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Events in December 2022
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December 10, 2022
“A Christmas Story: The Musical”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company.
Every Thurs.–Sun., Nov. 25–Dec. 18. Dan Cooney directs this local professional theater company in the 2007 musical version of the 1983 movie comedy about a boy living in 1940s Indiana who longs for a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Music and lyrics by the songwriting team of U-M alumni Pasek and Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, La La Land). Book by Joseph Robinette. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore Maas Mainstage, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $54 (seniors & youth under 18, $52) in advance at theencoretheatre.org and at the door. $20 student rush tickets (if available) an hour before showtime. 268–6200.
“A Christmas Story: The Musical”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company.
Every Thurs.–Sun., Nov. 25–Dec. 18. Dan Cooney directs this local professional theater company in the 2007 musical version of the 1983 movie comedy about a boy living in 1940s Indiana who longs for a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Music and lyrics by U-M alumni songwriting team Pasek and Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, La La Land). Book by Joseph Robinette. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore Maas Mainstage, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $54 (seniors & youth under 18, $52) in advance at theencoretheatre.org and at the door. $20 student rush tickets (if available) an hour before showtime. 268–6200.
“Christmas at the Mansion”: Dexter Area Historical Society.
Dec. 2–4, 10, 17, & 28. Seasonal events at lavishly decorated Gordon Hall, the 19th-century mansion built by Dexter founder Judge Samuel Dexter. Dec. 2: A fundraiser (6:30 p.m.) for the museum featuring hearty hors d’oeuvres, spirits, and desserts and a look at the Christmas Vintage Collection, Milt Campbell’s huge assemblage of Department 56 collectible holiday houses, buildings, and figures that were once traditionally seen in the windows of Huron Camera in downtown Dexter throughout the holiday season. Dec. 3: 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. 4: Christmas Tea (1 & 4 p.m.), a light lunch with tea sandwiches and desserts. Also, the museum hosts an open house ($5 per adult) to view the Christmas Vintage Collection, 6–8 p.m. on Dec. 10, 17, & 28. Various, Gordon Hall, 8311 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. $75 on Fri., $5 on Sat., $30 on Sun.; reservations required for Fri. and Sun. by calling 395–4106.
“Pickleball”: Purple Rose Theatre Company.
Every Wed.–Sun., Sept. 30–Dec. 23. Rhiannon Ragland directs the world premiere of actor-playwright (and Purple Rose founder) Jeff Daniels’ comedy about America’s fastest growing sport. Four below-average players try to overcome their own limitations to achieve greatness in a game that has nothing to do with pickles. Cast: Ryan Carlson, Kate Thomsen, Lynch Travis, Jonathan West, and Caitlin Cavannaugh. 3 p.m. (Wed., Thurs., & Sat.), 8 p.m. (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. 433–7673.
“Science Forum Demos”: U-M Museum of Natural History.
Every Sat. & Sun. (except Dec. 3) through Dec. 17. Hands-on 20-minute family-oriented demos for age 5+. “Cow Eye Dissection” (11 a.m.) explores the parts of the eye and how they work together. “Out of the Water and Back Again: A Whale’s Tale” (3 p.m.) explores the amazing evolutionary histories of whales and other creatures. Various times, MNH, 1105 North University. Free. 764–0478.
"The Christmas Experience": Ann Arbor Baptist Church
Get in the Christmas spirit and experience the holiday lights with Ann Arbor Baptist Church! All are welcome to drive through their 40,000+ light show featuring lit trees, drive-through tunnel, and decorated building. Enjoy a free Christmas cookie, hot chocolate, or chocolate milk on your way to a mini holiday movie showing on their 16-foot screen. This is a completely free event! For more information, visit aabaptist.church.
2150 S. Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor. Free. info@aabaptist.church. aabaptist.church. (734) 995–5144.Magic: The Gathering: Sylvan Factory.
Every Fri., Sat., & Mon.–Wed. All invited to play various forms of the collectible card game Magic: The Gathering. Fri. 6:30–10 p.m.: Magic rotating draft, cost varies. Sat. noon–3 p.m.: Intro to Magic: The Gathering, free. Sat. 6–10 p.m.: Commander Pods, casual groups of 4 players, free. Mon. 6:30–10 p.m.: Power Cards, $10. Tues. 6–9 p.m.: MTG Pauper, a fun and fast format for all skill levels, $5. Wed. 5–8 p.m.: Casual Commander, the most popular form of the game, free. Prizes paid in store credit. Various times. Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. info@sylvanfactory.com, 929–5877.
