Art From Scrap to see the work from Santa Barbara artists. The featured artists include: William Bermant, Inga Guzyte, Dan Levin, Tara Patrick, Peter Price, and Phil Taylor.
Through August 8 Figure Fragments: The Part As the Whole
Santa Barbara County Arts Commission presents an exhibition focusing on fragmentation and what it reveals of our lives. The local artists featured include Sky Bergman, Steve Cushman, David Brown, Rebecca Erbstoesser, Nat Fast, James Hapke, Ian Hassett, Alissa Massey, Libby Smith, Patrick Trimbath and Seyburn Zorthian. Explore this exhibition at the Betteravia Government Center in Santa Maria.
Works by local artists are on view for this annual competition put on by Santa Barbara County Arts Commission. Juried this year by distinguished printmaker Paul Mullowney, who received his training at Crown Point Press in San Francisco where he became master printer in the early nineties, working with top artists such as John Cage, Richard Diebenkorn and Francesco Clemente. Mullowney founded Tokugenji Press in Nara, Japan and was founding director of HuiPress in Maui, Hawaii, where he collaborated with Sandow Birk, Swoon, Judy Pfaff, Joyce Kozloff, Robert Kushner, Artemio Rodriguez and others.
Support The Arts Fund through a series of events that embody its spirit and mission by bringing art lovers and creative minds together in distinctive venues. For more information, visit the Arts Fund website.
Come by Cabana Home to check out the new work by photographers William Berry, Gerald Incandela, David Mitchell, Alex Slade, and Joni Sternbach! Cabana Home and Edward Cella Art+Architecture together present this stunning, free exhibition open to the public. See the unique photographic approaches and visions by each artist, and how they each have their own distinct style.
Wesley Anderegg’s sculptures, on view at Elverhøj Museum in Solvang, speak of everyday life and society in imaginary ways through which people connect to the real world. His art embodies the archetypal struggle between mind and matter, reason and fear, giving an expression to the human condition. “I have always been a people watcher,” says Anderegg, a resident of the San Ynez area. “In the first grade, I did not play with the other kids. I stood back and watched. And I have been watching ever since.”
Summer Group Show at the Easton Gallery is holding its opening reception July 27 from 6-8 p.m. The artists in this show include: Whitney Brooks Abbott, Phoebe Brunner, Rick Bury, Chris Chapman, Patricia Chidlaw, John Comer, Bill Dewey, Michael Enriquez, Sonya Fairbanks, Whitney Brooks Hansen, Glenna Hartmann, Patricia Hedrick, Tom Henderson, John Iwerks, Pamela Kendall Schiffer, Rick Schloss, Arturo Tello, and Kevin Turcotte.
For an unusual way to spend a hot summer night, attend the free series of science fiction film classics of the 1950s (presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures, Santa Barbara County Park Foundation, Santa Barbara County Arts Commission and the Community Services Department of Santa Barbara County). An atomic test in the desert spawns a nest of giant radioactive ants and in a climactic battle, federal agents are sent to destroy the colony in the sewers of Los Angeles. One of the first and best of the “creature feature” movies. (Gordon Douglas, 1954, 94 minutes)
Dedicated to preserving Santa Barbara’s history, culture and spirit, the 2012 Fiesta theme, “Viva La Familia” (long live the family) emphasizes the strength and roots of this long-standing community celebration. Savor traditional Spanish and Mexican-American foods while listening to live music and enjoying dance performances at the mercados. The rodeo, El Desfile Histórico (historical parade), El Desfile De Los Niños (children’s parade) and La Fiesta Pequeña at the Mission are always highlights.
Music Academy of the West presents an intimate hour long features Music Academy of the West Fellows performing at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Tickets are required at this free event, and tickets will be distributed at a first-come, first-serve basis starting at 1:15 p.m. at Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Park Entrance.
Presented jointly by Old Spanish Days and Santa Barbara Zoo, this fundraiser honors Santa Barbara’s elected officials and features live entertainment, dancing, mariachis, margaritas and tempting treats from more than 20 local restaurants.
Come enjoy this concert of old Spanish, Mexican and early Californian music incorporating voice, classical guitar, piano and organ. The concert will take place at Trinity Episcopal Church on 1500 State Street.
The Music Academy of the West presents Igor Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress. This spectacular showing will take place at Santa Barbara’s Granada Theater. Conducting is Alexander Lazarev, the former artistic director of Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre, and joining him is stage director David Paul, a Juilliard faculty member. The 45-member opera orchestra consists of Music Academy instrumental Fellows. For more information call 805/969-8787.
Santa Barbara Courthouse Legacy Foundation invites guests to view the excitement of Las Noches de Ronda from the elegant second-story Loggia while savoring margaritas, sangria and spicy tapas.
Celebrate the twenty-ninth annual Old Spanish Day’s Fiesta concert featuring vocal, piano, organ, and classical guitar music from Old Spain, Mexico, and Early California. This exciting event takes place at Trinity Episcopal Church. For more information call 805/965-7419 or 805/687-0189. ¡Via la fiesta!
Wilmington-based artist Mario Ybarra Jr. presents a museological tribute to his family, specifically his uncles. Inspired by a recent trip to the archaeological Moesgård Museum in Denmark, Ybarra creates a built environment at Contemporary Arts Forum displaying both fictional and non-fictional objects from his uncles’ lives.
Participate in a discussion with an eclectic group of panelists including artist, Tony de los Reyes, UCSB Professor of Critical Theory and Integrative Studies, Colin Gardner, Nevin Schreiner, a writer and USC School of Cinematic Art Adjunct Faculty, and Sameer Pandya, a UCSB Professor of Asian American Studies. The conversation allwoys everyone to share their favorite portrait of all time in addition to their favorite picture from Santa Barbara Museum of Art’ s Portrayal/Betrayal exhibition. This event is free for Santa Barbara Museum of Art Members.
The bank of Santa Barbara sponsors the 2012 Legislative Summit held at the Bacara Resort & Spa. It features a panel of local and regional officials, discussing municipal bankruptcies, unfunded liabilities, pension reform, and the state budget. The speakers include Ed Easton, Mayor of Goleta, Helene Schneider, Mayor of Santa Barbara, Janet Wolf, 2nd District County Supervisor, Das Williams, State Assemblyman, John Chiang, State Controller, and Lois Capps, US Congresswoman.
One of the music world’s most consistently intriguing singer-songwriters, Norah Jones has a new album, Little Broken Hearts, which is a fascinating next step in her artistic evolution. Always a local favorite, Jones has won nine Grammy Awards and has sold more than 40 million albums worldwide.
Under the guidance of artistic director/producer Robert Egan, carefully selected playwrights congregate in Ojai for an intensive two-week in-residence workshop to develop new works for the American theatre. This process culminates in OPC’s popular Summer New Works Festival, a weeklong celebration of new plays and creative collaboration featuring world-premiere plays, special performance events and a family theatre day.
Check out The Dragon Awakens exhibit at the Museum of Ventura Count, and see the one-quarter life-size figures portraying important figures in China during the Manchu Dynasty. Hear the exhibit-related monologues by George Stuart Secrets of the Forbidden City, September 11, and The Last of the Manchus, October 16 at 2 p.m., located at the Martin V. and Martha K. Smith Pavilion. For more information call 805/653-0323.
For an unusual way to spend a hot summer night, attend the free series of science fiction film classics of the 1950s (presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures, Santa Barbara County Park Foundation, Santa Barbara County Arts Commission and the Community Services Department of Santa Barbara County). Conformity and paranoia mix in this classic film about a small-town doctor who begins to suspect that his patients may be alien duplicates. (Don Siegel, 1956, 81 minutes)
This signature fundraiser supporting Music Academy’s full scholarship program features cocktails, a gourmet dinner under the stars and performances by the academy’s Voice Program.
Youth bands False Puppet, Bad Jack and Brandi Lentini & Stolen Thunder will be bringing a night of rock music to Chase Palm Park in this week of the Concerts in the Park series.
Transport Theatre presents The Provoked Wife, a restoration-era comedy by John Vanbrugh. An outrageous play from 1697 about a wife stuck in an abusive relationship and must choose between leaving her perfectly respectable lifestyle or taking a younger lover. Showing Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden offers a hands on class about the creatures living in Mission Creek. Stream biologist, Diana Kennett, and SBBG Director of Education, Judy Sanregret, teach participants more about Mission Creek and give them the opportunity to examine the critters they find under microscopes. Participants are encouraged to wear water shoes and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy after class in the garden. Registration is required by calling 805/682-4726 ext. 102.
Join Art From Scrap at Gallery 27 at Brooks Institute of Photography for an unforgettable One Night Stand. Work from over 200 artists from across the country will be exhibited for one night only, and all proceeds benefit Art From Scrap.
Take a stroll through the beautiful Casa del Herrero gardens while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and wine.
August 15 & 17,7:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. Forbidden Planet For an unusual way to spend a hot summer night, attend the free series of science fiction film classics of the 1950s (presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures, Santa Barbara County Park Foundation, Santa Barbara County Arts Commission and the Community Services Department of Santa Barbara County). A starship crew goes to investigate the silence of a planet’s colony only to find two survivors and a deadly secret. Based on Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Stars Walter Pidgeon and Anne Francis and features Robby the Robot. (Fred McLeod Wilcox, 1956, 98 minutes)
In order to pay tribute to the men and women who made history, Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is hosting a lecture by MC Brigadier General Fred Lopez with speakers Lieutenant John Wayne “Top Gun” Blankenship, Col. Dupre, USMC (Guadalcanal) and Col. Havey Walseth, USMC ( Guadalcanal) will tell of their experiences and show 2 short films on the battles of Midway and Guadalcanal. This event is $10 (members & veterans), $15 (non-members) and food & beverages are included.
This 12th annual event is unlike any car show you’ve ever seen! The cars park on a grassy lawn overlooking the beach, which gives it a family-friendly atmosphere. Proceeds from a raffle and silent auction are donated to local charities, in addition to funding a scholarship for SBCC.
Ranked by Comedy Central as one of the “Top 100 Standup Comedians of all Time,” Sinbad has built a loyal following by taking the trials and tribulations of an audience’s day-to-day life, tossing them back with his own unique take and insight, and causing an uproar of comedic hysteria in the process.
Talented young individuals come together to produce a fundraiser benefitting Rubicon’s Education and Outreach and a special tribute to Education and Outreach Director Brian McDonald. Special guest performances include Deedee Magno Hall, Broadway star of Miss Saigon.
Fresh from winning the Austin Music Awards honor for best new band, Wheeler Brothers returns to Santa Barbara with their unique blending of gutsy indie-vibe modern central Texas sounds and the longing strains of time-honored Texas tunes. Joining them is the eclectic folk band The Dunwells, who went from playing the pubs of Leeds, England to an American record deal and a stunning debut album in just two short years.
