Comprehensive listings for galleries, plays, music, and other happenings in the area.
CONCERTS
Brockton: Spring pops concert, Buckley Performing Arts Center, Massasoit Community College, 1 Massasoit Blvd. May 13, 12:30 p.m. The Massasoit Senior Orchestra, directed by Richard Nelson, and the Massasoit Senior Chorus, directed by John Peruzzi. Free, but tickets required. 508-427-1234.
Cohasset: South Shore Music Circus, 130 Sohier St. Tickets on sale for the 2008 Eastern Bank Summer Concert Series. Box office open noon-6 p.m. daily. All shows 8 p.m., except where noted. June 13, Boz Scaggs, $42.25-$57.25. June 21, Blondie, $37.75-$52.75. June 22, 7:30 p.m., Little Feat and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, $32.75-$47.75. June 27, Lyle Lovett, $45.25-$60.25. July 2, RAIN-The Beatles Experience, $35.25-$50.25. July 5, John McDermott, $31.75. July 11, comedian Brad Garrett, $39-$54. July 18, comedian Frank Caliendo, $50-$65. July 19, Linda Eder and Steve Tyrell, $39.25-$54.25. July 23, Michael McDonald, $42.75-$57.75. July 25, ABBA, $33.75-$48.75. July 26, WWE Summer Slam Tour, $32.75-$47.75. Aug. 1, B.B. King, $54.25-$69.25. Aug. 2, Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, $62.75-$90. Aug. 9, Kenny Rogers, $48.75-$63.75. Aug. 10, Hootie and the Blowfish Homegrown Concert, $48.25-$63.25. Aug. 13, The Saw Doctors, $35.25. Aug. 14, comedian Jeff Dunham, $47-$62. Aug. 16, Tony Bennett, $67.25-$82.25. Aug. 21, Sugarland/SOLD OUT. Aug. 22, Gretchen Wilson, $57.75-$72.75. Aug. 23, The Beach Boys, $44.25-$59.25. Aug. 24, 7:30 p.m., comedian Brian Regan, $43-$58. Aug. 28, Chris Isaak, $42.25-$57.25. Aug. 29, comedian Artie Lange, $59-$74. Aug. 30, Vince Gill, $42.75-$57.75. Sept. 1, An Evening With Garrison Keillor: "A Prairie Home Companion, The Rhubarb Tour," $51.25-$66.25. Children's shows: June 28, 5 p.m. Kidz Bop Live, $25. July 10, 10:30 a.m. Russian American Kids Circus, $14.50. Kaleidoscope Children's Theatre Productions; Thursdays 10:30 a.m. (all shows $8): July 17, Snow White. July 24, Jack and the Beanstalk. July 31, Cinderella. Aug. 7, Rapunzel. Aug. 14, Cinderella, Too! Aug. 21, Rumpelstilskin. Aug. 28, Hansel and Gretel. 781-383-9850, themusiccircus.org.
Dedham: Spring concert, Saint Susanna Parish, 262 Needham St. May 18, 3 p.m. The Parkway Concert Orchestra and music director and conductor Peter Freisinger present a program to include the world premiere of Korean-American composer Jae Hyeok Jang's "Awakening Dawn," commissioned by the Parkway; Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherazade," Sousa's "Thunderer March," and Leroy Anderson's "A Trumpeter's Lullaby," featuring trumpet virtuoso Fred Sienkiewicz. In addition, a medley from "Mary Poppins," in which the orchestra will be joined by fifth-graders from the Avery and Greenlodge School choruses, directed by Allyn Phelps. $10, $8 seniors, $5, children under 12. 781-461-1823, parkwayconcertorchestra.org.
Duxbury: Duxbury Performing Arts Center, 73 Alden St. May 4, 5 p.m. The Fine Arts Chorale performs Haydn's "The Seasons." The 55-member chorale will be joined by a full symphony orchestra and soloists Barbara Kilduff, soprano; Martin Kelley, tenor; and Donald Wilkinson, baritone. Musical director Libor Dudas will present a preconcert lecture at 4 p.m. $20, $15 seniors and students. 800-230-7555, fineartschorale.org.
Duxbury: Sunday Afternoon concert series, Art Complex Museum, 189 Alden St. May 4, 4 p.m. Cellist Natasha Farny performs the music of Charles Koechlin, Benjamin Britten, Arthur Honegger, and Johannes Brahms. Free. 781-934-6634.
Hingham: South Shore Conservatory, Cox Hall, 1 Conservatory Drive. May 18, 6:30 p.m. South Shore Conservatory presents violist Philip Rush and pianist Mark Goodman in concert featuring the music of Bach, Schubert, and Brahms. Free. 781-749-7565, ext. 34, southshoreconservatory.org.
