Fests, Fairs & Fun
FILLMORE & WESTERN RAILWAY COMPANY sponsors spooky and fun activities through October, including pumpkin picks, Headless Horseman adventures, Ghost Train trips, Fright Night Murder Mystery Dinner Trains, and school field trips. Info: 524-2546 or www.fwry.com
PAPA TOMMY'S RESTAURANT in Paso Robles features the Pat Cormick Group through October. Info: 227-6363.
FRIDAY NIGHT SKATE SESSIONS in Atascadero start Oct. 1 at the Atascadero Rec Center. Cost is $2 per participant and proceeds benefit the new George C. Beatie Skate Park. Runs 7-10 p.m.; helmets required. Info: 461-5000 ext. 3472.
CHILDREN'S HEALTH AND SAFETY AWARENESS DAY runs 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 2 at Santa Rosa Park, SLO. Events include talks with firefighters and police officers, police dog demonstrations, spinal screenings, exercise tips, silent auctions, and more. Raffle drawings ever 30 minutes. Tickets are $2 or 2 cans of food. Info: 238-4664.
FALL SUNKEN GARDENS FLEA MARKET in Atascadero
runs 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in Atascadero's Sunken Gardens Park. 126 vendors and
1,000 buyers are expected to attend the biannual event. Info:
461-5000.
HARVEST OF HOPE AND HARMONY combines food, science, music and wine to help fund ongoing cancer research and services. It is Oct. 2 at Justin Vineyard and Winery. Guests can attend an update on cancer research, taste wines, and listen to music by the San Luis Obispo Symphony Orchestra. A formal dinner will be prepared by chef Shawn McClain of Chicago's Spring and Green Zebra restaurants. Tickets are available for $500 and proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. Info: 1-800-ACS-2345 or www.cancer.org.
MOUNTAIN CONDOR CAMP OUT AND OPEN HOUSE starts Oct. 2 at 12 p.m. Meet at the Pozo USFS Ranger Station for carpooling or caravan. Activities include tours, walks, demonstrations, field trips, poluck, evening guest speakers, and stargazing. Info: 528-8193.
A NIGHT IN VENICE, a benefit for the Gay and Lesbian Alliance (GALA) Community Center in SLO County, takes place Oct. 2 at the Madonna Inn. Gourmet food cooked by Chef Rick, live music from The Mighty Croon Dogs, and live and silent auctions. Formal attire or costume encouraged. Info: 541-4252 or www.ccgala.org.
2ND ANNUAL HOE-DOWN AT THE RANCH, sponsored by the Santa Margarita de Cortona Catholic Church, is Oct. 2 at the Santa Margarita Ranch. Events start at 7 p.m. and include a barbecue of chicken and beef, live music from Monte Mills and his band, and a silent auction. Tickets are $20 for advanced sales, $25 at the door, and can be purchased at Farm Supply stores and Carlene's Café. Part of the proceeds benefit Atascadero Loaves and Fishes. Info: 466-0646.
CHILDREN'S HEALTH AND SAFETY DAY celebrates its 8th year Oct. 2 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Santa Rosa Park in SLO. D.A.R.E., the SLO City Fire Dept., and police officers will be present for demonstrations, exercise tips, and backpack analysis. A silent auction and raffles will be held; raffle tickets are available for a donation of $2 or 2 cans of food. Info: 781-8333.
MEERKAT EXHIBIT GRAND OPENING at the Charles Paddock Zoo in Atascadero Oct. 2 from 1 a.m.-5 p.m. Meerkats hail from Southern Africa and are members of the mongoose family. Info: 461-7608.
A TOAST FOR TAILS is the 9th annual elegant auction of the North County Humane Society. The Oct. 2 event offers silent and live auctions and includes gourmet hors d'oeuves and dessers, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door and can be purchased at the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce. Info: 466-5403 or www.slonchs.org.
AUTUMN ARTS GRAPES AND GRAINS FESTIVAL is an annual street fair and celebration of Santa Maria Valley's talented local artists, award-winning wines, excellent brews, scrumptious food, and great entertainment. The event takes place Oct. 2 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center. Presale tickets are $20 or $35 for two, and discounts for over 10 tickets are available. Tickets at the door are $25. Info: 925-2403.
MORRO BAY HARBOR FESTIVAL celebrates Morro Bay's working waterfront and showcases Central Coast seafood, wine, maritime heritage, marine life, and more Oct. 2-3. This year's theme is "Swingin' with the Tunes" and the event includes California Seafood Faire and Wine Pavilion, 'Rocktoberfest' Central Coast Microbrew Pavilion, live entertainment, children's activities, and more. It runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on the Morro Bay waterfront. Tickets are $6, $2 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. Info: (800) 366-6043 or www.mbhf.com.