For the third event of this series, Paul and Annie de Bruyn Kops are opening up their award-winning Riviera home to engage architect Jeff Shelton and his brother David Shelton in a discussion about architecture and their creative approach to working with clients. Stone carver Andy Johnson and glass designer Saul Alcaraz will join, and Santa Barbara Architectural Foundation Executive Director Nancy Clare Caponi will moderate.
Photographs depicting Jungblut’s recent adventure in China, as well as other work from his series Compressed, Straight from the Minibar and King Monkey and the Infinite Sunshine will be on display at Wall Space Gallery. Come in to view the newest work by the photographer and catch up with him on his exciting travels.
For an unusual way to spend a hot summer night, attend the free series of science fiction film classics of the 1950s (presented by UCSB Arts & Lectures, Santa Barbara County Park Foundation, Santa Barbara County Arts Commission and the Community Services Department of Santa Barbara County). When businessman Scott Carey begins to shrink after being engulfed in a mysterious cloud of radiation and insecticide, medical science is powerless to help him. (Jack Arnold, 1957, 81 minutes)
Wine tasting, hearty hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction; all accompanied by live music by the Montecito Jazz Project, with proceeds supporting expansion of the center’s services.
The Granada Theatre Concert Series is heating things up this summer with Hot Spanish Nights!, a musical journey of Latin music ranging from Spanish and Nuevo Flamenco to traditional and contemporary sounds of Mexico.
Help keep Leadbetter beach “barefoot friendly” with a morning beach cleanup, followed by a celebration at Endless Summer Café, complete with Barefoot Wine and surf-inspired fare.
Enjoy a self-guided driving tour, visiting your choice of up to 40 leading artists’ private studios. Discover an award-winning collection of landscape, contemporary and figurative painting, as well as sculpture and assemblage. For collectors or anyone who appreciates world-class original art.
A medley of opera tunes and themes intertwined with stories from classics such as Age of Innocence and Madame Bovary makes this “Night at the Opera” dramatic and intriguing.
It’s a rumble in the jungle at the zoo’s annual Zoofari Ball featuring colorful cocktails, a gourmet dinner, and silent and live auctions. Revelers are encouraged to dress in their best animal-inspired wardrobes.
Don’t miss Jim Kweskin and Geoff Muldaur, with fiddler Suzy Thompson, perform at Lobero Theater August 25. Hear their extensiverepertoire of jugband, ragtime, and old-time country music. They are joined by local blues duo Tom Ball & Kenny Sultan for the first of the Lobero LIVE American Roots Series.
Doug Busch’s large-format black and white photographs, taken with a special camera that the artist designed and built himself, are images of great subtlety and irony. Through a combination of Busch’s photographic sensibility and his impeccable technique, the ordinary is raised to a monumental scale. The street scenes presented in this exhibition open our eyes to the beauty and subtlety of the everyday.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden hosts its annual Trails ‘n’ Tails event, where dogs and their well-behaved humans can enjoy a stroll around the lush gardens and a festival with fun activities, vendor booths, yummy treats and discounted admission to the Garden.
Brander Vineyard in Los Olivos hosts its popular Bouillabaisse Festival to benefit Hospice of Santa Barbara. Join in an afternoon of sunshine, wine, music and fabulous bouillabaisse, a delightful seafood soup.
August 26, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Wags ‘n’ Whiskers Festival
Hosted by the nonprofit, C.A.R.E.4Paws, the fourth annual Wags ‘n’ Whiskers Festival at Girsh Park in Goleta features adoptable pets, agility shows, flyball demonstrations and unique pet contests. (Hint: Last year’s canine kissing booth was a huge hit!) Girsh Park, 7050 Phelps Rd., Goleta, 805/968-2273.
Join St. Vincent’s at La Cumbre Country Club for their 11th Annual Golf Classic. This fundraiser benefits St. Vincent’s Children’s and Family Services, and will include a lunch buffet, round of golf and awards reception. For more information, contact Laura Romano at 805/683-6381 x107 or lauraromano@sv-sb.org.
The highly regarded Art faculty of Santa Barbara City College will exhibit their artworks in the Atkinson Gallery. On view will be a diverse array of media and styles by these noted artists whose works have been seen nationally as well as regionally.
August 31 Shark Tale
Free movies on Stearns Wharf. Dress warmly and bring your blankets and beach chairs. Popcorn and movie snacks will be available for purchase. Parking on the wharf is free after 7 p.m., movies start at dusk.
Keep your Valentine’s week going by attending Timo Nuñez’s romantic flamenco fusion piece, Pasión. After being featured on TV’s So You Think You Can Dance as “America’s #1 Flamenco dancer, Nuñez will be performing at the Lobero Theatre on February 18 at 8 p.m.
The cutting edge dance is an eclectic and honest expression involving traditional and modern Flamenco. Choreographed and directed by Nuñez himself, Pasión was largely inspired by the memory of his Spanish grandmother.
Pasión has a vibrant cast of 25 premier performers who Nuñez brings together from the Ballet Nacional de España, as well as from Brazil, France, New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles to create this original piece.
To purchase tickets, visit www.lobero.com
This exhibition marks the centennial anniversary of the arrival of American Film Company’s “Flying A Studio” in Santa Barbara and focuses on the history of silent film production in the Santa Barbara area through a variety of objects, artwork, images and film. Call 805/966-1601 for more information.
Deriving its name from the venerable music venue located in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter, Preservation Hall Jazz Band embodies a joyful, timeless spirit that is steeped in tradition. Under director Ben Jaffe, son of founders Allan and Sandra, PHJB commands a deep reverence and consciousness as the internationally recognized torchbearer of an enduring genre.
Ensemble Theatre presents the Tony Award-winning hit Broadway comedy where hilarity meets Alfred Hitchcock. With lightning-quick costume changes, this madcap farce features a cast of four actors playing more than 140 parts. Call 805/965-5400 for more information.
San Francisco-based, integrated media artist and director Christine Marie strives to break new group in her performance Multiplying Spectacles. Based on the history of mirrors, her large-scale projected shadow theater performance is accompanied by a live score, incorporating video effects and 3D stereoscopic shadow work. The event takes place at the SB Contemporary Arts Forum.
Kinesis 2012 is a dance concert of contemporary pieces presented by Santa Barbara Dance Alliance and will take place at Center Stage Theater. Bringing fresh and sophisticated original dance works by local choreographers showcasing a progressive artistic experience unique to Santa Barbara.
Wear red to create awareness of heart disease; the #1 killer of women.
February 5 & 11, 3 p.m. & 6 p.m. Steve Butler, World Premiere
Professor of music at Westmont college, Steve Butler, will perform the world premiere of his new work at the First United Methodist Church in Santa Barbara on the 5th and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Arroyo Grande on the 11th. The shows are open to the public and is free to attend.
This event is free! Come check out Center Stage Theater on the 7th to recharge and refresh with a dynamic LA-Santa Barbara exchange. SonneBlauma celebrates its 15th season with Affinity. Building on the phenomenal success of the inaugural year of the critically acclaimed Festival, SonneBlauma implements phase two of the project via continued artistic exchange intended to build local, regional, national and international community.
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum presents a new exhibition of oil paintings by Hans Skalagard about the one of America’s greatest conflicts at sea. This event is free.
February 8- April 11, 3-5:30 p.m. Garden Growers Training
A ten-week training program that will cover tasks involved in operating a successful retail nursery: from propagation, plant care and merchandizing to customer service. For more information call 805/682-4726 x119.
Marla F. Fredrick, Harvard professor of African and African-American studies and of religions, investigates “Women, Religion and Media” in a free, public lecture. The Westmonet Gender Studies Program and Global Christianity Series co-sponser the talk. Her lecture addresses concerns related to the rise of prosperity ministries in poor communities as well as the dramatic rise of African American religious broadcasters on television.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden will host a natural history cruise of Cachuma Lake. Guests are sure to witness the many thriving habitats and a great variety of wildlife, birds, fish, trees, and plants.
Santa Barbara Soccer Club presents DeMerit’s story about failed tryouts to ultimate triumph in soccer glory. DeMerit was the captain of England’s Watford FC and joined the USA team to play during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Rise and Shine features game footage, as well as cameos from other great players.
An information presentation of the special art collection in the flat files at Jane Deering Gallery (128 E. Canon Perdido St., 805/966-334) which includes affordable works by American and European contemporary artists such as Richard Aber, Gail Barker, Geoffrey Bayliss, Rana Begum, Nell Campbell, Barrie Cooke, Roger Craton, Arturo Di Stefano, Ann Diener, Linda Ekstrom, Mary Heebner, Wayne McCall, Hughie O’Donoghue, Dana Salvo, Marie Schoeff, Christina Seely, Dawn Southworth, Emily Speed, Youngsuk Suh, Joan Tanner, Juni Van Dyke, Hazel Walker and Gina Werfel.
Artists, Melissa Mahoney, Peggy Ferris, Sara Lytle, and Susan Tibbles display their art at 2nd Fridays Art at the Santa Barbara Tennis Club. The entire show runs February 10th-March 3rd. For more information please call 805/682-4722.
Ruthie Foster and Paul Thorn have taken their careers to new heights in 2010, The Truth According To Ruthie Foster garnered a Grammy nomination and Thorn’s Pimps and Preachers #1 on the American radio charts. But it is their powerful live shows—this is their Santa Barbara debut—that establish this dynamic duo as two of America’s freshest and finest performers. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
Dance Teacher’s Gone Wild is a dance concert to benefit the Arts Mentorship Program to provide low income students the funds to dance at local studios. The show includes performances in jazz, hip hop, broadway, ballet and contemporary dance. All pieces are danced by local instructors and professionals. Come experience the fun at Center Stage Theater.
Classic in training and eclectic by design, Quartetto Gelato thrills audiences with its multi-instrument mastery. A mixture of energy of tangos, gypsy and folk songs, as well as the groups theatrical stage presence fills the Lobero Theatre this February.
For more than 200 years, agriculture has been enduring magnet attracting newcomers. In the new exhibit Putting Down Roots: Ventura County’s Immigrant Farmers, 1800-1910, visitors to the Museum of Ventura County’s Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula can learn about farmers who setlled here after traveling across and the country. The exhibit opens February 11 and runs through May 20 in the Finch Family Gallery.
Performance includes Ansel Adams: America, a symphonic tribute to the cherished photographer, and Rhapsody in Blue, an embodiment of the Jazz Age’s upbeat lyricism and dance-driven energy written in 1924. Ives’s second symphony marks an exciting highlight in American symphonic literature. February 11 8 p.m., February 12 at 3 p.m.
Part of Getty Foundation’s groundbreaking initiative Pacific Standard Time: Art in L.A. 1945–1980, this exhibition focuses on the legacy of two of Southern California’s leading venues for contemporary art since the 1940s, Santa Barbara Museum of Art and Pasadena Art Museum. Artists include John Altoon, Karl Benjamin, Richard Diebenkorn, Marcel Duchamp, Llyn Foulkes, Sam Francis, Philip Guston, Ed Kienholz, John McLaughlin, Helen Lundeberg, Lee Mullican, Mark Tobey and Beatrice Wood, among others. Call 805/963-4364 for more information.