Mansfield: Tweeter Center, 885 South Main St. May 15, Kanye West "Glow in the Dark Tour," Absolut 100, Rihanna, Lupe Fiasco, and N*E*R*D. May 18, KISS Concert featuring New Kids on The Block, Jonas Brothers, Natasha Bedingfield, Sean Kingston, Wyclef Jean, Metro Station, and others. May 31, JAM'N 94.5 Summer Jam. June 1, WBCN River Rave with Stone Temple Pilots, Everlast, Pennywise, Filter, and others. June 4, Eric Clapton with Robert Randolph and the Family Band. June 7, R.E.M. with Modest Mouse and the National. June 14, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers with Steve Winwood. June 15, Rush "Snakes and Arrows Tour." June 20, Iron Maiden. June 24, Dave Matthews Band with Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. June 25, Dave Matthews Band with Michael Franti and Spearhead. June 28 and 30, Pearl Jam with Ted Leo and the Pharmacists. July 12, John Mayer with Brett Dennen. July 16, Projekt Revolution Tour with Linkin Park, Chris Cornell, The Bravery, Ashes Divide. July 18, 311 with Snoop Dogg and Fiction Plane. July 19, Steve Miller Band with guest Joe Cocker. July 23, Vans Warped Tour. July 31, The Police with guest Elvis Costello and The Imposters. Ticket prices vary. 617-931-2000, tweetercenter.com.
Norton: Spring concert, Wheaton College, Watson Fine Arts Building. May 4, 7:30 p.m. The Great Woods Chamber Orchestra, conducted and directed by Earl Raney, performs Haydn's Symphony No. 88 and orchestral pops featuring the winners of second annual Concerto/Aria competition. $10, $5. 508-286-3575.
Plymouth: Beatlemania Live, Jungleplex, 8 Natalie Way. May 2, 8 p.m. Touring Beatle tribute show featuring 35 Beatles songs and several costume changes. Tickets $40, $20, $15. 508-747-1340, lorettalarocheproductions.com.
Quincy: The Spiritual Side of Jazz, Eastern Nazarene College, Wollaston Church of the Nazarene, 31 East Elm Ave. May 4, 7:30 p.m. Aardvark Jazz Orchestra, Mark Harvey founder and music director, continues its 35th season in a concert of sacred music by Duke Ellington, Mark Harvey, and others, featuring the Eastern Nazarene College Choral Union, a 50-voice choir, under the direction of Delvyn Case. Free. 617-745-3614.
Quincy: Eastern Nazarene College, Cove Fine Arts Center, Wendell Avenue. May 7, 6:30 p.m. ENC Symphonic Winds and Jazz ensembles, conducted by professor Steve Bell, will feature many musical styles and composers. Free. 617-745-3715, enc.edu.
Quincy: Thomas Crane Public Library, 40 Washington St. May 6, 7:30 p.m. Little Windows, Irish and Appalachian music performed by Mark Weems and Julee Glaub. Free. 617-376-1301, thomascranelibrary.org.
Randolph: Israel's birthday concert, Temple Beth Am, 871 North Main St. May 4, 11 a.m. Celebration of Israel's 60th birthday featuring a concert by Yom Hadash, a group that performs traditional Jewish songs to the Beatles. Followed by an Israeli-style luncheon and activities for families. Tickets $18, $5 children, family maximum $36, under 5 free. 781-963-0440, TempleBethAm@verizon.net, uscj.org/neweng/randolph/.
NIGHTLIFE
Bridgewater: Castaways Bar and Grille, 425 Bedford St. Thursdays, 9-11 p.m., karaoke. Fridays, live bands, and DJ plays between sets. Cover varies. 508-697-4800.
Canton: Irish Cultural Centre, 200 New Boston Drive. Weekly events include Friday night traditional music with fiddler Aidan Maher and a Saturday music session led by singer-songwriter Sean Kane, 8-11 p.m. Both in the pub on the ground floor. Free. 781-821-8291, irishculture.org.
Cedarville: British Beer Company, 2294 State Road. Live music Thursday-Saturday. No cover. 508-888-9756, britishbeer.com.
Halifax: All Seasons Cafe, 327 Plymouth St. (Route 106). Live music Friday and Saturday, 9 p.m. May 10, Easy Access. May 2 Frayed Knot. Cover varies. 781-293-4135.
Hanson: Damien's, 279 Spring St. Live bands Thursdays, 8:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 9 p.m. May 2, Infractions. May 3, Jimmy Sylvia. May 9, Nasty Habit. May 10, The Closers. No cover. 781-447-6556.
Hanover: Kiskadee Coffee, 53 Merchants Row. Open mike night every Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. Free. 781-354-0419.
Hingham: Asian C, 48 Whiting St. Live entertainment Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m. Karaoke on Saturdays. 6-8 p.m. Free food and wine tasting, reservations required. 781-740-0688.
Lakeville: Coffeehouse concerts, Somethin's Brewin' Book Cafe, 241 Main St. Entertainment every Friday, 7-9 p.m. May 2, Jim Palana. 508-946-5055, somethinsbrewin.com.
Marshfield: Venus II, Brant Rock, 277 Ocean St. Live music Friday and Saturday. No cover. 781-837-6368.
Norwell: Mount Blue restaurant, Route 123. Live music Thursday-Saturday, 9 p.m.-midnight. May 1, Brendan Feldstein. May 2, Elbow Room. No cover. 781-659-0050, mountblue.com.
Plymouth: The Vine, 18 Main St. Ext., under Cafe Strega. Sundays, 6-10 p.m., live bands. Closed Mondays. Tuesday-Sunday, 4 p.m.; Wednesdays, wine tastings, 6-8 p.m., $15, includes appetizers. Open mike Thursdays, 8 p.m. Music Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m.-midnight. No cover. 508-830-1942, thevineplymouth.com.
