Globe North listings
Comprehensive listings for galleries, plays, music, and other happenings in the area.
Items may be sent to carson@globe.com or mailed to Sharon Carson, Boston Globe North, 1 Corporate Place, Suite 200, 55 Ferncroft Road, Danvers 01923. Faxes may be sent to 978-646-3940. Listings are not accepted over the telephone.
ARTS
Beverly: An exhibition of paintings by Jim Falck, a 1989 graduate of Montserrat College of Art, will be displayed May 31-June 25 in Schlosberg Alumni Gallery, 23 Essex St. Reception, June 8, 6-8 p.m. Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Saturday, noon-5 p.m. montserrat.edu/galleries/scholsberg. The exhibition is held in conjunction with ArtsFest Beverly on June 1 and 2.
Beverly: Arts Fest Beverly 2007, a downtown celebration of the arts, begins June 1, 6-8 p.m., with the Kick-Off Reception at Redbrick Art Center, 95 Rantoul St., and open studios. On June 2, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., nearly 100 artists will be exhibiting and selling their work. Also, live music, dancing, and children's activities. Cabot Street will be closed to vehicles from Ellis Square to West Dane St., 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Events will be held at Beverly High School in case of rain on June 2. Film North, a Beverly-based organization devoted to media production and exhibition in the area north of Boston, presents its second Film Feast, a festival of short films, June 2, 1:30-3:30 p.m., in Room 201 at Montserrat College of Art, 32 Essex St. Prizes will be awarded for a film chosen by a jury as well as a film chosen as an audience favorite. (filmnorth.org). All events are free. 978-922-8558, beverlymainstreets.org.
Beverly: Photography by Lauren and Joe Kennaley is displayed in the Conrad Lecture Hall at Beverly Farms Library, 24 Vine St., through May. 978-921-6066, beverlyfarms_library@noble net.org.
Chelsea: The Gallery at Spencer Lofts presents watercolor paintings by Paul McMahan through May 30. Viewing hours Thursdays, 6-8 p.m., and by appointment. Gallery at Spencer Lofts is located between Spencer and Dudley streets, off Webster Avenue. Free. 617-889-0448, galleryspencerlofts@yahoo.com.
Danvers: Pauline Dee of Peabody and Pamela Giarratana of Georgetown are showing their paintings at Northshore Unitarian Universalist Church, 323 Locust St., through June 30. Open Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Sunday during the service, 10 a.m.-noon; and by appointment. 978-774-7582.
Gloucester: The North Shore Arts Association, 11 Pirates Lane, is showing works by artist members and the Traveling Show of the American Watercolor Society through June 21. The Traveling Show of the American Watercolor Society consists of 40 paintings chosen from the current year's exhibition. Free admission. 978-283-1857, arts@nortshoreartsassoc.org, northshoreartsassoc.org. Open Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.
Gloucester: Paintings by Gloucester artist Yhanna Coffin are displayed at Gloucester House Restaurant, Seven Seas Wharf, through May. Presented by seARTS Arts-Biz Program. se arts.org .
Hamilton: Oil paintings and pen drawings by William Collins are displayed through June 30 at Hamilton-Wenham Library, 14 Union St., South Hamilton.
Ipswich: An exhibition by The Confetti Girls, eight artsy ladies from Beverly, Essex, Hamilton, Ipswich, and Salem, continues through May 26, noon-5 p.m., at Hall Haskell House, South Main Street. Their artistry includes paint, print, mixed media, beading, sculpture, bookmaking, and mosaics. Art demonstrations held during the show. Reception, May 25, 6-8 p.m.
Lynn: The Lynn Public Schools Art Show showcases the work of students throughout the Lynn public school system, through June 8, at LynnArts, 25 Exchange St. 781-598-5244.
Malden: The exhibition, "storyLINES," features three visual artists and two storytellers from Malden through June 9 at artSPACE@16, 16 Princeton Road. Meet-the-Artists, May 24, 5-9 p.m., with a gallery talk by three participating artists, 6-7 p.m., followed by storytellers Laura Packer and Kevin Brooks, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Open June 2 and 9, noon-5 p.m., and by appointment. Free. art SPACEat16.com.