With its cataclysmic climax, the Met’s new Ring cycle, directed by Robert Lepage, comes to its resolution live in HD. Deborah Voigt stars as Brünnhilde and Gary Lehman is Siegfried, the star-crossed lovers doomed by fate. Live simulcast Feb. 11 at 9 a.m., encore screening Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. Call 805/969-4726 for more information.
UCSB Voice and Collaborative Piano Areas presents Aris, duets and rousing ensembles, a group that ranges from undergraduates through DMA candidates, as well as gifted members of UCSB’s faculty.
Actress/Author Mara Purl is the guest speaker for the fundraiser benefitting the nonprofit Unity Shoppe. The event is being held at a historical home in Santa Barbara, La Casa Nichita, and will include tea, refreshments and other entertainment.
Norman Foster, hailed as “the Mozart of modernism,” the mastermind behind the world’s largest building, the tallest bridge and the renovated Reichstag.
This glamorous and romantic evening will pay tribute to two of Santa Barbara’s premiere patrons of the arts: Herb and Elaine Kendall. Dinner guests will enjoy cocktails, appetizers and a silent auction dedicated to art, jewelry and fine wine. The evening will continue with a three-course Valentine-inspired candlelight dinner featuring wines by Palmina. Auctioneer Andrew Firestone will host a spectacular live auction with items ranging from a week in southern Spain to a pair of collectible Vasarely cube sculptures. For more information call 805/898-3890.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Brazilian-born siblings Sérgio and Odair Assad. The brothers have set the benchmark for guitarists by creating a new standard of innovation, ingenuity and expression. The duo’s CAMA Masterseries program explores the brilliant works for guitar by Brazil’s most celebrated composers. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.
Wayne McGregor | Random Dance, the Resident Company of Sadler’s Wells, London, is distinguished by its radical approach to new technology, incorporating animation, digital film, 3D architecture, electronic sound and virtual dancers seamlessly into live choreography. For its Santa Barbara debut, the company performs Entity, “a great sexy beast of a piece” (Sunday Times, London).
The competition represents the first step of a national recitation contest, a program run by the California Arts Council in the state and started by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Poetry Foundation to engage high-school students in the presentation of poetry through memorization and performance. FREE. Santa Barbara County Administration Building, Board of Supervisors Hearing Room, 4th Floor, 105 E. Anapamu St. For more information call 805/568-3990.
“The poems are so open-hearted and marvelously conceived that they are not just beautiful themselves but effortlessly contain beauty…” The Washington Post. Jane Hirshfield, award-winning poet, essayist and translator, speaks about the core issues which are apparent in her poetry. A generous master of art, Hirshfield has written many books- her most recent Come, Thief.
February 16, 2 p.m. New Volunteer Orientations
Learn about various volunteer opportunities available at the Garden of the Blaksley Library. Take a behind-the-scenes tour and meet some of the staff who train and manage volunteers. For more information please call 805/682-4726 x119.
This class will explore the conifer “hot spots” within California, provide examples of many species using living and herbarium material, and share some tricky short cuts for identifying them at the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden.
The Chieftains celebrate 50 years as Ireland’s “inadvertent prophets of the world-music boom” (Rolling Stone) in a concert experience filled with grace, humor, exceptional musicianship and the pageantry of visiting dancers and pipe bands. Led by founder Paddy Moloney, who formed the band from the ranks of the top Irish musicians back in 1962, the six-time Grammy-winners are musical ambassadors, cultural icons and boundary-pushers who continue to make music with a style that is as exhilarating as it is definitive. 8 p.m. at The Granada. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
As of 2011, this beloved eclectic, electro-acoustic jazz band, built by keyboardist Russell Ferrante and bassist Jimmy Haslip, celebrates the ripe young age of 30, a milestone commemorated in the album Timeline. The Rhythmic Art Projects presents the Yellowjackets.
As “America’s #1 Flamenco dancer,” Timo Nuñez has performed in front of a television audience of eleven million people, was invited to perform for the royal family in Dubai and has shared the stage with Plácido Domingo. This cutting edge dance spectacular is an eclectic and honest expression involving traditional and modern Flamenco.
Suzanne Duffy on flute joins Sophia Vaillant on piano in a program inspired by Jean Jacques Rosseau that highlights music by Franck, Schubert, Krakamp, Copland, Lukas Foss and Debussy. Trinity Episcopal Church, 1500 State St. 805/965-7419, www.trinitysb.org.
Sophie Fienne’s mesmerizing portrait of artist Anselm Kiefer, who transformed a derelict industrial space in southern France into a dreamlike city.
February 19, 1-4 p.m. Flora Codman- Celebration of Life
“Unable are the loved to die, for Love is immortality.” (Emily Dickinson). Flora Codman passed away in September of 2011. The Celebration will be followed by a potluck, and some of the folk dances that Codman loved so very much. Please bring a dish to share. Flora’s husband Harold and her daughters Lisa and Karen will be attending, and look forward to sharing favorite memories and photographs with you.
Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra presents an all-Beethoven program, featuring Symphony No. 3, the ‘Eroica’ and Piano Concerto No. 3. This performance marks the long-awaited Santa Barbara debut of pianist Tong-Il Han, a living legend who has had an unparalleled international solo career, performing with New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Chicago Symphony, London Philharmonic and many others. 7:30 p.m. at Lobero Theater. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.
Creativity expert and acclaimed thinker Sir Ken Robinson, renowned for his radical ideas on education reform and innovation in the classroom, speaks about his groundbreaking book Out of Our Minds: Learning to Be Creative. 8 p.m. at Campbell Hall. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
Sundance Beach is holding its 5th Annual Surf Video Contest on March 10th, 2012 at the Lobero Theater. If you love surf film classics, why not try to head on down and catch the showing of local surfer’s and videographer’s short films and see what they have to offer? Videos will be judged by industry leaders and film veterans and prizes will be award following the screening. Videos are due February 22, at 5 a.m.
A self-taught cook, five-time James Beard Award-winner for Outstanding Chef Tom Colicchio is one of the culinary world’s most celebrated figures and lead judge on Bravo’s Emmy-nominated show Top Chef. 8 p.m. at Campbell Hall. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
Courage to Lead presents the public intellectual, Parker J. Palmer, as he discusses his new book Healing the Heart of Democracy. In the book, Palmer focuses on “habits of the heart” when it comes to citizens and democracy. His talk will be followed by a dialogue with the audience.
German violinist Julia Fischer, one of the great young musicians of the 21st century, is regularly praised for her technical mastery and illuminating interpretations of classical repertoire. She is a former Gramophone “Artist of the Year” and BBC Magazine “Best Newcomer,” among numerous accolades. 8 p.m. at Campbell Hall. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
February 23, 6–9 p.m. Home – Garden Court Endowment’s 5th Annual Fundraiser
The Garden Court Endowment is hosting Home, a special benefit event celebrating the importance of caring for local seniors. The event will honor philanthropist Michael Towbes for helping to provide Santa Barbara area residents with housing opportunities. Enjoy a unique evening of dining, wine and cocktails, as well as a silent auction that benefits local seniors in need!
Nuclear Age Peace Foundation presents a free lecture from a legendary peace leader, Daniel Ellsberg. Ellsberg is a former U.S. military analyst famous for releasing the Pentagon Papers in 1971 changing how the public viewed the government and the Vietnam War. The Nuclear Age Peace Foundation advocates for a world free of nuclear weapons and empowers peace leaders.
The Westmont theater arts program presents “Animal Farm” at Porter Theater. “Animal Farm” still resonates powerfully today even though it was originally written in 1945. Wickedness, corruption, greed, ignorance and power can turn any human into an animal. The musical features an ensemble cast of 15-student actors who are having a great time dressing up like animals and singing rock music.
From the varied schools of classical music conservatories and R&B, this inventive violinist explores new territories as she blends world influences into the vocabulary of straight-ahead jazz. Regina Carter‘s sophisticated technique and lush tone took the jazz world by surprise; and through her albums, incessant touring and various guest appearances and collaborations, she has developed into a distinctly diverse musical personality. 8 p.m. at Lobero Theater. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.
Matraca Berg has served as a cartographer for the hills and valleys of women’s souls, doubts, loves and sorrows her whole life, earning her first #1 hit at age 18 and a Grammy nomination at age 22. Berg has provided pivotal hits for artists such as The Dixie Chicks, Patty Loveless, Trisha Yearwood, Gretchen Wilson, Linda Ronstadt and Dusty Springfield. 8 p.m. at Lobero Theater. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.
Trinity Backstage presents James McVay, an award winning composer, producer, and performing songwriter. McVay has spent the last 25 years scoring movies, tv shows, producing records and performing with some of the country’s top musicians including Stan Getz, Doane Perry, Jennifer Condos, David Schwartz, Kate Wallace, Caren Armstrong, Kate Markowitz, Sid Page and the list goes on. McVay has a brand new CD coming out imminently. Here’s hoping we get to hear it all.
February 25, 5-8 p.m. Observations
Come check out the Closing Reception of Observations, a photography exhibition at Brooks. Don’t miss out!
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum puts on Harbor Treasures with honorary celebrity judges Tommy Tang and Michael Hutchings. There will be tastings from the finest restaurants, wineries and breweries in Santa Barbara. So either reserve a table for some fine dining or just come to taste various dishes.
Choreography by Josie Walsh, State Street Ballet’s The Secret Garden is a masterpiece of enchantment complete with dynamic visuals, cutting-edge choreography and luscious, shape-shifting costumes, set to an original cinematic score by Paul Rivera Jr. Thoughtful and heart-warming, The Secret Garden tells a story of loss, dreams, hope, and the search for happiness that transcends generations. Inspired by Frances Hodgson Burnett’s famous novel, imaginative staging transforms this classic story into a modern-day ballet for all ages.
“Met: Live in HD” screens Ernani, starring rising soprano Angela Meade opposite experienced Verdians Marcello Giordani, Dmitri Hvorostovsky and Ferruccio Furlanetto. Live simulcast Feb. 25 at 9:55 a.m., encore screenings Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. and Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. at Hahn Hall. Call 805/969-4726 for more information.
The Santa Barbara Museum of Art presents Dave Hickey and Peter Plagens: On Pacific Standard Time. An art and cultural critic, Dave Hickey, and painter, Peter Plagens appear in a critical conversation regarding the development of contemporary art in Southern California.
The rich textile tradition of Teotitlán del Valle, a Zapotec community in Oaxaca, Mexico, is on exhibition at the Museum of Ventura County. The exhibit features woven pieces from the Bii Dauu Zapotec Arts Center and work by local Zapotec weaver and artist Porfirio Guitierrez of Ventura. Established in 2004, the Bii Dauu Zapotec Arts Center is a cooperative dedicated to the production of textiles using only natural dyes and original designs.
Come out to UCSB’s Corwin Pavilion to listen to a lecture by Bruce Alberts, a prominent biochemist with a strong commitment to the improvement of science and mathematics education. This event, as will as the reception after his presentation, is free and open to the public.