Santa: Briarwood Mall.
Daily Nov. 23–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. 11 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. 4, 9–10:30 a.m. Note: Santa takes breaks 3–4 p.m. Briarwood Von Maur court. Appointments encouraged at simon.com/santa. 769–9610.
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater.
Daily, except Dec. 5, 12, 19, 23–26, 31, Jan. 1. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. Sea Monsters (11:30 a.m.) follows a curious dolichorhynchops (an extinct species of marine reptile) as she travels through the most dangerous oceans in history, meeting long-necked plesiosaurs, giant turtles and fish, sharks, and the most dangerous sea monster of all, the mosasaur. 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. Mars: One Thousand One (1:30 p.m.) tells the story of what humans might face with the first manned journey to Mars. Various times, MNH, 1105 North University. $8. Limited capacity. 764–0478.
Ann Arbor Group Runs: Fleet Feet.
Every Sat. & Tues. Runners of all abilities invited to join a run of 3–5 miles along varying routes from different Fleet Feet (formerly Running Fit) locations. Rain or shine. 6 p.m. (Tues.), 123 E. Liberty & 8 a.m. (Sat.), 5700 Jackson Rd. Free. 769–5016 (Tues.) & 929–9022 (Sat.).
Annual Friends at Front Porch Holiday Sale: Front Porch Weaving Studio.
Dec. 10 & 11. Juried sale of fine art, decorative & wearable handwoven textiles, ceramics, and glass pieces. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sat.) & 11 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sun.), 1219 Traver. Free admission. 478–9053.
Annual Holiday Sale: Kiwanis Center.
Every Fri. & Sat. Dec. 2–23. Sale of used 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. 368–9738.
Holiday Jumping Clinic-Competition: Renaissance Equestrian Center
1st Annual Holiday Jumping Clinic-Competition with our very own Grand Prix level Trainer and FEI CD, Ahmad Reda in our heated facility!!
Day 1: Flatwork, warmup techniques, jumping with jumping exercises and gymnastics
Day 2: scheduled group warmups, then individual timed challenges for a chance to win $1000!! 2nd place is $500 & 3rd place is $250!!
Registration Deadline is December 6th! Space is limited!
Huron Gun Collectors.
Dec. 10 & 11. About 100 dealers and collectors offer guns, knives, ammunition, and other hunting equipment for sale, including antiques and collectibles. Concessions. Youth age 17 & under must be accompanied by an adult. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sat.) & 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Sun.), Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds Building A, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. Admission $5 (members, $3; kids age 12 & under, free). (517) 546–4710.
parkrun USA.
Every Sat. All invited to join a timed 5-km run/walk. 9 a.m., Lillie Park South, 4365 Platt. Free, but first-timers are requested to preregister at parkrun.US/lillie. lillie@parkrun.com.
“BIPOC Bird Walk at Barton Nature Area”: Washtenaw Audubon Society.
Club member Victor Chen leads a walk for people from BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) communities—and allies—to look for waterfowl and winter birds. Binoculars available to use. 9:30–11:30 a.m., meet at the main parking lot along E. Huron River Drive north of Bird Road, Barton Nature Area, 1010 W. Huron River Dr. Free. Washtenawaudubon.org.
“Halfway to Halloween Takes Over Christmas”: Spencer Events.
Horror-themed craft show with over 120 vendors offering a wide variety of scary holiday decorations, costumes, prints, jewelry, taxidermy, and custom pieces. Also, makeup demonstrations and actors in costume. Leashed dogs welcome. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds Buildings B-F, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. Admission $5 (kids 12 & under, free). 429–3145.
“Junior Naturalist: Solstice Celebration”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission.
Dec. 10 (10 a.m.–noon). WCPARC naturalists Elle Bogle and Kelsey Dehring lead kids ages 7–11 on a nature hike to leave a treat for local wildlife, followed by a solstice bonfire with holiday treats and hot drinks supplied by WCPARC. Independence Lake County Park beach center pavilion, 3200 Jennings Rd., Whitmore Lake. Free, but $6 (nonresidents, $10) vehicle entry fee. Preregistration required (activity #821004) at parksonline.ewashtenaw.org.
