Comprehensive listings for galleries, plays, music, and other happenings in the area.
ARTS
Beverly: Redbrick Art Center, 95 Rantoul St., presents a members exhibition focusing on the theme of water, Feb. 8-March 25. Reception and Member Appreciation Gala, Feb. 8, 6-8 p.m. Free. Open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Half of proceeds support Redbrick Arts Foundation. rachel@redbrickarts.com, 978-927-5615.
Beverly: The School of Art and Design at Endicott College presents a juried student photography exhibition "Focus on Photography: Digital Works by Endicott Students," through Feb. 11 in the Art Center at Endicott College, 376 Hale St., Route 127. Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 978-232-2655.
Beverly: "Fertile Soil," an exhibition of sculptural work by Meredith Morten, continues through Feb. 21 in Montserrat College of Art's Carol Schlosberg Alumni Gallery, 23 Essex St. Reception, Feb. 14, 6:30-8 p.m. Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday noon-5 p.m. Free.
Ipswich: Zumi's Espresso & Ice Cream, 40 Market St., celebrates its fifth anniversary in Ipswich with a show of new paintings by Julia Purinton, through Feb. 29. Purinton explores nuance of atmosphere in the depiction of trees and foliage, achieving an abstracted expression rooted in the experience of landscape. zumis.com or medusastudio.com.
Ipswich: River Gallery, 4 Market St., features an exhibition of representational-impressionistic oil paintings by Caleb Stone, Feb. 7-March 9. Reception, Feb. 8, 5-8 p.m. Other local artists will exhibit paintings, photography, jewelry, hand-blown glass, hand-carved birds, and ceramics. 978-356-1559, rivergalleryipswich.com.
Lynn: Artists from throughout the greater Boston area are represented in the annual "Works on Paper" exhibition, Feb. 2-March 10 at LynnArts, 25 Exchange St. Reception, Feb. 2, 2-4 p.m. LynnArts offers arts programs for ages 7-11 during February school vacation week, Feb. 19-22. 781-598-5244, lynnarts.org.
Malden: "Insert Title Here," paintings and poetry by Malden artist Tom Feagley, continues through Feb. 15 at MATV Gallery, 145 Pleasant St. Open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday 10-a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 781-321-6400, matv.org/gallery.
Malden: "Negotiating the Irrationalities," mixed media works by Soh H. Tan Kalloch (known by the nickname Sand T), continues through Feb. 16 at artSPACE@16, 16 Princeton Road. Open noon-3 p.m. Feb. 9 and 16. Also open by appointment. For appointment, e-mail sandt.artspaceat16@verizon.net. artSPACEat16.com.
Marblehead: Cloister Gallery at St. Andrews Church, 135 Lafayette St., Route 114, presents "Capturing a Moment," an exhibition of etchings and lithographs by Somerville artist Elizabeth Heide, Feb. 5-26. Heide uses linear and abstract images of birds and botanical studies to explore our connection to the natural world. Reception, Feb. 10, noon-3 p.m.
Marblehead: Marblehead Arts Association and Salem Arts Association will hold a collaborative exhibit, "Art by Association," Feb. 2-24 at King Hooper Mansion, 8 Hooper St. Reception, Feb. 3, 2-4 p.m. Mary Beth Bainbridge, assistant to the chief curator at the Peabody Essex Museum, curated the exhibit. Potluck dinner with entertainment, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. at King Hooper Mansion. Free; reservations required. Also opening Feb. 2 with a reception from 2-4 p.m., is an exhibit of photographs by Steve Fulghum, "Nara to Nantucket." 781-631-2608.
Melrose: The Melrose Arts and Cultural Association presents a demonstration on the art of silver jewelry by local jeweler Gail Hamm, Feb. 7, 7 p.m., at Milano Center, 201 West Foster St. Free. Everyone welcome. melrosearts.com, 781-665-5840.
Newburyport: Massachusetts Audubon Society's Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, presents "Enjoying Nature," watercolor paintings by Peabody artist Paula Kulas, Feb. 3-March 16 in the Juliet Kellogg French Room. Reception, Feb. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Free. To view the artwork at another time contact Joppa Flats in advance at 978-462-9998. massaudubon.org.
