Through November 18 The Dragon Awakens: Exhibit of George Stuart Manchu Figures
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.
Through October 26 West to the Sea
Blakeney Sanford puts her newest resin work on exhibit in Carpinteria. Head to the artist reception on October 18 from 4-6 p.m.
Through October 31 Ansel Adams Los Angeles
Rarely seen photographs that reveal the lost landscape and lifestyle of a prewar Los Angeles as captured by photographic genius Ansel Adams.
Every Thursday, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Jazz at the Plaza
Join us each Thursday in October from 5 to 7pm at Jazz at the Plaza, where you can enjoy complimentary live music from renowned local musicians, take part in a wine tasting from a different Santa Barbara County vintner each week and peruse creations by fine local artists.
All of October epicure.sb
An annual celebration of cuisine, libations and culture, epicure.sb presents signature festivals, cooking classes, winemakers’ dinners, seasonal menus, epicurean-inspired art exhibits and many more ways to taste the very best of Santa Barbara. Various venues throughout Santa Barbara.
October 1-4 Contemporary Arts Forum: Portfolio Review Week
CAF’s Artist Professional Development series kicks off with this annual portfolio review offering one-on-one 20-minute reviews with executive director and chief curator Miki Garcia. Make an appointment to discuss recent work, refine portfolio and career advice.
October 1, 7:30 pm Kirk Douglas on Film Series: Champion & Ace in the Hole Double Feature
In Champion, Douglas plays ruthless prizefighter Midge Kelly, who battles his demons in the boxing ring. In Ace in the Hole, Douglas portrays Chuck Tatim, an unscrupulous, hard-bitten reporter, who’ll stop at nothing to get back his job at a big city newspaper by manipulating the events of a story. Part of the Kirk Douglas on Film Series at UCSB’s Pollock Theatre.
October 2, Heartmony 3
Enjoy harmony through Heartmony at SOhO with Hristo Vitchev on the guitar, Weber Iago on the piano and Christian Tamburr on “vibes.”
October 2, 7:30 p.m. 3 & One with Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra
Under the direction of Maestro Heiichiro Ohyama, the orchestra will play three divertimentos (Italian for “to amuse”) and one grosse fuge (German for “great of grand fugue”, which is a composition with a reoccurring theme).
October 2, 8 p.m. Aspen Santa Fe Ballet
Audiences from New York to Los Angeles have long considered the “simply breathtaking” (Chicago Sun-Times) Aspen Santa Fe Ballet one of the hottest tickets in contemporary ballet.
October 3, 8:00 p.m. Lang Lang Solo Piano Recital
Playing incredible sonatas and ballades by Mozart and Chopin, Lang Lang, an international piano superstar, will open CAMA’s 2012-2013 International Series at the Granada. Lang Lang is often considered the “hottest artists on the classical music planet.”
October 3-5, 8-9 Portfolio Review Week
Insightful, private, 20-minute portfolio reviews with Executive Director and Chief Curator, Miki Garcia allow an artist to share recent work and refine their portfolio.
October 4-21, CRIME AND PUNISHMENT
An exploration of sin, expiation and resurrection captivates audiences in this dream-like adaptation of the beloved novel by Dostoyevsky.
October 4–14 john & jen
An intimate musical for two actors supported by piano and cello, this local premiere production of john & jen takes a look at the complexities of relationships between brothers and sisters and parents and children on a musical journey through four decades of change.
October 4-31 John Light’s Pictures
This exhibit of John Light’s thought-provoking photographs will benefit Elings Park, helping to manage the beautiful park without using any tax dollars.
October 4, 5:30 p.m. Tony Cragg: Artist Talk
hear the internationally-acclaimed English sculptor Tony Cragg speak about his work. Exhibiting for over three decades, Cragg is known for his profound exploration of different materials and found objects through sculpture.
October 4, 5 p.m. Brent Green, God Builds Like Frank Lloyd Wright
Best known for his darkly humorous stop-motion animated films that touch on themes of love, death, salvation and the underworld, filmmaker Brent Green performs live with a series of his short films.
October 4, 5-8 p.m. On View: The Flying A- Silent Film in Santa Barbara
A landmark exhibit focuses on the studio’s influential and prolific operation in Santa Barbara between 1912 and 1921, when nearly one thousand silent films were made by the studio.
October 5-November 2 Small Images Exhibition
SBCC’s Sarah Cunningham acts as juror for student-submitted “small images” pieces, which can be no larger than 18 inches in any direction.