Manchester: "We Live by the Sea," an exhibit of oil paintings by Heather Johnson Reid, continues through June 5 at Sovereign Bank, 17 Union St. 978-526-9096.
Marblehead: Paintings by Robert Striffolino and abstract glass designs by Thomas Meyer are featured through May at Erlich Gallery, 96 Washington St. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 781-631-1202, erlichgallery.com .
Marblehead: "Mother & Daughter -- A Painting Perspective," featuring paintings by Ruth Rooks and her 98-year-old mother, Anne Kemelman, continues through May 31 in Virginia Carten Gallery at Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant St. 781-631-1481, abbotlibrary.org .
Marblehead: Marblehead Arts Association, at King Hooper Mansion, 8 Hooper St., presents the annual juried New England Regional show through May 27. Free. 781-631-2608, marbleheadarts .org.
Marblehead: Cloister Gallery at the Episcopal Church of St. Andrew at 135 Lafayette St, Route 114, is showing "Technicolor Zen," an exhibit of the work of New Hampshire artist John Farrar, through June 20.
Newburyport: Ferry Wharf Gallery, 1R Water St., is featuring marine artist John Richard Perry's oil painting, "Newburyport 1899." Reception, May 26, 4-7 p.m. 978-462-2740, ferrywharf.com.
Newburyport: Fran Butsavich, pastel and watercolor painter from Plum Island, is the featured artist during May at Bridge Gallery, 113 Merrimac St. Open house and reception, May 26, 6-8 p.m. 978-683-3793.
Newburyport: Newburyport Art Association, 65 Water St., presents the 10th annual Regional Juried Art Show, May 25-June 17, with painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, printmaking, fine crafts, water-based media, and mixed media. Reception and awards presentation, May 26, 7-9 p.m. The fine art auction, "An Artful Feast," will be held June 23 with silent auction 6-7 p.m., live auction at 7:30 p.m. $20. Auction preview, June 22 and 23, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Open Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 978-465-8769, newburyport art.org.
Newburyport: Silkscreen prints by Anne Silber are displayed through June 4 in the gallery at Firehouse Center for the Arts, 1 Market Square. 978-462-7336, firehouse.org.
Newburyport: "Seasons of the Great Marsh," an exhibit of pastel paintings by Ipswich artist Katherine O'Brien, through May 29, in the Juliet Kellogg French Room at Massachusetts Audubon Society's Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike. 978-462-9998, massaudubon.org.
Rockport: Rockport Art Association, 12 Main St., presents the lecture, "Edward Hopper and the Ash Can School," May 31, 7:30 p.m. Salem historian Jim McAllister will talk about the Ash Can school of art that developed in New York City in the first quarter of the 20th century, taking a look at artists including John Sloan, William Glackens, Leon
Salem: "Color Wave," paintings by Carolyn Parello, through June 14, at New Civilitea, 318 Derby St. newcivilitea.com .
Salem: Works by painter Irene Hettinger and photographer Peggy Farrell are featured in the exhibit, "Two Points of View: Camera and Canvas," through May 29 at Grosvenor Park Gallery at Grosvenor Park Nursing Center, off Vinnin Square, 7 Loring Hills Ave. Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. 978-741-5700.
CHORAL MUSIC
Peabody: "A Night at the Opera with the Paul Madore Chorale," a concert of favorite opera choruses, arias, duets, and ensembles, June 2, 8 p.m., at Wiggin Auditorium, Peabody City Hall, 24 Lowell St. $20, seniors (60 and older) and students (18 and younger), $15. Advance tickets at paulmadore chorale.org or Ted Cole's Music Shop, 30 Church St., Salem; Sophia's, 105 Essex St., Salem; Arnould Gallery and Framery, 111 Washington St., Marblehead. 978-774-7981 or 781-592-7284. paulmadorechorale.org.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Hamilton: Raymond H. Ocock, organist, and Brian W. Ocock, baritone vocalist, perform music of Bach, Handel, Mendelssohn, Gabriel Pierne, Percy Whitlock, and others in a free concert, May 25, 7:30 p.m., at Christ Church, 149 Asbury St. A reception follows the concert.