Newburyport: Walsingham Gallery, 47 Merrimac St., is showing "A Worldly View," an exhibition of oil paintings of Tuscany, Venice, and Provence by Gary Korlin, through Feb. 29. 978-499-4411, TheWalsinghamGallery.com.
Salem: Salem State College faculty member Ken Reker presents selections from 30 years of creative output in various media and styles, through Feb. 7 in Winfisky Gallery at Salem State College, Lafayette Street. Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and by appointment. Free. 978-542-7890.
Salem: The Gallery at Grosvenor Park, Loring Hills Ave., at Vinnin Square, hosts an exhibit by the photographic members of Swampscott Arts Association Feb. 2-27. Reception, Feb. 3, 3-5 p.m. Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 978-741-5700.
Salem: Six artists participate in the Wheaton College art exhibit "Welcome to My World," Feb. 1-March 21, at New Civilitea, 318 Derby St. The exhibit features mixed media, oil on canvas, color and black and white photography, etching, and pastel, and a whimsical sculpture series. Reception, Feb. 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m. lpotoff@newcivilitea.com, 978-740-2832.
Swampscott: Marian Court College, 35 Little's Point Road, will host the Swampscott Arts Association's Winter Show in Mercy Center Gallery. Reception, Feb. 3, 2-4 p.m. Free. The exhibit runs through March 7. Open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 781-595-6768, mariancourt.edu.
Wenham: The art exhibition "Ordained to Create," focusing on the creative journeys of 15 Southern self-taught artists from the Sage and Steven Pattie Collection of American Art, is displayed through March 1 in the Gallery at Barrington Center for the Arts, Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road. Free. Open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. gordon.edu.
CHILDREN & YOUTH
Marblehead: A Children's Concert featuring songmaker Jeannie Mack will be held at Jewish Community Center of the North Shore, 4 Community Road, Feb. 3 at 11 a.m. Mack, who accompanies herself on guitar and harmonica, performs for children ages 1-7. $5, children younger than 1 are free. 781-631-8330, ext. 132.
Peabody: "It's a Secret," a free event for children, especially ages 8-12, features "The Dangerous Book for Boys," Feb. 2 at 1 p.m. at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 210 Andover St. (behind North Shore Mall). Learn the secrets of coin tricks, the keys to cracking codes and ciphers. Giveaways, raffles and more. 978-573-3268, bn.com.
CHORAL MUSIC
Swampscott: Marblehead, Salem, and Swampscott high school choruses will perform in the annual "Together in Harmony" concert, Feb. 10, 2 p.m., at Swampscott High School Auditorium, 200 Essex St. The choruses will perform separately and then will perform "Impossible Dream" together under direction of Swampscott High School's James Pearse. Tickets at the door $10, students and seniors $5. swampscottpops.org, 781-596-8830.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Beverly: North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra continues its 60th anniversary season with a concert featuring Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" and Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherazade," Feb. 10, 3 p.m., at First Baptist Church, 221 Cabot St. $17, seniors and students $15, children 12 and younger are free. Tickets at the door. 781-286-0024.
Haverhill: Essex Chamber Music Players present pianist David Pihl performing the works of Robert Schumann, Frederic Chopin, and William Thomas McKinley, Feb. 3, 2:30 p.m., in a recital at the Technology Center conference area at Northern Essex Community College, Elliott Way. The recital is a fund-raiser for ECMP concerts. $10, students $5. 978-556-3413, essexchambermusicplayers.org. Tickets at the door or online at mvarts.info.
Newburyport: Tre's performs frolicking Baroque music from the London theatres, parlors and concert halls in the concert "The Lady's Entertainment," Feb. 3, 3 p.m., at First Religious Society, UU, 26 Pleasant St. $15, seniors $10, students free. ensembletres.com, 978-744-1119.