SURFRIDER'S FREE-FALL ART BENEFIT is Oct. 3 at the Cayucos Vets Hall from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Central Coast artists will promote and sell their paintings, photographs, jewelry, etc. Silent auctions for artwork, surfboards, and more will be held. Admission is free. Info: 771-9134.
AVILA BEACH 5K RUN/WALK benefits the Chris Jespersen Memorial Society Foundation for disabled children. It starts at 8 a.m. on Oct. 3 at the plaza of the Avila Beach Pier and continues along a flat, paved course to Port San Luis and back. Registration starts at 6:45 a.m. on race day and is $20 with T-shirt and $10 without. Raise $50 and race entry fee is waived. Info: 473-7137.
FIREFIGHTERS AT SLO FARMERS' MARKET demonstrate fire safety and rescue equipment Oct. 7 from 6-9 p.m. Free. Info: 541-0286.
ACTIVE SENIOR DANCE for singles and couples Oct. 4 at the Pismo Beach Veterans' Hall. The theme is "The Great Masquerade" and the $4 admission includes snacks, beverages, and live music from Twist of Lemin. Runs 1:30-3:30 p.m. Info: 773-7049.
23RD ANNUAL MORRO SHORES SENIOR COMMUNITY FAIR is Oct. 8-9 and features handcrafted gifts and decorations, homemade jams, baked goods, and candies. The Boutique will feature jewelry, china, and memorabilia. Info: 534-9125.
BASIL HARVEST FESTIVAL combines Paso Robles'
popular Basil Festival with the 7th Annual Garden Harvest Festival. It
takes place at Sycamore Herb Farm in Paso Robles Oct. 9 from 11
a.m.-4 p.m. The event brings together local gardening experts, chefs,
and artisans who will offer free workshops and demonstrations. Topics
will include mulching, composting, winter garden preparation, and cooking.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the North County Humane Society.
Admission is free. Info: 238-5288 or (800)
576-5288.
21ST ANNUAL NIPOMO OCTOBER FESTIVAL, presented by the Nipomo Chamber of Commerce, kicks off Oct. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Nipomo Regional Park. Festivities include arts and crafts, Santa Maria-style BBQ, business displays, beer garden, Dana Car Show, and live entertainment. Info: 929-1583.
WOODIES AND RODS CAR SHOW is Oct. 9-10 in downtown Pismo Beach. Info: 773-9999.
TAKE BACK AMERICA FILM FESTIVAL is Oct. 9-10 at the San Luis Obispo Library. Featured films on Saturday, Oct. 9: "Bush's Brain," "Outfoxed," and "Hijacking Catastrophe." Sunday, Oct. 10: "Before You Don't Vote," "There's Something about W," "Invisible Ballots," "Liberty Bound," "Art of Resistance," "Yes Men: The Horribly Stupid Stunt," and "The Oil Factor: Behind the War on Terror." Tickets are $5 per firlm or $10 for all of Saturday, $20 for all of Sunday, or $25 for the entire series. Info: 544.9663 or www.hopedance.org.
15TH ANNUAL GALA FAMILY VALUES PICNIC brings free games and fun to Cuesta Park Oct. 10 from 1 p.m.-dusk. Bring BBQ food and pot luck dishes. Info:541-GALA.
31ST ANNUAL ATASCADERO COLONY DAYS CELEBRATION is Oct. 10-17 and includes the Colony Tea, a golf tournament, and a mixer. The popular parade is Oct. 16 and features live music, themed booths, and the return of the popular "Tent City" living history exhibit. This year's theme is "Buggies to Hot Rods." Info: 461-1338.
CAL POLY HOMECOMING WEEK flashes green and yellow spirit Oct. 11-16. Events will include the Mock Rock, a blood drive, and the traditional parade. Info: 756-2586.
FAMILY FUN FEST, sponsored by the Domestic Violence Task Force of SLO County, offers free magician and juggling shows for children Oct. 14 during the SLO Farmers' Market. Info: 781-6401 ext. 112.
THE PASO ROBLES LIBRARY SEMI-ANNUAL SALE occurs Oct. 15-16 at the library. The members-only preview sale is Oct. 15 from 2-4:30 p.m. and the open sale is Oct. 16 from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Books not sold will be given away after 12 p.m. Memberships can be purchased at the Friends of the Paso Robles Library Store for $5 per individual or $10 per family. Info: 239-3246.
THE HOTLINE OF SLO COUNTY BOWL-A-THON rolls into Atascadero Oct. 15, 22, and 23 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 16-17 at 3 p.m. Hundreds of bowlers and business people participate yearly, and proceeds benefit the nonprofit Hotline. Door prizes, music, and food available. Info: 544-6016 ext. 11.
