February 2019 Events
Registration is now open for the 2019 Westmoreland Homeschool Prom, which will take place April 25: https://westmorelandhomeschoolprom.wordpress.com
Throughout February, Venture Outdoors is offering 14 different walks and hikes in the Pittsburgh area, all for modest prices. Check them out: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org
Exhibit, “Paradox: The Body in the Age of AI”, now through February 3, 2019, Miller Institute for Contemporary Art, Carnegie Mellon University, Purnell Center for the Arts, 5000 Forbes Ave. Pittsburgh. A group show on all three floors. “This exhibition explores the primacy of the human body as it’s poised on the precipice of a potential fusion with artificial intelligence. Inspired by the Moravec Paradox, the show looks deeper into the unconscious role the body’s sensorimotor habitat has in shaping our awareness, imagination, and socio-political structures. Society tends to privilege reason and logic because it is conscious and quantifiable. But beneath this thin ‘veneer of human thought’ is a deeper, more complex knowledge system within the body. As technologists imagine the potentials of merging humans with AI, these artists consider the body’s elusive and underestimated power. Their various investigations across multiple media offer room to speculate about the exchange between the unconscious and conscious, and ask questions about what the body knows. Before we enter a generation where cyborgs are as ubiquitous as the internet, in a time when we still inhabit human bodies, the urgent questions to ask are what lessons can our mortal vessels teach us and what unknown paradox might we contain?” http://miller-ica.cmu.edu/exhibitions/#48/upcoming-paradox-the-body-in-the-age-of-ai
Exhibit, “Destination Moon”, now through February 18, 2019, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Included with general admission. “On July 20, 1969, millions of Americans gathered around their television sets and witnessed world history as astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first human to walk on the Moon. His words are now ingrained in American culture and consciousness: ‘That’s one small step for (a) man… one giant leap for mankind.’ The historic journey of Apollo 11 met President Kennedy’s 1961 challenge of landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the earth before the end of the decade. To commemorate the upcoming 50th anniversary of the mission, the Heinz History Center is partnering with the Smithsonian to host Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission, an epic exhibition created by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) and presented in Pittsburgh by UPMC.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/exhibits/destination-moon-apollo-11-mission
Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”, now through Sunday, February 24, O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. With Tamara Tunie. “Marya Sea Kaminski’s premiere production will crack open this old story to unleash a world where magic reigns, sailors sleep with fish, spirits surround us, and love can strike like lightning to brighten the darkest night. Told from a female perspective with an original score, this Tempest will swirl with vicious plots, ridiculous jokes, and the powerful pull between violent revenge and veritable forgiveness.” https://www.ppt.org/production/55124/the-tempest
“Where Did We Sit on the Bus?”, now through Sunday, February 24, City Theatre, 1300 Bingham St., Pittsburgh. Pick your own price previews are Jan. 19-24. “With pulsing rhythms and original rhymes set to a live, looped soundtrack, Brian Quijada stages a hip-hop autobiography about falling in love with performance, the power of family, and growing up Latinx in a world that categorizes everyone in black and white. ‘An explosion of energy, raw emotion, and irresistible storytelling.’ –The Chicago Sun Times.” http://www.citytheatrecompany.org/play/where-did-we-sit-on-the-bus/
Exhibit, “Transformation 10: Contemporary Works in Found Materials”, now through March 23, Contemporary Craft, 2100 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. “ ‘One man’s trash is another man’s treasure’ is the perfect idiom for Transformation 10: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, The Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize Exhibition. Featuring 26 national and international artists who have been selected as finalists for the 2017 Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize. Transformation 10 will showcase newly created, innovative artworks that incorporate found materials in unexpected ways and challenge notions about commonplace objects, found materials, and contemporary art for personal and global narratives, expressions, and aesthetics. This exhibition is free and open to the public.” https://contemporarycraft.org/exhibition/transformation-10/
“Run the Rabbit Path”, now through Saturday, February 16, Fred Rogers Studio, 4802 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. A world premiere. Ages 14 and up. “In the shadow of Pittsburgh’s steel mills, two Irish American brothers and their sister struggle through the trauma of planning their father’s wake, in the kitchen where he died the day before. Their father’s love guides them through the morass of emotions as they stumble onto the mystery of the rabbit path.” http://www.picttheatre.org/play/run-rabbit-path/