October 5, 7–9 p.m. Crave: Art, Food & Social Experience “Come to Your Senses” Cocktail Party
A collaboration between Contemporary Arts Forum and Spare Parts, this exciting new series is built on the idea that food, like art, is capable of building bridges between people. Creating an exchange between culinary and visual nourishment, Crave is passionate inquiry through food, history, literature and stirring visual imagery via a series of artist-orchestrated themed meals. The first event of the series celebrates the five senses.
Also part of the “Crave” series: Nov. 2 brings the “Day of the Dead” Dinner, sure to be a unique holiday celebration. Then ring in the New Year at the “Blank Canvas/New Year/Clean Slate” theme dinner on Jan. 4.
October 5–7 California Avocado Festival
Take a bite out of “Avofest,” an epicurean, entertaining and educational trifecta with delicious food, live music, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, and the world’s largest bowl of guacamole.
October 6, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Science Day
Calling all science enthusiasts! Science Day at Santa Barbara Zoo is a fun way for teachers, families and students to discover the world of science—from tracking animals through the wilderness to exploring the science behind gardening. More than 40 fun hands-on activity stations are located throughout the zoo, and keepers give special presentations.
October 6, 9:30 a.m. Santa Barbara Fiber Arts Guild’s Free Spirit Fashion & Home Show
Join the Santa Barbara Fiber Arts Guild for a fashion show celebrating 65 years of unique, handmade crafts by local artists.
October 6, 7 a.m. Solvang 1-Mile Road Race
Share the scenic course with world class athletes, while enjoying an event that promotes fitness and local businesses in the Santa Ynez Valley. Race starts and finishes on Copenhagen Street in the beautiful Danish village of Solvang.
October 6, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Santa Ynez Cottage Hospital’s 30th Annual Health Fair
Celebrate health and wellness at this health fair, complete with free flu shots, over 40 vendors/display booths, giveaways, health screenings, and prize drawings.
October 6, 4:30 p.m. The Wild Gourmet: Cooking with Native Plants at the Garden
Join Alicia Funk, author of Living Wild: Gardening, Cooking and Healing with Native Plants of the Sierra Nevada, as she discusses the many uses of native plants in making delicious food, tea, medicines and even household items.
October 6, 3 p.m. Cooking in the Vineyard
Share an intimate evening in the private vineyard estate of Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café owners, Sam and Shawnda Marmostein. The Café’s chef Chris Josyln will host a cooking demonstration.
October 6, 6:30 p.m. Green Gala at the Community Environmental Council
CEC and Merryl Brown Events partner to put on this wonderful “eco-chic” event. Expect beautiful décor and a focus on repurposed, borrowed and recycled elements throughout the party. Experience local and organic selections prepared by the famous Full of Life Flatbread, locally made wine and drinks, and tasty treats at the dessert bar.
October 6, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mental Health Arts Festival
More than 70 local artists will display their talents across De La Guerra Plaza at the Mental Health Arts Festival, which coincides with National Mental Illness Awareness Week. This annual festival provides people in our community living with mental illness an opportunity to showcase their talents at an event many of them look forward to all year. Expand to see a number of artistic mediums on display, including paintings, sculptures, poetry, jewelry and music, as well as a very broad array of artistic styles. Along with celebrating and supporting the beautiful work of our many artists, the event also aims to raise awareness of the effects of mental illness and to reduce the stigma associated with it, because stigma can be a major barrier to people seeking help with their mental illness when they need it.
October 6, 8 p.m. Doc Severinsen and the San Miguel Five
The ever-vibrant Grammy-winning trumpeter extraordinaire, and former leader of The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson orchestra, Doc Severinsen is back on tour with the San Miguel Five.
October 6-7, Chumash Inter-Tribal Pow Wow
Enjoy the excitement and intensity of Native American dance and drum competitions between tribes from across the nation. Expect great food, arts and crafts, jewelry, pottery, baskets and more!
October 7, 2:30 p.m. An Instrument of Illusion
Watch Patrick Wells Lindley in this unique recital where he showcases the beautiful melodies of the harpischord. Soprano Rachel Atkins will also be joining him in the recital.
October 7, Wikenden Cup Final and Consolation Matches
The second to last match of the Polo season is sure to bring avid polo enthusiasts with the Wikenden Cup up for grabs. Final at 1:00 p.m. and consolation match at 3:00 p.m.
October 7, 3 p.m. An Afternoon with Rachel Maddow
Spend some time with Rachel Maddow, an Emmy-winning TV host of the Rachel Maddow Show, where she gives her takes on the issues of today.