Salem: The Amaryllis Chamber Ensemble will perform an original music program featuring flute, harp, violin, and cello, Feb. 9, 7 p.m., at Salem Athenaeum, 337 Essex St. Romantic candlelight will be the backdrop during this benefit concert. The evening includes a champagne and dessert reception. $60. Reservations required. 978-744-2540, salemathenaeum.net.
COMEDY
Salisbury: Comedians Tony Moschetto, Dave Rattigan, Amy Tee, Dan Lee, Sal Votano, and Michelle Mortenson will be featured in "Comedy at La Chiquita," Feb. 5 at 8 p.m. at La Chiquita Restaurant, 188 Lafayette St., Route 1. $10, in advance $5. 978-463-4688.
EXTRA
Marblehead: Temple Emanu-El will hold "Taste of the North Shore," a party, dance, and auction, Feb. 2 at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy specialties of 12 North Shore restaurants and caterers. Billy Costa of NECN'S "T.V. Diner" will be MC and will be filming an episode of his show during the evening. Bid on unique items in the silent and live auctions. $50, includes an all-you-can-eat food buffet, auction, and dancing. Mail check, payable to Temple Emanu-El, to 393 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead 01945. 781-631-9300, emanu-el.org.
FILMS
Newburyport: The movie "Rabbit Proof Fence" (rated PG) will be shown Feb. 2, 7 p.m., at Yoga Center of Newburyport, 12 Maple St. $5. 978-463-4354, newburyportyoga.com.
FUND-RAISERS
Gloucester: The annual Meals on Wheels Valentine Breakfast Fund-raiser will be held Feb. 14, 7-9:30 a.m., at Gloucester House Restaurant, Seven Seas Wharf, 63 Rogers St. Buffet style breakfast. Proceeds benefit services for local elders. $10, seniors $8. Tickets, 978-281-1750 or 866-927-1050. Tickets also at the door.
Gloucester: Political and social humorist Jimmy Tingle will present his new show "Jimmy Tingle for President," Feb.17, 4 p.m., at Independent Christian Church (Unitarian Universalist), Church and Middle streets. Proceeds benefit the Gloucester, Manchester and Rockport Democratic Committees. Advance tickets $25. Checks must be received by Feb. 8. Send checks to Gloucester City Democratic Committee, P.O. Box 111, Gloucester 01931. Tickets at the door, if available, $35. 978-281-2920, gloucesterdemocrats.org.
Lynn: Friends of Lynn Woods will hold a wine tasting to benefit the Park House Restoration Project, Feb. 9, 7-11 p.m., at Gannon Municipal Golf Course Club House, 60 Great Woods Road. Wine tasting and appetizers 7:30-9:30 p.m., followed by piano music by Kevin Kennedy and raffles. For ages 21 and older. $25. 781-595-5641.
Newburyport: Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society's annual Sip, Savor & Swing fund-raising party will feature a raffle, wine, beer and chocolate tasting, dancing, music from the Thomas Machine Works Band, and hors d'oeuvres. Held Feb. 8, 7-11 p.m. at Nicholson Hall, 9 Harris St. Proceeds benefit feral and locally owned cats and kittens and help fund MRFRS's free and low-cost programs and services. $50. Tickets at 978-462-0760, mrfrs.org, and at the door.
Peabody: A fund-raisingTexas Hold'em Night will be held Feb. 9 at Knights of Columbus Hall, 96 Main St. All proceeds will support the Knights' scholarship fund. Buy-in fee $100 with a $25 preregistration fee. After submitting the registration form and fee, the cost of the event is $75. Registration forms can be obtained at the event or in advance at kofcpeabody.org. Registration at 6 p.m., play at 7 p.m. 508-500-7258.
Salem: North Shore Arc will host a Benefit for ArcWorks, an arts initiative for artists with disabilities, Feb. 8, 7:30-10:30 p.m. at Old Town Hall in Derby Square. The Mardi Gras dance party will feature Cajun, zydeco and New Orleans Jazz by The Squeezebox Stompers and a guest performance by local country artist Paula Morin. Cash bar. Refreshments served. $15. 978-624-2318.