COMEDY
Peabody: Comedy Night at Jade's, June 2, 9 p.m., at Jade's Restaurant, 4 Bourbon St. Featuring Bob Seibel, Dave Rattigan, Amy Tee, Joe Espinola, and Phil Yebba. $15. 978-535-3000, scampscomedy.com.
FESTIVALS
Gloucester: The Memorial Day weekend festival, "Celebrate Gloucester," marks the grand opening of the new Cruise Ship Terminal and benefits The Society for the Encouragement of the Arts, or seARTS, and Schooner Adventure. Held May 25-27 at Cruiseport Gloucester located at Gloucester Marine Terminal, 6 Rowe Square, the festival offers live entertainment on two stages, arts demonstrations, international food, wine tasting, films, children's activities, tours of Schooner Adventure, and activities celebrating Gloucester's maritime heritage. Saturday, May 26, 8 p.m., Celebrate Gloucester Concert with the original Pousette-Dart Band and special guests, John Troy, Dave Mattacks & David Brown, featuring Fly Amero, Allen Estes, Ned Nugent, and other musicians from the CD, "After the Storm," and Cape Ann Musicians for Katrina Relief, and a special appearance by J.B. Amero. Concert tickets $25. The seARTS Art Exhibition, juried by Mary Beth Bainbridge, assistant to the chief curator at Peabody Essex Museum, will be displayed in the new restaurant and function room overlooking Gloucester Harbor. seARTS Art Auction, Sunday, May 27, 3 p.m. Festival day pass $10, children 12 and younger are free. Hours: Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. celebrategloucester.com, 978-282-9700.
Swampscott: Enjoy art and fun outdoors at the seventh annual Hadley Spring Arts Festival, June 1 and 2, on the oceanfront grounds of Hadley School, 43 Redington St., and Linscott Park. From 11 a.m.-3 p.m., hands-on art activity stations, face painting, art playground, Artisans Corner, live performances of dance and music, and special demonstrations will entertain all ages. Tickets $1 each, with most activities costing one or two tickets. Family $25, includes all activities. Performances and demonstrations are free and open to the public. All proceeds support enrichment programming at Hadley School. Sponsored by the Hadley PTA.
FUND-RAISERS
Newburyport: The Newburyport-Bura Alliance presents an evening of African Dance, Music and Food, June 2, 6:30-11 p.m., at Unitarian Universalist Church Parish Hall, 18 Pleasant St. African music for dancing. Sample a variety of East African foods. Crafts and textiles for sale. The Newburyport-Bura Alliance is a Sister City International organization that has fostered friendship, cultural understanding and mutual respect between the people of Newburyport and Bura, Kenya, since 1992. The group has supplied dispensaries with medical equipment and sent more than 20,000 books to schools. A raffle will benefit the group's efforts. See a slideshow about the village of Bura. $15; children younger than 10, $8. 978-388-3230, masskenya.org.
Peabody: Essex National Heritage Commission presents Essentially Essex County Farm Fresh, an evening highlighting the agricultural heritage of Essex County, June 7, at Smith Barn, Felton-Smith Historic Site. A barbecue featuring locally grown food begins at 6 p.m. Christine Rasmussen of the Essex County Buy Fresh-Buy Local program, and Glenn Cook, president of Essex County Farm Bureau and Essex County Fruit Growers Association, and co-owner of Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury, will speak about the connection between the local farm and food choices made by consumers. Local agricultural organizations will have information available. $50. Tickets at essexheritage.org or 978-740-0444. Proceeds benefit ENHC initiatives and the Essex County Buy Fresh-Buy Local Program.
HOUSE & GARDEN TOURS
Gloucester: Visit gardens in Gloucester and Rockport during Sargent House Museum's annual Cape Ann Garden Tour, held rain or shine, June 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $25 in advance; $30 on day of tour. Tickets at Sargent House, 49 Middle St.; The Weathervane Gift Shop, 153 Main St.; and online at sargenthouse.org. Proceeds benefit restoration of the museum's grounds and gardens. 978-281-2432.