October 7, 2:00 p.m. The Chinese in Ventura County Film Screening
Come to see a documentary that illustrates 19th century Chinese immigration to California and the evolution of their communities in Ventura and Oxnard. It highlights the contributions of Chinese agricultural workers and merchants, the Chinese fire company, and the history of William Soo Hoo, the first Chinese mayor elected in the state of California.
October 8, 6-8 p.m. How Should Artists File Taxes?
Join Howard Hudson for a financial workshop for artists by Art Without Limits.
October 8, 7:30 p.m. Kirk Douglas on Film Series: Detective Story
Douglas plays Detective James McLeoud, a hard-boiled, justice-obsessed New York City police detective who uncovers a secret that hits uncomfortably close to home. Part of the Kirk Douglas on Film Series at UCSB’s Pollock Theatre.
October 9, 6-8 p.m. epicure.sb As Seen on TV
Santa Barbara chefs that have been featured on the Food Network and on other TV outlets come together to discuss cooking on camera, and to serve up some of their delicacies.
October 9, 7 p.m. Peter Gabriel
From his beginnings as vocalist and flutist for Genesis to his successful experimentation with world music and different sounds, British musician and songwriter Peter Gabriel continues to delight audiences around the world.
October 9, 8 p.m. Rufus Wainwright
Affectionately called “the greatest songwriter on the planet” by Elton John and praised for his “genuine originality” (New York Times), Rufus Wainwright is one of the most talented vocalists and songwriters of his generation.
October 10, 8 p.m. First Person: Seeing America
A riveting theatrical presentation featuring actors Bill Pullman and Lily Knight, First Person: Seeing America captures the rich complexity and majesty of the American experience, combining iconic photographs from The Metropolitan Museum of Art with the words of our country’s greatest scribes and transcendent music from chamber group Ensemble Galilei.
October 10, 8 p.m. “It’s Time to Turn Republicans and Democrats into Americans”
This lecture by Mickey Edwards will discuss how the American political system is flawed because it rewards intransigence and incivility and punishes cooperation and compromise.
October 10-November 12, Scarecrows are Coming!
Walking around town in Solvang will mean seeing handcrafted scarecrows decorating the sidewalks and windows. Be sure to vote for your favorites! Maps and ballots are available at the Solvang Visitors Center.
October 11 David Byrne & St. Vincent
Best known as the fearlessly creative frontman of The Talking Heads, David Byrne has trailblazed post-punk musical and artistic paths for more than 40 years, reinventing himself in fascinating new iterations and inspiring the likes of Arcade Fire and Radiohead. In their first tour together, Byrne appears with edgy and beguiling songstress St. Vincent (aka Annie Clark), performing songs from their explosive hook-laden new album, Love This Giant.
October 11, 5:30 p.m. “Religion in the 2012 Election: What Difference Is It Making?”
Two Westmont professors, Jesse Covington and Telford Work, discuss how religious factors are influencing the upcoming presidential election. Free and open to the public.
October 11, 6–9 p.m. 70th Man & Woman of the Year Awards by Santa Barbara Foundation
This annual dinner and gala honors two of our community’s finest citizens—the man and woman of the year—who, through their exemplary volunteer efforts, involvement and contributions, have made a significant and positive impact on the Santa Barbara community.
October 11, 6 p.m. Curator’s Roundtable
In honor of Artist Professional Development month at CAF,smART Salons presents a panel discussion that addresses the role of curators today. Four Santa Barbara curators will share their insights about the roles they play in their respective institutions.
October 11, 8 p.m. Murray Perahia
Dubbed the “poet of the piano” by his legions of admirers, Murray Perahia is one of the most sought-after and cherished pianists of our time. For more than 35 years, he has appeared with every leading orchestra and toured the major international music centers to great critical acclaim. He performs works by Haydn, Schubert, Beethoven, Schumann and Chopin.
October 12, 8 p.m. An Evening with Fran Lebowitz
A true American original, purveyor of urban cool and witty chronicler of the “me decade,” cultural satirist Fran Lebowitz remains one of today’s foremost advocates of the extreme statement. In her first Santa Barbara appearance, Lebowitz offers insights on timely issues such as gender, race, gay rights and the media, as well as her own pet peeves.
October 12-November 3 On the Questions of Wonder
Patricia Houghton Clarke kicks off 2nd Friday at the Santa Barbara Tennis Club with her exhibit featuring whimsical photos of wondrous objects.
October 12-21, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown!
Spend a family night out seeing this fan-favorite show as performed by Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio (OYES). Show times vary.
