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ISSUE 18 WINTER 2023
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Holiday Events Guide
arts + entertainment + culture
ISSUE 18 WINTER 2023
THE SETLIST.... PLAY
November........................................................ 9 December........................................................11 January...........................................................12 Get Hands on Music...................................... 6 Build a Bar..................................................... 10 Family Clay Sunday returns...................... 22 Salem Reads Giveaway..............................25 Are you the next Poet Laureate?............26
PICTURE DISC
7 | PLAY
Hidden Treasure It is not publicized. There is no street signage. And its existence is generally only known amongst the highly engaged car enthusiasts, but you can explore The Brothers Collection and its 600+ vintage vehicles during their annual toy drive on December 3.
5 | TURNTABLE
Salem Art Scene...........................................21 Filaments.......................................................25
Cheers to Zero-Proof
FRONT ROW
Several Salem locales are offering zero-proof (nonalcoholic) cocktails as part of their everyday menus. And you don’t need to wait until Dry January to enjoy them.
Round up.......................................................26
FAST FORWARD
Save these dates: music highlights.........25 Save these dates.........................................27
STOP
Meet Corey Jenkins....................................28
16 | A-SIDE
Holiday Events Guide Wintery weather calls for something warm and cozy…like soup with pleasing texture, and complementary flavors that appeal to the belly and the eyes. Here are five+ to try in downtown Salem.
14 | TURNTABLE
Soup's On Wintery weather calls for something warm and cozy…like soup with pleasing texture, and complementary flavors that appeal to the belly and the eyes. Here are five+ to try in downtown Salem.
10 | PLAY
Build a Bar with Chomp Chocolate Explore your culinary side at Chomp Chocolate's Build your Own Bar event on December 2.
winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 3
THIS ISSUE ON
PressPlaySalem.com @pressplaysalem
BEHIND THE SCENES WEB EXCLUSIVE Makin' a list, Checkin' it twice! Download our printable Holiday Event Checklist Photos, photos and more photos Watch our website for more photos and story extras.
Coffee & bagel @ The Gov Cup, Salem socks(!!!) from CreativiTee, Player sighting @ Blast Off! Vintage, Coffee & scone @ Archive
The Playlist
Released weekly and delivered directly to your inbox, The Playlist focuses on what’s happening in Salem for the coming weekend. From theater and live music to local hot spots and touring events, it aims to help people get out, explore, learn, experience… and play! Sign up at: pressplaysalem.com/ the-playlist
Submit Your Events
Send us your events. Community calendar listings are free (and we often pull from our calendar for feature stories.) To be considered for inclusion, email event title, 2-3 sentence summary, date, time, location, cost and where to contact for more information to hello@pressplaysalem.com
Printed in Salem because we care 4 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
#PressPlaySalem
Share your Salem moments with us by tagging your photos with #PressPlaySalem on social media. We want to know what Salem looks like to you! (You may even get featured in an upcoming issue.)
Contributors
Press Play Salem would not be possible without the creative energy, support, patience, time, etc. of ... Renee Campbell, Brian Hart, Anne Lapour, Ben Mah, Aoife Murphy, Tracy Torres, Melanie Weston, Carlee Wright, Rowan Wright, Erin Zysett and so many more! Thank you for all your help! All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronically or mechanically, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the express written permission of Press Play Salem. The views and opinions expressed in these articles and ads are not necessarily those of Press Play Salem or its contributors, employees, staff or management. Please Note: While we make every effort to ensure accuracy with calendar and event listings, dates and details are subject to change without notice.
Connect with Press Play Salem facebook.com/PressPlaySalem instagram: @PressPlaySalem X: @PressPlaySalem pinterest.com/pressplaysalem pressplaysalem.com hello@pressplaysalem.com
About the Cover
Downtown Salem created by Erin Zysett
Digital Edition
Scan QR code to access the magazine online.
This edition of Press Play Salem has been supported by a grant from the City of Salem's Transient Occupancy Tax funds.
TURNTABLE
CHEERS TO
ZERO-PROOF
Cheers to a beverage that embodies the flavors and aromas of alcoholic spirits, but without the potential hangover the next morning. Several Salem locales are offering zero-proof (nonalcoholic) cocktails as part of their everyday menus. And you don’t need to wait until Dry January to enjoy them.
At Archive Coffee & Bar Archive has crafted a collection of zeroproof cocktails that truly embody the genre by leaning on the use of bitters, zero-proof spirits and tonic. 102 Liberty St NE #120 One to try: New Old Fashioned
At Bentley's The alcohol-free cocktail offerings at Bentley’s are an understated and approachable upscale variety of some classic flavors such as cherry, ginger and grapefruit. Inside The Grand Hotel One to try: Cherry Orchard
At The Cozy Taberna Complementing the small plates served at The Cozy, you will find a variety of alcohol-free beverages, from signature handcrafted cocktails to zero-proof wine and non-alcoholic beer. 249 Liberty St NE #140 One to try: Just in Thyme
At Epilogue Kitchen & Cocktails It should come as no surprise that a restaurant with a two-time James Beardnominated chef features zero-proof cocktails offering unique experiences. Their beverages draw on some common
flavors, like citrus juices, along with some unique ones, such as sumac tea, calamansi vinegar and jerk spices. 508 State St One to try: Beach Vibes
Epilogue Kitchen & Cocktails
At Pacific Standard Although there are only a couple of alcohol-free mixed drinks on the Pacific Standard menu, they live up to the title well as they bring together nonalcoholic spirits with unique flavors to provide an elevated cocktail experience. Inside The Holman Hotel One to try: Tiger Balm
At Palominos
Archive Coffee & Bar
Palominos features zero-proof offerings that feature a little something for every palette, from their seasonal virgin mule to a spritz to a “bougie” Arnold Palmer. 466 Court St NE One to try: The Sierra
At Wild Pear Can you call a zero-proof cocktail comforting? There is a familiarity with the mocktails available from Wild Pear, appealing to a wide variety of tastes by elevating popular flavors in memorable combinations. 372 State St One to try: Mint Berry Smash
Pacific Standard winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 5
PLAY
Downtown Salem presents
Gets Hands on Music
Salem Philharmonia presents A Family Concert: Meet the Orchestra featuring music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Felix Mendelssohn, Richard Wagner and more, 2 p.m. Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3, at East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave NE. “These concerts are really special,” said Susan Friesen, Executive Director. “They’re geared for the whole family … familiar symphonic classics, but shorter than the selections in our usual concert format, with instrument demonstrations to get the younger crowd excited about instruments that particularly grab their attention.”
Holiday Parade featuring Santa & Buddy the Elf
Friday, December 1, 2023 Staging at 4:30 PM | Parade at 6:30 PM
SCAN HERE
Watch for more holiday activities throughout Downtown Salem during the month of December! CONNECT WITH US! salemmainstreetassociation.org
SalemMainStreetAssociation
DowntownSalem #DowntownSalem
Before the concert, at 1:15 p.m. in the lobby, there will be an instrument ‘petting zoo’ giving kids an opportunity to see up close and try out some of the instruments found in an orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults. Youth through the age of 17 are always admitted free. For more info, visit salemphil.org 66 | | pressplaysalem.com pressplaysalem.com | | winter winter 2023 2023
Are you making the 58% local difference?