PASO ROBLES HARVEST WINE TOUR includes winemaker dinners, seminars, barbecues, live entertainment, winery tours, and barrel samples Oct. 15-17. Hosted by the Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association. Info: 239-8463 or www.pasowine.com.
KCPR OPEN HOUSE is Oct. 16 on the Cal Poly campus. Free tours of the nonprofit radio station. Info: 756-5277.
KISS THE PIG, a free children's event with entertainment and activities, runs 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 16 at SLO Mission Plaza. Entertainment includes Central Coast Gymnastics, Mary Donnelly's World Dance Company, and Birdie. Info: 541-6542.
CENTRAL COAST SENIOR CENTER'S FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA is Oct. 16 at 1:30 p.m. Designer fashions by Astarte will be presented. Entertainment, refreshments, door prizes, and more. $20 donation requested. Info: 773-6785.
4TH ANNUAL DUCK DERBY floats into Paso Robles Oct. 23 at 11 a.m. Now held at the Barney Schwartz Park, the event will let loose hundreds of ducks and flotilla turtles and local celebrity ring tossers will throw ringers at the. Grand prizes are $1,000 and a two-night stay at Villa Toscana that includes spas and massages, a limousine tour of the wine country, and dinner. Info: 237-3988.
ARTS EDUCATION CONFERENCE for parents, teachers, and students is Oct. 23 in Cal Poly's Chumash Auditorium. The day-long event features workshops on festival preparation, bilingual storytelling, puppetry, tolerance, and music lessons. Cost is $50 and includes all materials and lunch. Info: 756-2935.
ATASCADERO SENIOR FAIRE takes place Oct. 23 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Pavilion on the Lake. It will feature health-related information and products, screenings, flu shots, and cholesterol and diabetes testings. Info: 466-0201.
TEACHERS' ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CURRICULUM HARVEST (TEECH) FAIR begins at 9 a.m. on Oct. 23. Teachers, parents, and community members are invited to discover environmental education, field trip ideas, and service learning resources in SLO County. All teachers receive door prizes and admission is free. Info: 782-7228.
OPTIONS & SMILE, nonprofit organizations for disabled men and women, host an gala of live music, silent auctions, and an elegant dinner Oct. 29 at the Santa Maria Radisson. Chris Hillman, Herb Pedersen, and Bill Bryson will perform. Events start at 6 p.m. Info: 772-6066 ext. 101.
2ND ANNUAL CLARK CENTER HALLOWEEN BALL brings elaborate costumes, dancing, and champagne to the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande on Oct. 30. The theme is Halloween and Hollywood, so "come dressed as your favorite famous stiff." Live and silent auctions will be held. Champagne tables for eight are $775 and include a full course meal, wine, and photos. Single tickets are $85. Info: 489-4196.
GALA HALLOWEEN DANCE celebrates in style with a DJ, hors d'oeurves, and a costume contest Oct. 30. Runs from 7:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. at Trinity Hall. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members, or free with purchase of new membership. Info: 542-GALA.
WESTERN AIR AND SPACE SHOW features precision flying from the Patriot Jet Team at Vandenberg Air Force Base Oct. 30-31. Opens 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; free. Info: 606-3390.
HALLOWEEN FESTIVITIES sponsored by the Arroyo Grande Chamber of Commerce. Oct. 30: Parks and Recreation Halloween Carnival on Nelson Green. Oct. 31: Trick or Treat in the Village. Info: 489-1488.
OKTOBERFEST 2004 brings arts and crafts, food, live music, a 4-mile charity fun run, and children's rides to 2nd Street in Baywood Park Oct. 31. Spaces still available for vendor booths. Info: 528-0342.
OLD VIENNA RESTAURANT AND BEER GARDEN in Shell Beach hosts live music and traditional German food Thursdays-Sundays through Oct. 31. Free live music and drawings. Reservations recommended. Info: 773-4521.
LOCAL GIRL SCOUTS invite girls in grades 1-3 to learn about numbers and shapes Nov. 6. Morning and afternoon sessions available and registration deadline is Oct. 6. Fee is $5 for registered Scouts and $15 for non-registered girls and includes refreshments, a badge, and program materials. Info: (877) 824-7248 or www.gstc.org.
SOUTH COUNTY SENIOR SHOWCASE is Nov. 10 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the South County Regional Center in Arroyo Grande. Free. Info: 489-1488.
KCPR'S ANNUAL ON-AIR AUCTION begins Nov. 12. Hundreds of items donated by local businesses; proceeds benefit the nonprofit radio station. Info: 756-5277.
CHRISTMAS AT HEARST CASTLE begins Nov. 12 with decorations, flowers, and new tour stops. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for youths. Info: (800) 444-4445.
