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Events in December 2023
| Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
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December 1, 2023
“Rockin’ for the Hungry”: Food Gatherers
Nov. 28–Dec. 2. Live outdoor broadcasts by radio station 107one DJs. Cash and nonperishable food donations requested. Also, a silent auction of music memorabilia (see foodgatherers.org). 6 a.m.–7 p.m., Kroger, 400 S. Maple. Free admission. (734) 761–2796.
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Annual Holiday Sale: Kiwanis Center
Every Fri. & Sat., Nov. 24–Dec. 30. Sale of used toys, seasonal gifts and decorations, sporting goods, kitchen items, collectables, books, jewelry, office supplies, furniture, and more. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (Fri.) & 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Sat.), Kiwanis Center West, 100 N. Staebler. Free admission. (734) 368–9738.
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“Artists Speak”: UMMA
Chicago-based installation artist Theaster Gates and sculptor and multimedia artist Adebunmi Gbadebo are joined by University of the Arts (Philadelphia) museum studies professor Monica O. Montgomery to discuss their work, including pieces featured in the current (through January 7) UMMA exhibit Hear Me Now: The Black Potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina. 10–11:30 a.m., UMMA Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State. Free, but preregistration required at bit.ly/UMMA-artists-speak-12-1-23, (734) 764–0395.
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"Never Alone": U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program
U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program. (2401 Plymouth Rd.). Weekly activities. Free (except as noted). Preregistration required for some events. For Zoom links see calendar at bit.ly/umturnercalendar. (734) 998–9353, michmed.org/tswp, tswp.info@umich.edu.
Never Alone (Fri. 10–11 a.m. via Zoom) social group.
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7th Annual Christmas Crèche Exhibit: Holy Faith Episcopal Church & ELCA Lutheran Church
Dec. 1 & 2. Indoor display of more than 300 Nativities from around the world. Refreshments & kids activities. Live music at various times includes the local Celtic group Foxtree, pianist Joy Morin, folk singer-guitarists Katie Geddes and Eric Fithian, the First Presbyterian Church of Saline bell choir, and more. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Holy Faith Church, 6299 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd., Saline. Free. (734) 429–2991.
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Jewelry Sale: U-M Turner Senior Resource Center
Vintage and costume jewelry, pre-owned and donated. Cash or check only. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., 2401 Plymouth Rd. Suite C. (734) 998–9353.
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Playgroups for Babies: AADL
Every Mon.–Wed. & Fri. (different times): Fifteen minutes of stories, rhymes, and songs led by AADL staffers, followed by a short open play. For kids up to 24 months (with caregiver). No older siblings. Malletts Creek (Mon. 10:30 a.m., except Dec. 25), Traverwood (Tues. 11 a.m.), Westgate (Wed. 10:30 a.m.), and Downtown (Fri. 10:30 a.m.). Free.
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“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Every Tues.–Sun. All age 6 & up invited into the museum’s Nature Lab and Micro Worlds Lab to use scientific tools and museum specimens to answer questions and solve problems. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478.
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Holiday Artist Market: The Guild of Artists & Artisans
Every Tues.–Sat., Nov. 24–Dec. 23. Juried show & sale of works in various media and styles by over 50 area artists. Featuring jewelry, functional and decorative ceramics, small and large paintings, prints, fiber art, wood carvings, and more. Also, every Fri. & Sat., artist trunk shows. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., The Gutman Gallery, 118 N. 4th Ave. Free admission. (734) 662–3382.
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Holiday Artist Market: The Guild of Artists & Artisans
Every Tues.–Sat., Nov. 24–Dec. 23. Juried show & sale of works in various media and styles by over 50 area artists. Featuring jewelry, functional and decorative ceramics, small and large paintings, prints, fiber art, wood carvings, and more. Also, every Fri. & Sat., artist trunk shows. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., The Gutman Gallery, 118 N. 4th Ave. Free admission. (734) 662–3382.
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U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
Every Fri.–Sun., Dec. 1–23, and Dec. 27 & 28. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. Did an Asteroid Really Kill the Dinosaurs? (11:30 a.m.) looks at cosmic collisions across the solar system including the 6-mile-wide asteroid that hit the earth 66 million years ago. The Sky Tonight (12:30 & 2:30 p.m.) is an exploration of the current night sky, with tips on how to find the cardinal directions, constellations, and planets on your own. We Are Stars (1:30 p.m.) explores the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and our explosive origins, connecting life on Earth to the evolution of the universe. Various times, U-M MNH, 1105 North University. $8 at the front desk. Limited capacity. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh, (734) 764–0478.