Of every $100 spent, $68 vs $43 goes back into the local economy when shopping at a local store vs a big box store. That is a 58% premium when shopping locally. — Civic Economics —
PLAY
HIDDEN TREASURE
SEE MORE ONLINE
Visit PressPlaySalem.com for more photos!
Explore The Brothers Collection and its 600+ vintage vehicles during annual toy drive on December 3
It is not publicized. There is no street signage. And its existence is generally only known amongst the highly engaged car enthusiasts. But Salem is home to one of the most comprehensive and impressive car collections in the world. Nestled in a nondescript warehouse spanning over 100,000 square feet, The Brothers Collection features more than 600 collectible vehicles. From the outside, you would never know, but once you step through the doors, the space opens into a sprawling museum, documenting and sharing a slice of history. Neatly organized rows of cars
polished to perfection form an artistic labyrinth-like display offering visitors the opportunity to admire and enjoy. Even for those with little interest, it is a wondrous sight, yet one only open to the public during special events, such as the collection’s annual toy drive. Curious? You are in luck. Get a peek at this incredible assembly during the Brothers Collection Toy Drive 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec 3. The museum will be open by ticketed reservation costing $10, plus one new, unwrapped toy.
Toys and funds will be donated to Project Joy, a nonprofit organization that aims “to help all foster, adoptive, guardianship and relative care families. [Its] hope is to help relieve the financial burden for these families and most importantly for these kids to know that they matter, are loved for who they are and to put a smile on their faces.” In 2022, its inaugural year, 4,126 toys and more than $30,000 were collected for Project Joy. Get your tickets to explore on Dec 3 at https://bit.ly/CarMuseum
Photo by Ben Mah winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 7
BUY HANDCRAFTED POTTERY TO HELP FEED HUNGRY NEIGHBORS
Nov. 18 · 9am-5pm
Cascade Hall · Red Gate Oregon State Fairgrounds
willametteartcenter.org | 503-365-3911
8 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
Tickets: PentacleTheatre.org
NOVEMBER
PLAY Highlights of what's happening in music, arts and more COMMUNITY. Prepare for your Thanksgiving festivities with a 1K, 5K or 10K jaunt at the City of Salem’s Turkey Trot. Activities begin at 9:30 a.m. Nov 18 at Riverfront and Minto-Brown Island Parks. $1-$10. egov.cityofsalem.net/ ParksRec/Activity MUSIC. Bush House Museum is hosting an intimate, mini concert with singer/songwriter Amenta Abioto. In her one-woman show, Amenta builds vocal and instrumental loops from kalimba, synthesizer, drum machine and guitar creating atmospheric textures. Her raw live performances invoke elements of both theatrical surprise and magic through ancient African diasporic sounds and stories. 6:30 p.m. Nov 18 at 600 Mission St SE. $15+ salemart.org
November 18 COMMUNITY. Shop a variety of handcrafted bowls—more than 1,200—created by the volunteer artists of Willamette Art Center during Empty Bowls. And while bowls may be in the title, that's not all you will find at this annual event that's perfect for getting ahead on holiday gifts. Shop ceramic dishes, cups, mugs, planters, platters, pitchers and other handmade pottery. Funds raised help feed the hungry in our community through Marion-Polk Food Share, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov 18 at Cascade Hall at Oregon State Fairgrounds. 503-3653911, willametteartcenter.com COMMUNITY. Stock up during the LifeSource Pajama Sale - sorry, it’s not a sale on pajamas, but wear yours to get 20% off all regularly priced items (except turkeys). OK, Pajamas aren't actually necessary, but they are encouraged. Plus there will be giveaways, free samples and other fun. 6 to 10 a.m. Nov 18, at LifeSource Natural Foods, 2649 Commercial St SE. lifesourcenaturalfoods.com
November 24 & 25 ON STAGE. Step into the magical world of the Nutcracker, a mesmerizing part of the World Ballet Series, showcasing a diverse cast of 50 professional dancers who breathe new life
miraculous
into this classic holiday tradition. This familyfriendly performance features Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music, more than 150 radiant hand-crafted costumes, lavish hand-painted sets and the iconic Lev Ivanov choreography. 7 p.m. Nov 24 & 2 p.m. Nov 25 at Elsinore Theatre. $42+ elsinoretheatre.com
GARY WESTFORD
occurrences PA I N T I N G S B Y
SEPT 19 – JAN 22
November 25 COMEDY. Take in a night of laughter at Slay ‘Em: A Comedy Showcase of Local Killers to see Salem's funny side at this all-ages show. Note: while all-ages are welcome, the material may not necessarily be clean. 8 p.m. Nov 25 at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE. $15-$20. infinityroomsalem.com
LEVEL 2 GALLERY Learn more: OregonArtistsSeries.com
winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 9
FRONT PLAY ROW
Build A Bar
Explore your culinary side. Build your own bar 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 2, at Chomp! Chocolate Factory, 2195 Hyacinth St NE #134. How it works: Watch your factory-fresh oat milk (vegan, soy-free, gluten-free) chocolate bar poured right in front of you. Choose up to nine toppings to create your signature chocolate treat. Special holiday toppings include crushed candy cane, holiday sprinkles, cranberry crumb and more. While your bar sets (about 15-20 minutes), craft your official packaging, and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the factory. Cost is $15 a bar. One bar is one ticket. Buy a ticket for every bar your group will be making. There are 25 tickets/bars available for each time slot. Advanced registration required. Sign up online at chompchocolate.com PS: Chomp’s holiday line-up is available online now and in-store Nov 15.
10 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
DECEMBER
PLAY Highlights of what's happening in music, arts and more
December 1
December 29
MUSIC & COMMUNITY. Confluence Willamette Valley LGBT Chorus presents The Most Wonderful Time. 7:30 p.m. Dec 1 at First Congregational UCC Church, 700 Marion St NE. $ confluencelgbtchorus.org
MUSIC. Sweet Baby James: The James Taylor Tribute — Not your typical tribute band fare, Bill Griese brings you the songs and stories of Taylor in a refreshingly authentic way, using only his spot-on vocals and skillful guitar playing. 8 p.m. Dec 29 at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. $20. salemshg. vbotickets.com
December 1 MUSIC. Stone In Love – Journey tribute delivers a high-energy performance that showcases all the hallmarks of the Journey sound – soaring lead vocals, lush fourpart harmonies, signature guitar licks, fat keyboards, and driving rhythms – on legendary hits known the world over. 7:30 p.m. Dec 1 at Elsinore Theatre, $25+ elsinoretheatre.com
December 5 MUSIC. Macy Gray & The California Jet Club take the stage with The Reset Tour, revealing 360 degrees of Macy Gray at her lyrically introspective and vocally exuberant best. 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec 5 at Elsinore Theatre. $39+ elsinoretheatre.com
December 21 MUSIC. A Not-So-Silent Night — Keep an eye on December 21 for Yule Make Music. Organized by Make Music Salem, it’s the midway point to the summer celebration, both of which bring live music to the streets of Salem. Find more info at makemusicsalem.org
TH, FRI & SAT AT 7:30PM SUN AT 2:00PM ASL INTERPRETATION ON DEC 15TH SALEM'S HISTORIC GRAND THEATRE 503.585.3427 EnlightenedTheatrics.org Enlightened Theatrics is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
December 30 MUSIC. The Fab Four performs the Beatles’ “Rubber Soul” — The Emmy Award-winning Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles Tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ classics, the Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing. Their incredible stage performances include costume changes representing every era of the Beatles ever-changing career, 7:30 p.m. Dec 30 at Elsinore Theatre. $34.50+ elsinoretheatre.com
BUY TICKETS HERE!