Plymouth: Run o' the Mill, 6 Spring Lane. Traditional Irish sessions Saturdays, 5:30-9 p.m., featuring chanteys, rebel songs, jigs, hornpipes, and sing-alongs. No cover. 508-830-1262.
Plymouth: Kiskadee Coffee, 18 Main St. Open mike every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Free. 508-830-1410.
Plymouth: Pub at Radisson Hotel, 180 Water St. Entertainment Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. No cover. 508-591-5036.
Quincy: Beachcomber, 797 Wollaston Beach Blvd. Sundays, 2 p.m.-1 a.m., Erin's Melody, Inchicore; 9 p.m., original '80s dance party. Every Wednesday, 8 p.m.-1 a.m., Showstopper's Karaoke, free pizza, 10 p.m.-midnight. Cover varies. 617-479-8989, beachcomberquincy.com.
Quincy: Cagney's, 214 Washington St. Sundays, 8 p.m., karaoke with Paul B. Thursdays, 7 p.m., Stump: Team Trivia Game Night. No cover. 617-847-3940.
Quincy: Cathay Pacific, 111 Hancock St. Sundays, 8-9 p.m. The New Blue Revue with Satch Romano, the HouseRockers, and Cheryl Aruda. No cover. 617-328-1115.
Quincy: The Holy Ground, 600 Hancock St. Thursdays at 9 p.m., Blues Club house night hosted by Joe Hajjar. Mondays, 9 p.m., dinner blues jam, hosted by Joe Hajjar and the Stubbies. Every Friday, 5-7 p.m., Sparkles the Clown. Cover varies. 617-773-4334, yardrock.com.
Quincy: Kilroy's Cafe, 132 East Howard St. Thursdays at 9 p.m., blues open mike. Bands Friday-Saturday, 9 p.m., and Sunday, 8:30-11:30 p.m. First Friday of the month open mike blues jam, no cover. 617-773-2660.
Quincy: Bad Abbots, 1546 Rear Hancock St. Live music Fridays and Saturdays. No cover. 617-774-1434, badabbots.com.
Quincy: Club 58, 58 Ross Way. Live music and DJs Friday and Saturday. Cover varies. 21 and over. 617-471-7788, club58.com.
Quincy: My House, 609 Washington St. Jazz every Wednesday, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. 617-201-2918.
Quincy: Skyline Club Upstairs, Skyline Bar and Grille, 305 Victory Road, Marina Bay. Sunday night blues, 9 p.m.-midnight. 617-471-1453, skylinemarinabay.com.
Rockland: R&R Tavern, 354 Liberty St. Live music Thursday-Saturday, 9:30 p.m. No cover. 781-792-2446.
Stoughton: Cabaret dinner theater, Starline Room Dinner Theatre, 49 Monk St. May 3, 10, 16, 17, 31 and June 7, 14, 21, and 28, 7 p.m. Mother's Day Matinee, May 11, 1 p.m. Forever Broadway musicals of Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables and Baby. $10 show charge with dinner purchase. 781-297-7469, starlineroom.com.
Walpole: British Beer Company, 85 Providence Highway. Live music Thursday-Saturday. No cover. 508-668-9909, britishbeer.com.
Wareham: Onset Bay Blues Cafe, 2 West Central Ave. Live bands Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 8:30 p.m., Country and Western music. Sundays, 7-11 p.m., blues jams with house instruments available, including a drum kit, guitars, harmonica mike, keyboards, and a Hammond H112. 508-291-2471, onsetbaybluescafe.com.
Weymouth: Next Page Blues Cafe, 550 Broad St. All shows 9:15 p.m. Wednesdays, 8-11 p.m., karaoke night with Miss Beverly D. Thursdays 9 p.m. May 1, Lickity Split-blues jam. May 2, Scratch My Back. May 3, Blind Billy and the Spectacles. May 8, Groove Authority-blues jam. May 9, Joe Mack Band. May 10, The Gulf Boys. May 15, Sugarblues-Blues Jam. May 16, "Undaunted" Professor Harp. May 17, Jeremy Lyons Band. No cover. 781-878-8767, 781-335-9796, nextpagecafe.com.
Weymouth: Hajjar's Bar and Grille, 969 Washington St. Entertainment daily, except Monday, 9 p.m.-12:45 a.m., in front lounge. Sundays, live blues band and open jams. Tuesdays, Team Trivia competitions. Wednesdays, DJ Suzie Cue. Thursdays, Memphis Rockabilly Band. Fridays and Saturdays, feature bands. No cover. 781-340-1870, hajjars.net.
DANCE
Abington: Saturday night dances, Veterans of Foreign Wars post, 500 Gliniewicz Way. Saturdays at 6:30 p.m., live music for dancing provided by the Corvairs. Light refreshments served, door prizes. $10. 781-878-3170.
Dedham: Ballroom and country dancing, Moseley's on the Charles, 50 Bridge St. Wednesdays, ballroom dancing with live music; dance lessons, 7-8 p.m.; and live music for dancing, 8-11 p.m.; doors open at 6:30 p.m. 781-326-3075, 781-925-1170, moseleysonthecharles.com.