14th Annual Lucy Ann Lance Hometown Christmas Radio Show.
Popular local radio personality Lance hosts a recording for broadcast of an old-fashioned radio variety show with performances by local groups, including the Dexter Community Brass Band, the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic middle school and Ypsilanti community choirs, the Huron Valley Harmonizers, the Ann Arbor Civic Chorus, the Fireside Carolers, and many more. The show airs Dec. 17, 8 a.m.–2 p.m. on 1290 WLBY-AM and 1290WLBY.com. 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Briarwood JCPenney wing. Free. 1290WLBY.com, 717–2182.
19th Annual Holiday Show & Sale: Yourist Studio Gallery.
Dec. 9–11. Show and sale of functional and decorative works by 29 local ceramics artists. Tonight: reception, refreshments. 4–8 p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sat.) & 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sun.), Yourist Studio Gallery, 6087 Jackson Rd., Suite 200. Free admission. 662–4914.
Annual Holiday Pottery Sale: Clay Work Studio.
Dec. 9 & 10. Show and sale of works by 18 studio members, with a reception, food, & drink on Friday evening. 1–8 p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sat.), 2763 Plymouth Rd. Free admission. Clayworkstudio.com.
Holiday Show: Francesc Burgos.
Dec. 10 & 11. Show & sale of ceramic pieces by this local ceramicist. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sat.), & 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Sun.), 1334 Orkney Dr. Free admission. 834–3397.
Holiday Show: Sophie Grillet.
Dec. 10 & 11. Show & sale of local artist Grillet’s paintings, sculptures, glassware, and photographs. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., 802 Mount Vernon Ave. Free admission.
Holiday Show: Tom Rosenbaum Studio and Gallery.
Dec. 9–11. Show & sale of local artist Rosenbaum’s paintings and drawings in various media. Noon–5 p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sat.), & noon–5 p.m. (Sun.), WSG Gallery, 111 E. Ann St. Free admission. 395–3305.
Multi-Artist Studio Sale: Tina Hotchkiss.
Dec. 10 & 11. Show and sale of watercolors, drawings, and work in other media by local artist Hotchkiss and friends, with light refreshments. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., 3817 Oak Dr., Ypsilanti. Free admission.
Winter Art Tour- Tina Hotchkiss open studio sale: Tina Hotchkiss
Holiday Open House & Art Sale
Multiple artist will have art for sale. Light refreshments will be served.
Winter Market: StudioStudio.
Dec. 9 & 10. Show & sale of work by 30 local artists in various media & styles. 4 p.m.–8 p.m. (Fri.) & 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (Sat.), StudioStudio, 1946 Packard. Free admission. studiostudioa2.com.
“Fluid Instabilities: Stars, Bars, and Fusion”: U-M Physics Department Saturday Morning Physics.
U-M nuclear engineering, radiological sciences, and applied physics professor Carolyn Kuranz discusses the profound effects of fluid mixing on earth and in the greater universe. The semester finale of this popular series of talks aimed at general audiences, 10:30 a.m., 170 & 182 Weiser Hall, 500 Church. Also via livestream at bit.ly/sat-am-physics. Free. 764–4437.
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. (Fri. & Wed.) & 10:30–11 a.m. (Sat.). Kerrytown Market. Free. ofGlobal@aol.com.
“Art on Adare”: Local Ann Arbor Artists Open House and Sale.
Show and sale of works by local artists: fine art jewelry by Idelle Hammond-Sass, stoneware by Semyck Pottery, paintings and prints by Angelis Jackowski, and Carol Furtado, a fiber artist who makes woven, felted, and dyed hats & scarves and silk wearables. Also desserts by A.P. Sweets. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., 1510 Kearney Rd. Free admission. Masks required. hammond.sass@gmail.com, 741–4441.
“Holiday Hustle”: Running Fit.