Stephen Tuck, professor of American History at the University of Oxford explores civil rights at a free lecture, “Losing My (Jim Crow) Religion: The Battle Between Church and Civil Rights Leaders in the Segregation Era.” Taking place at Westmont’s Kerrwood hall, the lecture will uncover civil rights activists who urged African-Americans to give up their Christian faith.
One of the country’s most respected eating disorder experts, Carolyn Costin joins the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals for an author book signing of her new book “8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder.” This event kicks off National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDAW) and takes place at Westmont College. Along with the book signing, there will be a documentary screening and a questions and answer discussion.
The Banff Mountain Film Festival is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the world. On the 27th, All.I.Can-The short cut, Blue Obsession, Hanuman Airlines, Cold, C.A.R.C.A, and DeepSea under the Pole will be the featured films. On the 28th, the festival continues with Reel Rock: Origins- Obe & Ashima, Ski Bums Never Die, On the Trail of Genghis Khan- The Last Frontier, Kadoma and The Freedom Chair.
From the creators of the record-breaking Broadway sensation The Producers comes this monster new musical comedy based on Mel Brooks’ iconic movie. This new musical,is scientifically-proven, monstrously good entertainment–and the only place you’ll witness a singing and dancing laboratory experiment in the largest tuxedo ever made.
A day full of activities to celebrate the end of Solvang’s first century and the launch into its second century. Highlights include placement of a commemorative time capsule at 4 p.m. in Solvang Centennial Plaza and the Annual Christmas Tree Burn on Santa Inés Mission grounds beginning shortly after dark, followed by a Second Century Celebration sharing dinner and memories from some of the town’s long-time residents at Hotel Corque. Call 805/688-6144 for more information.
Hot Tuna Acoustic and David Bromberg Quartet present an unforgettable evening of folk rock and Americana. They are defined by their subtle connections to bluegrass, blues and folk music. This event takes place at the Lobero in Santa Barbara.
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is hosting a speed dating event for anyone who lonely and looking to meet new people. So, come enjoy some good snacks while meeting many local Santa Barbara singles. Must be 21 or over.
This trio of pianist Edith Orloff, violinist Roger Wilke and John Walz on cello is sure to be a first-rate performance. Each member has celebrated a career on the international music scene. This even will take place at the St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church.
This exhibition explores the documentary intent and style of two photographers working 50 years apart. Enrico Natali took surreptitious photographs on the New York subways in the 1960s. In contrast, Doug Rickard’s 21st-century approach is to roam the forgotten streets of select cities without ever leaving his house. 5:30 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St. Call 805/963-4364 for more information.
January 14–15 Hairspray
Big Stage Productions presents Hairspray, a rocking song-and-dance spectacular that is also a poignant social commentary about 1960s America. At the Lobero Theater, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.
Photo of Amy Chua by Peter Z. Mahakian
January 14, 3 p.m. An Afternoon With Amy Chua
UCSB Arts & Lectures presents the best-selling author of America’s most talked-about parenting memoir, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother at UCSB’s Campbell Hall. In her runaway New York Times best-seller, Amy Chua gave a witty, provocative and hilariously funny account about the rewards — and costs — of raising her two children the strict “Chinese” way.
January 16, 3:30 p.m. “Parenthood”
Sam Jaeger, currently starring on NBC’s “Parenthood” discusses his life an as actor, director and writer. The talk is free and open to the public and will take place in Porter Theatre.
Local favorite Mashey Bernstein goes back to the movies to continue the popular exploration of opera’s starring role in cinema, which he presented last season. At the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, 136 E. De La Guerra St. Call 805/898-3890 for more information.
Collaborators by screenwriter John Hodge embarks on a journey through the fevered imagination of a writer and his funny relationship with the subject of the drama. This event takes place of the Lobero Theatre.
For 50 years, Preservation Hall Jazz Band has played to keep the traditions of New Orleans jazz alive, both at home and on tour around the world. Along the way, they brought in collaborators of all musical stripes to play, honor and reinterpret America’s first true art form. This is a screening of rare footage and talk by Ben Jaffe.
An exhibition of NASA satellite images that focuses on the aesthetic, rather than scientific, value of this technology. These images capture a beauty that is unique and visually stunning. Each one is an actual picture of an area on earth that was created by printing visible and infrared data in colors visible to our eyes with color combinations that were chosen to optimize their dramatic appearance. Call 805/688-1082 for more information.
“The Girl in the Picture” instructs us about the impact photojournalism had during the time of the Vietnam War. The event is a benefit to the Kim Foundation and the Friendship Fund. Come listen and discuss life during the war and her struggle for forgiveness with Kim Phuc who is “the girl in the picture.”
MLK was embedded in two vibrant African American intellectual traditions: wisdom and prophecy. Omedi Ochieng, a professor at Westmont college, explores and discusses racialism and social justice and other struggles faced by MLK in his lifetime.
Celebrate Chinese New Year (Year of the Dragon) at Santa Barbara Museum of Art, inspired by the newly reinstalled Asian Art permanent collection and recent gallery renovation. Call 805/884-6414 for more information.
This quintet if known for its brilliant performances of established quintet repertoire as well as their energetic new works. Comprised of Robert Frear and Marty Fenton Frear on Trumpet, Sarah Bach on French Horn, Andrew Malloy on Trombone and Norman Pearson on Tuba.
Center Stage Theater in Santa Barbara and the Adderly School present Winter Workshop Performances. Times: Friday, Jan. 20 at 6 & 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21 at 11:30, 2:00, 4:30 & 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22 at 11:30, 2, 4:30 & 7 p.m.
Guest Conductor Robert Bernhardt joins Santa Barbara Symphony, along with Anne Akiko Meyers, one of the world’s premier concert violinists, who performs Vaughan Williams’ elegant The Lark Ascending and Ravel’s Tzigane. Jan. 21 at 8 p.m., Jan. 22 at 3 p.m. Call 805/899-2222 for more information.
The creator of the public radio show This American Life, Ira Glass talks about his program and how it’s put together: what makes a compelling story, where they find the amazing stories for their show and how he and his staff are trying to push broadcast journalism to do things it doesn’t usually do. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
The Boston-based string band Joy Kills Sorrow brings a decidedly modern sensibility to an old-world sound, with its bold new brand of acoustic music, channeling the prodigious talents of its individual members into elegant arrangements and well-crafted songs. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.
A kaleidoscopic showcase of the best short films and animation from around the world, this 65-minute entertaining mix of musical and narrative shorts offers a delightful experience for all ages. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
January 21–22 The Enchanted Island
Joyce DiDonato, David Daniels, Plácido Domingo, Danielle de Niese and Luca Pisaroni are among the stars of this “Met: Live in HD” performance of The Enchanted Island, a world premiere work inspired by the musical pastiches and masques of the 18th century. Live simulcast Jan. 21 at 9:55 a.m., encore screenings Jan. 21 at 6 p.m. and Jan. 22 at 2 p.m. Hahn Hall, Music Academy of the West, 1070 Fairway Rd. 805/969-4726, www.musicacademy.org.
Originally released in 2009, this film has screened for enthusiastic audiences and Film Festivals worldwide. The 21st will mark the kick off of “Surf Film Saturdays” at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. This movie is the ultimate “female surfing experience” and can’t be missed.
The Oreana Winery hosts the festive, winter-like night of music and wine. Gawd Damn Band performs live rock music. Oreana will also be releasing its newest vintage of 2009 Gewurztraminer.
The goal of this event is for mothers and daughters to spend time together while learning about age appropriate make-up application and skin care. Everyone will be treated to delicious appetizers and mocktails. This sounds like the perfect time to bond- just mother and daughter. This event will take place at Saks Fifth Avenue.
The world’s leading wrongologist, author Kathryn Schulz, discusses Being Wrong— Adventures in the Margin of Error, a funny and philosophical meditation on why error is mostly a humane, courageous and extremely desirable human trait. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
A new year full of new possibilities! Come to the Center Stage open house and find out what the new year will bring. Check out the new seating, lighting equipment and platforms. Light refreshments will be served.
Blues harmonica icon Charlie Musselwhite joins bandleader, harp player and vocalist Mark Hummel—a blues titan in his own right and an influential force in shaping the genre—in a tribute to Chicago harp master Little Walter Jacobs. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
Get ready to laugh with the Weeds and Saturday Night Live veteran Kevin Nealon as he performs all-new stand-up comedy material. His performance will take place at the Lobero Theater, so don’t miss your chance to check out Nealon’s incredible wit and likeable demeanor.
This exhibition marks the centennial anniversary of the arrival of American Film Company’s “Flying A Studio” in Santa Barbara and focuses on the history of silent film production in the Santa Barbara area through a variety of objects, artwork, images and film. Call 805/966-1601 for more information.
Cinefiles, film buffs and fans gather together for 11 star-studded days of movie magic. Various locations in downtown Santa Barbara. Call 805/963-0023 for more information.
CAMA presents Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, recognized as one of the United Kingdom’s most prodigious orchestras. Royal Philharmonic enjoys an international reputation for bringing audiences first-class performances across a diverse range of musical repertoire. Call 805/ 899-2222 for more information.
January 27 & 28, 8 p.m. and 29, 2 p.m. Clair-Obscur
An Exploration of Shadow and Light under the direction of Devyn Duex, choreography by Emily Wheeler and Erin Martinez. Clair-Obscur features Emily Wheeler’s world premiere new work, “Take the Bull by the Horns.” Incorporating the talents of Nebula Dance Lab’s professional dancers, exhilarating costumes and multimedia elements it is sure to be a captivating show.
An incredibly complex ballet performed by 11 virtuoso dancers, two operas—Dido and Aeneas and Orpheus and Eurydice—are transmuted, here, into a single seamless ode. The music, by Gavin Bryars, is performed live by a quartet, evoking the well-known melodies of the operas by Purcell and Gluck. Call 805/893-3535 for more information.
Paul Willis, Westmont professor of English and S.B. poet laureate, hosts a sixth annual community reading in the Los Padres National Forest, “Remembering William Stafford.” Local writers Christine Kravetz and Greg Orfalea will also be featured readers.
Legendary artist, composer and producer Van Dyke Parks will perform at Santa Barbara’s SoHo Restaurant & Music Club. The show is in conjunction with an after party for the screening of “Music Man Murray.”
Come ride this special version of the “Polar Express” each day throughout the holiday season. It may not travel through the Arctic, but this festive miniature train has been a fun ride for kids and parents for the past 23 years. While you’re there check out the museum’s holiday display, Toy Trains and Teddy Bears!
She Told Them My House is not for Sale by Grady Peg
Through December 31, Exhibition: The Audacity of Process
The Santa Barbara County Arts Commission presents, The Audacity of Process: An Exploration in Diverse Practices, an exhibition of regional artists curated by John Hood. A number of local artists converge to make this exhibition vary greatly in style and subject matter. Open from November 21 through February 10, 2012 at the Betteravia Government Center in Santa Maria. The opening reception is on Friday, December 9 from 4–6 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Forum Lounge presents a free performance by Liz Casebolt and Joel Smith, who initiated their collaboration in 2006 to explore and implode conventional ideas about gender, relationships and dance-making, creating what some have called “perhaps the most entertaining, engaging (and explicative) dance theater currently on stage.”