HALCYON STORE'S CRAFT FAIRE features handcrafted goods, potter, art, jewelry, candles, and more Nov. 13-14. Festival runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 489-2432.
ANJA'S 15TH ANNUAL 'OLD COUNTRY' SHOW features Christmas arts and crafts and specialty items. It is Nov. 13-14 at Templeton's Legion Hall. Show opens at 10 a.m. and features candles, wreaths, ornaments, dolls, and more. Admission is free. Info: 461-3727.
HOLIDAY ARTS, CRAFTS AND COLLECTIBLES FAIR is Nov. 20 from 9-4 p.m. at the South Bay Community Center in Los Osos. Vendors will show art, jewelry, glass, antiques, and more. Admission is free and refreshments will be available. Info: 528-4169.
CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE in Arroyo Grande runs Dec. 1-24. Merchants will decorate store fronts, and streets will be decorated with thousands of tiny white lights. Events ongoing. Info: 489-1488.
4TH ANNUAL COWBOY CHRISTMAS, sponsored by the Templeton Chamber of Commerce, is 1:30-4:30 p.m. on Dec. 4. It begins immediately after the Farmers' Market in the Templeton Community Park gazebo. Festivities begin with the arrival of Santa by stagecoach and include merchant open houses and booths, crafts, holiday carollers, stagecoach rides, pony portraits, and snow. Main Street merchants will decorate their shops with lights and holiday decorations. Info: 434-1789.
In Concert
RAY CHANG TRIO performs at the Inn at Morro Bay Oct. 2 as part of the Featured Artists Series. Darrell Voss accompanies on vibes. Show runs 7-10 p.m. Info: 772-5651.
AUTUMN APEX, presented by the San Luis Obispo Symphony Guild, brings local and international talent to the Christopher Cohan Center on Oct. 3. This year features Los Osos resident and Cal Poly voice teacher Jacalyn Kreitzer with Cuesta College instructor and pianist Dr. Rudolfas Budginas. Autumn Apex is the primary fundraiser for the Guild, a volunteer organization. Tickets are $10 for gallery seating, $20 for balcony, $25 for orchestra, and $35 for dress circle. Info: 756-ARTS or www.slosymphony.com.
THE CHRIS CAIRNS BAND brings an evening of bluegrass music to Painted Sky Recording Studios in Cambria Oct. 3. Show starts at 7:30 p.m.; tickets are $12. Info: 927-8330.
JON?DOE raps live on KCPR Sessions Oct. 5 at 8 p.m. KCPR, Cal Poly's independent radio station, is 91.3 FM. Info: 756-5277.
JIM SCOTT, guitarist and singer/songwriter, performs at the Unitarian Universalist Church in SLO Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. Info: 544-1669.
CUESTA JAZZ ENSEMBLE performs Oct. 8 at the school's Student Conference Center. Starts at 7:30 p.m. Info: 546-3198.
CHEMYSTRY SET brings jazzy, world-infused rock to Sweet Springs Saloon Oct. 9. Tickets are $5 at the door. Info: 528-FROG.
ED GERHARD plays original guitar compositions from his latest cd, The Guitar Songbook, throughout SLO County. Oct. 8: Coalesce Chapel, Morro Bay, 7 p.m. Oct 9: Castoro Cellars Winery, Templeton, 7:30 p.m.. Oct. 10: Linnaea's Café, SLO, 7 p.m. Info: (603) 664-7200.
MICHAEL NOWAK'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY celebrates the musician's time with the SLO Symphony on Oct. 9. Guest violinist Soovin Kim. Recital starts at 8 p.m.; free dress rehearsal at 1 p.m. Tickets are $10 for students, $17-$52 general audiences. Info: 543-3533 or www.slosymphony.com.
STEPHEN HOUGH, the only classical musician to win a coveted MacArthur "genius grant," performs at the Alex and Faye Spanos Theatre Oct. 14 at 8 p.m. Info: 756-2787.
PAUL RINZLER, jazz pianist and Cal Poly music instructor, performs Oct. 17 at Unity Church in SLO. Special guests are Darrell Voss on drums, Ken Hustad on bass, and Grammy-winner Jay Graydon on guitar. Tickets are $7 for students, $10 for Jazz Federation members, and $12 for general audiences. Info: 756-2406.
MARIZA sings traditional Portuguese folk music Oct. 19 at the Alex and Faye Spanos Theatre. She is accompanies by Portuguese 12-string guitar, classical guitar, and string bass. Info: 756-2787.
CUESTA WIND ENSEMBLE performs at St. Timothy's Church in Morro Bay Oct. 20 and Dec. 8. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Info: 546-3198.
FALL FESTIVAL OF CHOIRS is Oct. 22 at the Cuesta Student Conference Center. Starts at 7:30 p.m. Info: 546-3198.