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“Music and Poetry on Winter and Christmas": First Baptist Church Ad Libitum Concert Series
The church’s organist Shin-Ae Chun performs, on organ and piano, the allegro non molto from the “L’Inverno (Winter)” piece in Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, and “The Shepherds at the Manger (in dulci jubilo)” from Liszt’s Weihenachtsbaum (Christmas Tree). Between performances, First Baptist minister Heather Entrekin reads poems by Frost, Livingston, Longfellow, e. e. cummings, & others. Also, carol singing, including standards such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Little Drummer Boy,” and “Joy to the World.” Noon, First Baptist Church, 517 E. Washington. Free. fbca2.org, (734) 663-9376.
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“With this hand I strum the harp of your soul”: U-M Center for World Performance Studies Lecture
Cuban American poet Richard Blanco joins U-M anthropology professor Ruth Behar, a fellow Cuban American poet, in a conversation about the late Cuban handmade book artist Rolando Estévez (1953-2023). Followed by a reception with Cuban pastries and music and a display of Estévez’s work. Noon–3 p.m., U-M Hatcher Graduate Library, Gallery Lab, Rm. 100H. Free. (734) 936–2777.
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Afternoon Carillon Concerts: U-M Music School
Dec. 1 & 4-6. A U-M student or faculty carillonist, and occasional guest performers, play the U-M’s 2 sets of bells. Noon, Burton Memorial Tower, 230 N. Ingalls (except Dec. 6) & 1:20 p.m., Lurie Tower, 1230 Murfin, North Campus. Free. (734) 764–0583.
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Chime Concert: Kerrytown Market & Shops
Every Fri., Sat., & Wed. All invited to play one of 200 songs, with melodies transcribed in numbers, on the 17-bell chime’s numbered keys. Ambitious players can add chords. Kids welcome. Noon–12:30 p.m. (Wed. & Fri.) & 10:30–11 a.m. (Sat.). Kerrytown Market. Free. ofglobal@aol.com.
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Hanukkah Bazaar: Women of Temple Beth Emeth
Dec. 1 & 3. Sale of gelt, candles, dreidels, menorahs, gift wrap, toys, cards, kitchen items, music, jewelry, and more. Noon–7 p.m. (Fri.) & 3–7 p.m. (Sun.), TBE, 2309 Packard. Free admission. (734) 665-4744.
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Santa: Briarwood Mall
Daily Nov. 24–Dec. 24 (Mon.–Sat. noon–8 p.m. & Sun. noon–6 p.m.): All kids invited to sit with Santa; photos available for purchase. Dec. 10 is “Pet Photo Night” (6–8 p.m.) for 4-legged, leashed, friendly pets that weigh less than 60 lbs. A session for kids with special needs is held before the mall opens on Dec. 3, 9–10:30 a.m. Note: Santa takes a break 3–4 p.m. Briarwood Von Maur court. Appointments encouraged at simon.com/santa. (734) 769–9610.
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Tai Chi: U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program
U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program. (2401 Plymouth Rd.). Weekly activities. Free (except as noted). Preregistration required for some events. For Zoom links see calendar at bit.ly/umturnercalendar. (734) 998–9353, michmed.org/tswp, tswp.info@umich.edu.
Tai Chi (Mon., Wed., & Fri. noon–12:30 p.m. via Zoom).
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U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology Flash Talk
Kelsey director of education Cathy Person discusses (via Zoom) the museum’s digital project to create 3D models of select objects to be made available to the public online for free. Noon–12:30 p.m., for URL see bit.ly/dec2023flashtalk. Free. (734) 764–9304.
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"Walking Off the Pounds": U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program
U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program. (2401 Plymouth Rd.). Weekly activities. Free (except as noted). Preregistration required for some events. For Zoom links see calendar at bit.ly/umturnercalendar. (734) 998–9353, michmed.org/tswp, tswp.info@umich.edu.
Walking Off the Pounds (Mon., Wed., & Fri. 12:30–1 p.m. via Zoom).
