Events
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Observer Editor
“Bastard”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
MoreEvery Wed.–Sun., Sept. 24–Dec. 20. Rhiannon Ragland directs retired Detroit newscaster and playwright Devin Scillian’s family comedy-drama about a conflict between brothers—an aging country rocker and a buttoned-down finance guy—after their mother’s death. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.), & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Wed.). 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org, (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
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Observer Editor
“Così fan tutte”: Fathom Entertainment
More(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Oct. 3 & 7: “Così fan tutte.” Live (Sat.) and prerecorded (Wed.) broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera production of Mozart’s comic opera, a rare blend of high-spirited farce with psychological acuity and emotional depth. This production sets the story—about 2 soldiers who decide to test their sweethearts’ faithfulness by wooing them disguised as foreigners—in a carnivalesque environment inspired by 1950s Coney Island. Italian, subtitles. 1 p.m. $24.
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Observer Editor
“Adore Him: He Is Here”: Fathom Entertainment
More(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Oct. 4–8: “Adore Him: He Is Here” (Don Johnson, 2026). Religious docudrama about Eucharistic adoration. 4:30 p.m. (Sun. only) & 6 p.m. Cinemark only.
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Observer Editor
“Adore Him: He Is Here”: Fathom Entertainment
More(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Oct. 4–8: “Adore Him: He Is Here” (Don Johnson, 2026). Religious docudrama about Eucharistic adoration. 4:30 p.m. (Sun. only) & 6 p.m. Cinemark only.
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Nightspots
Jake Reichbart.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborSolo jazz guitarist. Solo jazz pianists TBA occasionally substitute.
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FreeObserver Editor
“Fall Migration in Nichols Arboretum”: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
MoreEvery Thurs., Sept. 3–Oct. 29. WBNA members lead a hike through the Arb to look for fall warblers and other southbound migrants. Birders of all skill levels welcome. 8–11 a.m., meet in the cul-de-sac at the end of Riverview. (off Geddes near the east end of Dow Field). Free. washtenawbna.org.
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Observer Editor
“The 2026 Midterm Elections: Process, Policy & Consequences”: U-M Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Thursday Morning Lecture Series
MoreEvery Thurs., Sept. 17–Oct. 15. Series of 5 weekly talks.
Sept. 17: MSU political science professor Eric Gonzalez Juenke on “How to Think About Midterm Elections Like an Expert.”
Sept. 24: U-M communications professor Yanna Krupnikov on “The Impact of Social Media on U.S. Elections”
Oct. 1: MSU political science professor Matthew Grossmann on “Why Policymaking Success Leads to Electoral Failure.”
Oct. 8: U-M Dearborn political science professor Mitchel A. Sollenberger on “Presidential Power and Democratic Resilience: Institutional Change and the 2026 Midterms.”
Oct. 15: Oakland University political science professor David Dulio on “The 2026 Midterms: What the Data Tells Us.”
10–11:30 a.m., Washtenaw Community College Towsley Auditorium (Morris Lawrence Bldg.), 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Preregistration required at olli-umich.org. $120 (members, $70) for the 5-lecture series. $25 per lecture (members, $15). Membership, $50 a year. (734) 998–9351.
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Observer Editor
“Adore Him: He Is Here”: Fathom Entertainment
More(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Oct. 4–8: “Adore Him: He Is Here” (Don Johnson, 2026). Religious docudrama about Eucharistic adoration. 4:30 p.m. (Sun. only) & 6 p.m. Cinemark only.
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Community ListingFree
What is a Constitutional Convention?: Bentley Historical Library
More1150 Beal Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 49109
Every 16 years, Michigan voters are asked whether to dig into the state’s constitution and make edits in what’s known as a Constitutional Convention, or Con-Con. But what would a Con-Con actually look like? And what can voters understand about past Con-Cons that will help them say yes or no on this year’s ballot?
This fall, on November 3, it will be on Michigan ballots as “Proposal 1.”
If voters say yes to Proposal 1, that would begin the process of holding a constitutional convention – or “Con-Con.”
During a Con-Con, delegates can make changes to the state constitution.
But what would a Con-Con actually look like? And what can voters understand about past Con-Cons that will help them say yes or no to Proposal 1?
Michigan’s most recent Con-Con was held in 1961, and the Bentley Library is home to a host of materials related to this pivotal moment in the state’s history – from the papers of politicians and Con-Con delegates to newspaper articles, photos, and more.
You’re invited to join the Bentley Historical Library as we take a look back at the 1961 Con-Con and consider how the work done by delegates shapes our lives today.
October 8, 2026
6pm at the Bentley Historical LibrarySpeakers include:
> Lynn Liberato, author of Michigan’s Con-Con 11: Women and State Constitution-making in 1961
> Michelle McClellan, Bentley archivist working to grow the Library’s Con-Con collections and other political history in the state of MichiganThis event is free and open to the public, but advance registration is required.
https://bentley.umich.edu/learn/event/what-is-a-constitutional-convention/
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Observer Editor
“Adore Him: He Is Here”: Fathom Entertainment
More(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Oct. 4–8: “Adore Him: He Is Here” (Don Johnson, 2026). Religious docudrama about Eucharistic adoration. 4:30 p.m. (Sun. only) & 6 p.m. Cinemark only.
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Community Listing
Wine + Candle-Making: York Food and Drink
More1928 Packard St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA, Ann Arbor
An evening designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time!
Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where beautiful scents, hands-on creation, and a warm tasting room atmosphere come together. Sip wine, laugh, connect, and enjoy the process — no experience needed.