FAMILY FARE
Easton: Children's Museum at the Old Fire Station, 9 Sullivan Ave. Thursdays 10:15 a.m., drop-in activities. Ages 10 and younger participate in play areas such as storybook cottage, post office, SS Rosemarie, camping exhibit, clinic, and workshops. May 1, Teddy Bear Day, children bring stuffed bears for a checkup with Kidsclinic nurse, sing songs, craft activities, tea party, and a bear hunt. May 1, 4-7 p.m. "Focus on Families: A Clearer Picture of Adoption and Foster Care," exhibit of photographs of adoptive and foster families on exhibit May 2-3. Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. $6, younger than 1 free. 508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org.
Hingham: Art exhibit and sale, Second Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 685 Main St. May 8-18. The 52d annual exhibit and sale of art and fine crafts features original oil paintings, watercolors, drawings, photographs, framed and unframed prints, handcrafted jewelry, and other handcrafted items, for viewing and for sale, by area artists. Visitors encouraged to vote for their favorite artist and the winner receives the Frank Vining Smith Award, a cash prize named for the late marine artist. A junior division exhibit, features artwork by students in grades K through 12 from 30 schools on the south shore. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday, noon-4 p.m. Free. 781-749-167.
Kingston: "Celebrate Mom Event," Indian Pond Country Club. May 4, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Women Build and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plymouth present a luncheon and day of pampering for mothers, hosted by Lisa Donovan from WXKS-FM (Kiss 108) radio show "Matty in the Morning." Proceeds benefit both organizations. $50 per adult and $20 per child 13 and under. To purchase tickets: InFullForce.com, hfhplymouth.org.
Milton: Open House and Kite Festival, Blue Hill Weather Observatory, summit of Great Blue Hill. May 3, 10 a.m.--4 p.m. Annual event features information on the history of the oldest continuously operating weather observatory in the country. Activities include rooftop viewing, weather demonstrations, kite-making and kite-flying, easy activities for children, weather exhibits, lectures, displays, and self-guided tours of the weather observatory. To access the activities at the observatory, walk/hike the 1-mile route to the summit. Free parking at the Trailside Museum south parking lot near the Blue Hill Ski Area on Route 138 in Milton. Free, but nominal fee for some activities. 617-696-0562.
Milton: Milton Green Day, Town Hall Gazebo, May 3, 8:30 a.m., coffee, juice, and muffins, then at 9 a.m. volunteers from 40 schools, neighborhood associations, service groups, and churches join the annual Milton Green Day cleanup effort at one of the 30 sites. Green team captains can pick up volunteer T-shirts and trash supplies in front of Town Hall May 1, 4-6 p.m. For list of participating groups: townofmilton.org. Volunteer information: e-mail miltongreenday@comcast.net
Stoughton: Green Fair, First Parish Universalist Church of Stoughton, 790 Washington St. May 3, noon-3 p.m. The event includes speakers and exhibits on environmental topics, including locally grown food, co-ops, farmers markets, beekeeping, composting, energy conservation, and recycling. Free. 781-344-7819, uustoughtonma.org.
LECTURES AND READINGS
Stoughton: Photographic travel series, Stoughton Public Library, 84 Park St. At 7:30 p.m. May 1, "A Taste of Italy." Free. 781-344-2711.
FILMS
Quincy: Foreign film series, Thomas Crane Public Library, 40 Washington St. May 8, 7 p.m. "The Violin," a Mexican film directed by Francisco Vargas. Free. 617-376-1301, thomascranelibrary.org
THEATER
Braintree: "Godspell," Curtain Call Theater, 182 Commercial St. May 9-10, 15-17, 8 p.m., and May 11, 2 p.m. The Broadway musical that retells the Gospel according to Matthew. Music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. $20, $18. 781-356-5113, curtaincallbraintree.org.
Brockton: "Radio/TV Classics Live!" Buckley Performing Arts Center, Massasoit Community College, 1 Massasoit Blvd. May 3, 7 p.m. tribute to WBZ radio, and May 4, 3 p.m. salute to Peg Lynch. The Massasoit Radio Players present their 19th annual show starring radio and television celebrities: Peg Lynch ("Ethel and Albert"), Rosemary Rice ("I Remember Mama"), Herb Ellis ("Dragnet"), Donald Buka, Jordan Rich (WBZ), Gil Santos (WBZ), Rod Fritz (WBZ), Barry Nolan (
Foxborough: "Thoroughly Modern Millie," Orpheum Theatre, 1 School St. May 2-3, 7:30 p.m., and May 3-4, 2 p.m. The Un-Common Theatre Company presents the musical comedy. $20, $15 seniors. 800-838-3006, 508-698-3098, 508-543-2787, brownpapertickets.com, uncommontheatre.org, orpheum.org.
Hingham: "Nunsense," Hingham South Elementary School, 831 Main St. May 2-3, 8 p.m., and May 4, 2 p.m. Hingham Civic Music Theatre performs the musical comedy. $16, $14, tickets available at Buttonwood Books, Route 3A, Cohasset, and Nobles, Hingham Square. 781-837-1499, hcmtstagemomma@comcast.net.
Milton: "Play It Again Sam," Milton Woman's Club, 90 Reedsdale Road. May 2-3, 8 p.m., and May 4, 2 p.m. Evening performances are cabaret-style, including complimentary wine, soft drinks, and snacks. The Milton Players present the play by Woody Allen. $20 evening and $15 matinee. 617-698-7469, miltonplayers.org.