Marblehead: Jewish Community Center of the North Shore presents its Designer Showhouse, Beachhurst, a summer cottage by the sea, through June 3. Open Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Saturdays 6:30-9 p.m.; and Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed May 24. Tickets to tour Beachhurst are available at JCCNS, 4 Community Road, on the day of tour or in advance at jccns.org. $30, seniors $25, students $20. All tours originate at JCCNS where boutiques and a cafe are open before and after the tour. Monday-Friday, parking with shuttle service is located at Temple Emanu-El, 393 Atlantic Ave.; Thursday and Saturday evenings and Sundays park at JCCNS. Due to the age of the house, it is not accessible to the handicapped. 781-631-8330.
Newburyport: The Historical Society of Old Newbury's annual Garden Tour and Plant Sale to benefit the Cushing House Museum and Gardens will be held June 9 and 10, 10 a.m-4 p.m., rain or shine. Garden cafe at the Cushing House, with classical harp music and plant sale. Special features in gardens include a Native American labyrinth, wildflower meadows, and active beehives, with a display and information about beekeeping. $15 before June 2; $20 thereafter. Tickets, 978-462-2681, newburyhist.com; by mail from the Cushing House Museum, 98 High Street, Newburyport 01950; or at the Newburyport Chamber of Commerce.
LECTURES/FORUMS
Beverly: Charles Kenney, author of "Rescue Men," will talk about what it's like to be part of a family of firefighters, May 24, 7 p.m., at Beverly Public Library, 32 Essex St. For three generations, the men in Charles Kenney's family have been drawn to firefighting. Free. Registration not required. 978-921-6062.
Salem: Free lectures at The House of the Seven Gables, 115 Derby St. Sandra Harbert Petrulionis will discuss and sign her book "To Set This World Right: The Antislavery Movement in Thoreau's Concord," June 6, 7 p.m. Christine Thomson, a conservator of furniture, objects, and decorative finishes, provides insight into the process of restoring a 17th-century looking glass, June 13, 7 p.m. Learn about the history of japanning and lacquering, and the practical and ethical considerations of determining an appropriate treatment. Both lectures held in the Visitor Center. Advance registration appreciated, not required. To register, 978-744-0991, ext. 126, or e-mail awaywell@7gables.org.
LITERARY EVENTS
Beverly: Dorothy Stephens will read from and discuss her book, "Kwa Heri Means Goodbye: Memories of Kenya 1957-1959," May 29, 7 p.m., at Beverly Public Library, 32 Essex St. See Kenya through her eyes in its last tumultuous days as a British colony, and hear about her experiences with people and places that transformed her life. Free. 978-921-6062.
Rockport: Cammie McGovern will read from her thriller, "Eye Contact," May 30, 7 p.m., at Toad Hall Bookstore, 47 Main St. Free. 978-547-7323.
Rockport: Serendipity Traveler, offering inspired travel for women, hosts a selection of readings from the book, "The Best of Women's Travel Writing 2007, Tales From Around the World," June 2, 7-9 p.m., at The Old Firehouse Trust, Mount Pleasant Street. Readings by Lucy McCauley, editor of the collection, and Tehila Lieberman and Laurie Covens, whose works are included in the collection. Free. 978-879-7464, 1-800-975-2357. serendipitytraveler.com.
MUSEUMS & HISTORY
Beverly: The Beverly Historical Society & Museum, located in the 1781 John Cabot House at 117 Cabot St., presents "Wrought by Her Hand -- New England Samplers 1749-1884," an exhibition of antique samplers and needlepoint examples from its textile collection, through Aug. 11. Open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Wednesday, 1-9 p.m. $5, seniors and students $4, children younger than 6 free. 978-922-1186, beverlyhistory.org.
Danvers: The Rebecca Nurse Homestead, 149 Pine St., kicks off the Essex National Heritage Area's "17th Century Saturdays" series June 2, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., with a Colonial militia encampment and drill, hearth cooking, living history, and a 1 p.m. concert with the Nurse Homestead Singers. Free. The site was home to Rebecca Nurse, who was falsely accused and hanged as a witch during the Salem Witchcraft Hysteria of 1692. rebeccanurse.org.