This musical is supported by the City of Salem Transient Occupancy Tax, Oregon Arts Commission and the Ronni S. Lacroute Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation. Presented by Special Arrangement with Musical Theatre International
Words and Music by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul Book by Timothy Allen McDonald Based on the book James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 11
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JANUARY
PLAY Highlights of what's happening in music, arts and more
January 12-14 HOME. Meet with the experts. See exhibits showcasing the latest in home products and services. Discover what you need to refresh, enhance, remodel and build at the Mid-Valley Home Show. Jan 12-14, in the Jackman-Long Building a t the Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE. 503-399-1500, homebuildersassociation.org
January 24 Ryan Hamilton
January 12 MUSIC. Oregon Symphony in Salem presents a program celebrating the legacy of great pianistcomposers. Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony unfurls a tapestry of heartfelt melodies and lush romanticism. And Conrad Tao showcases his “openhearted vision” (New York Times) as composer of the opening Over and soloist in Haydn’s final piano concerto. 7:30 p.m. Jan 12 in Smith Auditorium at Willamette University. $37$52. orsymphony.org
Opening January 12 ON STAGE. Pentacle Theatre presents Neil Simon's Brighton Beach Memoirs. Dreaming of baseball and girls, Eugene copes with the mundane existence of his family life in Brooklyn, his formidable mother, overworked father and worldly older brother. Add his aunt and her two young (but rapidly aging) daughters and you have a recipe for hilarity, served up Simon-style. (Concord Theatrical). Jan 12-Feb 4 at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW. $20+ pentacletheatre.org
ON STAGE. For the last 32 years, The Peking Acrobats have redefined audience perceptions of Chinese acrobatics. They push the limits of human ability, defying gravity with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility and control. 7:30 p.m. Jan 24 at Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE. $29+ elsinoretheatre.com
January 25 COMEDY. Named one of Rolling Stone’s Five Comics to Watch, Ryan Hamilton brings his one of a kind, clean, observational, sarcastic, self-deprecating humor to the stage. 7:30 p.m. Jan 25, at Elsinore Theatre. $39+ elsinoretheatre.com
January 26 MUSIC. After winning a Grammy for his soulful ballad “Walking in Memphis,” Marc Cohn solidified his place as one of this generation’s most compelling singer-songwriters, combining the precision of a brilliant tunesmith with the passion of a great soul man. 7:30 p.m. Jan 26, at Elsinore Theatre. $44+ elsinoretheatre.com
For more events... see the monthly calendar at PressPlaySalem.com
Call to Artists
EROTICA An Exhibition to Arouse February 1-24, 2024
Learn more at SalemOnTheEdge.com January 26 & 27 FOOD & DRINK. Sip and sample your way across the culinary delights of our state at First Taste Oregon. It’s not just about what you eat and drink (although there is definitely an opportunity for that) but First Taste also features entertainment, including two stages of music; art; vendors; and more. Individual tastes are sold separately by exhibitors and can be purchased directly at the event starting at $1 per taste. 4 to 9 p.m. Jan 26 and 12 to 9 p.m. Jan 27 in Jackman Long Building at Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE. $9-$50. firsttasteoregon.com
January 29 MUSIC. Chemeketa Community College’s Acclaimed Artist Series presents The Baltimore Consort, which was founded to perform instrumental music of Shakespeare's time. Although later joined by a singer, the group's experience of rehearsing purely instrumentally forged its identity as an ensemble dedicated to exploiting the diverse sound colors offered by gut- and wire-strung, plucked and bowed strings, and transverse and end-blown flutes and recorders, capped reeds and percussion. 7:30 p.m. Jan 29 in Chemeketa Community College Theatre Auditorium, Building 6, 4000 Lancaster Dr NE. $15-$30. chemeketaconcerts. weebly.com winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 13
SOUP'S ON
TURNTABLE
SOUP FOR MY FAMILY ROASTED POBLANO Epilogue has made a commitment to our community through soup, which rotates in flavor and proudly occupies a permanent spot on its menu. No matter what they are serving, it is sure to be a culinary delight that will expand your flavor horizons. Additionally, it’s “always vegan, always gluten-free, and always available for anyone regardless of ability to pay.” Eat up at Epilogue Kitchen & Cocktails, 508 State St
The Roasted Poblano Soup at Los Toreros with its hints of garlic, onion and butter is the perfect amount of heat and flavor spoonful after spoonful. The eatery also offers Sopa de Tarasaca, a broth-based soup with flavors of ancho and guajillo peppers, as well as Black Bean Soup, featuring chorizo. Grab a bowl at Los Toreros, 479 Court St NE
TOMATO & ROASTED RED PEPPER Yes, it’s a sandwich shop, but the soup — the soup! Only one offering, but nothing more is needed with their amplified Tomato and Roasted Red Pepper soup, which brings together a rich balanced flavor with the perfect texture (not too smooth) for true comfort in a cup. Feast away at Valiant the Sandwich, 477 Court St NE
MORE SOUPY SOURCES —
This could be a never-ending list, but if soup's your jam, be sure to check out the Oregon Mushroom Bisque at Pacific Standard, the Soup de Jour at Paradiso at The Grand and the housemade soup of the day at Ritter’s Eatery.
14 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
Wintery weather calls for something warm and cozy…like soup with pleasing texture, and complementary flavors that appeal to the belly and the eyes. Here are five+ to try in downtown Salem.
OUR BASEMENT BAR HAS BEEN REIMAGINED INTO
A CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
We love Carlee
Venti’s regular menu features two soups: Tomato and Beer Cheese. While both satisfy a craving, the Tomato Basil Soup stands out. Unlike many tomato soups, this one is made with oat milk giving it a slightly sweet taste, and small bits of tomato give it texture and body. Plus, it's vegan and gluten-free. Chow down at two locations. Venti's Cafe, 2840 Commercial St SE and 325 Court St NE
COCONUT CURRY BUTTERNUT SQUASH When you say Wild Pear, one of the first things that come to mind for many is soup (or their Guinness Chocolate Cake, but that’s a whole ‘nother story). Serving three options at all times, you cannot go wrong with any of them. Go for their seasonal standard or one of the rotating flavors, which generally includes a vegetarian option. Indulge at Wild Pear, 372 State St
IG: VENTISBEERVAULT P
FREE PARKING
IN THE CHEMEKETA PARKADE AND ON STREET!
Commercial St N
TOMATO BASIL
VENTI’S
Court St NE
VENTI’S DOWNTOWN 325 Court St NE • Salem ventiscafe.com • since 1996
PS: As soup connoisseurs, we are always on the look out so this story is neverending… winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 15
A-SIDE
Holiday Events Guide
It’s time to play! Not sure where to start? Use our scatterplot (it was a noble attempt) graph to discover what to do. From free things with the kids to fun stuff for adults only…and everything in between. The numbers coordinate with entries that provide the low down on each event. Have fun!