Competitive half marathon, with a relay option, a 4-hour time limit, and awards for the top 3 finishers in various age categories. Followed at 4 p.m. by a 1-mile fun run and at 4:30 by a 5-km competitive race. Post-race party at Erratic Ale Co. with a 12 oz. pour included with race registration. 11 a.m., Erratic Ale Co., 8080 Grand St., Dexter. $50 half marathon (relay, $60 for 2); $29 5-km ($30 after Dec. 8); $14 1-mile fun run ($15 after Dec. 8); $64 snowman challenge (all three runs). Preregistration by Dec. 8 required for half marathon, requested for 5-km and 1-mile runs at RunHoliday5k.com. 929–9027.
“Investigate Labs”: U-M Natural History Museum.
Every Tues.–Sun., (except Dec. 3) through Dec. 23. 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. Schedule subject to change. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., MNH, 1105 North University. Free. 764–0478.
“Polar Express”: Schuler Books (formerly Nicola’s) Storytime.
Dec. 10 (11 a.m.). Reading of this beloved Chris Van Allsburg children's book about a boy who is welcomed aboard a magical train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Schuler Books, Westgate shopping center. Free. Preregistration required at PolarExpressA2.eventbrite.com. Free. 662–0600.
"Fireside story time and holiday sing along": Mary Berry's Gardening's Winter Market
Join us at our new winter market for a cozy story time and sing-along to get in the holiday spirit around the campfire! There will be plenty of festive photo opportunities as well.
Coffee, cocoa, and DJ's Donuts will be served and donations will the Huron Valley Humane Society.
Artist Exhibition and Meet and Greet: With Artist Daniel Hogan: Venue by 4M
Come meet Michigan artist (and recent winner of A2 Artoberfest) Daniel Hogan at Venue (Ann Arbor's one-of-a-kind restaurant, bar, and event space). Daniel will be on hand to present, discuss, and answer questions about many of his award-winning, whimsical, and quirky drawings. The exhibition itself featuring Daniel's work will be displayed on Venue's amazing digital art screens and will provide the audience with an amazing view into the artist, his process, and other surprises. This is a must attend for anybody who loves art and is looking for inspiration. Look forward to seeing you there!
1919 S Industrial Hwy, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Free to Public . chris@prentice4m.com. https://www.experience4m.com. 734-822-9410.Holiday Artist Market: The Guild of Artists & Artisans.
Every Tues.–Sat., Nov. 25–Dec. 22. 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. Fourth Ave. Free admission. 662–3382.
Tiny Expo Indie Art & Craft Fair: Ann Arbor District Library.
Show and sale of holiday gifts by more than 40 local artists and crafters. Also, in the Secret Lab (1–4 p.m.), craft activities for all ages including screen printing and button making. 11 a.m.–6 p.m., AADL Downtown. Free admission. 327–4200.
“Pokémon Hangout”: Sylvan Factory.
Every Sat. All invited to play the smart phone game Pokémon Go. Noon–3 p.m., Sylvan Factory, 2459 W. Stadium. Free. info@sylvanfactory.com, 929–5877.
13th Annual Artists Holiday Studio Sale: Kate Tremel & Friends.
Dec. 10 & 11. Show and sale of works by local artists, including book arts by Jean Buescher Bartlett, ceramics by John Leyland and Benjamin Teague, porcelain works by Kate Tremel, jewelry by Nancy Melet, and glasswork by Larry Nisson. Noon–5 p.m., Tremel residence, 627 Gott St. Free admission. 709–4899.
Museum Highlight Tours: U-M Museum of Natural History.
Every Sat. & Sun. through Dec. 18, except Dec. 3. 30-minute tour of the museum’s exhibits and galleries, including Evolution: Life Through Time and the Unseen Worlds installation by artist Jim Cogsell. Also, an introduction to some current U-M Biological Sciences research projects. Noon & 2 p.m., MNH, 1105 North University. Free. Limited capacity. Sign up at the welcome desk. 764–0478.
“The Hours”: Fathom Events.
Fathom Events. 973–8424 (Ann Arbor 20), 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $11.50–$12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomevents.com/events and at the door. Ann Arbor 20 (4100 Carpenter), & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline), different times.
Dec. 10 & 14. Live (Sat.) & pre-recorded (Wed.) broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera world premiere production of Kevin Puts’ operatic adaptation of Michael Cunningham’s 1998 novel. The story follows 3 women from different generations—Virginia Woolf and 2 women affected by her novel Mrs. Dalloway—as they grapple with inner demons and social identities. Stars Renée Fleming, Kelli O’Hara, and Joyce DiDonato. 12:55 p.m. (Sat.) & 1 p.m. (Wed., Ann Arbor 20 only).