Essex: Waterline Education Center at Essex Shipbuilding Museum, rear 66 Main St., hosts Breakfast in the Boatyard, Sundays in May, 8-11 a.m. Enjoy breakfast in the museum's riverside boatshop. $10 (all you can eat), includes an optional tour of the museum. Proceeds benefit the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum. 978-768-7541, essexshipbuildingmuseum.org.
Haverhill: Buttonwoods Museum, 240 Water St., participates in Essex National Heritage Area's "17th Century Saturdays" with a free "Hearth Cooking Program," June 2, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Built about 1710, the John Ward House kitchen will host visitors who'd like to try their hands at cooking a snack over the fire in the hearth. Games, activities, and food will help visitors envision life in the past. haverhillhistory.org, 978-374-4626.
Ipswich: "Ipswich Charter Hangings," an exhibit of embroidered textile panels depicting eight centuries of Ipswich, England, history before Puritans left England for the Massachusetts Bay Colony to settle places like Ipswich, Massachusetts, is displayed at Ipswich Public Library, 25 North Main St., through June 2; Ipswich Visitor Center (Hall-Haskell House), 36 South Main St., Route 1A, June 12-24; First Church in Ipswich, chapel, Meetinghouse Green, June 26-July 21; and Ipswich Historical Society, Heard House Museum, 54 South Main St., Route 1A, July 27-Aug. 1. ipswichtoipswich.com.
Marblehead: Experience the authentic ambience of the Jeremiah Lee Mansion, as Marblehead Museum and Historical Society hosts a candlelight reception, May 31, 6-8 p.m. View the Mansion's first-floor treasures illuminated by candlelight, and get a taste of Marblehead's Colonial past. Wine and light hors d'ouvres will be served. Free admission. Lee Mansion is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., June 1-Oct. 15. Museum admission $5. marbleheadmuseum.org, 781-631-1768.
MUSIC
Amesbury: Amesbury Sports Park and Alliance for Amesbury will host the Amesbury Music Festival, a fund-raiser for Amesbury Days fireworks celebration, May 26, noon-7 p.m., at Amesbury Sports Park, 12 South Hunt Road. Music by EJ Ouellette & Crazy Maggy, Sunchunk, and Odyssey. Also, games and activities for children, including a magician and face painting. Food vendors and merchants from local businesses showcase their merchandise. $5. Tickets at Alliance for Amesbury, 5 Market Square; Amesbury Sports Park, 12 South Hunt Road; Flatbread Co., 5 Market Square; and Stone Ridge Properties, 77 Main St. Tickets also at the door. 978-388-5788.
Amesbury: Imagine Studios holds an Open Mike on the last Sunday of the month, 6-10 p.m., at J Bucks espressoand wine bar ( jbucksbar.com), Water Street. Free; donations encouraged. 978-834-0367.
Newburyport: Firehouse Center for the Arts, 1 Market Square, presents the Jon Pousette-Dart Band, featuring the original members of the group, May 27, 7:30 p.m. $25. Singer and songwriter Maia Sharp performs June 3, 7 p.m. Opening act is performer Bill Deasy. $20. 978-462-7336, firehouse.org.
Wakefield: Dave Rowe Trio and Scott Alarik perform June 2, 8 p.m., at Linden Tree Coffeehouse at Unitarian-Universalist Church, 326 Main St. $15. 781-246-2836, Lindentree85@comcast.net, LindenTreeCoffeehouse.org.
NATURE
Beverly: Essex County Greenbelt presents a geology exploration walk at the Beverly Conservation Area, May 27, 1-3 p.m. Salem State geology professor Lindley Hanson; Ed Myskowski, consulting geologist for the Peabody Essex Museum; and Hank McCarl, emeritus professor of geology, economics, and education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, will lead participants along the trail and share their extensive knowledge of the region's geology. Free. Directions: From Route 128, take Exit 17 and drive south on Grapevine Road for 1.5 miles. Turn right just before Chapman's Nursery onto Greenwood Avenue and proceed to the cable gate at the end. Park to the right on StoneRidge Road. Do not block the gate. ecga.org, 978-768-7241, ext. 10.