1
Corral everyone into the car for Magic of Lights, a unique and dazzling drive-through experience featuring more than a mile of spectacular light displays, Nov 17 to Dec 31 at Oregon State Fairgrounds. magicoflights.com $-$$
2
Santa arrives aboard the Carousel Express Train (and there will be free hot cocoa while supplies last) 12 p.m. Nov 24, outside Salem’s Riverfront Carousel. salemcarousel.org
3
Salem’s Riverfront Carousel is accepting letters to Santa starting Nov 24. Complete an online form at their website, or pop by in person by Dec 15 to receive a personalized letter from Santa in return! salemcarousel.org 16 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
4
Slow down and enjoy a moment of peace and beauty during Holidays in Hudson. The program features timeless choral works and songs for the season performed by Willamette's Voce and Chamber choirs, along with traditional carols sung together with the audience, 7:30 p.m. Nov 30 and Dec 1 in Hudson Hall at Willamette University. willamette.edu $
5
Visit Deepwood during their Holiday Open House to admire decor and reminisce about Victorian life. Say hello to Santa Claus, be greeted by hosts dressed in Victorian attire and shop tea, teacups and more, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec 2 at Deepwood Museum & Gardens, 1116 Missions St SE. deepwoodmuseum.org
6
The Downtown Salem Holiday Parade returns bigger and better with a longer route, motorized vehicles and floats, too, 6:30 p.m. Dec 1. See route at: salemmainstreetassociation.org
7
Confluence Willamette Valley LGBT Chorus presents The Most Wonderful Time, 7:30 p.m. Dec 1 at UCC Salem, 700 Marion St. NE. confluencelgbtchorus.org $
8
Don your festive wear and take in an evening of holiday cheer at the Gala of Trees, an annual fundraiser for Family Building Blocks featuring exquisitely decorated trees plus a silent auction, live auction, dinner, wine and dancing, 5:30 p.m. Dec 1 at Salem Convention Center $$$
For Adults 9
Salem Etsy Team Handmade Market
24
Salem Holiday Market
Gala of Trees
Santa Crawl
5
Deepwood Holiday Open House
40
Yule Made Music
12
Etegami
32
Carols for the Season Concert
7
Holiday Soirée
19
Winter Wreath Workshop
20
A John Denver Christmas
Race for the Rest of Us
14
O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
Theatre 33 Holiday Short Plays Koto/Cello Holiday Concert
4
Wreck the Halls
26
Tower of Power
41
6
Sing We Now of Christmas
34
Holiday Skate
The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas
21
43
37
42
Downtown Salem Holiday Parade
Jingle Bell Relay Salem Tuba Holiday
23
Holiday Tree Lighting
44
Free Carousel Rides
2
13
Star Tree Lighting & Holiday Concert
Magic at the Mill
1
Magic of Lights
35
Rankin & Bass Specials
11
Santa arrives at The Carousel
Home Alone
3
36
Letters to Santa
30
Elf
15
Holiday Craft Day
22
29
25
The Most Wonderful Time Concert Holidays in Hudson
Free
8
31
16
Krampus Night Holiday Market
A-SIDE
A Holiday Horn Recital
18
39 17
Oregon Symphony Holiday Brass
cost
33
The Nutcracker
27
A Children's Nutcracker
38
Holiday Pajama Party
28
Breakfast with Santa
10
For KiDs
Holiday Princess Tea Party
winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 17
A-SIDE
20 21 22
Groove to the tunes of Tower of Power’s Holidays & Hits Tour, 7:30 p.m. Dec 7 at the Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $$
Deepwood Museum and Garden
9
The Salem Etsy Team Handmade Market features more than 150 vendors selling a variety of locally handcrafted and vintage holiday gifts, from jewelry to bath products, decor to original art, and much more, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec 2 at Oregon State Fairgrounds. facebook.com/SalemEtsyTeam
10 11
Magic awaits at the Holiday Princess Tea Party, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec 2 at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel. salemcarousel.org $$ Take in a big-screen viewing of the John Hughes holiday classic Home Alone. Plus, see Santa, who will be in attendance the hour before each show, 2 or 7 p.m. Dec 2 at the Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $
12
Create Etegami (hand-painted Japanese cards) for Christmas and New Year's, Dec 2 at the World Beat Gallery, 390 Liberty St SE. Two sessions: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. salemmulticultural.org $
13
Enjoy music, cocoa and s’mores at the Star Tree Lighting (6:30 p.m.) followed by a Family Holiday Concert featuring the University Chamber Orchestra, 7 p.m. in Hudson Hall at Willamette University. Dec 2.
14
Take in a Holiday Concert featuring music by SamaZama, the Koto/Cello duo of Masumi Timson and Jospeh Harchanko, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dec 2 at the World Beat Gallery. salemmulticultural.org $
15
There'll be free Holiday Craft Day (while supplies last), 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec 3 at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel. salemcarousel.org 18 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
Get festive at the Jingle Bell Relay, 4:30 p.m. Dec 8 at Riverfront Park. egov.cityofsalem. net/ParksRec/Activity $
16
Krampus Night is a holiday market celebrating the strange and unusual side of the season, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec 3, at Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St SE. marketforthestrange.com
17
Oregon Symphony: Holiday Brass — Feel the power, precision and prowess of the Oregon Symphony brass section when they play a festive mix of classical and popular holiday favorites, 7:30 p.m. Dec 3 at the Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $$
18
Take in an evening of fun enjoying snacks, conversation and crafting at the Winter Wreath Workshop, 6 to 8 p.m. Dec 5 at Common People Yoga, Pringle Park Plaza, 360 Liberty St SE. commonpeopleyoga.com/ special-events $$
19
Rich in wordplay, comic physicality and cleverly crafted interactive elements, O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy is uproarious fun. The boundless imagination and endearing chemistry of theatrical duo James and Jamesy provide magic and heart in this jolly holiday escapade, 7:30 p.m. Dec 6 at the Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $$
Enjoy a social evening with friends, family and community members while supporting Liberty House at Holiday Soirée 2023, 6 to 10 p.m. Dec 8 at Illahe Hills Country Club. libertyhousecenter.org $
23
Bundle up and bring your family to the City of Salem’s annual Holiday Tree Lighting where there will be a special visit from Santa, plus cookies, cocoa, carriage rides, lights, music and more, Dec 8 at Salem’s Riverfront Park, 200 Water St SE.