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Coral Reef Tank Visit: U-M Museum of Natural History
Every Wed. & Fri. (except Dec. 27 & 29). U-M biology professor Jim Bardwell leads a 30-minute tour of his lab’s large coral reef tank featuring many species of coral, anemone, and fish. Age 6 and up. 12:30 p.m., U-M MNH, 1105 North University. Free. Limited capacity. Same-day sign-up at the welcome desk. (734) 764–0478.
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“Neighborhood Nature Restoration Days at County Farm Park”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
Dec. 1, 16, & 18. All invited to join WCPARC park steward Jonathan Parker in removing invasive plants like honeysuckle from Britton Woods. Snacks, gloves, and water provided (bring your own water bottle). 1–4 p.m., County Farm Park Medford Pavilion, Medford Rd. entrance near Manchester Rd. Free. Preregistration required at parksonline.ewashtenaw.org (#VOL836102) or email bertrandm@washtenaw.org.
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“Speaking Freely”: UMMA
Three sessions of short talks and round table discussions (with Q&A) about Hear Me Now: The Black Potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina, the current UMMA exhibit that runs through Jan. 7. Moderator is University of the Arts (Philadelphia, PA) museum studies professor Monica O. Montgomery. 1-2:15 p.m.: Michigan poet laureate Nandi Comer, International African American Museum (Charleston, SC) president Tonya Matthews, Aiken (SC) historian and author Wayne O'Bryant, and Nonprofit Enterprise at Work president Yodit Mesfin Johnson. 2:30-3:45 p.m.: National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.) American slavery curator Mary Elliot, Wright Museum of African American History (Detroit) vice president James Claiborne, and African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County curator Beverly Willis. 4-5:30 p.m.: A multigenerational group of descendants of potter David Drake, an enslaved, Black, mid-19th-century Old Edgefield potter whose giant, poetry-inscribed pots are one focus of the Hear Me Now exhibit. 1–5:30 p.m., UMMA Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State. Free, but preregistration requested at bit.ly/umma-speaking-12-1-23, (734) 764–0395.
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Bridge: U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program
U-M Turner Senior Wellness Program. (2401 Plymouth Rd.). Weekly activities. Free (except as noted). Preregistration required for some events. For Zoom links see calendar at bit.ly/umturnercalendar. (734) 998–9353, michmed.org/tswp, tswp.info@umich.edu.
Bridge (Tues. & Fri. 1–4 p.m. in person), call if interested.
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Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
Every Tues., Thurs., & Fri. through Dec. 22. All invited to play ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge (Fri. & Tues.) or a 499er game (Thurs.) for players with no more than 499 ACBL master points. 1–4 p.m. or so (arrive by 12:45 p.m.), City Club, 1830 Washtenaw Ave. $6 per person. If you plan to come without a partner, email ronmeade@comcast.net beforehand.
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Preschool Storytimes: AADL
Every Mon.–Fri. (different times): Half-hour program of stories and songs for kids ages 2–5 (with caregiver). Pittsfield (Mon., except Dec. 25, 10:30 a.m. & Thurs. 11 a.m.), Downtown (Tues. & Dec. 10, 11 a.m.), Malletts Creek (Tues. 11 a.m. & Wed. 10:30 a.m.), Traverwood (Thurs. 11 a.m.), and Westgate (Fri. 1 p.m.). Free.
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Afternoon Carillon Concerts: U-M Music School
Dec. 1 & 4-6. A U-M student or faculty carillonist, and occasional guest performers, play the U-M’s 2 sets of bells. Noon, Burton Memorial Tower, 230 N. Ingalls (except Dec. 6) & 1:20 p.m., Lurie Tower, 1230 Murfin, North Campus. Free. (734) 764–0583.
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“In Praise of Addiction: An Invitation”: U-M Anthropology Department Roy A. Rappaport Lecture
Talk by U-M anthropology professor Elizabeth F.S. Roberts. Last in a series of 4 monthly lectures on the social disdain for dependency and addiction in the U.S. and how other countries offer a different approach. 3–5 p.m., Rackham Assembly Hall, 915 E. Washington. For livestream see bit.ly/umrappaportlecture. Free. (734) 764–7274.
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“Challenging Paradigms in Early Mammalian Evolution”: U-M Earth and Environmental Sciences Department Smith Lecture
Kent (OH) State University earth sciences professor Lucas Weaver discusses his work on early mammalian paleontology. 3:30–4:30 p.m., 1100 North University Bldg., Rm. 1528. Free.