Exhibit, “Eye Candy: Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show”, now through Sunday, March 10, Phipps Conservatory, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh. Free with regular admission. Selected Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30PM are public programs related to orchids and bonsai. Details here: https://www.phipps.conservatory.org/calendar/detail/orchid-and-tropical-bonsai-show “Be our guest and enter a world of candy-inspired natural beauty in Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show: Eye Candy! Phipps is newly transformed with beautiful candy-striped orchids, orchids in the shape of oversized lollipops, confectionery-scented varieties and more, with over 1,000 spectacular blooms to enjoy! You'll be surrounded by deliciously-scented blooms including Wilsonara Eye Candy ‘Pinkie,’ Oncidium Sharry Baby ‘Sweet Fragrance,’ Phalaenopsis varieties, Oncidium Aka Baby ‘Raspberry Chocolate’ and many more in a wide variety of vibrant colors, shapes and textures that are sure to delight! Plus, in the signature Orchid Room, explore the beauty and wonders of tiny miniature orchids, exotic hybrids and selections from the Barbara Tisherman Slipper Orchid collection, curated in collaboration with the Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania to be one of the world’s definitive slipper orchid resources. The unique Frank Sarris Orchid, named in honor of the founder of Pittsburgh-based Sarris Candies, will make an appearance. You'll also have the chance to immerse yourself in the delectable detail of bonsai trees, meticulously trained for years and beautifully showcased in this special exhibit. Classified by size and style based upon the shapes of their trunks, roots and branches, bonsai take many forms, from the iconic formal upright bonsai to the more dramatic slant bonsai that resemble windswept, centuries-old trees. Ornate and rich in tradition, these special plants will captivate audiences of all ages. New miniature mudmen figures — small clay figurines popularized in China about 1,000 years ago to lend scale to the miniature landscapes the bonsai artisans were re-creating — will be tucked within the collection, adding a fun treasure hunt surprise that all ages are sure to enjoy.”
Exhibit, “Refik Anadol: Infinity Room”, now through April 7, Wood Street Galleries, 601 Wood St., Pittsburgh. Free. “Infinity Room is an immersive experience conceived by award-winning artist Refik Anadol utilizing contemporary algorithms, moving projections, light, sound, and mirrors. The audio/visual installation induces a state of consciousness in which the subject’s awareness of physical self is transformed by being surrounded by an all-encompassing environment, creating a perception of presence in a non-physical world. Infinity Room transforms the conventional flat cinema projection screen into a three dimensional and seemingly infinite space, blurring the boundaries between actual/fictional and physical/virtual. Infinity Room opened in 2015 in Istanbul, Turkey, and has traveled worldwide, with stops at SXSW in Austin, Texas, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Arts, and the Exploratorium in San Francisco. Over a million people have experienced Anadol’s Infinity Room, which Vice described as ‘a room that looks like you’ve just stepped into some kind of otherworldly portal or cosmic gateway, as the swirls, curls, and linear forms cause the walls to melt away’.” http://woodstreetgalleries.org/portfolio-view/refik-anadol-opening-with-the-gallery-crawl-jan-25th-530-10pm/
“Dapline”, Friday, February 1, 8PM, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “Dapline! is an evening-length choreographic work with 6-8 male performers stemming from the collaboration between André M. Zachery and visual artist LaMont Hamilton. This project looks at the origins and continued practice of ‘the DAP’ or dapping; the intricate handshakes that serve as greetings usually between Black men in the United States. This performance seeks to be a public engagement opportunity over the ever-relevant issue of Black existence in the United States relating to masculinity and image.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/61789/dapline
“Beyond Borders: An Evening of Immigrant Fiction”, Friday, February 1, 5:30PM-7:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join us for an evening with some of the most exciting voices of contemporary fiction. Each writer will read a little from her book, followed by a conversation on the timely topic of immigrant fiction in America. What does it mean to write fiction about immigrants or be immigrants or children of immigrants in the current political climate? What important need do immigrant voices in contemporary American literature fill? How can we move beyond borders and hyphens when we talk about contemporary literature?” https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/beyond-borders-an-evening-of-immigrant-fiction/
“Hot Jam”, Friday, February 1, 6PM-9PM, Pittsburgh Glass Center, 5472 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Hot Jam is a free open house on First Fridays featuring heat-defying acts of art including live glassblowing demonstrations and a contemporary glass art exhibition. Fun for the entire family. An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will be onsite to welcome visitors and narrate the glassblowing demonstration.” https://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/calendar/2018/10/5/hot-jam-free-monthly-open-house
“Halfway to Dawn”, Friday, February 1 and Saturday, February 2, 8PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/david-rousseve-reality-halfway-to-dawn/ “Journey from Westinghouse to the grandest bandstands across the globe, as award-winning choreographer David Roussève celebrates the life and music of KST namesake Billy Strayhorn through jubilant movement for nine performers and sumptuous video projections. Halfway to Dawn redefines 'biography' as the intersection of fact, theory, abstraction and fantasy—and reveals the complicated emotional truths that shaped the life and legacy of legendary openly gay jazz composer. Strayhorn’s music is interpreted through dynamic dance that blends modern, postmodern, jazz and social dance with a eclectic score that includes selections from Strayhorn’s compositions from the 1940s and 50s. Roussève’s tribute expands upon the political urgency of Strayhorn’s vision, while channeling the spirit of the genius himself.”