October 12-October 27, 8 p.m. on Thurs.-Sat. ENDGAME
A show by Genesis West depicts a day in the life of a group of decaying survivors in hard times.
October 13, Solvang Faeriefest
Head to Solvang for an all-ages, fantasy-themed arts and music festival, where you’ll meander alongside enchanting fairies, trolls, warriors, time travelers and magical creatures.
October 13, 6-9 p.m. Santa Barbara Education Foundation HOPE Awards
Honoring champions of education is a longtime tradition for Santa Barbara Education Foundation, a nonprofit that promotes the private support of public education by investing resources in our schools to support the education of our community’s most valuable asset—our students. This year the festivities will include dinner and a silent auction. The event honors Santa Barbara School District Assistant Superintendent Emilio Handall and the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara for their contributions to local education.
October 13 Santa Barbara Harbor & Seafood Festival
Reel in the fresh-caught fun at the thriving Santa Barbara Harbor with delicious seafood specialties, cooking demonstrations, interactive maritime education, children’s activities, boat rides and more.
October 13, 1–4 p.m. Celebration of Harvest
Celebrate the harvest with wine tastings from 110+ wineries and delicious bites crafted with locally sourced ingredients by the area’s best restaurants.
October 13, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Artists’ Survival Strategies Seminar
A staple of CAF’s annual Artist Professional Development series, this informative seminar discusses strategies for promoting one’s career in today’s global art market. Bring a brown bag lunch and take advantage of the opportunity to network with colleagues in your field.
October 13, 6-9 p.m. HOPE Awards 2012
Join us to honor Assistant Superintendent Emilio Handall and the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara at the Greek Orthodox Church in Santa Barbara.
October 13, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; October 14, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. California Lemon Festival
Squeeze every last drop of fun from this family-friendly festival with kids’ rides and activities, the annual Goleta Fall Classic Car Show, a pie-eating contest, lemon-infused food tastings and more.
October 13, 2 p.m. Ulama: The Game of Life and Death
Film screening followed by Q&A with award-winning filmmaker Roberto Rochín of Mexico City. “Ulama: The Game of Life & Death” looks at the ancient ball game of ulama, one of the oldest Pre-Columbian recreational activities, still pursued today in the Mexican state of Sinaloa.
October 13, 12:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. Susan Brown Trunk Show
Susan Brown began her career by painting on old furniture and selling to home décor stores. She gradually transitioned into creating wall art . and she currently prints her art on fabric and fashions them into various items such as pillows, scarves and upholstered furniture.
October 14, 1:00 p.m. Last Chance Tournament Final
The Santa Barbara Polo season concludes with the Last Chance Tournament. Final at 1:00 p.m. and Consolation match at 3:00 p.m.
October 14, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Studio Sundays on the Front Steps
Explore a new artistic medium and participate in hands-on workshops, gaining inspiration from the Museum’s permanent collection or special exhibitions. Mediums could include clay, metal, ink, wood, photography and paper.
October 14, 3 p.m. San Jose Taiko
The powerful world rhythms of San Jose Taiko are sure to get youngsters tapping their toes, clapping their hands and thrilling to the beat. Inspired by traditional Japanese drumming, this exciting percussion ensemble—a sure-fire kid-pleaser—teaches kids about Japanese heritage and other world rhythms, such as African, Balinese, Brazilian, Latin and jazz percussion.
October 14, 3:30 p.m. Cornerstone Concert
Celebrate with music of the century, the centenary of the laying of the cornerstone of Trinity Church.
October 14, AHA! Fundraiser
Fundraiser with AHA! Santa Barbara, featuring a live performance by Blue Sky Riders, the newest band from Kenny Loggins.
October 14, 7 p.m. Vertical Road, Akram Khan Company
Choreographer for the 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony in London, Akram Khan is one of Britain’s most innovative and influential choreographers. Drawing inspiration from Sufi tradition and Persian poet-philosopher Rumi, Vertical Road is a riveting meditation on humanity’s journey between the earthly and the spiritual.
October 14, 2:30 p.m. Doug Busch: Artist Lecture
Doug Busch and theorist Colin Gardner discuss Busch’s work, the power of photography, and the oddity of using a 450 pound, 30″-by-50” camera to make street photographs.
October 14, 2 p.m. An Afternoon with Gustavo Arellano, Author of TACO USA
Arellano combines history, cultural criticism, personal anecdotes and ‘Jesus on a tortilla’ to explore America’s century-long love affair with Mexican food.
October 14, 4 p.m. Mangia del Arte
Share a social dining experience that includes movement, feats of balance and strength, unique music and sound, brilliant colors and shapes and gastronomic delight.