SLO WIND ORCHESTRA kicks off their new season Oct. 23 with their Fall Concert. Held at the United Methodist Church in Arroyo Grande at 3 p.m., it will feature "Florentiner March" by Julius Fucik and "Original Suite" by Gordon Jacob. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Info: www.slowinds.org.
JON-BOON JONES AND THE CENTRAL COAST R&B ALLSTARS brings local talent to the spotlight Oct. 24 at Shamel Park in Cambria. They perform hit standards and dance music. Free. Info: 927-7068.
CANTORION JONES: THE NORTH WALES MALE CHORUS comes to the Christopher Cohan Center Oct. 28 at 8 p.m. One of Wales' most prestigious male concert choirs, the young boys sing traditional Welsh songs. Proceeds benefit Cal Poly choirs. Tickets are $6 for students, $8-$10 for seniors, and $10-$12 for general audiences. Info: 756-2787.
CAL POLY CHOIRS' FALL DEBUT CONCERT introduces the 2004-05 Cal Poly voices Oct. 30 at the Christopher Cohan Center. Groups include Polyphonics, the University Singers, Cal Poly Vocal Jazz, and barbershop and a capella groups. Tickets are $6 for students, $8-$10 for seniors, and $10-$12 for general audiences. Info: 756-2406.
RONNIE KOLE TRIO performs "New Orleans and All That Jazz," Oct. 31 at 3 p.m. Info: 756-2787.
ANGELIQUE KIDJO performs spunky world pop and samba at the Christopher Cohan Center Nov. 4 at 8 p.m. She will offer songs from her latest album, "Black Ivory Soul," and play new material. Info: 757-2787.
BANDFEST 2004: A STAR SPANGLED SPECTACULAR brings Cal Poly's Wind Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Mustang Marching Band together to honor America's veterans. It starts at 8 p.m. Nov. 6 at the Christopher Cohan Center. Pieces will include familiar patriotic songs and dramatic musical descriptions of the Normandy invasion and the Korean battle of Inchon. Guest director is Chungsam Doh, former conductor of the Korean Navy Band. Tickets are $9-$11 for students, $13-$15 for seniors, and $15-$18 for general audiences. Info: 756-2406.
6TH ANNUAL VOCAL JAZZ WORKSHOP at Cuesta College 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Nov. 6 at the Cuesta Student Conference Center. Info: 546-3198.
AUTUMN IN PARIS brings the SLO Symphony and KCBX Public Radio together for an evening of food, wine, and music Nov. 7. Cafè Musique performs French cafè and bistro tunes. Tickets are $125. Info: 543-3533 or www.slosymphony.com.
WARSAW PHILHARMONIC, one of the most respected orchestras in the world, performs classical concertos at the Christopher Cohan Center Nov. 10. The 108-member symphony will play native music and works by Rachmaninoff and Wit. Info: 756-2787.
THE UNIVERSITY JAZZ BAND SWING DANCE CONCERT features original swing-era tunes played by the Cal Poly Jazz Band No. 1. It runs 8-11 p.m. Nov. 12 in Chumash Auditorium at Cal Poly. Free swing dance lessons given at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 for students and $8 for general audiences. Info: 756-2406.
THE SLO SYMPHONY AND THE PACIFIC TRIO perform Nov. 13 at 8 p.m. at the Christopher Cohan Center. They will perform Ravel's "Mother Goose Suite," Beethoven's "Triple Concerto," and more. Infor; 543-3533 or www.slo symphony.com.
WINTER SOLSTICE combines famous instrumentalists with different genres of music Nov. 14 at 3 p.m. Steel string guitarist and Windarm Hill Records founder Will Ackerman, pianist Liz Story, and multi-instrumentalist Samite play compemporary acoustic, classical, jazz, pop, and folk music. Info: 756-2787.
CAL POLY STUDENT INSTRUMENTAL/VOCAL RECITALS held Nov. 17-18 in room 218 of the Davidson Music Building. Free. Info: 756-2406.
CAL POLY SYMPHONY FALL CONCERT is Nov. 20 at the Christopher Cohan Center. It starts at 8 p.m. and features colorful works from Europe, including Gabriel Fauré's "Pelléas et Mélisande" suite and Jean Sibelius' patriotic "Finlandia." Directed by the symphony's new conductor, David Arrivèe. Tickets are $6 for students, $7-9 for seniors, and $9-$11 for general audiences. Info: 756-2406.
THE SLO COUNTY BAND 10TH ANNUAL BENEFIT CONCERT for the SLO Homeless Shelter starts Nov. 21 at 3 p.m. Pieces will include popular concert music by Richard Wagner, John Phillip Sousa, and more. Info: 543-5691 or slocounty band.org.