Norton: Student recitals, Wheaton College, Weber Theater, Watson Fine Arts building. May 2-3, 7:30 p.m., and May 16, 2 p.m. Theatre arts majors and minors perform an original production influenced by "Dante's Inferno." 508-286-3575.
BENEFITS
Brockton: Wine Tasting, Shaw's Center, 1 Lexington St. May 3, 1-5 p.m. The Brockton Library Foundation and 1666 Liquors of Brockton host the event featuring raffles with prizes to include a Bose Wave sound system. Proceeds benefit renovation project at the West Branch Library. $25, tickets available at all library locations in Brockton. 508-580-7894.
Hingham: Men's Cut-athon, Maxime Salon, 1 Derby St. May 2, 5-9 p.m. An evening of haircuts, hot chili, and cold beverages for men. Proceeds benefit Hingham Education Foundation's Get Smart Campaign to provide interactive white boards for Hingham classrooms. $40, includes haircut, food, and drinks. Reservations, 781-749-2239, tiffanie@maximesalon.com.
Mansfield: Flamingo treatment, Mansfield Elm Tree Academy, 510 Elm St. Through May, $10 will buy an opportunity to blanket an unsuspecting resident's Mansfield home with a lawn full of pink flamingos, which comes with a "You've Been Flamingoed" sign for 48 hours. Fund-raiser for new garden and sandbox at the preschool playground. 508-339-2030.
Plympton: Relay for Life, Plymouth South High School, Longmeadow Road. June 20 and 21. An all-night event/fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society. 508-269-2247, imgoodnu@hotmail.com.
ON THE WATER
Plymouth: Mayflower II, Water Street downtown, open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dockside exhibit at Plymouth State Pier features the history of Mayflower II from conception to construction to trans-Atlantic voyage. Profiles the men, women, and kitten that sailed to Plymouth in 1957. Also, a 17th-century Wampanoag customs booth where visitors explain the reason for their visit, declare valuables, and find out whether they are permitted to stay in the New World. 508-746-1622, plimoth.org.
Regional: The Office of Coastal Zone Management has produced a free guidebook that features nearly 400 destinations for day trips and coastal activities. The Massachusetts Coast Guide to Boston and the North Shore has 83 pages of information about sites from Hingham to Salisbury. Online version, mass.gov/czm/coastguide. To request a copy of the guide, write to Office of Coastal Zone Management, 251 Causeway St., Suite 800, Boston, MA 02114, e-mail czm@state.ma.us, or call 617-626-1212.
NATURE
Trustees of Reservations:
Eleanor Cabot Bradley Reservation at Route 128 and Route 138 in Canton has 90 acres with 3 miles of trails. Daily 8 a.m.-dusk; free. Visual Arts Center at 963 Washington St. (Route 138) offers exhibitions, classes, and tours. 781-821-8853.
Signal Hill, University Road in Canton. Property has 150 acres of walking trails, open meadows, access to the Neponset River for canoeing and kayaking. Dogs welcome on leashes. 781-784-0567, ext. 7000.
Whitney Thayer Woods on Route 3A in Cohasset and Hingham has 824 acres with 10 miles of trails; free; 10 a.m.-dusk daily.
World's End Reservation on Martins Lane in Hingham. Horseback riding permits available; 4 miles of trails. Daily 10 a.m.-dusk; $4.50; younger than 2 free.
Weir River Farm on Turkey Hill Lane in Hingham features 75 acres with 1 1/2 miles of hiking trails; free. Daily 8 a.m.-sunset.
Two Mile Reservation on Union Street in Marshfield features easy hiking trails to the North River. Sunrise to sunset; free.
Albert F. Norris Reservation features 129 acres with 2 miles of trails on Dover and West streets in Norwell. Wooded upland and salt marsh with trails along North River. Daily, 10 a.m.-dusk; free.
The Holmes Reservation on Court Street in Plymouth features 26 acres of open fields with views of Duxbury Harbor and Plymouth Beach. 781-837-9400. Daily, sunrise to sunset.
Easton: Borderland State Park on Massapoag Avenue. The 1,570-acre property has six ponds and four trails, former home of Oakes and Blanche Ames. $3, free for 12 and younger. 508-238-6566.
Easton: Natural Resource Trust Easton Sheep Pasture, 307 Main St. Features 150 acres of farm and wildlife areas with 6 miles of hiking trails, farm animals, picnic areas, community gardens, and programs throughout the year. Every other Saturday at 10 a.m., "Sheep Thrills Fiber Circle," welcomes new members to join group of knitters, crocheters, and spinners. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Outdoor Adventures Preschool Classes: May 6, 13, 20, 27, and June 3, 10, 17. Each week children and a preschool naturalist discuss a nature-related theme, take hikes, and may also read stories, do crafts, and activities for ages 3 1/2-5 years old. Drop-ins allowed, space permitting. $30/3 weeks; $40/4 weeks. NRT Farmers Market, May through October, Tuesdays, 2-6 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., is held in front of the blue barn on Main Street across the street from the NRT 261R Main St. entrance. May 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. NRT annual Farm and Fun Day, a family event featuring open barns, 4H demonstrations, farm photos, arts and crafts, and spring babies including chicks, calves, and lambs. Free. Open dawn to dusk. 508-238-6049, nrtofeaston.org.