“Creature Encounters”: The Creature Conservancy.
Every Sat. & Sun. Conservancy staffers show off some animals native to Eurasia, including a reindeer, a wolf hybrid, and a shire horse. Also, a zookeeper talk with a Burmese python (3 p.m.) and a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals, including sloths, muntjacs, and more. 1–5 p.m., Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $13 (kids ages 2–12, $11; under age 2, free) at the door; $1 discount for advance purchase at thecreatureconservancy.org. 929–9324.
“Creature Encounters”: The Creature Conservancy.
Every Sat. & Sun. through Dec. 18. Conservancy staffers show off some animals native to Eurasia, including a reindeer, a wolf hybrid, and a shire horse (2 & 4 p.m.). Also, a zookeeper talk with a Burmese python (3 p.m.) and a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. 1–5 p.m., Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $13 (kids ages 2–12, $11; under age 2, free) at the door; $1 discount for advance purchase at thecreatureconservancy.org. 929–9324.
“The Pirates of Penzance”: U-M Gilbert and Sullivan Society.
Dec. 8-11. David Andrews directs this accomplished town-and-gown company in Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic operetta about the romance between a young lady and a young man mistakenly apprenticed to an inept band of pirates when he was a boy. The ensuing madcap chaos is peppered with songs like “Poor Wand’ring Ones,” “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major General,” and the pirates’ theme song, “With Cat-Like Tread,” better known as “Hail, Hail, the Gang’s All Here.” 8 p.m. (Thurs.-Sat.), 1 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Lydia Mendelssohn Theater. $30 (seniors, $27; students with ID, $15) in advance at the Michigan League Ticket Office, muto.umich.edu, and at the door. 763–8587.
“The Pirates of Penzance”: U-M Gilbert and Sullivan Society.
Dec. 8-11. (The evening performance is followed by a dessert sing-along ($25) in the Michigan League Hussey Room.) David Andrews directs this accomplished town-and-gown company in Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic operetta about the romance between a young lady and a young man mistakenly apprenticed to an inept band of pirates when he was a boy. The ensuing madcap chaos is peppered with songs like “Poor Wand’ring Ones,” “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major General,” and the pirates’ theme song, “With Cat-Like Tread,” better known as “Hail, Hail, the Gang’s All Here.” 8 p.m. (Thurs.-Sat.), 1 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Lydia Mendelssohn Theater. $30 (seniors, $27; students with ID, $15) in advance at the Michigan League Ticket Office, muto.umich.edu, and at the door. 763–8587.
“Winter Field Botany and Seed Processing”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission.
Naturalist Shawn Severance leads a short hike to identify native plants in their winter form, collect late-ripening prairie seeds, and return indoors to process and stratify seeds for winter storage and eventual use in prairie restoration projects. 1–4 p.m., County Farm Park, Field Operations Building, 2230 Platt Rd. Free. Preregistration (limited to 18) required by emailing severances@washtenaw.org.
Maize ’n’ Blue Intrasquad: U-M Men’s Gymnastics.
The U-M men’s gymnastics team, a perennial national power that has won 7 NCAA national and 19 Big Ten championships, prepares for the 2022 season with an intrasquad meet. 1 p.m., Cliff Keen Arena, S. State at Hoover. Free. 764–0247.
57th Annual Community Messiah Sing.
All people capable of reading and performing vocal parts are invited to join this venerable local seasonal tradition, a friendly, informal, unrehearsed performance of Handel’s beloved oratorio, directed by Richard Ingram. Over 100 singers usually participate, including professionals, semiprofessionals, serious amateurs, families, and church choirs. A volunteer orchestra of 40 to 50 instrumentalists is also needed; prospective players should email the address below as soon as possible to ensure section balance. Directed by Richard Ingram. Scores provided, or participants may bring their own. (The Prout edition, published by Schirmer, is used.) Orchestra players should bring their own stands. Drinks provided; bring goodies to share. 1:30–4:30 p.m., St. Clare Episcopal Church, 2309 Packard. $5 suggested donation to help defray the cost of using the building. a2messiahsing@gmail.com.