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“Untold Stories, Part I: Exhibition Walkthrough With the Artists”: U-M Stamps School of Art & Design
Self-guided tour of Untold Stories, Part I, an exhibit of photography, painting, & digital art by current art school faculty, including Jim Cogswell, Carlos F. Jackson, Heidi Kumao, Franc Nunoo-Quarcoo, and Emilia Yang. The artists are on hand to discuss the research and ideas that inform their work. 4:30-5:30 p.m., U-M Penny Stamps Gallery, 201 S. Division St. Free. (734) 936-0671.
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“Annual KindleFest”: Kerrytown District Association
Holiday festival with traditional German food, food trucks, and s’mores around fire pits. Face painting and crafts for kids and adults (5–7 p.m.). Live music by the Pioneer High School Choir (7–7:45 p.m.), the Ann Arbor Concert Band Brass Choir (8–8:45 p.m.), and the EMU Low Brass Band (9–9:45 p.m.). Beer, German Glühwein mulled wine by TeaHaus. Many Kerrytown district businesses open until 11 p.m. with holiday bargains. 5–10 p.m., Farmers Market, Kerrytown District & TeaHaus, 204 N. Fourth Ave. Free admission. (734) 662–5008.
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“Fourth Avenue Midnight Madness”: Bløm Meadworks/Cahoots/Gutman Gallery
Live music by handpan (a kind of steelpan that originated in Trinidad & Tobago) player Daniel Dinay (5:30–7 p.m.), the nationally known Community High School Jazz Band (6–9 p.m.), and members of the Pioneer High School Orchestra (7–9 p.m.). Also, a scavenger hunt, artist markets, hot mulled mead, and baked goods. 5–11 p.m., various locations along S. Fourth Ave., downtown. Free admission.
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Liberty Plaza Holiday Gift Market: Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation
Market of artisan goods, holiday decor, and more from 20 local vendors. Free pedicab rides provided by Boober to and from Kerrytown District Association's Annual KindleFest at the Farmers Market. Midnight and Moonlight Madness (on State St. and Main St.) also happening this evening. 5–9 p.m. Liberty Plaza, E. Liberty at S. Division. Free admission.
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“Pets and Pajamas Movie Night”: HSHV
Dec. 1 (5:30–8:30 p.m.): All ages 6–11 invited to watch an animal-themed movie and interact with adoptable pets. Cheese pizza dinner. Wear pajamas and bring a sleeping bag and pillow. Call for movie selection. HSHV. $35 each child. Preregistration required at hshv.org/event-calendar, humaneed@hshv.org, (734) 661–3564.
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“A Poet Speaks”: UMMA
National Book award-winning poet Nikky Finney reads from her work and discusses Black creativity, agency, and memory. In conjunction with Hear Me Now: The Black Potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina, a UMMA exhibit that runs through January 7. Followed by a chance to meet and talk with the exhibit curators in the galleries. Refreshments. 6 p.m., UMMA Tisch Apse, 525 S. State. Free, but preregistration requested at bit.ly/UMMA-poet-speaks-12-1-23, (734) 764–0395.
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“D&D Adventures”: Sylvan Factory
Every Fri. & Tues. All age 12 & up invited to play Dungeons & Dragons role-playing games. 6–9 p.m. (Fri.) & 6–10 p.m. (Tues.), Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium Blvd. $10. Preregistration recommended. info@sylvanfactory.com.
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“Midnight/Moonlight Madness”: Main Street Area & State Street District Associations
Many merchants are open late tonight with special sales, and many restaurants offer dining specials. Santa makes an appearance (time and location TBA), and the Arbor Consort, Out Loud Chorus, and other musical groups TBA provide sidewalk entertainment (times and locations TBA). Ice sculptors from the Food Network’s Ice Brigade hold an ice sculpting demo (6–8 p.m.) and the Ann Arbor Police Department hosts a complimentary hot cocoa bar, both at the corner of North University & S. State St. Also, Santa’s Mailbox is accepting letters (postage to North Pole courtesy of the MSAA) Nov. 29–Dec. 13, in front of Conor O’Neill’s (318 S. Main); include a return address to receive a response from Santa. 6–9 p.m. (many stores stay open till midnight), Main Street and State Street shopping areas. Free admission. (734) 668–7112.