“3D Printing 101”, Friday, February 1, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to design and print on Fab Lab’s 3D printers and explore the technology of 3D printing using a 3D printing pen. This introductory class is required in order to use the 3D printer during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.”
“Next to Normal”, Friday, February 1 through Saturday, February 16, Comtra Cultural Center, 20540 Route 19, Cranberry. https://www.comtratheatre.org/next-to-normal/ “Next to Normal, with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. Winner of three 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize, Next to Normal was also chosen as “one of the year’s ten best shows” by critics around the country, including The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Rolling Stone and The New York Times. Dad’s an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wisecracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal because the mother has been battling manic depression for 16 years. Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family’s story with love, sympathy and heart.”
“Critical Hit: Dungeons and Dragons for Teens”, Friday, February 1, 6PM-8PM, Whitehall Library Pittsburgh. “IT'S BACK! -- Whitehall Public Library has brought back its tabletop gaming program called Critical Hit. The program features gameplay and campaigns from Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition books. Welcome back travelers it has been awhile. Have you completed your own quests? Travel around once again with your old friends in groups of 4-8. Dive back in to those tricky mazes filled with jelly monsters and sand dragons. Tackle the horrors of archery contests and ski ball tournaments. Continue exploring the abandoned house filled with scurrying creatures and queens. The world you started awaits your return. Bring your dice, your friends and your trusty DM (Dungeon Master) and prepare for things to get a dicey all over again. Ages: Teens 13-20. Space is limited.”
“Gaming: Dungeons and Dragons”, Saturday, February 2, 1PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview. “Come play Dungeons and Dragons at the library! Bring a character and some dice or just your imagination. All experience levels are welcome. For teens grades 6-12.”
“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, February 2, 2PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Lawrenceville. “Get together with other anime enthusiasts to explore Japanese culture through food, kuwaii crafts, cosplay and of course, Anime!”
“Panoramic Theater Workshop: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, Saturday, February 2, 11AM, Trust Arts Education Center, 807 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Ages 12-17. $20. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.trustarts.org/registration/60672/panoramic-theater-workshop-charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory “During this 2 hour workshop, participants fulfill the roles of set, costume, light and sound designers, stage managers, director, actors and marketing staff. They begin with a traditional ‘Meet and Greet’ and then engage in making creative choices as they move through text analysis, design concept meetings and theatrical rehearsals. The workshop culminates with teams presenting their own interpretation of an excerpt from the musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
“Citizen Science Classes”, each class with 3 sessions, Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 1PM-3PM, Citizen Science Lab, 1435 Bedford Ave, Ste 132A, Pittsburgh. $25. Grades 3-8. February 2: DNA Fingerprinting; February 4, 6 and 9: DNA Detectives; February 11, 13 and 16: DNA Fruit Extraction; February 16: Intro to Drone Blocks (grades 6-8); February 18, 20 and 23: Genetics; February 25 and 27, and March 2: Blood Typing. Registration and details of each program are here: http://www.thecitizensciencelab.org/programs
“Guided Tours: Destination Moon”, Saturday, February 2, 11AM, 12PM, 1PM and 2PM; Saturday, February 16, 12PM, 1PM, and 3PM; Sunday, February 17, 11AM, 12PM and 1PM, and Monday, February 18, 11AM, 12PM, 1PM and 2PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free with admission. “Have a blast exploring Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission with a History Center docent. Discover the Pittsburgh connections to the historic moon landing and experience the gravity of the mission that catapulted man to the moon.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events
“World Music Festival”, Saturday, February 2, 5PM-midnight, First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh, 605 Morewood Ave., Pittsburgh. $15. “The World Music Festival is an initiative organized by Mathew Tembo and friends. This year it will include crafts, music, and dance. Please join us to celebrate the music of Alba Flamenca, Mathew Tembo, Jemiriye Adeniji, Truths and Rites, and the Pitt Afropop Ensemble. Crafts and food vendors from 5pm. Music starts at 8pm.Tickets $15 (tickets available online) OR pay what you can at the door, as long as there are tickets available.” https://www.showclix.com/event/world-music-festival
“Citizen Science: Great Backyard Bird Count Training”, Saturday, February 2, 10AM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, Succop Nature Park, and Todd Nature Store. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “The Great Backyard Bird Count takes place Presidents day weekend and can be done anywhere there are wild birds. Get ready to count with this training reviewing common species and reporting procedures. Visit GBBC.org for details about the count. Great for scout leaders, parents, and others who want to learn about the count and get tips for getting their groups involved. Act 48 hours available. This event is free!”