“The Nutcracker”: Ann Arbor Dance Classics.
Dec. 10 & 11. Young local dancers perform choreography by AADC teachers to Tchaikovsky’s Christmas ballet. 2 p.m., Milan High School Performing Arts Center, 200 Big Red Dr., Milan. Tickets $17 in advance at aadancecalssics.com or 302–4248; $20 at the door.
“The Roman Empire”: U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology Saturday Sampler.
Docent-led tour. Also, at 2 p.m. on Dec. 17, a virtual “Highlights of the Kelsey Tour - in French!” (for URL see bit.ly/decvirtualsampler). 2–3 p.m., Kelsey Museum, 434 S. State. Free. 764–9304.
CANCELED: “Snow N’ Love Festival”: Ann Arbor Senior Center.
CANCELED: Family-friendly day of cookie decorating, s’mores making on a bonfire, indoor yard games, face painting, a Frosty the Snowman costume contest, and more. Also, a collection for the Bryant Community Center’s Emergency Food Pantry; donation requests include laundry detergent, dish soap, paper towels, toilet paper, and non-perishable food. 2–4 p.m., Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Free. Preregistration required at bpatton@a2gov.org or 794–6250.
Story Time with Rebecca and Owen Wittekindt, creators of My UnBEElievable Life: Fine Print Bookshop
Join us as Rebecca and Owen read their book, My UnBEElievable Life and autographs copies. We may even get them to talk about their own bees who inspired the book!
109 E. Michigan Ave, Saline. Free!. shop@fineprintbookshop.com. fineprintbookshop.com. 7344706525.“A Boychoir Christmas”: Boychoir of Ann Arbor.
Dec. 10 & 11. Boychoir music director John Boonenberg leads this local ensemble of boys ages 7-18, accompanied by First United Methodist Church organist Naki Sung-Kripfgans, in its 36th annual Christmas concert. The program opens with the traditional processional “Once in Royal David’s City,” with the 1st verse sung by a solo boy soprano, and concludes with John Gardner’s “Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day.” Other works include Alfred Burt’s “Ah, Bleak and Chill the Wintry Wind,” Stephen Paulus’s“Hallelu,” John Rutter’s raucous “Donkey Carol,” and more. Also, audience sing-alongs of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” are kicked off with a soaring Boychoir descant verse. This concert usually sells out. 3 p.m. (Sat.) & 5 p.m. (Sun.), Concordia University Chapel of the Holy Trinity, 4090 Geddes at Earhart. Tickets $20 (youths 17 & under, free) in advance at BoychoirA2.EventBrite.com & Tickets@a2BoyChoir.org, and at the door. 663–5377.
“Sugar Plum Panto”: Theatre Nova.
Every Fri.–Sun., Dec. 9–Jan. 1, except Dec. 25. Carla Milarch directs this seasonal holiday Panto comedy that she co-wrote with R. MacKenzie Lewis. Panto is a British pantomime that blends familiar children’s stories with a bit of vaudeville to create a raucous family entertainment. This popular show, an annual tradition, usually sells out. 7:30 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 3 p.m. (Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Theatre Nova, 410 W. Huron St. Mask & proof of vaccination required. Tickets $25 ($10 for kids under 17) in advance at theatre-nova.ticketleap.com and (if available) at the door. 635–8450.
“Elf on the Shelf Concert”: Voices in Harmony Chorus.
Lynne Peirce directs this 60-member women’s Sweet Adelines chorus in a program of holiday music TBA. 4 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washington St., Ypsilanti. Free. 612–7580.
U-M Women’s Gymnastics.
This perennial national power opens its season with an exhibition match vs. CMU, EMU, and WMU. 4 p.m., Crisler Center. Tickets TBA at mGOblue.com/tickets. 764–0247.
Jim Alfredson’s Dirty Fingers Organ Trio: Blue LLama Jazz Club
JIM ALFREDSON released Jim Alfredson’s Dirty Fingers as a solo project in October 2013. The Hammond organist, known for jazz and blues, formed the jazz trio organissimo in 2000 which has released five critically acclaimed CDs and a DVD in the intervening years.
314 S. Main St , Ann Arbor. Pre-Pay Cover or Dinner+Show at opentable.com. $15–75. hello@bluellamaclub.com. bluellamaclub.com. 734-372-3200.U-M Ice Hockey vs. MSU.