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“Newsies Jr.”: Professional Youth Theatre of Michigan
Dec. 1–3. Megan Wright-Jones directs two casts of local youth actors in grades 2–12 in a 1-hour version of Alan Menken, Jack Feldman, and Harvey Fierstein’s musical comedy-drama based on the 1992 musical film, which was inspired by the 1899 NYC newsboy strike, when newsboys rebelled against unfair working conditions. The Tony-winning score includes “Seize the Day” and “King of New York.” 6 & 8 p.m. (Fri.), 1 & 7 p.m. (Sat.), and 3 p.m. (Sun.), Liberty High School, 7265 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline. Tickets $15 in advance at pytmi.square.site & at the door. Pytmi.com, (734) 660–2966.
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Annual Hometown Holiday: Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce
Dec. 1-3, 9, & 10. A variety of activities, including concerts, Santa visits, crafts, gift wrapping events, and more. Also, all month long, gingerbread house displays in shop windows, with luminarias along Main Street in the evening, and sales with entertainment and refreshments at many stores. For a full list of events, see chelseamich.com/calendar. Dec. 1: Tree lighting ceremony and Santa’s arrival (6–6:30 p.m., Pierce Park). Dec. 2: Quilt display, craft and bake sale, silent auction, and free quilt giveaway at the St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Annual Quilt Show & Sale (10 a.m.–3 p.m., St. Barnabas, 20500 W. Old US-12). Light Parade (6 p.m., along Main St.) featuring dozens of lighted floats and vehicles, marching bands, Santa, and more. Dec. 3: Hometown Holiday Concert (3 & 7 p.m., First Methodist Church) presented by the Chelsea Chamber Players and Chelsea High School students. Dec. 9 & 10: Fishville Farms Christmas Craft & Vendor Show with an array of works by local artisans (10 a.m.–4 p.m., Chelsea Fairgrounds, W. Old US-12 at Manchester Rd.). Various times. Downtown Chelsea. Free. (734) 475–1145.
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“Christmas at the Mansion”: Dexter Area Historical Society
Dec. 1–3, 9, 16, & 27. Seasonal events at lavishly decorated Gordon Hall, the 19th-century mansion built by Dexter founder Judge Samuel Dexter. Dec. 1: “Angels Among Us” (6:30 p.m.), a Gordon Hall fundraiser featuring strolling hors d’oeuvres, spirits, desserts, and display of the Christmas Vintage Collection, Milt Campbell’s huge assemblage of the Department 56 collectible holiday houses, buildings, and figures formerly seen in the windows of Huron Camera in downtown Dexter throughout the holiday season. Dec. 2: Santa (9 a.m.–3 p.m.) is on hand to talk with kids, who also can make their own gingerbread house to take home. Dec. 3: Christmas Tea (1 & 4 p.m.), a light lunch with tea sandwiches and desserts. Also, at 6–8 p.m. on Dec. 9, 16, & 27, an open house ($5) to view the Christmas Vintage Collection, Various times, Gordon Hall, 8311 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. $75 on Fri., $5 suggested donation on Sat., $30 on Sun. Reservations required for Fri. and Sun. by calling (734) 395-4106. Dexterhistory.org.
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“Christmas in the Village”: Manchester Chamber of Commerce
Dec. 1 & 2. This annual holiday festival kicks off today at 6:30 p.m. with a parade that brings Santa down Main St. to the mill where he lights the Christmas tree. Also, Santa visits for kids, hot chocolate, and discounts from local businesses. Tomorrow features craft shows at local churches, hayrides (11 a.m.– 2 p.m.), kids crafts, a scavenger hunt, and more. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Manchester. Free admission. (734) 476–4565.
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First Friday Shabbat: Jewish Cultural Society
All invited for a dinner from a local restaurant, preceded by a brief secular Shabbat observance with songs, candle lighting, and challah & wine rituals. Children welcome. 6:30–8 p.m., JCC, 2935 Birch Hollow. $10 for nonmembers (families, $25). Preregistration required at jewishculturalsociety.org.
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Magic: The Gathering: Sylvan Factory
Every Mon.–Wed., Fri., & Sat. All invited to play various forms of the collectible card game Magic: The Gathering. Mon. (6:30–10 p.m.): Power Cards. $10. Tues. (6:30–10 p.m.): MTG Pauper. A fun and fast format for all skill levels. $5. Wed. (5–9 p.m.): Casual Commander. The most popular form of the game. Free. Fri. (6:30–10 p.m.): Magic rotating draft. Cost varies. Sat. (noon): Drop-in session to learn to play the game. Free. (6–10 p.m.): Commander Pods. For casual groups of 4 players. Free. Various times, Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. Various costs. info@sylvanfactory.com.