October 14, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Old Time Fiddlers’ Convention & Festival
An annual tradition for the past 40 years, the 41st Old Time Fiddlers’ Convention and Festival presents the finest in acoustic music from a variety of traditions and instruments. This Rotary Club-sponsored event, which is open to all ages and skill levels, hosts one of the most highly regarded contests in old-time American music on the west coast.
October 15, 7:30 p.m. Kirk Douglas on Film Series: The Bad and the Beautiful
Winner of five Oscars, a behind-the-scenes look at the tawdry side of Hollywood with Douglas as back-stabbing film producer Jonathan Shields. Part of the Kirk Douglas on Film Series at UCSB’s Pollock Theatre.
October 15, 5:30-8 p.m Season Finale of “Wine on the Perch”
Local vintners flock to Coast at the Canary Hotel for the season finale of the well-loved “Wine on the Perch” summer tasting series. Enjoy local vintages and seasonal hors d’oeuvres and specialty pizzas.
October 15, 8 p.m. Spirituals to Funk, Dr. John and the Blind Boys of Alabama
Under Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dr. John’s musical direction, the world premiere of Spirituals to Funk represents the first-ever touring partnership between two icons of American music. Based on the legendary Carnegie Hall “From Spirituals to Swing” concerts, Spirituals to Funk features an integrated show that explores the connections between jazz, blues and gospel.
October 16, 8 p.m. Whose Live Anyway?
Ready for a night of non-stop laughter and fast-paced hilarity? The cast of the smash-hit ABC TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway? is back by popular demand with its ridiculously clever comedy and songs improvised entirely from audience feedback.
October 17, Fall Frolic Solvang Third Wednesday
Over 60 stores, restaurants, wine tasting rooms and professional offices offer special discounts and sales all day, as well as pumpkin carving and decorating, a contest, live music and free snacks!
October 17, Michael On Fire
Tales from the Tavern wraps up its 10th anniversary seasons with Michael On Fire, accompanied by Bill Flores on accordian, mandolin, pedal steel and dobro; Tyson Leonard on violin; Tompeet Fredriksen on drums and Bear Erickson on guitar.
October 17, 5:30-5:30 p.m. Gallery Talk with the Artists and Architects of the Funk Zone Charrette Project
The artists involved in this month’s Funk Zone Charrette Project and exhibit discuss the concepts behind their designs.
October 17–November 3, August: Osage County
Winner of the 2008 Pulitzer Prize and the Tony Award for Best Play about a vanished father, a pill-popping mother and three sisters harboring shady little secrets, August: Osage County comes to Santa Barbara City College Garvin Theatre.
October 18-November 17, Museum Features Diverse Works of Alumni
Westmont Musum hosts “Journeys: Westmont Alumni Artists’ Invitational” in the Westmont Ridley-Tree Museum of Art, where talented Westmont alumni will present their unique and diverse art collections!
October 18-28, The Tempest
Put on by Lit Moon Theatre Company, this incredible production of one of Shakespeare’s best plays is revived, revitalized, reinvigorated and revved up!
October 18, 12-4 p.m. Fifth Annual Harvest Festival at Growing Grounds Farm
Join local artisans and musicians for an afternoon in celebration of mental health, good work, great food and the remains of summer.
October 18, 5 p.m. Art Fairs with Michelle Pobar
“Art Fairs” is the latest in an ongoing series of intimate, “living room” conversations specially formatted for creative thinkers, artists, and interested thinkers in our community. These talks are designed to facilitate in-depth inquiry into the cultural, political, and social topics affecting artists and the art world in general.
October 18, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Antique Show Special Preview
CALM Auxiliary hosts a cocktail party and preview shopping night to honor April Thede for her 20 years of dedication.
October 18, 8 p.m. Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears
“Lovelorn blues-rock with a blazing horn section that’s as much James Brown as it is New York Dolls” (NPR), the Santa Barbara Debut of Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears delivers an electrifying evening of “garage soul”—their own amalgam of primal blues, soul, R&B and funk—with hip-shaking, soul-quaking hits.
October 19, 8 p.m. Dianne Reeves
Recognized as one of the world’s pre-eminent jazz vocalists, Dianne Reeves belongs to the pantheon of great jazz singers such as Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan. She engages audiences with her strong multi-octave voice, rhythmic virtuosity and powerful storytelling style, combining all her influences to create a jazz-world-pop-bop synthesis that Boston Globe calls “breathtaking.”