6:30 p.m., Yost Ice Arena, 1016 S. State. Tickets prices TBA; only standing room and obstructed view seats still available by phone at (866) 296–6849.
“A Mind on the Tip of a Cloud”: Actors Studio at Pathways.
Dec. 9 & 10. Shane Collins directs high school students and community members in the premiere of this play—about a girl who dreams of making music despite significant obstacles—that he co-wrote with assistant directors Cameron Graham and Quinn Strassel, and with the students themselves. Local artists, including Mark Tucker, the U-M art professor behind FestiFools, helped design and make the scenery. 7 p.m., Pathways to Success Academic Campus, 2800 Stone School Rd. $10. Preregistration required at showtix4u.com. 997–1237.
“Peter and the Starcatcher”: EMU Theatre Department.
Dec. 2–4 & Dec. 9–11. EMU theater professor Meriah Sage directs EMU students in Rick Elice’s 2009 Tony Award-winning musical. Adapted from Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson’s 2004 novel which gives a backstory to Peter Pan, the narrative follows the nautical adventures of pirates, spies, island natives, crocodiles, and three orphan boys. Aimed at theatergoers age 10 & up. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), EMU Legacy Theater, 124 Judy Sturgis Hill Bldg., Ford St. (off Lowell from Huron River Dr.), Ypsilanti. Tickets $7–$18 in advance at emich.ludus.com & at the door. 487–2282.
Billy King & Emily Slomovits: Interfaith Center for Spiritual Growth Cafe 704.
The local American roots music singer-songwriter duo of fiddler-vocalist Emily Slomovits and singer-guitarist Billy King. 7–9 p.m. Interfaith Center for Spiritual Growth, 704 Airport Blvd. Mask requested; livestream available. $10 online at interfaithspirit.org/cafe-704-coffeehouse or at the door. 657–5384.
Bloom: Queer Dance Party: North Star Lounge
Drink, eat, dance, and hangout at the Northstar for our first LGBTQ Saturday night with your hosts Lavender Menace and Enbylievable. $10 Cover
301 N. Fifth Ave, Ann Arbor. northstarloungea2@gmail.com. nstarlounge.com.“Teen Mewvie Night”: Humane Society of Huron Valley.
Youths ages 12–17 invited to watch a movie TBA and interact with adoptable pets. Pop and popcorn included. Bring other snacks, a sleeping bag, and pillow if you like. 7:15–9:30 p.m., HSHV, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. $20. Preregistration required at hshv.org. Call for movie selection or details 661–3575.
Carmen Lynch: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase.
Dec. 9 & 10. This NYC-based Spanish American comic known for a monotone delivery followed by a quick smile deploys her dry sense of humor on such matters as familial relationships, dating, and pets. She’s been featured as a comic on The Tonight Show, The Late Show, and The Late Late Show. Preceded by 2 opening acts TBA. Alcohol is served. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $18 reserved seating in advance at etix.com and $20 general admission at the door. 996–9080.
“22nd Annual Animation Show of Shows.”: State Theatre.
State Theatre. Film screenings every Tues. & Thurs.–Sun. Mask required. 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. 10 & 11. Renowned anthology series of animation short subjects returns (after a 2-year pandemic hiatus) with 10 films that address, in tones ranging from whimsical to profound, the anxieties and hopes of a world faced with a series of existential crises. 7:30 p.m. (Sat.) & 1:30 p.m. (Sun.).
“Candlelight Concert”: EMU Music Department.
Dec. 10 & 11. EMU choral director Brandon Johnson leads the EMU choirs in a festive program featuring a Baroque concerto and contemporary arrangements of traditional carols with trumpet, guitar, and modern dance. 7:30 p.m. (Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sun.), EMU Pease Auditorium, 494 College Pl., Ypsilanti. Tickets $15 (students, $5) in advance at emich.ludus.com and at the door. 487–0280.
2nd Saturday Contra Dance: Ann Arbor Community of Traditional Music and Dance.
All dances taught; no partner or experience needed. Bring flat, clean-soled, nonslip shoes (running shoes okay) and your own water bottle. New dancer instruction at 7 p.m. 7:30–10:30 p.m., Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse Dr. Mask, proof of vaccination, and release of liability required. Suggested donation $10. aactmad.org, 665–7704.