Freetown: State forest, Slab Bridge Road. Near the main entrance is a day-use area, with picnic area, wading pool, fields, and restrooms. The remainder of the forest consists of 50 miles of unpaved roads and trails. Horseback riders, mountain bikers, and seasonal motorcycle and snowmobile users are welcome, as are hunters and anglers in season. Rattlesnake Brook, which meanders through much of the property, is stocked with brook trout each spring. Profile Rock, a 50-foot outcropping, shows a profile of what the Wampanoags believe to be Chief Massasoit. The 5,441-acre Forest also includes the 227-acre Watuppa Reservation, which belongs to the Wampanoag Nation, and is the site of annual tribal meetings. 508-644-5522, mass.gov/dcr/parks/southeast/free.htm.
Hingham: Wompatuck State Park, Union Street, Route 228. The 3,526-acre park offers 262 wooded campsites, 12 miles of paved bicycle trails, and miles of wooded bridle paths and hiking trails. The park is popular with trailer campers: electrical and water hookups are available. Fishing is allowed in the Cohasset Reservoir. A boat ramp is provided for car-top boats. The park is named for an Indian chief the local Colonists knew as Josiah Wompatuck. In 1665, Chief Wompatuck deeded the park and the surrounding land to the English settlers. During World War II the park was used as an ammunition depot by the US military. Free. 781-749-7160, mass.gov/dcr/parks/southeast/womp.htm.
Kingston: Herring count, Elm Street. Through May 31, The Jones River Watershed Association encourages individual or group participation in the fourth annual fish count at the fish ladder on Elm Street. 781-585-2322, volunteer@jonesriver.org.
Marion: Sippican Land Trust, Open House and Property Tour, 354 Front St. May 4, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Open house at the new SLT office where maps and information about each property and refreshments will be available. A tour of several SLT properties featuring wildlife, woodlands, sandy beaches, and cranberry bogs will be led by guides who will talk about the preserve and answer questions. Rain or shine. Free. 508-748-3080.
Milton: Blue Hills Reservation at 695 Hillside St. A revised trail guide and map is available for $2. Open dawn to dusk, with more than 7,000 acres of walking trails, a walking club, and free outdoor activities sponsored by the state Department of Conservation and Recreation. The Blue Hills Adult Walking Club meets weekly at 1 p.m. for recreational walks. May 4, moderate walk, hilly terrain, 3.5 miles. Meet at the Houghton's Pond main parking lot, 840 Hillside St. May 10, moderate walk, some hills, 2 miles. Meet at Little Blue Hill lot, Route 138, Park and Ride in Canton. Free. 617-698-1802, mass.gov/dcr/parks/metroboston/blue.htm.
Norwell: South Shore Natural Science Center, 48 Jacobs Lane. The center has a nature store and six walking trails; interactive indoor exhibits include the EcoZone, which incorporates animals in a re-creation of their natural habitat. Every Saturday at 10 a.m., feed an animal Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Vine Hall gallery: Through May 17, "Hedda - A Retrospective," tribute to local artist who painted subjects and landscapes in varied mediums, many of which included the Jacobs Farm area. Also on display are paintings never seen, photographs by her son, Andrew Zona, and wood pieces by nephew Richard Friberg. The center also features a nature preschool and function room. $5, $3 children older than 2. 781-659-2559, ssnsc.org.
Massachusetts Audubon and other properties:
Visual Arts Center at 963 Washington St. in Canton houses an extensive collection of natural history art and photography. Trails open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, and the gallery is open 1-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Admission $4, $3 seniors and children. 781-821-8853 or massaudubon.org.
North Hill Marsh on Mayflower Street in Duxbury. Dawn to dusk. 138 acres. $3, $2 for seniors, children. 781-837-9400.
South Shore Regional Center and North River Sanctuary at 2000 Main St. (Route 3A) in Marshfield Hills. Every Friday morning, join a group in search of the birds of Massachusetts in and around Plymouth County. Free. One Saturday a month, Mass. Audubon educator John Galluzzo retraces the steps taken by the Friday morning birders during a "Friday Morning Rewind." Registration required, $15. 781-837-9400, ext. 7909. More than 2 miles of nature trails open dawn to dusk. South Shore Regional Office with library, gift shop, art displays, open 8:30-4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; $3, $2 seniors and children. 781-837-9400, massaudubon.org/southshore.
Daniel Webster Sanctuary off Winslow Cemetery Road, Marshfield. 781-837-9400, ext. 7909. Dawn to dusk; trails, wildlife blinds. 781-837-9400.
Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary trails at the Massachusetts Audubon sanctuary at 293 Moose Hill St. in Sharon offers 2,000 acres and 25 miles of trails. May 7 through June 30, "Alien Invasives," collection of images of the stems, leaves, pods, and seeds of non-native and native plants by Marcella Stasta. June 8, noon-4 p.m. opening reception followed by "Collaborating With Nature: Hands on Workshop," 1:30-3 p.m. Free, but registration required. Gallery open daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Gift shop and office open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends. Trail $4, $3 for children and seniors. 781-784-5691 or e-mail moosehill@massaudubon.org.
MUSEUMS
Brockton: Fuller Craft Museum, 455 Oak St. Saturdays, 10-11 a.m., workshops for children led by professional artists. Experiment with different craft media each week; $8 a child or $15 for two. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays, 2 p.m., guided tours with docents; $8, $5 seniors and students, younger than 12 free. 508-588-6000, fullercraft.org.