Brazilian-born photographer and filmmaker, Ciro Coelho, presents the first in a series of outdoor, wall-size projections with stills, video and a compelling soundtrack at Casa de la Guerra. Enjoy a glass of wine with Coelho as you view the exhibit. The series features a different world capital every three months during 1st Thursdays, with this premiere event starting with his hometown of São Paulo.
Directed by Perry Miller Adato, this free film helps to provide visual and historical context for the work in Santa Barbara Museum of Art’sPicasso and Braque exhibition, evoking the generation’s colorful personalities and the thriving popular culture that inspired the Cubist revolution.
This award-winning quartet was founded in Israel in 1997 and, since then, has won numerous awards, including the Grand Prize at the Melbourne Chamber Music Competition. Come see them perform at the Mary Craig Auditorium!
This exhibition at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art traces the career of Parisian avant-garde artist Henri Rivière from his early days as a designer of shadow plays for Cabaret du Chat Noir to the albums of Parisian cityscapes and Breton landscapes with which he made his name.
While Santa Barbara is known for its extraordinary landscape, climate, history and culture, the dynamic pulse of the community comes from the artists who call it home. Artists on view at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art include Hilary Brace, Irma Cavat, Anne Diener, Michael Dvortcsak, Dane Goodman, Mary Heebner, Hank Pitcher, Keith Puccinelli, Harry Reese, William Rohrbach, Marie Schoeff, Ilene Segalove, Joan Tanner and more.
Al Weber’s passion for aerial photography had its unlikely beginning during the Korean Conflict when, as an aerial observer for the Marine Corps, the photographer witnessed the breathtaking Korean landscape from a low-flying plane. It altered his perspective and influenced the course of his 50-year photographic career. See his work on display at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.
Featuring paintings and prints by Georges Braque and Pablo Picasso during one of the most prolific and intensely experimental exchanges in the history of art, this presentation at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art focuses on how they helped invent the art form now known as Analytic Cubism.
The Wildling Art Museum has collaborated with Channel Islands National Park, Ventura County Museum of Art, Santa Cruz Island Foundation, Catalina Island Conservancy and many more groups and individuals to bring the long and rich history of the islands to life through the talents of artists, both historical and contemporary. The exhibition features artists Carl Oscar Borg, Lockwood de Forest, Merv Corning, Bud Bottoms, David Gallup, Marcia Burtt, Bill Dewey and many more.
Beginning with offshoots of Lyrical Abstraction in Europe, moving through various New York styles and ending up in Southern California, this exhibition at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art treads an eclectic course through the legacy of Abstraction. Artists include Helen Frankenthaler, Clinton Hill, Hans Hofmann, John Millei, Ed Moses, Ernst Wilhelm Nay, Kenzo Okada, Richards Ruben, John Seery, Mark Tobey, Jack Tworkov and Ulfert Wilke.
Presented by the City of Solvang, Solvang Conference and Visitors Bureau and other sponsors, events include the Julefest Tree Lighting Ceremony, Julefest Parade, Nativity Pageant, Solvang’s Holiday Wine About, and more! Don’t miss these charming holiday celebrations!
Ensemble Theatre presents this witty costume drama set in the year 1183, when King Henry II was planning to choose his successor. Packed with humor, mind games and clever plot twists, this hit play about the ultimate dysfunctional family was nominated for two Tony Awards and turned into an Academy Award-winning film. Stephanie Zimbalist stars as Eleanor of Aquitaine.
December 1 4:30 p.m. Westmont Celebrates the Christmas Season
Kick off the Christmas season with Santa Claus, warm cider and Westmont Gospel choir singing “Oh, Pickle Tree” as they highlight the 10th annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Hundreds of students, alumni, and neighbors typically don mittens and scarves to add to the festive atmosphere.
December 1–31 100 Trees for 100 Years
A kaleidoscope of decorated foliage at 100 sponsoring businesses and sites throughout the Solvang in celebration of Solvang’s Centennial. Live fir trees ranging from 5-9 feet tall in festive containers are being delivered and maintained by My Living Christmas Tree of Solvang. Tree sponsors will have the opportunity to decorate their evergreen and will be eligible for prizes in the decorating contest!
Adesso is participating in an event to support The Tribal Trust Foundation! The mission of The Tribal Trust Foundation is to fund sustainable grassroots projects that help support the living arts and cultures of indigenous people around the world. There will be gourmet food, good music, and handcrafted goods and accessories. Hosted at the beautiful, newly renovated adobe of Barbara Savage, the founder of Tribal Trust.
When solo acoustic guitarist Leo Kottke picks up a steel-stringed guitar, his fingers race across the strings with uncommon speed, developing a deep, churning groove that can at times sound like several people playing at once. Now 65 years young, Kottke has recorded more than 30 albums that showcase his barnstorming fretwork and quirky songwriting. Come see his amazing skills live at Lobero Theater!
Actor’s Corner Center presents an adventure that’s both fun and enlightening in “SOME THING TO DO.” Enjoy the magical stories of Solvang and get to know our friend Andrew, the Jelling Stone Seeker. Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 1 p.m.
The much anticipated Holiday Parade once again will amuse more than 50,000 spectators as giant helium balloons float down State Street amid magnificent marching bands, fabulous floats and spectacular performance groups in elaborate colorful costumes to charm the audience as they await and cheer on the Grand Marshal, the Holiday Prince & Fairy and the arrival of Santa Claus. The parade runs down State Street, beginning on Sola Street and concluding at Cota Street.
December 2, 6 p.m. Brad Nack‘s Annual Reindeer Show
A Santa Barbara holiday tradition, this annual show features dozens of small abstract oil paintings of reindeer.
Dubbed “the rock stars of Renaissance vocal music,” this renowned group performs holiday masterpieces from around the globe. Come see this amazing group perform live at Our Lady of Sorrows Church!
Partake on an international shopping frenzy! This marketplace takes you on a cultural adventure with food, dance, and fascinating items from 50 different countries around the world. Friday from 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
December 3, 3 p.m. Wildling Art Museum Holiday Public Open House
Enjoy cookies and hot drinks as part of the Los Olivos Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration. Los Olivos will be illuminated with twinkling lights, musical performances, fresh popcorn and roasted walnuts. At 6 p.m., don’t miss the famous “lighting of the tree” in the center of town.
Models at a past First Street Leather Charity Fashion Show. Photo by Timothy John Plog
This year will celebrate Solvang’s 100 years with a “Cirque de Solvang”
theme and a recreation of the circuses of 1911. First Street Leather’s fine collection of leather apparel, accessories and goods from around the world, will be shown by more than a dozen locals, including John Mathews, Lee Ann McKinney, Polly Firestone Walker, Robert Byrnes and Deb Davis. Food and drink prepared by The Hitching Post II will be served and a cash bar will be on hand. Live musical entertainment featuring Peter Feldmann & The Very Lonesome Boys and live circus performances will round out the event.
Sample fabulous pomegranate recipes, taste award-winning wines and take care of your holiday shopping at the fun and relaxed atmosphere of Buttonwood Farm’s Pomegranate Festival and Holiday Open House.
Rudolph is a children’s ballet performed by the students of Gustafson Dance and featuring additional dancers from the State Street Ballet Young Dancers, the apprentice company to State Street Ballet. This rendition of the classic Christmas tale about the lovable red-nosed reindeer is one you and your family don’t want to miss!
December 3–4, 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., and December 4, 2 p.m. Rodelinda
Music Academy of the West is hosting a special “Met: Live in HD” screening withRenée Fleming in one of her greatest portrayals, the virtuosic title role. Also starring Stephanie Blythe and Andreas Scholl. Screenings will be held on December 3 at 9:30 a.m. with an encore screening at 6 p.m. and on December 4 at 2 p.m.
Plan on a fairy-tale evening at the Solstice Winter White Ball this year. A live band will be performing for the guests to dance to, as well as DJ Steven J. A light buffet with Santa Barbara’s favorite foods will be served and a no host bar. A silent auction will also be held at the magical event, giving you the opportunity to purchase some holiday gifts. The magical evening will be held at the Butler Event Center, 3744 State St. Don’t forget to dress in white! For information call 805/965-3396.
It’s a winter wonderland beneath palm trees overlooking the Pacific Ocean at the Zoo’s annual Snow Leopard Festival. More than 75 tons of snow fashions sledding runs, creates a children’s play area and is placed in exhibits for snow leopards, elephants, otters and other animals. For more information call 805/962-5339.
Professor Clarence Barlow frames a discussion of the historic and contemporary link between music, math and the visual arts as a parallel form of avant-garde expression to the early Cubist experiment. At the Mary Craig Auditorium, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St. Call 805/963-4364 for more information.
Simms Taback’s exhibition delights the child in al of us and looks into the world of children’s book illustrations. The artwork is brightly colored and exquisitely designed. Her books are known for their humorous asides, often portrayed in her artwork as well. This exhibit runs at the Museum of Venture County.
Three-time grammy award winning Keb’ Mo’ and his band celebrate the holiday season by performing holiday classics as well as Keb’ Mo’ originals. The blues musician adds touches of pop, rock and jazz to his music and embraces a new form of artistic expression. He will be performing at the Lobero Theatre for only one night, so do not miss your opportunity to see the wonderful musician in action.
This winter, Warren Miller Entertainment brings you its 62nd winter sports film, Like There’s No Tomorrow. Hosted by skiing icon Jonny Moseley and shot on location in India, New Zealand, Chile, Alaska, British Columbia, and beyond! Click here for details.
An evening of song with special guests mezzo-soprano Diana Tash and pianist Armen Guzelimian. At the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, 136 E. De La Guerra St. Call 805/898-3890 for more information.
December is holiday party season! Which is why C’est Cheese is hosting its Cheese & Sparkling Wine tasting for the 6th straight year. Six cheeses, three sparkling wines, and a whole lotta of fun!
The local chapter of the Association for Women in Communications (AWC-SB) will get a head start on “A BRAND New Year” at its annual holiday party at the Canary Hotel in downtown Santa Barbara. The night will honor Member of the Year, Cindy Faith Swain as well as Non-Profit of the Year, Women’s Fund of Northern Santa Barbara County.
CAMA’s International Series presents Boston Symphony Orchestra, led by French conductor Ludovic Morlot, Music Director Designate of Seattle Symphony, and joined by American pianist Richard Goode, whose emotional power, depth and expressiveness can be heard in recitals and chamber and orchestral collaborations around the world. 8 p.m. At the Granada, 1214 State St. Call 805/899-2222 for more information.
December 8, 3–5:30 p.m. Open House & Family Caregiver Holiday Party
Friendship Center Goleta is hosting an open house as a tribute to their families and caregivers! Join them for wine, hors d’oeuvres, and live music as they celebrate the everyday heroes of Friendship Center!