October 19–20, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; October 21, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. 20th Anniversary CALM Antique and Vintage Decorative Arts Show
Proceeds benefit Child Abuse Listening and Mediation (CALM) a nonprofit that focuses on the prevention and treatment of child abuse.
October 19 & 21, 8 p.m. & 3 p.m. Westmont Orchestra Performs Diemer World Premiere
Opening its seventh season, the Westmont Orchestra returns from China to perform works by Dvorak, Erich Korngold, Sir Charles Hubert Parry and Emma Lou Diemer.
October 20, 27 and 31, 8:30 p.m. Sang
A noirish gothic horrow play that reinvents classical figures and gives them a new voice. Each performance includes a masquerade ball, pyrotechnics, original costumes, live DJs and music, and service bar.
October 20–Dec. 23 Call For Entries 2012, Bloom Projects
Join Contemporary Arts Forum for the opening of Call For Entries 2012: Alexander Bogdanov, Samantha Fretwell, Jae Hee Lee, Illia Ovechkin and Rimas Simaitis, as well as Bloom Projects: Ethan Turpin, Video Feedback: Pixel Behaviors.
October 20, 7:30 p.m. Affinity III-Nectar Benefit Performance
Abundle of artists perform to benefit NECTAR, including Dance Entropy, Trina Mannino, BodySensate/Matt Nelson, Perceptions West, Rubans Rouge Dance Company, Hart Pulse Dance Company, Movement Theatre CoLAB, Arpana Dance Co., Robin Bisio/Ted Mills/Ghost Tiger/Nik Blaskovitch, NECTAR/Cybil Gilberson, ArtBark International/Melissa Block and Valarie Mulberry. The morning of, meet and greet participating artists in Nancy and Tony Wall’s home in Montecito.
October 20, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. DramaDogs does CLASS
Learn how to best use your body on stage with Body-Centered Acting classes taught by the acting aficionados at Drama Dogs. This workshop is great for actors, dancers and curious theater enthusiasts.
October 20, 8 p.m.; October 21, 3 p.m. André Watts with Santa Barbara Symphony
Santa Barbara Symphony’s 60th-year celebration opens with a festive tribute to Santa Barbara by local American composer Emma Lou Diemer, former composer-in-residence of Santa Barbara Symphony. André Watts, recently honored with the National Medal of Arts, kicks off the season with Rachmaninoff’s romantic Second Piano Concerto.
October 20–Jan. 20 In Pursuit of Reclusion: 17th-Century Chinese Painting
This exhibition showcases nearly 60 paintings from an era of unrivaled historical drama and artistic achievement in China that spans from the late Ming and the early Qing dynasties. By adopting a novel thematic approach centered on the concept of yin, or reclusion, this presentation brings the viewer deeply into the world of the literati—the educated elite who were at the forefront of historical change and voiced their thoughts and ideals through art.
October 20, 2 p.m. 2nd Annual Seafood Feast
Load up on fresh seafood with our local fishermen and women at this celebration of local seafood. A cooking demonstration followed by dinner will be supplemented with the stories of life as a fisher.
October 20, 6-10 p.m. 21st Annual “Real Men Cook”
“Real Men Cook” is a fundraiser for the Santa Ynez Valley nonprofit arts organization, Arts Outreach, that is dedicated to “bringing art to life and life to art.”
October 20-21, A Naked Shakes Production of The Merchant of Venice
See one of Shakespeare’s most interesting comedies as performed by UCSB DEpartment of Theater and Dance’s Naked Shakes.
October 20, 8 p.m. Nellie McKay
A fun-filled, toe-tapping night of music as only Sings Like Hell could provide.
October 20, 7 p.m. and October 21, 3 p.m. USSB Theatre Group: A Dark and Stormy Night
In the spirit of Halloween, get spooked by USSB Theatre Group’s live radio plays The Hitchhiker and Canterville Ghost in the Sanctuary at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara at 1535 Santa Barbara Street. Tickets are available at the office during business hours or at the door the day of the event. Children under five are admitted free.
October 21, 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. Houdini’s Halloween Haunting
Experience Houdini’s magic like never before in this free show featuring trick and escapes from the famous magician with Master Magician Douglas Ker.
October 21, Visions of a 21st Century Food System
Join Seattle Councilmember Richard Conlin as he shares the strategies of Seattle’s Local Food Action Initiative passed in 2008 that envisions an exciting new urban agriculture model that is good for the economy, the environment and our health.