Cohasset: Our World Children's Global Discovery Museum, 100 Sohier St. Geared to children up to age 12. "Biodiversity 911: Saving Life on Earth," crawl through a coral reef, look at life in a giant tropical tree, or select sustainably harvested "catch of the day" at market. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday to Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday. $5. 781-383-3198, ourworldcgdm.org.
Dedham: Museum of Bad Art, 580 High St., Dedham Community Theater. Includes paintings and sculptures from around the world. Monday-Friday, 2-10 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 1-10 p.m. Free. 781-444-6757. dedhamcommunitytheater.com.
Duxbury: Art Complex Museum, 189 Alden St. On 13 acres of woodland and fields, founded by the
Hull: Lifesaving Museum, 1117 Nantasket Ave. Restored lifesaving station, includes shipwreck displays, observation tower, navigation and exhibits for children. The museum features several rooms: The Orientation Room helps visitors trace the history of organized lifesaving from its 18th-century roots to today's Coast Guard. The Keeper's Room celebrates the life and deeds of Joshua James, introduces visitors to the Massachusetts Humane Society, and tells the story of the Great Storm of 1888. The Boat Room displays the lifesavers' actual apparatus, including the massive surf boat Nantasket, a rigged Beach Cart, and a working Breeches Buoy. The Edward Rowe Snow Room features lighthouse models, exhibits about Boston Harbor, the museum's rare book collection, video library, and research room. The Children's Navigation Loft is a special play attic for children, complete with dress-up trunks, games, puzzles, maritime activities, and a climb-on sailing ship. The Observation Cupola, atop the station, allows for views of Boston Harbor and the islands. Wednesday-Sunday and Monday holidays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5, $3 seniors. 781-925-5433, lifesavingmuseum.org.
Milton: Captain Forbes House Museum, 215 Adams St. Home of a family prominent in the China trade, includes Abraham Lincoln collection of Mary Bowditch Forbes, with Lincoln and Civil War memorabilia. Tuesday-Thursday, 1-4 p.m. $8, $5 for seniors and students, 12 and younger free. 617-696-1815, forbeshousemuseum.org.
Plymouth: Cordage Museum, 10 Cordage Park Circle. Memorabilia from the era when Plymouth was a major producer of rope. Free. Saturdays and Sundays, noon-4 p.m. 508-746-7707, plymouthcordagemuseum.org.
Plymouth: Pilgrim Hall Museum, 75 Court St. May 8, 9:30 a.m. Opening day. The oldest public US museum in continuous operation, founded in 1824 by Mayflower descendants. Pilgrim and Native American artifacts. Through Dec. 1, "It Came on the Mayflower!" exhibition highlighting the museum's collection of artifacts from the 1620 voyage. Admission $6, $5 seniors, free for children. Daily, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., $7, $6 seniors, $4 children 5-7. Plymouth residents free. 508-746-1620, pilgrimhall.org.
Plymouth: Plimoth Plantation, 137 Warren Ave. Living history museum, 1627 Pilgrim Village, Hobbomock (Wampanoag Indian) home site, carriage house, crafts center, Nye rare breeds barn. Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., the Mayflower II is on Water Street downtown, open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Every day at 2:30 p.m., the film "Desperate Crossing: The Untold Story of the Mayflower," shot at Plimoth Plantation with members of the Wampanoag community and staff, will be shown. New exhibit of photographs and text, entitled "FlightPath," which explores the crucial yet largely unknown role that Plymouth Beach plays in an ancient system of shorebird migration routes running from the tip of South America to the Arctic tundra. 508-746-7222, plymouthguild.com. Tickets: Plantation only $24, $19 seniors, $14 ages 6-12; with tour of Mayflower $28, $22 seniors and students, $18 ages 6-12, free age 6 and younger. Mayflower II only: $10, $7 seniors and students, $7 ages 6-12. 508-746-1622, plimoth.org.
Scituate: Maritime and Irish Mossing Museum, 30 Driftway. In the 1739 residence of Captain Benjamin James, exhibitions on shipbuilding, Irish mossing, rescue, lighthouses, mariner antiques, and shipwrecks. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. $4, $3 seniors, $2 children, younger than 6 free. 781-545-1083.
HISTORY
Dedham: Season opening, Fairbanks House Museum, 511 East St. May 1. The house has functioned as a museum since 1904. Exhibits interpret life from the mid-17th through the late-19th centuries. Timbers in the Fairbanks House were tested and through tree-ring dating were found to be from trees felled between 1637 and 1641, indicating it as the oldest American timber-framed structure known in North America. Home to eight generations of the Fairbanks family, the house is owned and operated by The Fairbanks Family in America Inc. Tours on the hour for 45 minutes, last tour begins at 4 p.m. $5, $2 for children ages 6-12. Children under 6 are admitted free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Docent opportunities available. 781-326-1170, fairbankshouse.org, homestead@fairbankshouse.org.
Dedham: Dedham Historical Society Museum, 612 High St. The museum exhibits the largest collection of original Dedham pottery. The society owns the Dedham Pottery trademark and has issued a limited-edition Turkey Plate, reproduced from its collection; 300 plates are available. To purchase a plate, send a check for $106, plus 5 percent tax for Massachusetts residents, and $8 if shipping is required. Mail to Dedham Historical Society, Box 215, Dedham 02027-0215. Open Tuesday-Friday, noon-4 p.m.; on even-dated Saturdays, 1-4 p.m.; and by appointment. 781-326-1385, DedhamHistorical.org.