Whether you’re coming with friends or treating yourself, this workshop is all about slowing down, creating something with your hands, and leaving with a candle you’ll love (and a great memory).
✨ What’s Included
• A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
• All candle-making materials provided
• One handmade candle included
o Upgrade option: Add a second candle (+$15)
• One complimentary glass of wine of your choice
• A cozy, welcoming atmosphere to relax and connect✨ What to Expect
• 6:00–6:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your wine, and get comfortable.
• 6:15–7:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle, infused with intention and your favorite scent.
• 7:15–7:30 – Sip, Play & Connect: Enjoy your wine, games, and conversation while your candle finishes setting.
• 7:30–8:00 – Candle Decoration: Decorate your candle to make it uniquely yours.✨ Why Join?
• Try something new and creative — no experience needed
• Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
• Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
• Slow down, laugh, and be present for a couple of hours
• Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memory✨ Meet the Host
Renata – Candle Maker & Wellness Facilitator – @the.universe.stuffRenata is the heart and hands behind The Universe Stuff, a holistic wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and intention. She handcrafts soy candles and other wellness products designed to support balance and self-care, and she hosts workshops that invite people to slow down, connect, and create. Based in the Ann Arbor area, Renata loves bringing people together through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
✨ About the Space
York – yorka2.comThis workshop will take place at York, a thoughtfully designed community space in Ann Arbor where creativity, local businesses, and meaningful gatherings come together.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and beautifully curated spaces, York brings together a collection of local vendors, makers, and experiences under one roof. The venue regularly hosts markets, workshops, and community events that celebrate connection, creativity, and collaboration.
With its open, inviting layout and vibrant community energy, York provides the perfect setting for a relaxed and social candle-making experience — where beautiful scents, hands-on creativity, and great conversation come together to create a memorable evening.
https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/wine-candle-making-workshop-york-october
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Community ListingFree
GriefShare: St. Luke Lutheran Church
More4205 Washtenaw Ave.
Find hope and healing after the death of a loved one. You are encouraged to join us on any week. Sessions are self-contained.
The group meets on Thursdays starting at 6:30 PM for one-and-a-half hours, ending at 8:00 PM.
Each meeting consists of a video seminar, a discussion, and your personal workbook.
Each week you can expect to view a 30-minute video filled with helpful guidance, discuss grief-related issues, and gain personal recovery tips through your workbook.
Get more information and register here: https://find.griefshare.org/groups/297677
Questions? Contact: [email protected]
First meeting: Thurs., Sept. 10
Last meeting: Thurs., Dec. 10Free -
Observer Editor
“Spirited Away: Live on Stage”: Fathom Entertainment
More(734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline).
Oct. 1 & 8: “Spirited Away: Live on Stage.” Screening of a prerecorded 2022 Japanese stage adaptation of this Studio Ghibli anime (see below) featuring dazzling sets, musical numbers, and puppets. Japanese, subtitles. 6:30 p.m. (Cinemark) & 7 p.m. (Emagine).
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Nightspots
Jake Reichbart.: Earle
MoreEarle 121 W. Washington, Ann ArborSolo jazz guitarist. Solo jazz pianists TBA occasionally substitute.
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Observer Editor
“Bastard”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
MoreEvery Wed.–Sun., Sept. 24–Dec. 20. Rhiannon Ragland directs retired Detroit newscaster and playwright Devin Scillian’s family comedy-drama about a conflict between brothers—an aging country rocker and a buttoned-down finance guy—after their mother’s death. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.), & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Wed.). 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org, (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
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Observer Editor
“Videodrome”: Michigan Theater
MoreFilm screenings every day. Tickets $11.75 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, and U.S. veterans, $9.75; Marquee Arts members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar.
Oct. 8: “Videodrome” (David Cronenberg, 1983). Sci-fi horror film about the CEO of a small TV station who loses touch with reality as he searches for the source of a broadcast signal featuring extreme violence and torture. 8 p.m.
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Nightspots
The Pherotones.: Last Word
MoreLast Word 301 W. Huron, Ann ArborA wide range of jazz and jazzed-up popular music, from the 1920s to the present, by this all-star local quintet. With trumpeter Ross Huff, pianist Giancarlo Aversa, bassist Brennan Andes, violinist Jordan Adema, and drummer Wes Fritzemeier.
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Nightspots
Open Mic.: Tap Room
MoreTap Room 201 W. Michigan, Ypsilanti, YpsilantiAll musicians invited. Hosted by singer-guitarist Brian Brickley.
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Community ListingFree
Birds & Brews: BrightWorks Coworking
More3027 Miller Rd, Ann Arbor
It’s Back! – Kick off your morning with freshly ground coffee and great conversation with fellow bird enthusiasts! We will start in our Julia Child’s Kitchen to fuel up and socialize before trekking out to explore the beautiful Botsford Preserve for an enchanting morning of fall bird watching. BYO-Binoculars.
This event will be led by Bob Maddox of the Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance.
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Observer Editor
Blast Corn Maze: Nixon Farms
MoreEvery Fri.–Sun., Sept. 19–Nov. 1. A large corn maze with 3.5 miles of trails and 3 exits to allow for routes of various lengths. Also, a U-Pick pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo, pedal cars, straw maze, and yard games. On Sept. 27, Family Fun Day (11 a.m.–3 p.m.) features ice cream, balloon art, kids activities, and live music from the Saline Fiddlers. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. (Sat.), 11 a.m.–7 p.m. (Sun.), & 5–9 p.m. (Fri.), 6175 Daly, Dexter. $16 (ages 5–12, $13; age 4 & under, free with adult admission). blastcornmaze.com.