December 9, 7–8 p.m. Ines Roberts Join photographer Ines Roberts for a presentation of “Fata Morgana and Songs of the Sea,” island-related photography paired with music. At the Wildling Art Museum, 2928 San Marcos Ave., Los Olivos. Call 805/688-1082 for more information.
December 9 Michael Kate Winter Art Exhibit and Craft Sale
Featuring the work of 25 regional artists and crafters. At MichaelKate Interiors and Gallery, 132 Santa Barbara St.
Directed and choreographed by Susan Alexander and Christina Sanchez. At Porter Theatre, Westmont College, 955 La Paz Rd., Montecito. Call 805/565-7140 for more information.
Walk down the Champs-Elysées and into a night you will never forget, filled with everything from can-can, crepes, and discotheque dancing to Tango and Toulouse-Lautrec. Stroll over to the Eiffel Tower and watch as artists render nostalgic Parisian scenes while jugglers, magicians, and unicyclists stun you with their talents.
British singer-songwriter Teddy Thompson’s songs are often characterized by their personal and observational style and common use of black humor. He’s joined by American country music singer Elizabeth Cook, who was described by New York Times as having “a high, agile, Dolly Partonish voice, and in her ballads she chuckles where others might sob.” At the Lobero Theater, 33 East Canon Perdido St. Call 805/963-0761 for more information.
Debuting sopranos Marina Rebeka and Mojca Erdmann. Jonas Kaufmann, Marina Poplavskaya and René Pape take on the demanding leading roles of Faust in this “Met: Live in HD” screening conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Live simulcast Dec. 10 at 9:55 a.m., encore screenings Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. At Hahn Hall, Music Academy of the West, 1070 Fairway Rd. Call 805/969-4726 for more information.
December 10–11, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Holiday at the Ranch
Tour the beautifully decorated historic Stow House and enjoy photo opportunities with Santa Claus, along with crafts, cookie baking and live holiday music by Holiday Horns, Tony Ybarra and more. At the Rancho La Patera & Stow House, 304 N. Los Carneros Rd., Goleta. Call 805/681-7216 for more information.
The Hospice Tree Lighting is to be held the same day at 5:30 p.m. Both are located on Linden Ave. There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to come out to enjoy both the parade and the gorgeous tree lighting.
Las Posadas is the time-honored reenactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for shelter in Bethlehem as it was once celebrated in early California and is still observed throughout Mexico and South America. Join in this rich cultural tradition to experience the way Santa Barbara’s earliest Spanish and Mexican residents celebrated Christmas with song and food.
The shadow play became a popular entertainment in Paris during the 18th and 19th centuries, especially at Le Chat Noir where artist Henri Rivière was the designer. Filmmakers were also inspired by this technique, as illustrated by the films The Adventures of Prince Achmed and Princes and Princesses, both of which are suitable for all ages. 2:30 p.m. at the Mary Craig Auditorium of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. 1130 State St. Call 805/963-4364 for more information.
The 26th Annual Parade of Lights’ festivities begin with a Santa’s Village event on the pier, featuring a visit from Santa, ten tons of snow and holiday music. Distinguished judges, along with thousands of spectators, cheer on 30 to 50 boats parading along the Santa Barbara coastline. A short fireworks display follows the boat parade. Santa’s Village from 3 p.m., parade begins at 5:30 p.m. Santa Barbara Harbor on Cabrillo Blvd. Call 805/897-1962 for more information.
December 11, 1:30–4:30 p.m. Studio Sundays on the Front Steps
Visitors of all ages are welcome to participate in this hands-on workshop with Santa Barbara Museum of Art teaching artists on the museum’s front steps. Each month, explore a different medium. Also on Jan. 8 and Feb 12. At Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St. Call 805/963-4364 for more information.
A benefit for music education in the schools and the SB Vocal Jazz Foundation at the Free Methodist Church with special guest, Debbie Denke on piano! Help support the cause!
C’est Cheese is back with a second tasting event for December and this time it’s caviar! Join them in tasting five different types of caviar back-to-back, which is the best way to compare and contrast the nuances between them so that you can figure out what styles you like. Also enjoy warm blinis, hard-boiled egg, and two glasses of bubbly, bien sur.
December 13, 7:30 p.m. FREE S.B. Chamber Orchestra Concert Tickets
Santa Barbara! Come hear what will surely be the bench mark performance of this work! Bax is praised for creating a ravishing listening experience with his lyrical playing, insightful interpretations and dazzling facility.
December 13 and 14, Baking Bread and a Bread Baking Class
Pascale & Montecito Country Kitchen is hosting bread baking classes that will teach attendants to make a regular organic wheat Boule and an Olive, Pistachio, Herb Boule. Each person will take home some of the bread that’s baked. In addition, class participants will receive a Lodge cast-iron duel-purpose baker in which to bake future loaves at home, a fresh starter for your next batch, and a copy of The Tartine Bread Book that contains all the recipes from the class. The class is NOT posted on the Country Kitchen website so call 805/965-5112 for more information and reservations. Delicious!
Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra presents vibrant pianist Alessio Bax who will be performing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 (The Emperor). Maestro Ohyama has also programmed Georges Bizet’s brilliant First Symphony in C Major. Mr. Bax delighted audiences last May with his performance of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 27 at the Lobero. Of Bax’s work, the Spanish publication El Tiempo said, “[he is] a complete artist, powerful and subtle, a master in all fields” and Gramophone Editor’s Choice said, “his playing quivers with an almost hypnotic intensity.” Click the link above for more info.
Get ready for revelry! Take a journey with Santa Barbara Revels to explore the roots of modern Christmas with songs, dances, and stories that originate in the Nordic/German traditions and come flavored with the spices of Europe. Sankt Nikolaus, his helper Knecht Ruprecht, and The Christmas Revels cast of 70 actors, singers, dancers, and instrumentalists invite you to laugh and enjoy as we welcome the Winter Solstice! December 17 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and December 18 at 1p.m. and 5 p.m.
The story of Clara and her nutcracker prince is a holiday classic brought to life by State Street Ballet performers. This holiday favorite remains true to the classic ballet while bringing forth new inspiration and sophistication. Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. The Granada, 1214 State St. Call 805/899-2222 for more information.
Twelve wine tasting rooms will feature premium wines over the 2-day wine tour through the village of Solvang. Ticket includes a 2-day passport along with a a souvenir wine glass. This holiday festival will put you in the Christmas spirit as there 100 colorful Christmas trees throughout the village.
A musical party with Santa Barbara Symphony and guest conductor Robert Bernhardt, who is in his 29th season as Principal Pops Director of Louisville Orchestra and as conductor of Chattanooga Symphony. At the Granada, 1214 State St. Call 805/899-2222 for more information.
Adam Phillips
December 18, 2:30 p.m. Free Christmas Concert with Adam Phillips
St. Mark’s Church presents this free performance as part of a year-round community concert series. Adam Phillips will perform along with local favorites Blaine Sprouse and David West in a night of traditional Christmas music in a fresh, acoustic format. This concert features classics such as O Come, O Come Emmanuel, O Holy Night, The First Noel, as well as music from Adam Phillips’ recently released album “Songs of Old: A Christmas Album.” A reception after the concert will include an opportunity to meet the musicians!
Through November 5, Mollie Favour: New Works Cabana Home, in collaboration with Edward Cella Art +Architecture, presents a solo exhibition with contemporary painter, Mollie Favour. Favour has exhibited since 1976 at numerous galleries around the United States, France, and Italy. In this current exhibition, Favour combines the careful observations of a botanist and the imagination of an artist to create lush and sensual abstractions of leaves, flowers, and figs. Click here to visit the exhibit website for more information.
November 1, 8 p.m. So Percussion
This Brooklyn-based quartet is both genre-defying—playing compositions by John Cage, Steve Reich and original music—and versatile—enjoyable for all ages.
The Goleta Valley Chamber hosts a breakfast at the Earl Warren Showgrounds. Register for the event at the link above.
November 2, 8 p.m. Creole Choir of Cuba
Blending Caribbean melodies with rich textured harmonies, this group of 10 singers and dancers celebrates the Haitian tale of those enslaved from West Africa. Including laments, protests and ritual prayers, this Grammy-nominated group is a movement of color and sound.
The luminous, emotive, effortlessly lyrical and always supremely refined the music of Ludovico Einaudi has attracted an ever-growing audience over the last two decades. He has released a series of chart-topping albums with sales of over 750,000 copies, sells out the most prestigious concert halls worldwide, composed a string of award-winning film scores and routinely tops audience polls becoming an internet phenomenon. In his Santa Barbara debut, Ludovico will perform a program of original repertoire for solo piano at the Lobero Theatre.
Educational psychologist Loretta Red shares her insights on Speaking with sense, sex and soul. The event is hosted by the Santa Barbara chapter of the Association for Women in Communications. Redd has 35 years of experience and discusses communication in personal and professional settings. The event will take place at the Canary Hotel in Santa Barbara.
Sullivan Goss, an American gallery, presents its newest exhibition of local artist Nicole Strasburg. The name of this exhibit is: islands valleys home. Come enjoy this wonderful art from now until the New Year.
Join us at the Art, Design & Architecture Museum and UC Santa Barbara for a festive evening of art and culture at the Jane Deering Gallery’s new location on 128 E. Canon Perdido in Downtown Santa Barbara. View the current exhibition “Phil Argent-Container Love” and enjoy free refreshments and entertainment. UCSB 1st Thursday is open to the public and students are welcome!
Peter Glantz of the Imanginary Company. Photo by Frank Mullin.
Influential theater and film director Peter Glantz presents a multimedia solo performance. FREE.
November 4–9 New Noise Santa Barbara Music Conference & Festival
This annual conference brings together emerging artists and people from the technical and music businesses to share “their thoughts on the future of music, tech, life, love and the pursuit of happiness” and listen to music.
November 4–December 9 Keith Puccinelli
Keith Puccinelli’s first solo exhibit in Santa Barbara is sure to be one you won’t want to miss. Through drawings and mixed-media sculptures, Puccinelli catalogues the human experience, capturing everything from humor and compassion to anger and pathos. Check out the reception, Friday, November 4 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Speaking of Stories transforms the stage into a 1940′s radio station complete with live sound effects. The classic detective radio plays are sure to give everyone an evening of mystery. $50 patron tickets, $22 for general tickets, and $15 for students.
The students at UCSB will occupy the FM dial in Storke Plaza on campus. Bring a lunch, a battery operated radio and be ready for a picnic as the students play music through the airwaves. This event is in collaboration with SB Contemporary Arts Forum’s Wireless art exhibit.
The gallery of the Left Coast Books is pleased to announce their exhibition, “Fragments from the West Coast: A Peculiar Surf Vernacular” by Russell Crotty, an internationally-known artist. The exhibition focuses on the art, sport and lifestyle of surfing over the last thirty years. Crotty, an active surfer himself, brings his experience of surfing into his drawings and depicts the shoreline from the waves point of view.