24
Shop from more than 250 vendors offering handmade, handcrafted or homegrown products at the Salem Holiday Market, where there will also be Santa’s village and kids activities, a gingerbread house contest, tree decorating contest, pet adoptions and interactive display area, Dec 8-10 at Oregon State Fairgrounds. salemcommunitymarkets.com
25
Theatre 33 presents Holiday Shorts, five new short holiday plays written by theater alum, on stage, Dec 8-10 and 13-15 in the M. Lee Pelton Theatre at Willamette University, 900 State St. theatre33.org $
26
Take in the action at Cherry City Roller Derby’s Wreck the Halls double header, a familyfriendly, holiday-themed event featuring a festively dressed collection of players, 4:30 p.m. Dec 9 at The Mad House. Cherrycityrollerderby.com $
27
36
American Ballet Academy presents A Children’s Nutcracker, a full version of the holiday tradition performed by almost 250 local students. Profits donated to the Marion Polk Food Share. 7 p.m. Dec 9 and 2:30 p.m. Dec 10, at Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $
28 29
Elsinore Holiday Films presents a big-screen viewing of the seasonal classic Elf. Bomus: For the hour prior to the show, both Santa AND Buddy the Elf (read more about him on page 28) will be in attendance so prepare your list and be sure to bring extra maple syrup (but don't really), 7 p.m. Dec 19 at Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $
Kids have two opportunities for Breakfast with Santa, Dec 9 and 16 at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel. salemcarousel.org $$ Lace-up your sneakers for the TR Melton Memorial Race for the Rest of Us, a grueling (not really) 0.05-mile foot race raising funds to benefit families through St. Francis Shelter, Family Building Blocks and Salem Angels, 4 p.m. Dec 10 at f/Stop Fitzgerald’s Public House, 335 Grove St NE. facebook.com/tipsfortotssalem $$
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Roll into some seasonal fun with the Holiday Skate hosted by Traveling Wheelz and Cherry City Roller Derby on Dec 16. There are two sessions: 4 to 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 to 10 p.m. at The Madhouse, 1335 Madison St NE. travelingwheelz.com $
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Suit up in your “best holiday attire” for the Santa Crawl and experience Salem’s downtown nightlife, 6 to 10:30 p.m. Dec 16, starting at Travel Salem Visitor Center, 630 Center St NE. travelsalem.com $
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Willamette Master Chorus presents Holiday Concert: Carols for the Season featuring the McKay High School Choir; Peter Sepulveda and Hannah Abercrombie, Directors, plus The Trail Sextet returns with special holiday music arrangements, 3 p.m. Dec 16 and Dec 17 in Hudson Hall at Willamette University. willamettemasterchorus.org $
A-SIDE
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Santa at the Elsinore Theatre
Premiere Academy of Performing Arts presents the two-act ballet, The Nutcracker, a holiday tradition featuring PAPA students, plus a few special guest performers bringing the performance to life on stage, 3 p.m. Dec 16 and 17 at the Elsinore Theatre. Elsinoretheatre.com $
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Join Festival Chorale Oregon for an afternoon of traditional carols during Sing We Now of Christmas. This kid-friendly event includes an audience sing-along and a special story for children, with familiar Christmas songs you remember from bygone years, 4 p.m. Dec 17 in Loucks Auditorium at Salem Public Library. festivalchorale.org $
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Take in a big-screen viewing of two stop-motion holiday classics from the creative vision of the directors Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass with The Year Without a Santa Claus and Jack Frost. Plus, Santa will be in attendance for the hour before each show, 2 and 7 p.m. Dec 18 at Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $
Magic at The Mill is a winter celebration featuring five nights of family-friendly festivities including thousands of twinkling lights, children’s activities, heritage tours, live music, demonstrations, museum tours, living history, vendors and more, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 19-23 at Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St. SE. willametteheritage.org $
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Jammie up for the Holiday Pajama Party with Santa & Friends, 5 to 7 p.m. Dec 20 at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, 101 Front St NE. salemcarousel.org $$
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Rocky Mountain High Experience, A John Denver Christmas starring Rick Schuler, features your favorite Denver hits, heartwarming inspirational carols and holiday classics, too, 7:30 p.m. Dec 20 at the Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre. com $$
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Take in a not-so-silent night during Yule Make Music, the half-yearly counterpart to Make Music Day, on Dec 21. Watch for live music and festivities on the streets of Salem. makemusicsalem.org
There's more to explore on the next page...
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A-SIDE
chemeketa concerts Supporting the programs of Chemeketa Community College 4000 Lancaster Dr NW | Salem
TICKETS & INFO
12.22.24
THE BALTIMORE CONSORT 1.29.24
AVIARA 2.16.24 Salem's Riverfront Carousel is offering
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free rides on Dec 24 and 31
Chemeketa Community College’s Night of a Thousands Lights Concert series presents The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas featuring a family-friendly concert with Nate Olson Trio surrounded by a thousand or more lights, 7:30 p.m. Dec 22 in the auditorium at Chemeketa Community College. Chemeketaconcerts. weebly.com $-$$
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Willamette Valley Horn Academy presents A Holiday Horn Recital of seasonal arrangements, 3 p.m. Dec 23 in Loucks Auditorium at the Salem Public Library. $
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DAKHABRAKHA 3.22.24
BOSTON BRASS 4.23.24
CROWN CITY QUARTET 5.19.24
Art Makes Life Better!
#SalemsGot
156 Liberty St NE | www.salemontheedge.com
www.moxieinitiative.org
Salem Tuba Holiday is an annual tradition of musical merriment featuring players of conical bore instruments, 12 p.m. Dec 24 at Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com $
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Salem’s Riverfront Carousel is open for free rides 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve (Dec 24) and New Year’s Eve (Dec 31). There is a suggested donation of non-perishable food items to support Marion Polk Food Share. Salemcarousel.org 20 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
SALEM'S ART SCENE
HALLIE FORD Oregon's third-largest art museum, Hallie Ford Museum of Art features works by Pacific Northwest and Native American artists, a diverse collection of traditional European, American and Asian art, as well as antique artifacts. The museum is located at 700 State St and is open 12 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Cost to explore is $8, $5 for seniors and free for educators, students 18 and older and youth 17 and younger. Admission is free for everyone on Tuesdays. 503-370-6855, willamette.edu/arts/hfma
Through December 2 Crow's Shadow Institute of the Arts Biennial — This exhibition features a selection of prints created by Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists at the Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts on the Umatilla
FREE GALLERY TALKS “The Hallie Ford Museum of Art at 25” every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. through December 12
PICTURE DISC Explore art in Salem at these exhibits & events.
Highlights from the Hallie Ford's permanent collection include work by Salem artists Susan Trueblood Stuart (1938-2023), David George Andersen (1960-2017), Dan May (1952-2019) and Sloy (1943-2002)
Reservation in northeastern Oregon. Founded by Oregon painter and printmaker James Lavadour (Walla Walla) in 1992, the Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts seeks to create educational and professional opportunities for Indigenous artists to utilize their art as a vehicle for economic development.
Through December 16 The Hallie Ford Museum of Art at 25: Highlights from the Permanent Collection 2023-24 — The Hallie Ford Museum of Art opened its doors for the first time in October of 1998, and over the past quarter century, has built an encyclopedic collection of Western and non-Western art and mounted a dazzling array of temporary exhibitions intended to instruct, inspire, and delight. Over the years, the development of the permanent collection has been guided by the HFMA staff and its faculty-curators, as well as by the generosity, vision, and largesse of its many donors and patrons. To celebrate
its remarkable history and growth over the past twenty-five years, the HFMA director, curators, outside scholars, and others have teamed up to mine the collection to reveal its many hidden treasures, often for the first time.