Plymouth: The Jenney Grist Mill, 6 Spring Lane. The 16th-century nonprofit living history museum educates visitors to Plymouth about the agricultural, economic, and historic significance of the 1636 mill. The mill will be open for tours with a costumed miller who will talk about the importance of fish to the Pilgrims and how fish helped them to survive. Learn about the original mill built in 1636 and see how it is operated. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. $6, $4 ages 5-12, 4 and under free. 508-747-4544, jenneygristmill.org.
Quincy: Adams National Historical Park, Visitor Center, 1250 Hancock St. The park tells the story of four generations of the Adams family from 1720 to 1927. Two main sites: the birthplaces of the second US president, John Adams, and the sixth US president, John Quincy Adams. Old House, 135 Adams St., was home to four generations of the Adams family, and the Stone Library containing more than 14,000 historic volumes. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Guided tours required in order to view interiors of the houses. Tours are two hours, leave regularly from the Visitor Center, 1250 Hancock St. Last tour departs daily at 3:15 p.m. $5, free for 16 and younger. 617-773-1177, nps.gov/adam.
ARTS
Canton: Canton Public Library, 786 Washington St. May 2, 7:30 p.m. The Canton Art Association presents a charcoal portrait demonstration with artist Sherrill Hannon. Free. 781-828-9358.
Cohasset: South Shore Art Center, Ripley Road. Through May 11, in the Bancroft Gallery: "Reflections in Exile: Five Contemporary African Artists Respond to Social Injustice," a multimedia exhibit featuring work by five African artists: Ilona Anderson (South Africa), Khalid Kodi (Sudan), Chaz Maviyane-Davies (Zimbabwe), Salem Mekuria, and Ezra Wube (Ethiopia). The Dillon Gallery will showcase the work of gallery artists Beverly Carreiro, Irma Cerese, Susan Charles, Eleanor LeBlanc, and Michele Meister. Faculty feature is Abby Zonies. Open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, noon-4 p.m. 781-383-2787, ssac.org.
Easton: Cushing-Martin Gallery, Stonehill College, Washington Street. Through May 18, "Endbegin," exhibition of works including photography, painting, drawing, sculpture, graphic design, and creative clothing design by Fine Arts students. May 1, 5:30--8:30 p.m. opening reception. Free. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. 508-565-1755, stonehill.edu.
Marion: Marion Art Center, 80 Pleasant St. Through May 21, "Paintings and Fabric," exhibit of works by Deborah Baronas. Tuesday-Friday, 1-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 508-748-1266, marionartcenter.org.
Marshfield: Ventress Memorial Library gallery, Library Plaza, Webster Street. Through May 2, "New Work by Sandra Donnellan," exhibit of landscape paintings. Monday-Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 781-837-8091, or e-mail northriverarts@verizon.net.
Norton: Wheaton College, Beard and Weil Galleries, Watson Fine Arts building. Through May 16, "The Senior Studio Art Majors Exhibition," featuring sculpture, paintings, graphic designs, installation art, textile, and jewelry. Monday-Saturday, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Free. 508-286-3644.
Norwell: James Library and Center for Performing Arts, 24 West St. May 2, through 28, "Design by Nature: Fine Art Photography by Cindy Vallino," of Cohasset. Tuesday-Friday 1-5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 781-659-7100, jameslibrary.org.
Scituate: Front Street Art Gallery, 124 Front St. Through May 25, exhibit of original watercolor paintings by Wendy Hale. Opening reception, May 2, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 1:30-5 p.m. Free. 781-545-6150.
Stoughton: Perkins gallery, Striar Jewish Community Center, 445 Central St. Through May 9, "Time and Essence," an exhibit featuring works by artists Gloria Geller and Judith Wolfe. 781-341-2016, striarjcc.org.
WORKSHOPS/COURSES
Manomet: Writer's workshop, Manomet Branch Library, 12 Strand Ave. Every third Thursday at 7 p.m. through June. A writer's group workshop designed for beginner and amateur writers. Participants should bring a short written piece on a character and will be invited to share it with the group for feedback. New members welcome. Free. 508-830-4185, plymouthpubliclibrary.org.
Mansfield: Summer Theater Education Programs, Mansfield Music and Arts Society, Blackbox Theater, 30 Crocker St. The society is accepting enrollment for summer programs. Class offerings online. 508-339-2822, mmas.org.
Plymouth: Art classes, The Plymouth Guild for the Arts, Russell Building, 11 North St. The guild has added six additional art classes to its May/June session: kids' clay, ages 8-13; adult clay, comic strip art for middle school grades and comic strip art for high grades. In addition, wheel throwing, both private and semiprivate classes available. A free open painting studio on Saturdays, 1-3 p.m., starts May 10. Other classes include drawing, pastel, life drawing, oil/acrylic painting, pen and ink, watercolor, still life painting, photography, abstract expressionist painting, batik, and invitations. 508-746-7222, plymouthguild.org.
Items and photos may be sent to Pamela Teehan Miele, Calendar, Globe South, 1165 Washington St., Hanover 02339, or to southcalendar@globe.com. Include date, time, location, price, and phone.
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