MICHAEL NOWAK AND HAIM SHTRUM, Hollywood film musicians, premiere new pieces with the SLO Symphony Nov. 21 at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande. Grammy-winner Kathleen Lenski and pianist Barbara Hoff also perform. Tickets are $10 for students and $15-$40 for general audiences. Info: 489-9444.
THE CAL POLY TROMBONE CHOIR serenades the SLO Farmers' Market Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. Free. Info: 756-2406.
THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA CHRISTMAS SHOW spreads pure gospel music Dec. 2 at the Christopher Cohan Center. The group has performed for 65 years and released 34 albums. Their show will include classic Christmas and seasonal favorites. Info: 756-2787.
CAL POLY UNIVERSITY JAZZ BANDS' FALL CONCERT brings an eclectic mix of jazz standards and modern compositions to the Alex and Faye Spanos Theatre (formerly Cal Poly Theatre) Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. Cal Poly Vocal Jazz will also perform. Guest conductor is David Rackley. Tickets are $5 for students, $8 for seniors and Jazz Federation members, and $10 for general audiences. Info: 756-2406.
CAL POLY CHOIRS' 'A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION' brings the choirs together with the Cal Poly Brass Ensemble Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. in the Christopher Cohan Center. Music by Gabrielli, Brahms, Mannheim Steamroller, and Cal Poly professor Meredith Brammeier will be performed. The evening concludes with the choirs' moving performance of "Silent Night." Tickets sell out early and are $7-$10 for students, $12-$16 for seniors, and $14-$18 for general audiences. Info: 756-2406.
CUESTA JAZZ ENSEMBLE AND VOCAL JAZZ ENSEMBLES perform Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. at the Blakeslee Auditorium. Info: 546-3198.
CUESTA CHOIRS perform at Old Mission San Luis Obispo Dec. 11 at 8 p.m. Info: 546-3198.
THE SLO AND MORRO BAY HIGH SCHOOL CHOIRS perform with the SLO Youth Symphony Dec. 12 at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande. Performances are 2 and 7 p.m.; the 7 p.m. show features only thre Choirs and Orchestra. Tickets are $15. Info: 54-MUSIC or www.sloyouthsymphony.org.
CUESTA MASTER CHORALE performs J.S. Bach's "Christmas Oratorio" Dec. 18 at the Christopher Cohan Center. The celebratory piece portrays the story of Christmas with a variety of musical forms, including solos, chorales, and orchestral settings. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Info: 466-0542.
Gotta Have Art
HARVESTING THE LIGHT opens Oct. 1 with new plein air landscapes by Anita Hampton, Michael Obermeyer, Ebrahim Amin, Michael Situ, Jason Situ, and Richard Greene. It shows at Salisbury Gallery in Avila Thursdays through Sundays, 12-5 p.m. Info: 595-2105.
END OF SUMMER FIESTA at the Johnson Gallery in SLO Oct. 1 from 6:30-9 p.m. See favorite pieces, meet artists, and hear the Pat Cormick Group. Info: 541-6600.
PIECES OF HISTORY QUILTING EXHIBIT runs through Oct. 1 at the SLO County Museum and History Center. See quilts made in SLO County from 1850-1950. Admission is free. The Museum is located at 696 Monterey St. Info: 543-0638.
NINA LAWSON displays her nature photographs at the Center Gallery in Morro Bay through Oct. 1. Info: 772-6278.
METAMORPHOSIS features the work of seven local artists using a variety of mediums ranging from oil, watercolors to glass to story gourds. The show is at the University Center Gallery, 3171 Temple Street, Halcyon through Oct. 1. Info: 489-2822.
FACES AND PLACES is presented by the Circle of Friends Gallery in Atascadero and features the work of Stephen Jenkins. The show runs through Oct. 1. For more information and gallery location, call 466-4653.
ALLITERATION, a collection of new acrylic paintings by Ilona Rymer, is displayed Oct. 1-31 at Gallery Los Olivos. The series traces the connection between the equine world and the beauties of nature in realism and abstract shapes. A reception is Oct. 9 from 2-5 p.m. The Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 688-7517.
MYSTIC EXPRESSIONS, a new oil painting exhibit by Patricia Newton, runs Oct. 1-31 at Gallery at Marina Square in Morro Bay. Artist reception is Oct. 8 from 5-8 p.m. Info: 772-1068.
VIEWS FROM THE ROAD, new nature paintings by Jane Cozart, is displayed Oct. 1-Nov. 1 at McConnell Gallery in SLO. Reception is Oct. 1 from 6-9 p.m.; free. Info: 544-4464.
THE GALLERY AT THE NETWORK features fiber artists Jannie Taylor and Diane Ayers through November 31. The gallery is open 11-6 daily. Info: 788-0886.