LECTURES/FORUMS
Beverly: Chester Brigham, author of "Gloucester's Bargain With the Sea: The Bountiful Maritime Culture of Cape Ann, Massachusetts," will speak about the the maritime heritage of Cape Ann and its impact on literature and the arts in readings from his book, Feb. 4, for the Monday Mornings Lecture Series at Beverly Public Library, 32 Essex St. Coffee and tea served at 9 a.m.; program begins at 9:30 a.m. Free. 978-921-6062, flynn@noblenet.org.
Gloucester: Cape Ann Forum hosts Frances Moore Lappe, author of "Diet for a Small Planet," to talk about her latest book on the roots of the local-to-global crises and what ordinary citizens can do about them at "What's Wrong with the World - And How Can We Fix It?" a community conversation and booksigning, Feb. 10, 7-9 p.m., at Gloucester City Hall, 9 Dale Ave. Free. The forum, cosponsored by Sustainable Cape Ann, will be run cafe-style with participants holding small group discussions on how to create the world we want. Cape Ann Forum is a community-based nonprofit formed to increase public understanding of local, national and international issues. 978-281-6313, danconnell@mac.com, capeannforum.org.
Salem: Martha NcNamara, director of the New England Arts and Architecture Program at Wellesley College, will give a lecture titled "An Elegant Brick House: Samuel McIntire's 1787 Courthouse," Feb. 7, 7:30 p.m. at Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square. This free lecture, presented in collaboration with Historic Salem Inc., is part of the McIntire Lecture Series, held in conjunction with the museum's exhibition "Samuel McIntire, Carving an American Style." Reservations required. 978-745-9500, ext. 3011.
Wenham: Founder and President of International Arts Movement Makoto Fujimura presents "Children of the Creative Age in the Church of Today and Tomorrow," Jan. 31, 4:30 p.m., in Barrington Center for the Arts (reception at 4 p.m.) and will repeat the presentation Feb. 1 at 10:25 a.m. in A.J. Gordon Memorial Chapel. Both events are free and take place at Gordon College, 255 Grapevine Road. gordon.edu.
LITERARY EVENTS
Newburyport: Feb. 8 at 7 p.m., Jabberwocky Bookshop, 50 Water St., welcomes Jeopardy! champion and author Ken Jennings, hosting a trivia contest and posing questions to the audience from his new book "Ken Jenning's Trivia Almanac: 8,888 questions in 365 Days." Free. 978-465-9359, jabberwocky.booksense.com.
Salem: Faculty member Rod Kessler will read from his novel in progress, "Edmund Unsung," Jan. 31, 7:30 p.m., in Martin Luther King Jr. Room, Ellison Campus Center at Salem State College, 352 Lafayette St. Free. 978-542-7890.
MUSEUMS & HISTORY
Essex: The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum celebrates Valentine's Day with a dramatic presentation of "The Love Letters of John and Abigail Adams" followed by a reception featuring a chocolate buffet. Wearing historically accurate clothing and using period props, re-enactors Patricia Bridgman and Thomas Macy will bring to life Mr. and Mrs. Adams, reading their correspondence and interacting with the audience in this living-history performance. The event will take place Feb. 8 at 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Essex, 39 Main St. Snow date, Feb. 12. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. essexshipbuildingmuseum.org, 978-768-7541.
Lynn: Feb. 7 at 7 p.m., local author Bonnie Hurd Smith will present a program based on her recent book "Mingling Souls Upon Paper: An Eighteenth Century Love Story," a chronicle of love between a Gloucester essayist and English preacher, at Lynn Museum & Historical Society, 590 Washington St., in Lynn Heritage State Park.This free program is for adults. Hurd Smith will autograph and sell her book after the presentation. Feb. 9, 2-4 p.m., the museum will sponsor an old-fashioned Valentine-making party for children of all ages and their parents. Reservations required by Feb. 7. Donations to help cover costs of materials and refreshments are welcome. E-mail office@lynnmuseum.org or call 781-581-6200.