Middleton: Middleton Stream Team's family canoe and kayak trip on May 27, 1-4 p.m., explores the Ipswich River's great floodplain, meandering through wetland and water plants and flowers with stops to learn their names and characteristics. Part of its 2007 Discovery series. The launch location is Pine Street (a short unpaved road off Route 62) just before the bridge crossing the river into Peabody and Lynnfield. Be ready to launch with your non motorized canoe, kayak, or raft just before 1 p.m. The take-out point, 3 miles downriver, is Farnsworth Landing (off Route 114 at the Middleton-Danvers line) between 3 and 4 p.m., where parking for pick up vehicles is available. The Stream Team will provide rides back to Pine Street. Participants desiring a longer trip can leave their pick up vehicles at either Maple Street (5 miles total) or Peabody Street. (7 miles total). 978-777-4584.
NIGHTCLUBS
Gloucester: Rhumb Line, 40 Railroad Ave. Open Jamm on Mondays. Open Mike with Fly Amero, Wednesdays, 8 p.m. Dave Sag's Blues Party on Thursdays. May 25: Groove Therapy. May 26: Tabasco Fiasco. May 27: Allen Estes and Orville Giddings. 978-283-9732.
Haverhill: Live music at The Peddler's Daughter, 45 Wingate St. May 24: Pop Farmers. May 25: Revels Glen. May 26: Tell. June 1: Double Shot. June 2: Mike Barrett. Performances start at 9:30 p.m. 978-372-9555, thepeddlersdaughter.com.
Manchester-by-the-Sea: The Landing at 7 Central, Friday and Saturday entertainment, 9 p.m.-midnight. May 25 and 26: LuAnn Pallazola. Casual dress. No cover charge. 978-526-7494.
Marblehead: Landing Restaurant & Pub, 81 Front St. Weekend entertainment in the Pub from 8:30 p.m. May 25: Funktronic. May 26: MERJ. Casual dress; no cover charge. 781-639-1266.
THEATER
Beverly: North Shore Music Theatre, 62 Dunham Road, presents the musical, "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," May 29-June 17. $70-$35. Performances Tuesday-Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., matinees Wednesday at 1:30 p.m, Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Related free events -- June 5 and 6: Meet the Theatre after the 7:30 p.m. performance, post show audience discussion with the artists. June 10: Spotlight on History, a free pre show discussion focusing on historical issues related to the performance. June 14: Out at the North Shore, an evening for the gay and lesbian community with a post show reception. June 16: Meet the Theatre after the 2 p.m. performance, post show audience discussion with the artists. nsmt.org, 978-232-7200.
Beverly: Neverland Theatre presents "Disney's High School Musical" at Temple B'nai Abraham Theater, 200 East Lothrop St. Performances May 24, 7 p.m.; May 25, 4 p.m.; May 27, 1:30 and 6 p.m.; and May 28, 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday matinees $18; all other performances $16.50. 978-948-7925, neverlandtheatre.com.
Beverly: "Le Grand David and His Own Spectacular Magic Company," a stage magic production, is performed Sundays, 3 p.m., at Cabot Street Cinema Theatre, 286 Cabot St. $18; children 11 and younger, $12. 978-927-3677, legranddavid.com.
Gloucester: "Wives," a collection of 10 individual 10-minute plays, each portraying an aspect of "wifehood," through May 27 at West End Theater, Main and Washington streets, second floor of Blackburn Tavern Building. A bride in full bridal gown shares the surprising tales of the real origin of wedding customs. Performances Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. $15. 978-281-0680, thewestendtheater.com.
Gloucester: Gloucester Stage, 267 Main St., presents the New England premiere of Yvette Heyliger's "Hillary and Monica: The Winter of Her Discontent." This comic and sometimes provocative work considers what would have happened if first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and intern Monica Lewinsky had met by chance in the White House China Room in 1996 before the scandal broke. Performances May 25, 8 p.m.; May 26, 3 and 8 p.m.; May 27, 5 p.m.; June 1, 8 p.m.; June 2, 3 and 8 p.m.; and June 3, 5 p.m. $25, seniors and students $30. The world premiere of "Our Son's Wedding," the story of an Italian-American plumber and his strong-willed wife on the occasion of their son's nuptials to another man, will be on stage Wednesday-Sunday, June 7-23. $35, seniors and students $30. 978-281-4433, gloucesterstage.org. 978-281-4433, gloucesterstage.org.