ART AFTER DARK, the popular SLO art walk, resumes Oct. 2 from 6-9 p.m. Meet featured local and guest artists, see demonstrations, and relax with wine. This month's galleries include The Art Center, the eAfrica Gallery, The Gallery at the Network, Kandra's Gallery and Beads, and more. Venues include The Secret Garden, Vellum Furniture, and The Photo Shop. Info: 544-9251 or www.sloartscouncil.org
FREE-FALL ART BENEFIT features 30 local artists Oct. 3. from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Cayucos Vets Hall. Free admission, food and drink available, silent auctions. Info: 771-9134.
ART IN THE PARK is celebrated Oct. 3, Nov. 7, and Dec. 5 at the Dinosaur Caves Park in Shell Beach. The event includes live music, food, a farmers' market, fresh flowers, massage, and vendors of fine art. Artists are needed to participate in the event and all mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and furniture, are welcome. Info: 704-8128.
AT WORK: THE ART OF CALIFORNIA LABOR, a traveling art exhibit, stops in the Santa Maria Town Center Oct. 2-Nov. 5. It features noted California artists Yolanda Lope, Ester Hernandez, and Francisco Dominguez and explores how collective identity has evolved over time. It will also include historic photographs of Santa Maria in the late 19th century. Free. Info: 925-0951 ext. 348.
OIL ON PAPER, a collectionof new paintings by local artist Donalee Nelson, shows Oct. 8-Nov. 10 at the McKeon-Phillips Art Gallery and Winery. Reception Oct. 8 from 6-8:30 p.m. Info: 922-3869.
DRAWINGS BY HIERONYMUS AUDOBON show through Oct. 10 at the compact gallery in SLO. Info: 235-3645.
INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION runs Oct. 13, Oct. 17, and Nov. 5, 5-9 p.m., at the Christopher Cohen Performing Arts Center. Info: 541-3223.
ROB APPELL AND DAVE EVERS display new works at Dale Evers Design Studios Oct. 15-16. The Oct. 15 reception is 6-9 p.m. and the open house is Oct. 16 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Info: (800) 830-7818.
SALUTE TO FALL, featuring works by Sherren Guthrie-McMath and Rosemary Greenville, runs through Oct. 31 at the Morro Bay Art Association. Info: 771-9380.
THE MAYR GALLERY is helping raise awareness through art. Through Oct. 31, the artists represented by the Gallery will donate 10% of all sales to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Participants include Jason Mayr, David Jonas, Sarah J. Webber, Jackie Bradley, and Cindy Mayr. The Mayr Gallery is open Mondays through Saturdays 11-5 and Sundays 12-4; it is closed Tuesdays. Info: 543-1278.
21ST ANNUAL SLO POETRY FESTIVAL runs Nov. 5-14 with readings throughout the city. Nov. 5: Past Poet Laureate Michael McLaughlin and new Poet Laureate Jane Elsdon at the Library Community Room. Nov. 6: Imani Tolliver and Mark Fabionar at the SLO Art Center. Nov. 7: Pedro Arroyo, Sonia Paz Baron-Vine, and Kyoko Asano at the SLO Art Center. Nov. 12: Peter Everwine at the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center. Nov. 13: C.G. Hanzlicek and Michael Datcher at the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center. Nov. 14: Francesca Nemko and Ken Hustad at Linnaea's Café. All events start at 7 p.m. Info: 547-1318.
ENCORE, a retrospective of local artist Harold E. Forgostein, opens Nov. 13 at the University Center Gallery. Info: 546-8641.
NATURAL LIGHT AND THE ITALIAN PIAZZA, an exhibit of Sandra Davis Lakeman's photography runs at the Christopher Cohan through Nov. 30. Info: 756-7432.
MEGAN KENNEDY displays paintings at the Best Western Royal Oak Hotel through January as part of the SLO Art Center's rotating program. Kennedy previously participated in the 2003 SLO Plein Air Painting Festival. Info: 543-8562.
On Stage
PATTI SULLIVAN premieres new work in an Oct. 1 reception at the Opsis Gallery in SLO. It runs 6-9 p.m. Info: 547-1318.
RUSSIAN SEASONS DANCE COMPANY stops by the Christopher Cohan Center Oct. 1at 7:30 p.m. The troupe will perform folk dances of many nations. Info: 773-4173.
MARY DONNELLY'S WORLD DANCE COMPANY starts their Tribal Wave Tour with workshops and performances throughout the county. Oct. 4-25: Free introductory tribal-style bellydance workshops Monday nights at 7 p.m. Oct. 9: Intensive Tribal-Style Bellydance Workshop. $40 fee. Oct. 16: Appearance at CASA'S "Kiss the Pig" fundraiser at Mission Plaza in SLO. Nov. 6: Professional workshop and appearance in Visalia. Nov. 21: Tribal Wave Fundraiser at the Cambria Veterans' Hall. Dec. 17: World Benefit Show at the Cabrillo Care Center in SLO. Info: 543-9955.