Itzhak Perlman & Friends: University Musical Society.
Superstar violin virtuoso Perlman is joined by the renowned Juilliard String Quartet (with new violist Molly Carr) along with 2 other guests: Emanuel Ax, a NYC-based pianist known for the elegant subtlety of his interpretations, and Jean-Yves Thibaudet, an L.A.-based French pianist who’s been praised for his nuanced musicality. The mixed chamber music program features French Baroque composer Jean-Marie Leclair’s lively Sonata for Two Violins in E minor, Mozart’s complex & lyrical Piano Quartet No. 2 in E-flat major, and French Romantic composer Ernest Chausson’s passionate Concert for Violin, Piano, and String Quartet. 7:30 p.m., Hill Auditorium. Mask required if Washtenaw County is in the CDC’s high-risk category. Tickets $28–$181 (students, $15–$53) at tickets.UMS.org. 764–2538.
“67th Annual Study Break Concert”: U-M Friars.
This self-styled “crack squad of ‘supercrooners,’” an a cappella octet drawn from the Men’s Glee Club, performs an eclectic mix of everything from slow ballads to upbeat dance tunes to original parodies that give a collegiate twist to classic songs. 8 p.m., Rackham Auditorium. Tickets $12 in advance at the Michigan Union Ticket Office (muto.umich.edu), and (if available) at the door. um.friars@umich.edu.
“Indecent”: U-M Rude Mechanicals.
Dec. 9–11. Mirit Skeen directs this student theater ensemble in Paula Vogel’s 2015 play about the controversy surrounding the 1923 Broadway premiere of Sholem Asch’s God of Vengeance, a production for which the producer and cast were convicted of indecency. 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun), U-M Walgreen Drama Center Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin. Tickets $13 (students, $7) in advance at muto.umich.edu and at the door. facebook.com/umrudes.
“Once there was not”: U-M Dance Department MFA Concert.
Dec. 8-10. MFA candidate Leah O’Donnell presents her multimedia dance theater piece, a screening of Blue Burrow, a short film meditation on Lake Huron, 6 dancers, accompanied by a singer, exploring themes of impermanence, contradiction, and purgatory. 8 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.), U-M Dance Bldg Performance Studio Theatre, 1000 Baits Drive. Tickets free, at the door only. 763–5460.
“The Heart of Robin Hood”: U-M Theatre Department.
Dec. 8-11. U-M theater professor Geoff Packard directs students in David Farr’s 2011 reimagining of the Robin Hood story, wherein the band of Sherwood Forest outlaws steals from the rich but don’t think to give to the poor until after Maid Marian’s intervention–along with the actions of the wicked Prince John. 7:30 (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Power Center. Tickets $24–$30 (students, $13) in advance at tickets.smtd.umich.edu, the Michigan League Ticket Office, and (if available) at the door. 764–2538.
Ben Traverse: Robin Hills Farm.
Dec. 9-10. Singer and multi-instrumentalist from Grand Rapids who specializes in traditional music of various sorts, including everything from shanties to banjo tunes. Alcohol is served. 7–9 p.m. (Fri.) & 8–10 p.m. (Sat.), RHF Nest bar, 20390 M-52, Chelsea. Free admission, drink purchase encouraged. robinhillsfarm.com, 536–6576.
Open Mic: Third Mind Books.
All invited to share musical performances, stories, comedy, and poetry. 8 p.m., Third Mind Books, 118 E. Washington. Free. 994–3241.
Variety Show: Ann Arbor Civic Improv.
Family holiday cabaret with holiday and Broadway music, standup and sketch comedy, storytelling and more by AACT and other local performers. 8 p.m., A2CT Studio, 322 W. Ann St. Tickets $15 in advance at civicimprov.org and at the door.
Latin Late Night: Patrick Fitzgibbon Band: Blue LLama Jazz Club
The PATRICK FITZGIBBON BAND brings an eclectic blend of musical styles into a modern jazz setting. Composer and percussionist Patrick Fitzgibbon draws from his experience traveling and studying music throughout the Caribbean, West Africa and India.
314 S. Main St , Ann Arbor. FREE. hello@bluellamaclub.com. bluellamaclub.com. 734-372-3200.