January 2 through April 20 Singular Visions: Self-Taught Artists from the Permanent Collection
January 23 through March 30 Willem Volkers: The View from Here
EVENTS at HALLIE FORD The Bartow Project — Join Curator of Indigenous Art Rebecca Dobkins for an evening of short films about Wiyot artist Rick Bartow (1946-2016), 7:30 p.m. Thursday, November 16 in the Roger Hull Lecture Hall, Hallie Ford Museum of Art. Free and open to the public.
winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 21
FRONT PLAY ROW
PICTURE DISC
ART HALL @ SPL A year-round gallery space, the Art Hall features the Salem Reads Art Exhibit each February. During the rest of the year, the Oregon Artists Series Foundation curates rotating exhibits featuring regional artists.
Through January, 24, 2024 Miraculous Occurrences: Paintings by Gary Westford — This show is a companion to the work on display at Level 2 at Salem Convention Center.
Family Clay Sunday returns Welcoming one and all to create simple hand-built projects, Family Clay Sunday is a fun for everyone, affordable family activity. No experience is needed for this hands-on art event as you will learn while you create and with a different activity at each session, you can build upon your skills while you build your creation. Here’s what’s happening this winter... Dec 3 — Pinch pot monsters Dec 10 — Lidded containers Dec 17 — Glazing & techniques Jan 7 — Coil cup with stamps Jan 14 — Coil built planters Jan 21 — Glazing & techniques The cost to participate is $5 per person per week. Drop in anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. on Family Clay Sunday dates at Willamette Art Center, 1820 Silverton Rd NE (near the north corner of 17th Street and Silverton Road at the Oregon State Fairgrounds). Learn more at willametteartcenter.com
22 22 | | pressplaysalem.com pressplaysalem.com | | winter winter 2023 2023
SALEM ART ASSOCIATION Paintings by Gary Wesford on exhibit at Level 2 Gallery
LEVEL 2 GALLERY Level 2 Gallery at the Salem Convention Center, curated by the Oregon Artists Series Foundation, features changing exhibits of work by regional artists. The Gallery is accessible Mon - Fri during business hours, during special events or by appointment. Call 503-589-1700. oregonartistsseries.com
Through January 22, 2024 Miraculous Occurrences: Paintings by Gary Westford — California-born Gary Westford lives and works in Salem as an artist and curator. He received an MA in painting from the University of California, Berkeley, where he studied with Elmer Bischoff, Joan Brown and Robert Colescott. “As an artist, I construct visual narratives that speak to our time, and yet, are timeless and universal. I’m committed to making good paintings that show a love for the medium of oil paint, and to a vision that is both clearly realized and open to interpretation,” says Gary. “These Miraculous Occurrences paintings bear witness, as narratives, for what I have seen and experienced over time.”
Founded in 1919, the Salem Art Association (SAA) aims to actively engage the community in the appreciation of the arts through contemporary art exhibits and events, and arts education for youth and adults. Visit the Bush Barn Art Center & Annex at 600 Mission St. SE. salemart.org
Through December 24 Kanani Miyamoto: Golden Fruit — Golden Fruit shares the beauty of mixing cultures. In this body of work, the artist uses Japanese and Hawaiian imagery and motif in combination with traditional craft and process. The work explores the rich history of plantation workers in Hawai`i. Kanani is an artist, curator and educator with an MFA in Print Media from the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA), and a bachelor’s degree in Art Practices from Portland State University. Reception: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, November 10. Hear an Artist Talk with Kanani Miyamoto: Golden Fruit, 2 p.m. Sunday, November 19.
PICTURE DISC Passages: Doug Dacar & Sara Swanberg — When artists have known each other over a long period of time, but have been making work completely separately, the relationship of the work and the people follows an ebb and flow that is interesting to observe from the outside. The work of Doug Dacar and Sara Swanberg seems to relate strongly, but not in a formal way. There seem to be common themes, common sensibilities, and common conversations that are happening, although never with each other. I was curious to put these two artists into the same space so that their artwork could converse, whatever form that might take. —Kathleen Dinges Rice, Curator Approaching my final years, these astonishing wood slabs have been filling my days with sanding, carving, gluing and carefully shellacking the rivers made of hand-made and stained clay balls. Vicariously I am enjoying the many years of past white water rafting and camping with good friends, sharing evening gin and tonics and fine dinners while overlooking countless spectacular rivers. All these years and only once was I thrown up into the air and into a roiling rapid! —Sara Swanberg I’ve always been interested in the process of laboring and creating. Whether it be working on a gardening project or building a sculpture. It’s important to embrace curiosity, be present in the moment and build off the successes and failures of the materials I’m working with. —Doug Dacar
Jan 1 through February 25, 2024 Chloe Frydenlund: Dying to Live — "My name is Chloe Frydenlund, but I use my childhood nickname, Clover, for my artwork. Making art has always been in my nature. It was not until I became a mother that
Artwork by Clover
I realized I needed art on a daily basis to start unburying who it is that I really am. I have repeatedly felt called to be a painter throughout my life, as it brings me an immense amount of joy. I believe we are all created to create and I can only hope to inspire others to create what it is that cries out to their soul. I am continually inspired by nature, animals and specifically women and the life/ death/ life cycles we must all go through." Reception: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan 12.
OTHER EVENTS at SAA January 26, 2024 Queer Artists Series: 2SLGBTQIAP in Focus features Lu Yim: The Treacherous Place, a virtual one-hour presentation with performance, Friday, January 26, 2024.
willamette.edu/go/hfma 700 State Street | 503-370-6855 Hours: Tues-Sat Noon - 5 p.m.
winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 23
FRONT PICTURE ROW DISC
SALEM ON THE EDGE From fine art, up-and-coming artists, graffiti muralists and more, Salem on the Edge features work by PNW artists in a variety of media both for purchase and in rotating exhibits. Stop in and visit at 156 Liberty St. NE. salemontheedge.com
FILAMENTS
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December 1 to 24
EVENTS at SOTE
Admire a variety of handwoven items in Filaments, the Weaving Guilds of Oregon (WeGO) juried traveling show which is on exhibit November 17 through Janauary 31, 2024, at Willamette Heritage Center (WHC), 1313 Mill St SE.
It's fitting to find this exhibit at WHC, a historical asset preserving and sharing Salem's industrial past. The five-acre campus includes 14 historic structures that house permanent and changing exhibits, including a textile learning center. It is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. TuesSat. Cost to explore is $6 to $10. For more information, call 503-585-7012 or go to willametteheritage.org.
style I incorporate helps me express myself in a new way. I’m never scared to try new things and see where my mind takes me.” See more than 100 artworks created by represented artists as well as five invited artists at the Small Works Show. This is a great show to purchase small original works by artists that you love. And, the gallery will be open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec 24 for those special last-minute gifts. Reception: 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 1
Wild Colors Coat, Lucy DeFranco
All weavers and fiber artists use filaments of some size and shape to create. This show celebrates our materials and how, individually, we construct them for our purposes. Whether for domestic use, as decorative objects, or purely as art, we consider function as well as form, and choose our fibers accordingly.
Reservation. “I like using older images to tell a new story of putting perspective on our history. As a newer artist, I like exploring all kinds of methods and mediums. Each new
Shop beaded jewelry by Emma Otherwise Design, felted jewelry by Amy Stoner and Salem swag from local arts- and community-building nonprofit The Moxie Initiative during Small Business Saturday, 12 to 5 p.m. November 25.