November 5, 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. VocalPoint Annual Benefit Concert
The Santa Barbara Vocal Jazz Foundation presents VocalPoint, a unique vocal jazz ensemble directed by Kim Collins. All of your favorite popular jazz arrangements will be performed through vocal harmonies at the Fe Bland Forum
located on the West Campus of Santa Barbara City College. Proceeds go towards various music education programs for students. You may call 729-2627 to reserve now. Mastercard and Visa accepted. Seating is limited so be sure to reserve early!
November 5, 8 p.m.Gil Shaham, Solo Violin
Worldwide acclaimed violinist Gil Shanham, winner of both the Avery Fisher Award and a Grammy, combines flawless technique with inimitable warmth and generosity of spirit as he performs a Bach Sonata and Partitas for solo violin.
November 5–January 8 Wireless
In honor of the UCSB radio station’s 50th anniversary, Contemporary Arts Forum presents artists concerned with the transmission of ideas, memories and objects across distances long and short. Also check out the featured Bloom Project artist, Kathleen Yorba.
November 5, 9 a.m. and November 6, 2 p.m. Wagner: Siegfried
Part three of Metropolitan Opera simulcast presentations follows Wagner’s hero, sung by Gary Lehman, on his adventure for the conquest of Brünnhilde, sung by Deborah Voigt. Conducted by James Levine and with use of Robert Lepage’s revolutionary morphing stage machine, it is quite the show.
Anyone can attend the 5K Walk, which begins and ends at the Zoo. Organizers ask walkers to raise or donate a minimum $100, which will earn the walkers a T-shirt, lunch, entertainment and admission to the Zoo for the day.
November 5, 8 p.m. Toad the Wet Sprocket with special Guest Zach Gill
The nonprofit Santa Barbara Birth Center presents the second annual benefit concert with Toad the Wet Sprocket at the Lobero Theatre. Last year’s show was a sold-out success and raised $90,000 for the Birth Center. Toad the Wet Sprocket began in 1986 in Santa Barbara. They went on to have breakout commercial success then parted ways in 1998. Recently they have regrouped and are working on material for their first album in 15 years while they tour the US.
November 5, 8 p.m., Bluesman Kenny Neal and Harmonica Legend Lazy Lester
The SB Blues Society presents second generation bluesman Kenny Neal, son of stellar Louisiana harmonica player Raful Neal.Born in Baton Rouge in 1957, Kenny learned the blues at the knees of his dad’s pals, blues greats Buddy Guy, Lazy Lester, and Slim Harpo. To quiet down a crying 3 year old, Slim gave Kenny a harmonica. A true prodigy, Kenny was soon proficient on harmonica, guitar, bass. trumpet, and piano. By the time he was 13 he was playing in his father’s band, and at 17 he became Guy’s bass player. Earl Warren Showgrounds.
King Bee will be rockin’ it at Reds, a tapas bar. This is a fabulous venue for cocktails, beer, wine and great appetizers. There will be beef sliders, artichoke dip and hot pretzels, so come to the funky side of town on Helene Ave.
This tasty, fun event will help to raise money for the Mini Grants program for the Santa Barbara Peace Corps Association. There will also be a free raffle. This event will take place at Vino Divino Wine Shop.
A discussion of access and free speech in the contemporary media landscape with public radio and sound designer panelists. The Wireless curator, Elizabeth Lovero, moderates. This event is hosted at the Canary Hotel’s Valley Room in conjunction with the New Noise Music Conference.
The Met: Live in HD presents Siegfried, the third installment of the Ring Cycle. This followed the adventures of the opera’s ultimate hero, a valiant warrior who doesn’t know the meaning of the word fear. The all-star lead is cast to Jay Morris in his first Met performance of the title role. The show runs approximately five and a half hours with two intermissions.
November 6, 3 p.m. Charlotte’s Webb
Based on the classic children’s book, Theaterworks USA’s production follows a pig named Wilbur as he escapes ending up as pork chops with help from his friend, the little grey spider Charlotte.
November 6, 7 p.m. Cinematic Titanic
Featuring the original cast of Mystery Science Theatre 3000, Cinematic Titanic presents Doomsday Machine, a feature-length movie-riffing production that plays with the unfathomable, horribly great and just plain cheesy movies from the past.
These great authors talk about, read from and sign their newest books for children an young adults. Come out and meet the award-winning authors, as well as purchase their newest books. This event is being held at the Curious Cup in Capinteria.
Join MCK in the kitchen for two wonderful cooking classes where you will learn to prepare the perfect autumn meal. The class on the 14th will feature a holiday menu, so get ready to learn to cook you and your family that flawless seasonal meal.
November 8, 9 & 11, 8 p.m. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Back by popular demand, the London-based theatre group performs The Comedy of Errors, a fast-paced and extremely funny production that explores such themes as mistaken identity, coincidence and the importance of family.
You’re in for a unique experience in theatre entertainment! Women of all ages and “stages” will find their spirits lifted by the show’s light-hearted look at menopause. This laughter-packed 90-minute production features parodies of classic songs from the 1960’s, 70’s, and 80’s. The disco hit “Stayin’ Alive” becomes “Stayin’ Awake,” the Motown favorite “My Guy” is transformed into “My Thighs,” and much more! At the Lobero Theater in Santa Barbara.
November 10, 8 p.m. Pink Martini
This Portland-based group of 12 musicians is wildly diverse and intoxicating. Classically trained pianist Thomas Lauderdale and vocalist China Forbes lead the group through another “rollicking-around-the-world musical adventure.”
November 10 5:30 p.m. “Hot Topics and Highlights in Public Education”
Come listen to a free lecture about the hot topics regarding recent issues in public education. Michelle Hughes, an assistant professor of Education at Westmont, discusses the current education climate, teaching quality and acts such as “No Child Left Behind”. The lecture will be held at the University Club on Santa Barbara St.
Professor of Marine Technology, Don Barthelmess, presents a lecture about the advancements in underwater technology, as well as Santa Barbara’s establishment in underwater commercial diving industry. Watch Barthelmess explore the ideas and innovations involving deepwater diving.
November 11, 2 p.m. Free Veteran’s Day Concert
There is a free concert at First Methodist Church on the corner of Anapamu and Garden Streets. Celebrate the remarkable sacrifices made by veterans!
November 11, 7:30 p.m. and November 13, 2:30 p.m. La Bohème
The most touching love story in opera follows four young bohemians living an idealistic life in pursuit of love and art. Puccini is at his most tender, providing heart-piercing music.
November 11, 11 a.m. Veterans Day Parade
The parade starts off at the corner of State St. and Sola St. and continues down State St. until Cabrillo Blvd. Any and all veterans are invited to march in the parade. Veterans are encouraged to wear their uniform, caps and jackets. Come out and support those who have served our country, as well as those who still serve.
November 11-13, 27th Annual Vaquero Show and Sale
Come and enjoy various equestrian demonstrations in honor of the distinctive style of apparel, tack, saddles and other horse equipment developed by Vaqueros (cowboys) on the expansive cattle ranchos of Central California! All proceeds from the Vaquero Show benefit the non-profit Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum.
The Easton Gallery has represented the work of contemporary landscape artists for 20 years. The gallery is located in Santa Barbara and exhibits art from 20 local artists. The gallery is open weekends and by appointment. Currently, the gallery features excellent work by Michael Enriquez.
November 12, 11 a.m. Goleta Library Presents Childrens Dance Showcase
Children ages 3 and older are invited to the Goleta Public Library to enjoy a morning of learning flamenco, hip-hop-jazz, and latin dance. A showcase will follow with dances performed by prize-winning students of the inspiring local dance teacher, Rose Marie Cruz. Get ready to be amazed by these young dancers as they display their fast-paced footwork, fun choreography, and beautiful costumes to Spanish dance music. this even is free and open to the public.
November 12, 4 p.m. Urban Roots
The Casa Esperanza Homeless Center is screening the film Urban Roots at SBCC’s Fe Bland Auditorium in honor of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. Urban Roots is a documentary about the hypothetical possibilities after the collapse of the industrial era. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this intriguing film and help support Casa Esperanza Homeless Center in the process!
November 12 Santa Barbara Marathon
Get ready! Get set! And get pumped for Santa Barbara’s marathon! Starting in Goleta’s orchards, the trail runs through Santa Barbara’s Mesa community, finishing with a two-mile descent to the ocean. The event includes a full and a half marathon, as well as an elite rehab relay.
November 12, 2 p.m. UCSB Presents Cloud Nine
The UCSB Department of Theater and Dance presents British playwright, Caryl Churchill’s Cloud Nine, which explores power, sexuality, gender and self-identity in the times of Victorian colonialism in Africa and 1979 London. Cloud Nine was one of the earlier dramatic works that established Churchill’s place in modern British theatre. In fast-paced scenes, some of which are punctuated by musical numbers, characters attempt to navigate from repression to acceptance as their culture faces revolutionary changes. These changes are brought into high relief as 100 years pass between the two acts. The award-winning dark comedy will showcase at UCSB Performing Arts Theatre, 522 University Rd. For more information call 805/893-3022.
The first Santa Ynez Valley Art Week will highlight events such as: the 27th Annual Vaquero Show & Sale, the Diversity & Community Photographic Awards, Sanford Art & Wine workshops and many more excellent events. Download their Art Week Map for a schedule of all the events by clicking on the link above.
Alan Parsons had an incredible start to his career working with some of the biggest names in rock including The Beatles, The Hollies and Pink Floyd. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience this rock legend in concert at the Lobero Theatre—and all for a great cause.
The St. Mark’s Episcopal Church invites the public to attend a concert in honor of Veteran’s Day and all of those who have served our great nation as well as those who continue to serve. The featured artists are Kathleen Dollahon, with the viola, and Larry Hill, on the trumpet. This evening of music will be enjoyable for people of all ages.
UCSB Performing Arts presents Carl Churchill’s Cloud Nine directed by UCSB faculty member, Anne Torsiglieri, for nine performances only. CLOUD NINE explores power, sexuality, gender and self-identity. This award-winning, full-length dark comedy was one of the earlier dramatic works that established Caryl Churchill’s place in modern British theatre.
November 13, 7 p.m. A Night in Treme
Spend a night in Treme (pronounced truh-MAY), the neighborhood of New Orleans that’s known for its African-American music and culture. This concert headlines Rebirth Brass Band, a group who mixes traditional brass band sound with jazz, funk, soul and hip-hop. Joining them is a selection of performers featured on the HBO series Treme.
November 13, Human Rights Watch Annual Dinner, Doubletree Resort
The Voice of Justice Awards honors human rights defenders from around the world who put their lives at risk to protect the rights and dignity of others. Honoring: Consuelo Morales from Mexico, Sussan Tahmasebi from Iran, with special guest Prince Moulay Hicham of Morocco. For more information call, 805/284-4232.
The Santa Barbara Youth Symphony, under the direction of Andy Radford, will present its Winter Concert on November 13. The night will feature a performance of Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony and soloist Katrina Schaefer, a senior at Crossroads School in Santa Monica, will perform Ravel’s Tziganne.