Salem: The flamboyant world of kabuki theater is captured in the new exhibition "Stage Idols, Japanese Kabuki Theater," opening Feb. 2 at Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square. The exhibition features a rotating selection of more than 40 19th-century woodblock prints and rare kabuki-related objects, such as costumes, photographs, and advertising. Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $15, seniors $13, students $11. Ages 16 and younger and residents of Salem are free. 866-745-1876, pem.org.
MUSIC
Amesbury: Powow River Grille, 33 Main St. Live music noon-3 p.m. Feb. 3 and 10, Danny Harrington; Feb. 17, Steve Wark. powowrivergrille.com, 978-388-2300.
Beverly: St. John's Concert Series presents "Be My Valentine," a concert of music for voice and instruments in praise of love, featuring lyric tenor Theodore Green and soprano Jayne West, Feb. 10 at 2 p. m. at St. John's Church, 705 Hale St., Beverly Farms. Free. rarnatt@stjohnsbeverlyfarms.org, 978-283-9046, sjcs.info.
Lynn: The United States Air Force Band of Liberty will perform a free concert Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. at Lynn Veterans Memorial Auditorium 3 City Hall Square. Tickets at Lynn Department of Veterans' Services, Room 301 at City Hall, 3 City Hall Square (Open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Tuesday 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.), or at the door. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. 781-586-6917.
Lynn: Mass Theatrica presents "Love Songs," a concert of favorite love songs and duets from opera and operetta standards to musical theater classics, Feb. 9, 7 p.m., at LynnArts, Neal Rantoul Vault Theatre, 25 Exchange St. The featured artists are vocalists Megan Beltran, Erin Conley, Laurel Dantas, Karen Fanale, Rebecca Hains, Tyler Hains, Gregory Hanson, Karen Lennox, Christopher McIntyre, Antanas Meilus, Angeliki Theoharis, Thomas Weber, and pianist Sharon Lee. $15, seniors and students $13, ages 12 and younger $8. 508-757-8515, masstheatrica@yahoo.com, masstheatrica.org.
Marblehead: Feb. 8 at 8:30 p.m., Vance Gilbert performs at me & thee Coffeehouse at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 28 Mugford St. Chris Trapper from the Push Stars opens the show. $18. Discounts for students and seniors. Tickets Spirit of '76 Bookstore, Arnould's Gallery and at the door. 781-631-8987.
Topsfield: Cellist Junko Simons will perform with her musical friends and colleagues during the Classical Cafe, Feb. 10, 3 p.m., at Topsfield Public Library, 1 South Common St. Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate served. Simons is a member of the Kalliope Piano Trio, the Black Dust New Music Ensemble, and Another Language: InterPlay and is an adjunct faculty member at Boston College and Phillips Academy in Andover. Free. 978-887-1528.
Wakefield: Linden Tree Coffeehouse at Unitarian-Universalist Church, 326 Main St., presents "A Touch of Ireland: Celtic Cousins Robbie O'Connell & Aoife Clancy," Feb. 9 at 8 p.m. Aoife is the daughter of the late Bobby Clancy. Robbie toured with his uncles, the Clancy Brothers, in the late '70s. $18 in advance (with paid reservation by Feb. 7), $20 at the door. 781-246-2836, Lindentree85@comcast.net, LindenTreeCoffeehouse.org.
Wakefield: Award-winning actress and singer Leigh Barrett stars in the benefit concert "Love With Strings Attached," Feb. 17, 7 p.m., at Unitarian Universalist Church of Wakefield , 326 Main St. (across from the Post Office). Opening the concert is a quartet of local string players. $35, includes a champagne reception. Proceeds benefit the church. Advance tickets at Smith Drug, 390 Main St., and at SweetBay, 339 Salem St. Tickets also at the door. 781-245-4632, wakefielduu.org.
NATURE
Hamilton: The Trustees of Reservations will hold a Winter Wildlife Prowl, Feb. 9 at 9:30 a.m., at Appleton Farms Grass Rides, Highland St. Explore the snowy grass rides in search of a nesting great horned owl, discover tracks and signs of wild winter residents and learn how local plants and animals adapt to life in the cold. Led by author and natural history enthusiast Jim Berry. $5. Preregistration required. 978-921-1944, ext. 8815.