M. Shoki Tanabe "Untitled" Mixed media on paper. 10" x 7.25" 2023
November 1 to 25 Featured artist M. Shoki Tanabe shares new mixed media drawings reflecting on what it means to sit. The situational act of sitting is myriad and complex in the purposes it serves, while functionally (if not paradoxically) it seems that we sit down either to rest or to work. It is the stopping of other actions we take that allows us the stillness to do one or the other. Guest artist Leonard Harmon, of the Lenape Tribe of New Jersey and the Nanticoke Tribe of Delaware, currently lives on the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indian
GALLERY 444 Gallery 444 is located in Elsinore Framing at 444 Ferry St. SE. elsinoregallery.com
November 2 to 25 Photography of Frank Barnett, an awardwinning photographer with a rich history in the art world as an artist and author.
December 1 to 30 Something Red — Organized by Artists in Action (AiA), this annual juried exhibit and sale features work from emerging and professional artists in all varieties of mediums and styles. The common bond connecting each piece? Color. All the artwork features red in the composition. Reception: 5 to 8 p.m. December 1
JOIN THE FUN OF
PLAY
FAST FORWARD
SALEM READS Save the Date: Salem Reads free book giveaway will take place Dec 5 Salem Reads, the community-wide reading project that invites everyone in Salem to read the same book, take part in discussions, and enjoy related programs, has selected The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina by Zoraida Córdova for its 2024 read. The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina is the epic tale of a family impacted by a dramatic matriarch, called together to attend her funeral and to collect their inheritance. Seven years later, the gifts bestowed by Orquídea Divina begin to tear the family apart. Four survivors travel to Ecuador to uncover the truth behind the family mysteries. The book was chosen after a rigorous selection process and a vote by many readers. In February 2024, there will be a month of activities and events that will encourage the public to engage and explore the book, its themes and more.
The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina is available to read or listen to in preparation for Salem Reads in February 2024. Print, large print, audiobook on CD, and Spanish language copies are available to borrow from the library. In addition, eBooks and eAudiobooks are available to download on the cloudLibrary and Libby apps. There will be a free book giveaway on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, beginning at 10 a.m. at the downtown library, 585 Liberty St SE, and 12 p.m. at the West Salem branch, 395 Glen Creek Rd NW. Pick up a print copy in Spanish or English. Limit of one book per visitor while supply lasts. The book can also be purchased at Friends Bookstore, Salem Book Bin and Reader’s Guide. Watch for the 2024 event schedule coming soon. For more information, visit splfoundation.org.
Save the date for these upcoming music events — Scott Bradlee’s
Postmodern Jukebox (photo above) Even in our futuristic age of AI chatbots and virtual realities, there is still nothing in the world that compares with the thrill of hearing classic genres of music, performed live by a group of exceptional singers and musicians who have truly mastered the ability to move an audience. February 8, 2024 at Elsinore Theatre elsinoretheatre.com
She’s Speaking LIVE Eight phenomenal Oregon women songwriters take the stage for a night of songs by women, about women, for everyone. Backed by a killer band, they’ll share their artistry and voices, paying tribute to some of their musical heroes. Featuring Arietta Ward, Kristen Grainger, Naomi LaViolette, Liz Chibucos, Lisa Mann, Bre Gregg, LaRhonda Steele and Beth Wood. This inspiring collaboration will touch your heart, lift your spirits and get your toes tapping. March 15, 2024 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre salemshg.vbotickets.com
DakhaBrakha Chemeketa Community College’s Acclaimed Artist Series presents DakhaBrakha, a worldmusic quartet from Kyiv, Ukraine. Accompanied by traditional instrumentation from different countries, the quartet’s astonishingly powerful and uncompromising vocal range creates a transnational sound rooted in Ukrainian culture. Reflecting fundamental elements of sound and soul, DakhaBrakha creates a world of unexpected new music. March 22, 2024 in Chemeketa Auditorium chemeketaconcerts.weebly.com winter 2021/22 winter | 2023 www.pressplaysalem.com | pressplaysalem.com | 25
FRONT PLAY ROW
Are you the next Oregon Poet Laureate?
FRONT ROW
THE SCENE ON STAGE
November 17 to December 9
The Oregon Poet Laureate Program is accepting nominations for the state’s next poet laureate through Jan 8, 2024. Over a two-year term, the Oregon Poet Laureate fosters the art of poetry, encourages literacy and learning, addresses central issues relating to the humanities and heritage and reflects on public life in Oregon. “A poet is a witness who imagines, and through these acts gives us permission to do the same. For the times we’re in, we must be powerfully imaginative, so to have for Oregon a position to foster and rally this imagining is a beautiful importance and gift for our state,” said Anis Mojgani, Oregon’s current poet laureate. During their term, the poet laureate will participate in public readings or other events around the state, demonstrating the value and importance of poetry and creative expression to business, community and state leaders. Nominees must be current residents of Oregon and have lived in the state at least 10 years. They must be publicly recognized as poets and wellregarded for excellence in their work; have a significant body of published or performed work; and agree to the conditions and the term of the appointment. Poets may nominate themselves. To nominate a poet, fill out the form at oregonpoetlaureate.org.
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Explore theater in
A past holiday production at Theatre 33
November 9 to 19 Corban University presents You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown — Based on the popular and insightful Peanuts comic strip, by Charles Schulz, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown features the Peanuts gang experiencing life’s disappointments and surprises together. The musical delights audiences with its wit and charm, but its lasting appeal comes from the memorable characters who remind us of ourselves, and more importantly, to never give up, to practice kindness, and to live life with hope. Directed by Tamara McGinnis. ON STAGE: 7:30 p.m. Nov 10-11, 17-18 and 2 p.m. Nov 19 in Psalm Performing Arts Center at Corban University, 5000 Deer Park Dr SE. Tickets are $8-$15 | corban.edu/arts/theatrearts/events/
Pentacle Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong — Welcome to opening night of the Cornley University Drama Society’s newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. This 1920s whodunit has everything you never wanted in a show—an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead and actors who trip over everything (including their lines). Part Monty Python, part Sherlock Holmes, this Olivier Award–winning comedy is guaranteed to leave you aching with laughter. It's a chaotic fun time to forget all your troubles by watching a group of bumbling idiots have a terrible time. Written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields. Directed by Susan Schoaps. ON STAGE: 7:30 p.m. Nov 17-18, 22, 24-25, 30, Dec 1-2, 7-9 and 2 p.m. Nov 19, 26 and Dec 3 at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW. Get tickets at pentacletheatre.org. Info: 503-485-4300
December 8-15 Theatre 33 presents Holiday Shorts: 5 new holiday short plays written by theater alum. Here’s what’s in store — Mrs. Santa and the Paradigm Shift by Nora Douglass — The good old days are gone, and now Santa’s workshop is a commercial subsidiary, called Expensive Cheap Toys. The eves are working to the bone to keep up production when they realize there are no more toys and too many orders to fill. What happens next is simply miraculous.