COPPELIA, the popular Romantic Era ballet about a doll that comes to life, is performed by the Miami City Ballet Oct. 5 at the Christopher Cohan Center in SLO. Starts at 7 p.m. Info: 756-6088.
AS TIME GOES BY, a musical extravaganza by the Central Cost Follies, showcases music and dancing of the twentieth century. It runs Oct. 7-10 and includes swing, jazz, and Big Bang musical numbers. Tickets are $15 and $12 in blocks of 25. Info: 489-7884.
WHAT THE BODY REMEMBERS, a shadowbox dancing presentation, is Oct. 1-Nov. 1 at Balance Pilates Studio in the SLO Creamery. Shows run 6-9 p.m. and feature flamenco dancers and new work by Heidi Harmon. Info: 550-8444.
ANNIE plays in the SLO Little Theatre through Oct. 10. Tickets are $17, $15 for students and seniors. Info: 781-3889.
CIRQUE EXPLOSION brings circus skills, visual tricks, and yogic and fakir sensations to the Christopher Cohan Center Oct. 12. Info: 756-2787.
SNAPPY DANCE THEATRE performs Chaplinesque physical comedy, gymnastics, circus skills, and martial arts Oct. 13 at the Alex and Faye Spanos Theatre (formerly Cal Poly Theatre). Starts at 8 p.m. Info: 756-2787.
LILY TOMLIN, comedienne and star of "Laugh in" and "The West Wing," comes to the Christopher Cohan Center in SLO Oct. 16. Show starts at 8 p.m. Info: 756-2787.
THE VELVETEEN RABBIT comes to life through puppets, shadows, masks, and mime Oct. 22 at the Alex and Faye Spanos Theatre. The staged adaptation of Margery Williams' children's classic is performed by Mum Puppettheatre of Philadelphia. Info: 756-2787.
RED CLOUD, presented by the Pacific Repertory Opera, makes its Central Coast debut Oct. 22-23 at the Christopher Cohan Center in SLO. The opera tells the story of a proud American Indian brave and the unrequited love that forms trouble between tribes. Tickets are $25-$45. Info: 756-ARTS.
DAVID COPPERFIELD brings magic to the Christopher Cohan Center in SLO Oct. 26-27. He performs with grand tricks and humor twice each day. Info: 756-2787.
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD plays at the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre Oct. 29-Nov. 28. It features locals of all ages. Info: 786-2440.
THE CEMETARY CLUB, a funny and touching look at life and love after the death of a spouse, runs through Oct. 31 at Paso Robles' Classic American Theatre. Performances are Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 and $15 for seniors and students. Info: 965-5935.
SESAME STREET LIVE brings music and learning to the Christopher Cohan Center Nov. 2-3. This year's theme is "Everyone Makes Music." Info: 756-2787.
LIVING STONES, a new play by Cal Poly faculty member Al Schnupp, runs Nov. 11-13 and Nov. 18-20 at 8 p.m. at the school's Spanos Theatre. Info: www.calpolyarts.org.
ANNIE finds a home at Santa Maria's Marian Theatre Nov. 11-Dec. 22. The Tony Award-winning musical features the famous song "Tomorrow." Info: 928-7731 ext. 4100.
SMOKEY JOE'S CAFÉ, the longest running revue in Broadway history, brings its 50s and 60s hits to the Christopher Cohan Center on Nov. 21. It features such hits as "Stand By Me," "Jailhouse Rock," and "There Goes My Baby." Info: 756-2787.
THE NUTCRACKER, presented by the Everybody Can Dance Ballet Company, is Nov. 26-28 at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts in Arroyo Grande. Performances start at 7 p.m. and tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children. Info: 489-9444 or www.clarkcenter.org.
CIRQUE DREAMS, a troupe of aerialists, contortionists, and circus artists, brings its striking visual effects to the Christopher Cohan Center Nov. 29. Info: 756-2787.
BOY GETS GIRL, an all-student show, plays at the Jurkowitz Theatre in Paso Robles Dec. 1-11. It is directed by Rick Mokler and written by Rebecca Gilman. The play is not included in the theatre's season package and tickets may be purchased separately. Info: 965-5935.
GOD'S COUNTRY shows at the Cuesta College Interact Theater Dec. 2,3,4,9, and 10 at 7:30 p.m. Matinee Dec. 5 and 11 at 2 p.m. Info: 546-3198.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL runs Dec. 10-19 at the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre. It is presented by the Academy of Children's Theatre and features local thespians. Info: 786-2440.
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