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“A Celebration of Ann Arbor’s Underground & Experimental Filmmakers from the 60s, 70s, and 80s”: Cinema Ann Arbor
Lorch Hall, Askwith Auditorium, 611 Tappan St. FREE. cinemaannarbor.com/resist
Dec. 1: “A Celebration of Ann Arbor’s Underground & Experimental Filmmakers from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.” 70-minute screening of rare short films (including The Garden of Forking Paths, Perdón Del Gato Rabón, Gerard Malanga as the Baron von Richthofen, and many more) by Ann Arbor filmmakers compiled by Frank Uhle, author of Cinema Ann Arbor (2023). Followed by a Q&A with several of the filmmakers. 7 p.m.
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“Attempts on Her Life”: U-M Rude Mechanicals
Dec. 1–3. Tiara Partsch directs fellow students in Martin Crimp’s 1997 postmodern play, a harrowing and perplexing series of 17 scenes that imagine various scenarios of violence, both perpetrated by and inflicted on an off-stage character. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, 911 North University. Tickets $8–12 in advance at muto.umich.edu and at the door. facebook.com/umrudes.
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“First Fridays: Open Hours for Adults”: The Creature Conservancy
All age 18 & up invited to meet animals native to Eurasia, including a reindeer, a Shire horse, a Burmese python, and a wolf hybrid. The presentation begins at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting. Also, the chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. 7–9 p.m., Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $12 in advance at thecreatureconservancy.org, $13 at the door. (734) 929–9324.
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“Ho Ho Ho”: Saline Area Players
Nov. 30–Dec. 3. Samantha Kempf directs local child and adult actors in Texas playwright Pat Cook’s humorous fantasy detailing operations at the North Pole in the few days before Christmas. 7 p.m. (Thurs. & Fri.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), The Well Church, 211 Willis Rd., Saline. $16 in advance & at the door ($11, seniors and kids 17 and under). $1 off if you use a check or cash rather than a credit card. Venue has some stairs. president@salineareaplayers.org. SalineAreaPlayers.org.
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“Orion and the Goatman”: U-M Basement Arts
Dec. 1 & 2. Stuart Sheffield directs fellow U-M students in Georgia playwright Will Murdock’s 2021 family drama about 2 brothers on a camping trip to spread their father’s ashes. Tensions rise as they delve into their family lore—grappling with their relationships with their dad, their own shortcomings, and the meaning of legends they were told as young boys. 7 & 11 p.m. (Fri.) & 7 p.m. (Sat.), U-M Walgreen Drama Center Newman Studio, 1226 Murfin. Free. umichbasementarts.com.
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“Self-Care Beyond Mantras and Bubble Baths”: Booksweet Bookshop
Local life coach and writer Kyunghee Kim leads a workshop guiding participants, through writing prompts, to reflect on their current self-care practices and discover a better way to take care of themselves. 7–8 p.m., Booksweet, 1729 Plymouth Rd. Pay what you can. Preregistration requested at shopbooksweet.com. (734) 369–4345.
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Dances of Universal Peace (Sufi Dancing)
All invited to join in song, chant, and circle dances and walks in joyous affirmation of the unity of the world’s spiritual traditions. Live music TBA. 7–9 p.m., Friends Meeting House, 1420 Hill. $10 requested donation. dancesofuniversalpeace.org.
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Damien Lemon: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Nov. 30–Dec. 2. This Brooklyn-born stand-up, actor, writer, and host of TruTV’s Comedy Knockout makes his Ann Arbor debut. 7:15 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $13 (Thurs.) & $18 (Fri. & Sat.) reserved seating in advance at aacomedy.com & before 6 p.m. the night of the show, $15 (Thurs.) & $20 (Fri. & Sat.) general admission at the door. (734) 996–9080.
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“White Christmas”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
Every Thurs.–Sun., Nov. 30–Dec. 17. Anna Dreslinski directs this local professional theater company in a stage version of the 1954 backstage movie musical about 2 army buddies who make it big in show business and fall in love with performing sisters. Music and lyrics by Irving Berlin at the top of his game include “White Christmas,” “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” “How Deep Is the Ocean,” and more. Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore Theatre, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $41.50-$57.50 (age 12 and under, $31.50) in advance at theencoretheatre.org and (if available) at the door. (734) 268–6200.