October 21, 2:30 p.m. Painting Hills and Hermits: The Art of Reclusion in 17th-Century China
Lecture by Peter Sturman, Professor of History of Art and Architecture at UCSB and co-curator of The ArtfulRecluseexhibition, introducing the important historical and philosophical theme of reclusion and demonstrating how notions of withdrawal and disengagement permeate the paintings and writings of the period.
October 21, 3 p.m. Sanjay Gupta, M.D., Medicine and Media
As part of the lecture series Speaking of Health, CNN’s Emmy-winning chief medical correspondent Sanjay Gupta will be discussing the media’s role in reporting often nerve-wrecking medical headlines to the public.
October 21, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Ensemble Basiani of Georgia
Listen to ancient Georgian choral music live is a rare and thrilling experience. Restless polyphonic harmonies combine with shifts in mood to create a distinctive language. The acclaimed all-male members of Ensemble Basiani of Georgia are the inheritors of an incomparable artistic legacy and part of the Holy Trinity Cathedral choir in Tbilisi.
October 21, 6:30 p.m. Jane’s Addiction
“Alternative Nation” iconic band Jane’s Addiction comes to the Santa Barbara Bowl with its Theatre of the Escapists Tour, headlined by Perry Farrell and former Red Hot Chili Pepper Dave Navarro.
October 22, 10 a.m. Annual Santa Barbara Golf Invitational by Music Academy of the West
Join this special fundraising event with 18 holes of golf, cocktails by the green, a gala dinner and a wonderful musical performance to support Music Academy of the West.
October 22, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. State of Our Schools
Superintendent Cash will provide the most recent information on initiatives and challenges facing our students, parents, educators and our community. Includes presentation, Q&A and lunch.
October 22, 7:30 p.m. Kirk Douglas on Film Series: Lust for Life
The tormented genius-painter Vincent van Gogh (Douglas) pursues an impossible quest for artistic perfection. Part of the Kirk Douglas on Film Series at UCSB’s Pollock Theatre.
October 23, 8 p.m. Laurie Anderson, Dirtday!
One of the seminal artists of our time, Laurie Anderson creates sophisticated genre-crossing work that encompasses performance, film, music, installation, writing, photography and sculpture. In the Southern California premiere of Dirtday!, she looks at politics, theories of evolution, families, history and animals in a riotous and soulful assemblage of songs and stories.
October 23, 5:30 p.m. Riedel Wine Glass Seminar & Tasting
A fun, educational presentation and wine tasting conducted by an expert from the world famous Riedel Glassware Company.
October 23, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Rob Schneider
The Emmy-nominated comedian and actor will perform two shows sure to bring home lots of laughs.
October 24, 4 p.m. Ghassan Zaqtan Poetry Reading
Critically acclaimed Palestinian poet Ghassan Zaqtan and translator Fady Joudah read selections from their latest work, “Like a Straw Bird It Follows Me: And Other Poems”.
October 24, 5:30 p.m. Westmont College 75th Anniversary Lecture & Reception
Celebrate a tradition of 75 years of excellence in our community with a presentation by Dr. John W. Sider, who will share the benefits of a small yet diverse college faculty.
October 24, 8 p.m. Manuel Barrueco
Join Barrueco for a solo guitar recital. Los Angeles Times calls Barrueco “a major artist with remarkable musicianship and a world of technique… simply and consistently awesome.”
October 25, 6:15 p.m. GREASE Sing-along
Sing along to your favorite Grease songs, dance and Sock Hop your way through your favorite scenes of this musical classic.
October 25, 7:30 p.m. Tina Kelley at the Book Den
Author Tina Kelley, whose most recent book Almost Home: Helping Kids Move from Homelessness to Hope tells the stories of six young people who confront life alone on the streets, speaks and answers questions at the Book Den.
October 25, 7:30 p.m. The Last of the Haussmans Live from the National Theatre in London
See the best of British Theatre on the big screen with this new play by Stephen Beresford, that offers a sometimes savage portrait of a family losing its grip. The viewing is a recorded performance of the live play as performed in London’s National Theatre.
October 26, 4 p.m. Run for the Planet
Join together at La Cumbre Plaza for the chance to break two Guinness World Records in one day, including the most people completing 100 meters in 24 hours and the largest collection of athletic shoes.
October 26, 8 p.m. Gilberto Gil
Over his incredible four-decade career in music, international superstar Gilberto Gil has recorded more than 30 albums, winning multiple Grammy Awards and selling five million records along the way. Gil has modernized Brazilian popular music and tirelessly championed its rich multi-faceted culture throughout the world.