Lynn: Lynn Public Library Coffee Hours presents actor Richard Clark performing "Great Scot! It's Andrew Carnegie!," a portrayal of Carnegie from his humble beginnings to becoming "The King of Steel" and the richest man in the world, May 29, 1 p.m., in Smith Program Room at the library, 5 North Common St. Free. For reservations, 781-595-0567, ext. 105.
Newburyport: Theater in the Open presents its adaptation of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, "The 12 Dancing Princesses," June 2-24, at Maudslay State Park, Coachman Property, 76 Curzon Mill Road. Performances held outdoors, Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. The June 2 show is free (donations accepted). All other shows $8, children and seniors $5. Park in the Maudslay State Park parking lot and follow the flags to the show. Allow a 10-minute walk to the play site. 978-465-2572, theaterintheopen.org.
Newburyport: Daena Giardella stars in a new one-woman comedy-drama, "What Can I Say?," June 8 and 9, 8 p.m., at Firehouse Center for the Arts, 1 Market Square. $24, seniors and students $22. 978-462-7336, firehouse.org.
Peabody: North Shore Music Theatre's inter generational music theater project, The Horizons Program, brings local seniors and elementary students together for a unique musical theater experience. A performance showcasing the talents of the Brooksby Village residents and Cutler School pupils will be held May 31, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., at Brooksby Village, McIntosh Clubhouse, 100 Brooksby Village Drive. $3, at the door. nsmt.org.
Salem: Theatre of Light presents "Hansel and Gretel," a musical comedy for all ages, June 2, 3, 9, and 10 at the former St. Mary's School, Hawthorne Boulevard (next to the Immaculate Conception Church). Performances Saturdays, 7 p.m.; Sundays, 3 p.m. $12, students and seniors $10, children $6. For reservations, call 781-210-9818.
Salem: Salem Theatre Company presents its second annual New Works Festival, "Catch 'em on the Rise!," featuring new one-act plays by local authors, directed and performed by emerging area theater-artists. June 2, 7 p.m., at Old Town Hall, off the pedestrian mall between Essex and Front streets. $13, seniors and students $7. For reservations, 978-790-8546 or salemtheatre.org.
Salem: Summer Theatre at Salem presents Neil Simon's comedy, "They're Playing Our Song," in Callan Studio Theatre at Salem State College, Lafayette Street. Performances June 8-17 (no show on June 9); Friday-Sunday, 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, 2 p.m. $20, students and seniors $15. Additional $10 for brunch or dinner. Reservations, salemstate.edu/arts or 978-542-6290.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Exeter: Phillips Exeter Academy's music department hosts a free concert, May 25, 7 p.m., in Phillips Church at Tan Lane and Front Street. The Stage Band, Concert Band, and Percussion Ensemble perform music from "Halo," "The Incredibles," and "West Side Story." 603-777-3453, exeter.edu. For directions, call 603-777-4330.
Exeter: Phillips Exeter Academy's Class of 1945 Library will host country music guitarist and Stratham, N.H., resident, Paul Edward Joyce and his band, The New Englanders, May 25, 7 p.m., in Rockefeller Hall, on the main floor of the library, Front Street. A reception follows the concert. Free. 603-777-3328, exeter.edu. For directions, call 603-777-4330.
Exeter: Landscape photography by Eliot Porter, John Wawrzonek, and Brian Crowley is featured in the exhibit, "Major Color," through June 21, at Burlingame Gallery, 111 Water St. The collection celebrates the impact of color on the fine art photography movement. burlingamegallery.net, 603-775-7595.
Exeter: Exeter Fine Crafts, 61 Water St., presents jewelry designer Betsy Frost as May Artist of the Month. Open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and Sunday, noon-4 p.m. 603-778-8282.