FAST FORWARD Salem with these shows The Christmas Wish by Mathieu Voisine — A preteen unloads her frustrations to Santa about her lame Dad. How many more awful dad jokes can a kid handle and at Christmas time to boot?! The War on Christmas by Kate Danley — In a world that’s beginning to look like Christmas, only one man can save us. One man. A snowman. The True Meaning of Christmas by Kate Danley — Christmas is just around the corner, and the Mall creative team is looking for a new angle on the holiday: no more Christmas trees and paper chain decorations. No, they are looking for something to really shake things up! Perfect Christmas 1957 by Nora Douglass — Imo is coming to grips with Christmas and the loss of her mother when a book that belonged to her mother comes alive to help make the holidays a little brighter. ON STAGE: 7 p.m. Dec 8-9 & 13-15 and 2 p.m. Dec 9-10 in M. Lee Pelton Theatre at Willamette University, 900 State St. Tickets are $12-$18 | theatre33.org
FIND MORE ONLINE
Watch for more theater events at PressPlaySalem.com
December 8-17 Enlightened Theatrics presents James and the Giant Peach — When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion that results in a tremendous peach... and launches a journey of enormous proportions. Suddenly, James finds himself in the center of the gigantic peach, among human-sized insects with equally oversized personalities, but after it falls from the tree and rolls into the ocean, the group faces hunger, sharks and plenty of disagreements. Thanks to James' quick wit and creative thinking, the residents learn to live and work together as a family. Based on the book James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl. Words and Music by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul. Book by Timothy Allen McDonald. ON STAGE: 7:30 p.m. Dec 8-9, 14-16 and 2 p.m. Dec 10, 17 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 191 High St NE. Tickets are $10-$22.5 | enlightenedtheatrics.org
January 12 to February 3 Neil Simon's Brighton Beach Memoirs — Dreaming of baseball and girls, Eugene must cope with the mundane existence of his family life in Brooklyn: formidable mother, overworked father, and his worldly older brother Stanley. Throw into the mix his widowed Aunt Blanche and her two young (but rapidly aging) daughters and you have a recipe for hilarity, served up Simon-style. (Concord Theatricals) Directed by Jo Dodge. ON STAGE: January 12 to February 3 at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW. Get tickets at pentacletheatre.org. Info: 503-485-4300
PNW Community Coral Reef Project
Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind Willamette University Theatre presents Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind, an ever-changing menu of 30 short plays, chosen by the audience. The show is an ensemble experiment of two-minute plays performed in random order with an interactive audience becoming something reflective of the lives and experiences of the ensemble. Directed by Jonathan Cole. February 15 to 25, 2024 Pelton Theatre | wutheatre.com
Community Coral Reef Project The PNW Community Coral Reef Project is a traveling, room-sized, walk through exhibition — a life sized coral reef – made by a community of fiber artists around the world. The exhibit emphasizes both health bleached corals along with marine animals and showcases the beauty and diversity of the undersea world while engaging in a conversation about climate change and ocean pollutants. March 22 through June 22, 2024 Willamette Heritage Center | coralknitfiberarts.com
Mid Valley Comic Art Expo is two days of fun, interactive pop culture and comic book inspired experiences including artists, vendors, special guests, photo opportunities, panels, stage shows and more. April 20 & 21, 2024 Oregon State Fairgrounds | mvcae.com winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 27
STOP
Beyond Buddy: Me While you may most commonly recognize him during the holiday season as Salem’s Buddy the Elf, Corey Jenkins is more than that larger-than-life persona. As the Creative Services Supervisor at SAIF Corporation, he hosts the YouTube series Oregon Odd Jobs, showcasing uniquely Oregon jobs and how they’re done safely. When not in front of the camera, you may find him behind the microphone, singing children’s rock songs under the moniker Jenks Music. He’s genuinely outgoing, sincerely engaged and pretty darn humorous, too. But don’t just take our word for it - stop for a moment to hear it from the elf’s mouth, himself.
What is your favorite thing about Salem? I love the weather here. I was raised in a tiny town in northern Idaho and the winters there were pretty cold and snowy. I prefer the milder winter weather of Salem, and the rain doesn’t bug me too much. Oh, and I love how green Salem is! What is your favorite thing to do in Salem? My wife and I have five children, so we spend an awful lot of time at the many parks around Salem. We live near Wes Bennett Park, but any place that has swings is an instant hit with my kids. We play games like “Zombie Attack,” where I stumble around the park like a zombie, attacking the kids. No, it’s not complicated! Inevitably other kids want to join the fun, and onlooking parents stare at me like I’m a weirdo (I don’t deny it). 28 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
STOP
eet Corey Jenkins Interview & Photo by Carlee Wright
What could you spend hours talking about? Running! I love distance running and can talk trails, nutrition, hydration, favorite routes around Salem, Altra shoes, ultramarathons, all of it. I really nerd out, and I smile way too much talking about it. But it’s okay because “smiling’s my favorite!” I also can talk camera gear, video editing and music production for days! What is one of your favorite childhood memories? One 4th of July my parents didn’t get any fireworks. All us kids were super disappointed. In a pinch, my dad put an air popper on the back porch with the top off. He handed us all bowls and told us to get ready for the most exciting game ever… catch the flying popcorn. Dad seriously overestimated the force of that machine, and rather than popcorn flying eight feet in the air, it sadly sputtered over the edge of the popper and on the ground. Disappointment turned to hilarity, and I’ll never forget that Independence Day! Which living person do you most admire? My parents (you can’t make me choose between mom and dad)! They are wonderful, kind, charming people who always encouraged me to go for my dreams. I don’t think they knew that would include putting on tights and throwing snowballs at people, but they support me nonetheless.
What is your worst habit? I’m too much of a perfectionist. Whether it’s constantly tweaking a video edit, endlessly mixing a new children’s rock song, or having all my socks in their proper place, I have a tough time letting things be good enough. What color best describes your personality? According to the “Color Code” personality assessment, I’m a solid yellow. I love to play and be silly and spontaneity is the name of the game. I like to think Buddy is an amplified version of my natural personality, though I don’t eat as much candy as Buddy does…I’m working on that. If you could recover one thing you have lost in your life, what would it be? Years ago I got a Talkboy for Christmas. You know, the handheld recorder Kevin has in Home Alone 2? It was awesome. Perfect ergonomic handgrip with extendable microphone! I could record regular speed and play it back in slow motion, or record slow and play it back chipmunk style. I still have the original recording tape, but sadly the Talkboy broke. Oh, how I miss it!
Would You Rather ... Have a rewind button or a pause button on your life? Pause! I wish I could slow down the first year each of my children was born. Babies are absolutely wonderful and that time passed too quickly!
Be forced to sing along or dance to every single song you hear? Sing along. I like to add my own harmonies to everything. Be able to talk with animals or speak all foreign languages? Foreign languages. I’m not so sure I want to hear what cats really think of us humans. Watch the movie Elf over and over but never be able to play the character or be able to play the character but never watch the movie? Playing Buddy is an absolute blast, and having lived out many moments from the movie (I once exposed a fake Santa at a work party), I feel like the movie has become my life. Plus, I have the film pretty much memorized, so it’s burned into my brain for all time! Chocolate or candy? Candy. Candy canes. Candy corns…and syrup. Summer or winter? Winter. Nothing is as magical as the holiday spirit! Maple syrup or Nutella? Maple syrup. It goes with everything, even spaghetti. Tinsel or garland? Tinsel. Not just for decoration (name that movie!).
winter 2023 | pressplaysalem.com | 29
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30 | pressplaysalem.com | winter 2023
salem convention center SALEM’S PREMIER INDOOR URBAN WEDDING VENUE
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