October 26, 3:45 p.m. & 6 p.m. Westmont Fall Choral Festival
Close to 300 high school singers join forces with the Westmont College Choir to bring us the eighth annual Westmont Fall Choral Festival.
October 26–28 Santa Ynez Valley Artists’ Studio Tour
In the heart of the Santa Barbara wine country, tour the unique and private studios of area artists. A portion of the proceeds goes to support Wildling Art Museum. Kick-off reception, Oct. 26, 5–7 p.m. at Wildling Art Museum, 2928 San Marcos Ave., Los Olivos.
October 26–28 Boo at the Zoo
For a safe traffic-free night of trick –or treating, look no further than the zoo. Filled with events such as Trick & Treat Trail, the Boo-Choo-Choo train, Spooky Storytelling, Costume Parades and more, it’s sure to be a fun spook-tacular event.
October 26-28 Lunacy Music and Arts Festival
A three-day full moon celebration and transformational festival of music and the arts, the Lunacy Music and Arts Festival will feature electronic and live music with workshops and demonstrations by artists and guest speakers. The event is at Live Oak Camp, 4650 Highway 154, Santa Ynez.
October 27 Afghan Trunk Show
Santa Barbara Museum of Art Store is holding an Afghan Trunk Show featuring products by Hassina Sherjan. In 2003, Hassina Sherjan founded AidAfghanistan for Education, a successful NGO that has helped provide education to over 3,000 women. Then in 2005 she launched Boumi, a social enterprise that creates learning and employment opportunities for men, women, refugees, and widows. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to check out this amazing women’s truck show!
October 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. World Dance Hosts: Thriller
Join the international sensation by performing Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” at the same time as thousands of people around the world.
October 27, 1:00 p.m. Hidden Lives Book Talk with William Gow
William Gow discusses the role of Chinese immigrants in the evolution of Ventura County in his bookHidden Lives, with emphasis on the history of Oxnard’s Chinese community. Stay after the event for Q & A and a book signing.
October 27, 7:30 p.m. and October 28, 2:00 p.m. An American Tango
State Street Ballet perform an original full-length ballet based on a true story of the greatest ballroom couple who ever lived. Written and conceived by Michael Roush and Guy Veloz, choreographed by William Soleau.
October 28, 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. Dìa de los Muertos: Free Family Day
Honor the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead with a variety of family festivities in the SBMA galleries and back plaza including music and dance performances, art-making activities, bilingual storytelling, a special display of altars created by school and community groups, and traditional refreshments.
October 28, noon- 4 p.m. 3rd Annual Santa Barbara Chowder Fest
Enjoy a local chef chowder charity cook-off while also sampling local beers and wines, listening to live music and bidding at the silent auction.
October 28, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Arch Rock Fish Costume and Pumpkin Carving Contest
This all-ages event invites the whole family to get into the Halloween spirit with pumpkin carving contests (pumpkins provided), costume contests, spooky film screenings and happy hour specials for the adults.
October 28, 8 p.m. The Opera of the Elements
Opera Scenes will premiere an opera written and composed by Westmont junior Ben Offringa and sophomore Jake Elliott. This one-act musical evolved from an operetta into a piece flowing with song, narration and dialogue.
October 28-January 20, 2013 View from a Thatched Hut: Reading Chinese Paintings
The Family Resource Center is transformed into the world of 17th-century Chinese poets and painters as illustrated in The Artful Recluse exhibition. Sit at the Chinese scholar’s desk and practice making the simple brushstrokes that translate into trees, rocks, and flowers, compose poems and assemble images on magnetic hanging scrolls, or hide away and read or draw in the thatched hermit hut.
October 29, 7:30 p.m. Kirk Douglas on Film Series: Paths of Glory
Douglas plays Colonel Dax, a French commanding officer who takes on the army’s mercenary top brass when his men are court-martialed and accused of cowardice after they’re sent on a suicide mission in World War I. Part of the Kirk Douglas on Film Series at UCSB’s Pollock Theatre.
October 30, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Reliable Fundraising in Unreliable Times: How to Survive and Thrive in the “New Normal”
Kim Klein speaks at a workshop based on her new book, helping attendees explore what a successful fundraising program can do for their organizations.
October 30, 8 p.m. Black Cat Ball
Head to SOhO for a night full of food, live entertainment, costumes, cash prizes and fun!
October 31, 4-8 p.m. Trick or Treat on the Plaza
Bring the kids to La Cumbre Plaza for some Trick or Treat fun!
October 31, 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. Being the Best Board Member You Can Be
Kim Klein lectures on how to make the most of your board membership and what works for distinguished board members in different organizations. Dinner included.