New Castle: Pontine Theatre presents its 12th annual New Castle Village Walk and Garden Tour, a self-guided walking tour of private gardens in historic New Castle, June 10, 1-4:30 p.m. Depart from the Maude Trefethen School, Route 1B. $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Free trolley available throughout the tour. Rain or shine. 603-436-6660, info@pontine.org.
Portsmouth: Local author Eva Claeson will be at RiverRun Bookstore, 20 Congress St., to read from and sign copies of "To Catch Life Anew: 10 Swedish Women Poets," May 24, 7 p.m., followed by an open reading. Bring a favorite or your own poem to read. Free. 603-431-2100.
Portsmouth: The Portsmouth Cocktail Competition will choose the "Best Signature Cocktail of Portsmouth" June 3, 5-8 p.m. Participating restaurants and bars include the Hilton Garden Inn, The Dolphin Striker, Molly Malone's, The Library Restaurant, Cafe Mediterraneo, and The Isles of Shoals Steamship Authority. Taste the first cocktail at the Hilton Garden Inn. The competition ends at the Isles of Shoals Steamship Authority with a harbor cruise, live music, raffle prizes, goodie bags, and voting for the Best Signature Cocktail of Portsmouth. $15. Tickets at portsmouthcocktail.com. Tickets $25 the night of the event, available at Hilton Garden Inn. For ages 21 and older only. Positive ID required. Partial proceeds will benefit United Way of the Seacoast.
Portsmouth: Women Singing OUT! will conclude their 2007 concert season with "Kaleidoscope: Sight and Sound," June 9, 7:30 p.m., and June 10, 2 p.m., at Christ Episcopal Church, 1035 Lafayette Road. Advance tickets $12, seniors and students $10; at the door $15 and $12. Tickets at RiverRun Bookstore, 20 Congress St., and womensingingout.org.
Portsmouth: South Church will hold its Pocket Gardens of Portsmouth 18th a nnual Tour, June 15, 5-8 p.m., and June 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., rain or shine. The self-guided, 3-mile hiking and biking tour includes 10 private homes and one museum garden and also features local musicians, artists, and refreshments prepared by the congregation of Portsmouth's South Church. Ticket holders will be offered a reduced rate to tour the Rundlet May House on Middle Street. Exotic potted plants for sale at South Church on both days. The winner of the "Name the Mystery Plant" contest will receive a one-hour garden consultation with Rebecca Blaine Design of Portsmouth. Advance tickets $17, available through June 14 at South Church, 292 State St. 603-436-4762 (office hours Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.) Tickets also at Ambrosia Gardens, The Flower Kiosk, Mainely NH, South St. and Vine, North Hill Nursery, Rolling Green Nursery, Churchill's Nursery, and Nicole's Hallmark of Dover. Tickets $20 on the tour days. The ticket can be used both days of the tour and has descriptions of the gardens and a map showing parking areas. 603-433-8525, southchurch-uu.org.
Portsmouth: Sacred Circle Dance, May 25, 7 p.m., at Portsmouth Center for Yoga and the Arts, Brewery Lane No. 9. Multi cultural folk dances. All steps taught -- no experience or partner needed. $5. 603-750-7506 or amyla44@juno.com.
Portsmouth: Joseph Gerson speaks about his new book, "Empire and the Bomb: How the United States Uses Nuclear Weapons to Dominate the World," May 24, 7 p.m., at Portsmouth Public Library, 175 Parrott Ave. Free. Sponsored by Seacoast Peace Response and Amnesty International Seacoast Group 550. amyla44@juno.com, 603-750-7506.
Portsmouth: The Music Hall, 28 Chestnut St. The Wildcard Movie series presents "God Grew Tired of Us," a film about the Lost Boys of Sudan, May 24, 7:30 p.m. Post film discussion with program manager Amy Marchildon from the Interfaith Refugee Resettlement Program of Lutheran Social Services, and Becky Dill, co founder of GenocideAware in the Newburyport area. $8. The KidsRULE! series presents "A Celebration of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," July 20, 10:30 p.m. The late-evening festivities include wizard games, costume contests, a dramatic reading, and other magical surprises staged in the historic Victorian hall. $8. Tickets at the box office, 603-436-2400, or themusichall.org.