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“White Christmas”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
Every Thurs.–Sun., Nov. 30–Dec. 17. Anna Dreslinski directs this local professional theater company in a stage version of the 1954 backstage movie musical about 2 army buddies who make it big in show business and fall in love with performing sisters. Music and lyrics by Irving Berlin at the top of his game include “White Christmas,” “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” “How Deep Is the Ocean,” and more. Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore Theatre, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $41.50-$57.50 (age 12 and under, $31.50) in advance at theencoretheatre.org and (if available) at the door. (734) 268–6200.
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45th Annual Boar’s Head Festival: Concordia University
Dec. 1–3. Elegantly elaborate medieval English pageant celebrating Christ’s birth with a blend of religious pageantry and secular pomp presented by a large cast of Concordia students, faculty, and staff as Beefeaters, hunters, jesters, and other court characters, as well as traditional Christmas shepherds and Magi. With musical narration, congregational singing, a full orchestra, and choir. This hugely popular event always sells out in advance. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 4 p.m. (Sun.), Concordia University Chapel of the Holy Trinity, 4090 Geddes at Earhart. Tickets $12–$18 in advance at the Kreft Center Box Office and online at cuaa.edu/kreftarts-tickets. (734) 995–7537.
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“Diva Royale”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Every Wed.–Sun., Oct. 6–Dec. 23. Purple Rose founder Jeff Daniels directs a revival of his 2018 comedy about 3 midwestern stay-at-home moms whose love for Celine Dion and the movie Titanic is behind their last-minute plan for a trip to New York City. The entire original cast returns: Connor Allston, Caitlin Burt, Caitlin Cavannaugh, Rusty Mewha, Rhiannon Ragland, Kristin Shields, Kate Thomsen, and Meghan VanArsdalen. 8 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.), 3 p.m. (Wed., Thurs., & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). Purple Rose Theatre, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $34–$52 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org and by phone, and (if available) at the door. Discounts available for students, seniors, teachers, military personnel, and groups. (734) 433–7673.
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“Imogen Says Nothing”: U-M Theatre Department
Nov. 30–Dec. 3. Malcolm Tulip directs drama students in Aditi Kapil’s 2017 play, a thought-provoking revisionist comedy investigating the biases in the Western canon and the power that those who can read and write have over those who can't. The highly allegorical plot centers on Imogen, a character from Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing who speaks no lines and is probably a typo. Here Imogen is an escaped bear (though not in costume), somehow passing as a human in Elizabethan England. She encounters a group of thespians and charms her way into a role in a performance of Much Ado About Nothing, breaking London’s law prohibiting women from performing on stage. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), and 2 p.m. (Sun.), Power Center. Tickets $24–$34 (students, $13) in advance at tickets.smtd.umich.edu & at the door. (734) 764–0583.
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“Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812”: U-M In the Round Productions
Dec. 1–3. This U-M student theater ensemble performs Dave Malloy’s 2012 electro-pop musical adaptation of part 8 of Tolstoy’s War and Peace, the story of a love triangle among Russian aristocrats during the War of 1812. When a beautiful ingénue visits Moscow while she waits for her fiancé to return from the war, she is seduced by a dashing (and already married) rogue. It is then left to her fiancé’s best friend, a lonely outsider who is also in love with her, to rescue her shattered reputation and send the suitor packing. 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), U-M Walgreen Drama Center Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin, North Campus. Tickets $15 (students, $8) at the Michigan League Box Office (muto.umich.edu) & at the door. (734) 763–8587.
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“Newsies Jr.”: Professional Youth Theatre of Michigan
Dec. 1–3. Megan Wright-Jones directs two casts of local youth actors in grades 2–12 in a 1-hour version of Alan Menken, Jack Feldman, and Harvey Fierstein’s musical comedy-drama based on the 1992 musical film, which was inspired by the 1899 NYC newsboy strike, when newsboys rebelled against unfair working conditions. The Tony-winning score includes “Seize the Day” and “King of New York.” 6 & 8 p.m. (Fri.), 1 & 7 p.m. (Sat.), and 3 p.m. (Sun.), Liberty High School, 7265 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline. Tickets $15 in advance at pytmi.square.site & at the door. Pytmi.com, (734) 660–2966.