November 14, 8 p.m. Stephen Petronio Dance Company
Inspired by the songs of pop balladeer Nick Cave, choreographer Stephen Petronio’s Underland is a sexual world of dance, music and visual imagery.
Come Fly Away is the new Broadway musical conceived, choreographed, and directed by Tony Award-winner Twyla Tharp and featuring the timeless songs of Frank Sinatra. Come Fly Away follows four couples as they fall in and out of love during one song and dance filled evening at a crowded nightclub. Blending the legendary vocals of Frank Sinatra with a live on-stage big band and 14 of the world’s finest dancers, Come Fly Away weaves an unparalleled hit parade of classics, including “Fly Me To The Moon,” “My Way,” and “That’s Life,” into a soaring musical fantasy of romance and seduction.
Spain cheeses are some of the best worldwide and only recently have they made it out to our Santa Barbara shores. So, it’s time to come explore the best cheese that Spain has to offer. You can purchase tickets online or by calling 965-0318.
The Lobero Theatre Foundation presents the new broadway musical Come Fly Away at the Granada Theatre. This one-of-a-kind experience combines the seductive vocals of “Ol’ Blue Eyes” with the sizzling sound of a live big band and the visceral thrill of Tony Award-winner Twyla Tharp’s choreography. You will experience the exhilaration of a first kiss, the excitement of a first dance, and the bittersweet moments of a first good-bye in a world of sparkling romance and astonishing beauty. Come Fly Away features a host of beloved Sinatra classics including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “My Way,” “New York, New York” and “Witchcraft.” Click the link for more info!
November 15, 8 p.m. Whose Live Anyway?
The cast of the hit ABC television show Whose Line Is It Anyway comes to Santa Barbara for hilarious improvisational comedy. With games famous from the television show and entirely new skits, get ready for some audience participation—and maybe even join the crew onstage.
Presented by the Santa Barbara/Ventura Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, this annual event honors the spirit of philanthropy and volunteerism. For more information call 805/308-9782.
Women’s Economic Ventures and Z Folio Gallery invite you to a free network event held at the Z Folio Gallery. Come eat, shop, explore WEV client business and check out the Czech art glass. There will be silent auctions of fine products and services.
In its early years, Solvang never advertised its Danish heritage or architecture. However, that is what Solvang is known for nowadays, from the delicious Danish cuisine to the Danish-style windmills that line Copenhagen Drive. Now, it is time to celebrate the Danish heritage that surrounds the community of Solvang by walking around the village and admiring what it has to offer. This free event will be held at Copenhagen Square in downtown Solvang.
November 18, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Camerata Pacifica
For its final fall performance, Camerata Pacifica’s world-class ensemble performs Rossini’s String Sonata 3, Lutyens’ Driving Out the Death, Wiegold’s Earth and Schubert’s Piano Quintet in A Major. With the mission statement “To affect positively how people experience live performances of classical music,” it’s sure to be a great show.
November 18 Dream Foundation’s Celebration of Dreams
Help make dreams come true for adults with life-threatening illnesses at this evening of fashion, entertainment and dreams.
Born out of collaboration between Joy Williams, a California girl, and John Paul White, a native Alabaman, The Civil Wars is a folk-pop duo that combines a stripped-down sound with some big ideas. Their song “Poison & Wine” was featured on an episode of the hit show Grey’s Anatomy, and brought their signature sound to a whole new audience. Don’t miss your chance to get to know this group up-close and personal! For more info, click the link.
November 18, 8 p.m. Club Mercy Presents the Civil Wars
Born out of collaboration between Joy Williams, a California girl, and John Paul White, a native Alabaman, this folk-pop duo combines a stripped-down sound, sans back-up band, with big ideas and equally big national interest. Their song “Poison & Wine” was featured on an episode of the hit show Grey’s Anatomy, and brought their signature sound to a whole new audience. Lobero Theatre.
It’s time to learn more about the diving history of Santa Barbara. This helps to honor the diving pioneer, Dan Wilson, as he made a huge impact on the diving industry in Santa Barbara. The opening reception includes food and Spanish guitar music.
Santa Barbara-based artist Stephanie Dotson speaks on the conceptual territory of printmaking echoed in non-print work. Dotson subverts the narratives inherent in her processes with an arsenal of working techniques to create opposition in realities which parallel from her own life.
November 18-19, 8 p.m. & November 20, 2 p.m. Genesis West presents A Number
Human cloning is the subject of this hour-long thriller that blends the scientific and the relationship between a father and his three sons- two of which are clones of the other. A Number by Caryl Churchill is the first true play of the 21st century.
The Wilding Art Museum invites the public to spend the weekend in Santa Barbara County’s wine country for touring of the studios of 30 area artists. Get acquainted with the local artists’ personally, visit their studios and enjoy delicious local wines. There will also be beer tasting through the Figueroa Brewing Company. These area artists reflect all types of work from watercolor to oil paintings to mixed media art.
November 19, 8 p.m. and November 20, 3–5 p.m. Beethoven Emperor
Nir Kabaretti conducts two Beethoven highlights in one evening, with Music Academy of the West alumnus Hong Xu on the piano. Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor” follows Symphony No. 6 “Pastoral,” a spiritual depiction of nature.
November 19, 10 a.m. and November 20, 2 p.m. Philip Glass’ Satyagraha
In the final MET encore production of the fall, Richard Croft is Gandhi in Philip Glass’ beautiful opera.
According to Charleston City Paper, “A guy like Ryan Bingham comes along every now and then — the type of songwriter that listeners immediately appreciate, hearing their own stories in the lyrics. Guys learn their songs on guitar to impress the ladies, while their girlfriends secretly imagine the real thing.” Hear him for yourself on November 19 at the Lobero Theatre.
This is the 18th annual Marketplace taking place at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. The event features of 30 artisans with unique, homemade creations, as well as coffee and baked goods. The Market is the perfect place to find some of your holiday gifts.
As Westmont launches its new concert series The Rising Stars, the 24 year-old world-renown guitarist, Mak Grgić, kicks it off. He distinguishes himself as versatile guitarist, playing classical and improvised music. Grgić received his bachelor’s degree at a Performing Arts School in Austria and continued on for his master’s at USC Thornton School of Music. Come check out Grgić at Westmont College!
November 20, 3 p.m. Ozokidz
This event had been CANCELED.
As a part of a year long anniversary celebration of 85 years, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden holds its final free day of the year. Along with free entry, visitors can partake in tours of the garden, participate in children’s craft activities and will receive a free souvenir just for coming. This is the last one of the year, so come check it out while it’s free.
November 21–23, 8 p.m. Blue Man Group
There really aren’t any words to describe the wonderfully weird world of Blue Man Group, a unique form of entertainment guaranteed to be like nothing else you’ve ever experienced. This performance abounds with a matchless explosion of comedy, music and technology. Bring the whole family—you won’t want to miss it.
November 24, 9 a.m. Thanksgiving 4 Miler
Get active this Thanksgiving and burn off some of that turkey before you even eat it! This fun run, starting at the park by Magnolia Shopping Center, takes you around the flattest part of Goleta.
The Santa Barbara Zoo hosts the pumpkin smash. Watch as elephants, gorillas and other of zoo animal favorites play with and pulverize pumpkins on this special holiday. Come visit your favorite zoo animals and have a smashing good time!
The eclectic band the Headless Household finds its groove in the 19th annual Christmas concert this year. The band effortlessly mixes up elements of jazz, avant-Americana, funk, Brazilian and more. The band has been around for more than 25 years and they don’t plan on going anywhere.
Live at the Granada Theatre, the legendary B.B. King. King has developed one of the world’s most identifiable guitar styles. His precise and complex vocal-like string bends and his left hand vibrato are today indispensable components of a rock guitarist’s vocabulary. His economy, his every-note-counts phrasing, has been a model for thousands of players from Eric Clapton and George Harrison to Jeff Beck.
November 30, 6 p.m., Adam Silverman Opening & Reception
Cabana Home, in collaboration with Edward Cell Art + Architecture, announces a solo exhibition for noted contemporary Los Angeles based potter, Adam Silverman. The exhibition presents a new collection of hand thrown pots with explosive, experimental glazes that epitomizes Silverman’s distinctive aesthetic connecting ancient and modern sensibilities. The opening reception of this exhibit and a talk from Silverman himself, will be held at the Cabana Home.
November 30, 8 p.m. David Gergen
Currently editor-at-large of U.S. News & World Report, director of Center for Public Leadership at Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government and senior political analyst for CNN, David Gergen offers a bipartisan analysis of politics in American today and what this means for the future.
November 30, Tales from the Tavern presents Wil Ridge with a special slide show presentation by Henry Diltz
All Tales from the Tavern shows take place at the Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez.
November 30, 8 p.m. Pianist Hélène Grimaud
CAMA’s Master series at the Lobero presents in recital Mozart’s Piano Sonata No. 8 in A minor, K. 310; Berg’s Piano Sonata, Op. 1; Liszt’s Piano Sonata in B minor and Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances, BB 68 (1915).
November 30-January 14, Adam Silverman: New Pots Cabana Home, in collaboration with Edward Cella Art + Architecture, announces a solo exhibition for noted contemporary Los Angeles based potter, Adam Silverman. The exhibition features a new collection of hand thrown pots with explosive, experimental glazes that connect ancient and modern sensibilities and epitomize Silverman’s distinctive aesthetic. The Opening Reception will be on Wednesday, November 30 from 6–8 p.m. Exhibit hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Free and open to the public.
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Video of the Week
Happy American Craft Beer Week! Santa Barbara is privileged to have several craft breweries to help us wet our whistles, and we celebrated a few of our favorite brewmasters and local breweries with our Cheers to Beer! video. Keep your eye out around town for special beer events and tastings, talks with brew masters and connoisseurs, and discounts on hoppy goodness.
Three-time grammy award winning Keb’ Mo’ and his band celebrate the holiday season by performing holiday classics as well as Keb’ Mo’ originals. The blues musician adds touches of pop, rock and jazz to his music and embraces a new form of artistic expression. He will be performing at the Lobero Theatre for only one night, so do not miss your opportunity to see the wonderful musician in action.
November 5, 8 p.m. Toad the Wet Sprocket with special Guest Zach Gill
The St. Mark’s Episcopal Church invites the public to attend a concert in honor of Veteran’s Day and all of those who have served our great nation as well as those who continue to serve. The featured artists are Kathleen Dollahon, with the viola, and Larry Hill, on the trumpet. This evening of music will be enjoyable for people of all ages.
November 14, 
The Wilding Art Museum invites the public to spend the weekend in Santa Barbara County’s wine country for touring of the studios of 30 area artists. Get acquainted with the local artists’ personally, visit their studios and enjoy delicious local wines. There will also be beer tasting through the Figueroa Brewing Company. These area artists reflect all types of work from watercolor to oil paintings to mixed media art.
November 30-January 14, 