Newburyport: Free programs at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike. Winter Birding, Feb. 9, 9-11 a.m. Join Sue McGrath to explore different habitats of the refuge and search for wintering birds. For all levels of bird enthusiasts, including children accompanied by an adult. Dress in layers including warm and waterproof boots. Meet on the refuge at the Maintenance Area parking lot just prior to the North Pool Overlook. Awesome Owls, Feb. 9, 1-2:30 p.m., for ages 6-9: Learn about the natural history of owls, discover what they eat by dissecting an owl pellet, and search for them on the refuge. Indoor and outdoor activities. Dress for the weather. Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center. Programs are free, but advance registration is required. Call 978-465-5753 (press "0" to talk to a staff member) to register. Registration is complete when you receive confirmation from a staff member. parkerriver.fws.gov.
NIGHTCLUBS
Beverly: Roots band The Mystix promote their new album "Blue Morning," a mix of blues, R&B, country, and rock, Feb. 6 at Wild Horse Cafe, 392 Cabot St., Route 1A. Show startst at 9 p.m. No cover charge. 978-922 - 6868.
Marblehead: The Marblehead Landing, 81 Front St., at State Street Landing. Entertainment from 8:30 p.m. in the pub. Feb. 1, Dominic Frizzi & Friends; Feb. 2, MERJ; Feb. 8, Larry & The Bluescasters; Feb. 9, Guy Ford Band; Feb. 15, Wax Bodhi; Feb. 16, Dominic Frizzi & Friends. Casual dress. No cover charge. 781-639-1266.
Manchester-by-the-Sea: The Landing at 7 Central. Friday and Saturday entertainment, 9 p.m.-midnight. Feb. 2, Chris Phillips; Feb. 9, The Closers; Feb. 10, open mike 6-9 p.m.; Feb. 16, Toni & Dave; Feb. 17, New Celtic music session, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Casual dress. No cover charge. 978-526-7494.
THEATER
Beverly: "Le Grand David and His Own Spectacular Magic Company" is performed every Sunday at 3 p.m. at Cabot St. Cinema Theatre, 286 Cabot St. $20, ages 11 and younger $12. 978-927-3677, legranddavid.com.
Lynnfield: Lynnfield Community Schools presents Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella," Feb. 1 and 2 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 3 at 2 p.m. at Lynnfield Middle School, 505 Main St. $10, seniors and students $8. Reservations by e-mail at wills0930@comcast.net. Tickets also at the door one hour prior to each performance.
Newburyport: A cast of more than 40 students and adults from Theatre Workshop will perform in the debut of "Camp Pirate," an original family-oriented musical comedy, Feb. 2-10, at Firehouse Center for the Arts, 1 Market Square. Performances Saturday at 3 and 7 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. $12, students $8. firehouse.org, 978-462-7336.
Salem: Salem Theatre Company presents Shelagh Stephenson's comedy "The Memory of Water," through Feb. 10, at Griffen Theatre, 7 Lynde St. "The Memory of Water" explores the lives of three sisters who are reunited for their mother's funeral. The sisters clash and commiserate as they compare their imperfect memories of childhood life. Performances Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 5 p.m. Tickets $18, seniors and youth $15. Reservations, salemtheatre.com or 978-790-8546.
Swampscott: Movie and television actor George Moore will bring the Colonial era to life during his portrayal of General and President George Washington in "George Washington Himself" a free performance, Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the Mercy Center at Marian Court College, 35 Little's Point Road. 781-595-6768, mariancourt.edu.