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“Seeing in Depth: A Trip Through the Solar System”: U-M Detroit Observatory
Observatory staff discuss the 19th-century discovery of Neptune, moons, asteroids, & other notable objects in our solar system. Followed by the chance to peer through the observatory and rooftop telescopes (weather permitting) and to view planetarium shows. 8–10 p.m., Detroit Observatory, 1398 Ann. Preregistration required at detroitobservatory.umich.edu. Free. (734) 764–3482.
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“Sounds of the Season”: Measure for Measure
Pioneer High choir director Steven Lorenz leads this popular local men’s chorus in carol arrangements & classic holiday songs. 8 p.m., St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2250 E. Stadium. $15 in advance at measure-for-measure.org, and (if available) at the door. (734) 649-7664.
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“Tales from Our Roots”: U-M Dance Department BFA Concert
Nov. 30–Dec. 2. New solo and group works choreographed by U-M dance seniors Rae Beck, Ruby Clay, and Claire Schick. 8 p.m., U-M Dance Building, 1000 Baits Dr (adjacent to the Moore Music Building). Free, but space limited. Doors open at 7 p.m. smtd.umich.edu/dance-events.
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“Tales from Our Roots”: U-M Dance Department BFA Concert
Nov. 30–Dec. 2. New solo and group works choreographed by U-M dance seniors Rae Beck, Ruby Clay, and Claire Schick. 8 p.m., U-M Dance Bldg., 1000 Baits Dr. (adjacent to the Moore Music Bldg.). Free, but space limited. Doors open at 7 p.m. smtd.umich.edu/dance-events.
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“The Blue Hour”: U-M Contemporary Directions Ensemble
This grad student music ensemble joins Detroit-based composer and vocalist Shara Nova in her 70-minute song cycle, a collaborative piece written with 4 fellow female composers, that features chamber music set to hallucinatory phrases evoking the mind’s passage from life to death culled from renowned Detroit poet Carolyn Forché’s “On Earth,” a 46-page alphabetically arranged poem based on ancient Gnostic hymns. 8 p.m., U-M Walgreen Drama Center Stamps Auditorium, 1226 Murfin, North Campus. Free. (734) 764-0583.
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Angell Hall Observatory Open House: U-M Student Astronomical Society
All invited to peer through the observatory and rooftop telescopes and to view planetarium shows. Also, short astronomy presentations by club members. 8–10 p.m., 5th fl. rooftop observatory, Angell Hall (enter through Haven Hall on the Diag side of the building). Free. (734) 764–3440.
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Don White: Green Wood Coffee House Series (First United Methodist Church)
Veteran singer-songwriter from Lynn, Massachusetts, whose sharp-witted songs about everyday life blend pathos, humor, and biting satire. His fun live shows feature a lot of impromptu storytelling and comedy. 8 p.m., FUMC Green Wood Church, 1001 Green Rd. at Glazier Way. Tickets $20 in advance at greenwoodcoffeehouse.org and at the door. (734) 665–8558.
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Riverside Swings: Riverside Arts Center
Every Fri. Swing dancing to recorded music. No partner or experience needed. Wear comfortable low-grip/tread shoes. Preceded at 8 p.m. by a lesson. 9–11:30 p.m., RAC, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. $5 (students, $4). Riversidearts.org/riverside-swings.
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“The Holiday”: State Theatre
Film screenings every Tues. & Thurs.–Sun. Tickets $10.50 (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, & U.S. veterans, $8.50; MTF members, $8; matinee $7.50) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see michtheater.org.
Dec. 1 & 7: “The Holiday” (Nancy Meyers, 2006). Predictable but enjoyable romantic comedy about two lovelorn women who arrange a California-British home exchange to escape being depressed in their own homes during the holiday season. In their new surroundings, they fall in love. Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black. 9:30 p.m. (Fri.) & 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.).
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“Orion and the Goatman”: U-M Basement Arts
Dec. 1 & 2. Stuart Sheffield directs fellow U-M students in Georgia playwright Will Murdock’s 2021 family drama about 2 brothers on a camping trip to spread their father’s ashes. Tensions rise as they delve into their family lore—grappling with their relationships with their dad, their own shortcomings, and the meaning of legends they were told as young boys. 7 & 11 p.m. (Fri.) & 7 p.m. (Sat.), U-M Walgreen Drama Center Newman Studio, 1226 Murfin. Free. umichbasementarts.com.
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