Topsfield: New England Light Opera, a professional operetta and musical theater, presents the world premiere of "Yes, Yes, Jeanette!" a musical fantasy about Jeanette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy. Created by NELO artistic director Mark Morgan, this show features scenes and songs from their movies, along with the stories of their lives as told in their own words. Performances Feb. 9 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 10 at 3 p.m. at Emerson Center of the Congregational Church of Topsfield, 9 East Common St. $28, seniors (65 and older) $24, children and students $5. 978-887-2045, newenglandlightopera.org.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Durham: Through April 9 at The Art Gallery, UNH, at Paul Creative Arts Center, 30 College Road: "On Gilded Pond: The Life and Times of the Dublin Art Colony," features works by artists who were associated with the Dublin Art Colony in New Hampshire's Monadnock region in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. "What's New? Recent Additions to the Collection" showcases works recently accepted into The Art Gallery's permanent art collection. The ArtBreak Series, held Wednesdays noon-1 p.m., offers free programs related to the current exhibitions. Feb. 4, in Room A219: Focus on Artists Film Series presents "A Life in the Day of Man Ray: A 1961 interview with Man Ray." Feb. 6, gallery talk, "Building The Art Gallery's Collection." Gallery open Monday-Wednesday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 1-5 p.m. (closed March 14-23, university holidays, and during exhibition changes). Guided group tours for schools and other organizations are available with advance reservation (catherine.mazur@unh.edu or 603-862-3713). 603-862-3712, art.gallery@unh.edu, unh.edu/art-gallery.
Durham: University of New Hampshire's
Exeter: Phillips Exeter Academy Music Department presents a piano recital featuring faculty members Jung Mi Lee and Jon Sakata, Feb. 5, 7 p.m., at Phillips Church, Tan Lane and Front Street. The performance, "Polyphonic Raptures: A Piano Duo Recital of J.S. Bach's 'Die Kunst der Fugue' and Schumann's 'Symphony No. 4 in D Minor,"' will include original, four-hand arrangements of the first eight fugues from Bach and the 1852 version from Schumann. Free. For information, 603-777-3453 or exeter.edu. For directions, 603-777-4330.
Exeter: Part of Phillips Exeter Academy's annual Green Cup Challenge is "Focus the Nation," a roundtable meeting with local politicians, scientists, and sustainability experts discussing global warming and strategies to fight it. Held Jan. 31, 7 p.m., in the Academy's Assembly Hall, Front St. Free. For information, 603-777-3765 or exeter.edu. For directions, 603-777-4330.
Exeter: Congregational Church in Exeter, 21 Front St., presents a concert of music for trumpet and organ, Feb. 9, 7:30 p.m. The program includes Haydn's Trumpet Concerto, the baroque Heroic Music by Telemann for trumpet and organ, and Chorale No. 3 in A minor for organ by Cesar Franck and features trumpeter Bryan Appleby-Wineberg and Beverly Caldon, organist/music director, on the Exeter church's 3-manual, 19-rank Aeolian- Skinner organ. A dessert reception follows the concert. $12, seniors and students $10, children younger than 8 free. Tickets in advance or at the door. 603-772-4216, exetercongchurch.org.
Exeter: Artisan jewelry designer Leanne Elliott Soden is the February Artist of the Month at Exeter Fine Crafts, 61 Water St. Feb. 9 between noon and 3 p.m., Soden will talk about her jewelry designs that combine modern elements with centuries-old chain making, textile and metal working techniques. Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. 603-778-8282.
Portsmouth: Children's Museum of Portsmouth, 280 Marcy St. Feb. 1, Experience Counts! offers free admission all day for seniors, their caregivers, and any accompanying children under the age of 12. Free Family Fun Night, Feb. 1, 5:30-8 p.m., welcomes families to the museum's three floors of interactive exhibits. A Family Mardi Gras Celebration, Feb. 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., includes live Cajun music by Jimmy Jo and the Jumbol'Ayuhs (half-hour sets at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.), mask-making, and children's parades through the museum led by Albert the Costumed Alligator. Sample regional foods. Each visitor will receive a strand of colorful Mardi Gras beads to wear and take home. All Mardi Gras activities are included with the price of admission. $6, seniors $5, free for children younger than 1. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. 603-436-3853, childrens-museum.org.
Portsmouth: Tim Barretto will read and sign copies of his new book "Searching for Joy," Feb. 6, 7 p.m., at RiverRun Bookstore, 20 Congress St. "Searching for Joy" tells the story of a man facing cancer and focuses on the father/son relationship. Free. riverrunbookstore.com, 603-431-2100.
Portsmouth: The exhibit "The Preservation Movement Then and Now," focusing on preservation efforts for Boston's John Hancock House and Portsmouth's Rundlet-May House and the history of the preservation movement, opens Feb. 5 at Portsmouth Athenaeum, 6-8 Market Square. Free. Open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 1-4 p.m. through May 3. Free lectures: Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. (snow date Feb. 14), curators of the exhibition Richard Nylander and Lorna Condon present "The Battle to Save the John Hancock Mansion: Early Preservation in Boston." Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. (snow date Feb. 28), Boston University Professor Emeritus Richard Candee will address "William Sumner Appleton and the Preservation of Jackson House." March 6 at 7 p.m., Joseph Cornish, senior stewardship manager for Historic New England, will speak on "Preserving Four Centuries of New England Homes: Historic New England and Its Stewardship Program." Reservations required for lectures. Special tours of local landmarks, include the Lady Pepperrell House in Kittery Point, Maine, on April 26 at 2 p.m. and the Jackson House in Portsmouth on May 10 at 10 a.m. portsmouthathenaeum.org, 603-431-2538.
Portsmouth: Pontine Theatre presents "Home Is Heaven: 32 Poems by Ogden Nash," Feb. 1-10 at West End Studio Theatre, 959 Islington St. Performances of this original staging of poems by Ogden Nash, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m.; matinee Feb. 2 at 4 p.m. $25; Feb. 2 matinee $20. pontine.org, info@pontine.org, 603-436-6660.
Portsmouth: Gallery 280 at The Children's Museum, 280 Marcy St., presents "Making an Impression: The Process of Printmaking," through Feb. 26. Works by two Seacoast printmakers are featured: Victoria Elbroch's hand-colored etchings and aquatints of English villages, cottages, gardens, and rooftops and Lisa Grey's compositions combining printmaking, quilting, weaving, and creative sewing. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free. Regular admission rates apply for the rest of the museum: $6, children and seniors $5, children younger than 1, free. 603-436-3853, childrens-museum.org.
Portsmouth: The Music Hall, 28 Chestnut St., presents "The Met @ The Music Hall," a series of matinee performances of the Metropolitan Opera broadcast live from Lincoln Center and shown on The Music Hall screen in high definition and Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound. The opera program is enhanced by live interviews and specially produced features to give audiences a look at the behind-the-scenes action. Schedule: Feb. 16, 1 p.m., Manon Lescaut; March 22, 12:30 p.m., Peter Grimes; March 22, 12:30 p.m., Tristan und Isolde; April 5, 1:30 p.m., La Boheme; April 26, 1:30 p.m., La Fille du Regiment. Broadcasts run two to five hours; see themusichall.org for running times. $27.50; all eight shows $199. 603-436-2400.
Portsmouth: Teen tap professionals take to the Music Hall stage in Tap Kids, Feb. 9 at 2 and 8 p.m. In a series of musical vignettes Tap Kids tells the story of a group of high school kids facing challenges as they prepare for the big school dance and graduation. Produced by New York Stage Originals. Tickets $34 and $15. Phone, mail, Internet sales only. 603-436-2400, themusichall.org. With lobby renovations underway, there is no walk-up service to the box office during January. The Music Hall is at 28 Chestnut St.
Rye: An exhibit of then-and-now photographs of Odiorne Point and the Seacoast continues through March 16 in the Learning Studio Gallery at Seacoast Science Center, 570 Ocean Blvd. "Odiorne Point: Twice-seen" features digitally combined contemporary images with century-old photographs of Odiorne by photographer Richard Moore. seacoastsciencecenter.org, 603-436-8043.
Items may be sent three weeks in advance to carson@globe.com or mailed to Sharon Carson, Boston Globe North, 1 Corporate Place, Suite 200, 55 Ferncroft Road, Danvers 01923. Listings are not accepted over the telephone.