“Hummers at Home”, Saturday, February 2, 1PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve and Succop Nature Park; and Saturday, February 9, 1PM, Todd Nature Store. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “To live such high energy lifestyles, hummingbirds must sync their migration and nesting times with the flowering of nectar-bearing plants. Learn how climate change threatens to throw off this delicate balance, with unknown repercussions for hummingbirds.”
“Teen Chocolate Fest”, Saturday, February 2, 7PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SHALER/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=SHALER “A chocolate Baking Contest, chocolate themed activities, and our very own version of the game show, "Chopped!" To enter the baking contest, bring a home-baked item with some kind of chocolate in it. $20 Cash Prize to the People's Choice Winner! Everyone who comes can taste the entries and vote for their favorite. For "Chopped!," be a contestant or just watch in the audience, as individuals or teams compete to make the most appealing desserts out of the ingredients provided. Funny, creative and tasty, too! Grades 7 and up.”
“Black History Month Kick Off Celebration”, Saturday, February 2, 2:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “Have fun celebrating family and community in honor of Black History Month! The national theme is, ‘Black Migrations.’ Please join us for light refreshments, activities, and special presentations given by retired Pittsburgh Public School Librarian, Linda P. McDougald, and Melvin ‘Lyric’ Steals, PhD. Mrs. McDougald will be giving a presentation about the Witcher family of Danville, Virginia, and Dr. Steals will be giving a presentation on William Henry Lavender Wolfe. The program is done in conjunction with the Dr. Edna B. McKenzie Branch, Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Recommended for all ages.”
“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, February 2, 3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Join fellow anime enthusiasts around Pittsburgh, where otaku and noobs alike come to hang out, explore Japanese culture, enjoy Anime, showcase cosplay, munch on Pocky and borrow from the largest manga collection in Allegheny County. Cosplay and digital drawing tools will be on hand to dig deeper into your fandoms! Anime Club happens every first and third Saturday each month from 3:00-5:00 PM, and is exclusively for teens ages 11-19.”
“South Hills Scrabble Club”, Saturdays in February, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “South Hills Scrabble Club welcomes adults and kids ages 10 and up for an afternoon of friendly competition! In cooperation with Mt. Lebanon Public Library.”
“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, February 2, 2PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Woods Run. “Explore new anime and express your fandom at Teen Anime Club! We’ll watch anime, explore Japanese culture and enjoy a fun snack.”
“Winterfest”, Saturday, February 2, 11AM-4PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Sugarloaf Sledding Area, 950 Sugarloaf Rd., Ohiopyle. “Join us for our annual celebration of winter. Bring your own sled for swooshing down the big hill. There will be free snowshoe and cross country ski demos. A sleigh ride will be available for $5/adult and $3 for children. A concession stand will be available courtesy of Friends of Ohiopyle.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/winterfest_4798
“Ground Hog Stomp”, Saturday, February 2, 1PM-3PM, Moraine State Park, Pleasant Valley Picnic Area, South Shore. “Bundle up and celebrate our Pennsylvania Holiday Rodent! Join us for a fun hike beginning at Pleasant Valley, weather and your preference will determine the distance (easy to moderate hiking terrain). Fun for the family, hike and learn some animal facts, enjoy a hot chocolate, and do a ground hog craft. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather (severe weather cancels event), and bring your own water and trail snacks. Meet at Pleasant Valley Picnic Area South Shore, Moraine State Park. Show that ground hog who’s boss! No ground hogs will be stomped, it’s just an expression.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/ground_hog_stomp_536
“Step Into Snowshoes”, Saturdays, February 2, 9, 16, and 23, 9AM-2PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free. “If you can walk...you can snowshoe! Try it today. A limited number of snowshoes are available daily when Jennings EE Center is open* and enough snow covers the trails. Borrowing the snowshoes is absolutely FREE! Orientation and brief instruction will be provided upon request. The center will be staffed on Saturdays, whenever snow conditions are suitable, as well as during regular Monday-Friday business days and on Sundays when a public program is scheduled. Snowshoes are available between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM unless otherwise posted. Valid drivers license required to borrow snowshoes. Snowshoes are not permitted to leave the park. All snowshoes must be returned by 3:00 PM unless otherwise posted. To check snow conditions or for more information, call the Center at 724-794-6011.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/step_into_snowshoes_6020
“Laser-Cut Valentine’s Day Cards”, 6 sessions, Saturday, February 2 and Saturday, February 9, 12PM, 1PM and 2PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $10. Ages 8 to adult. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Design and create your very own laser-cut Valentine’s Day cards in Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center, Pittsburgh’s digital makerspace. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.”
“Mt. Lebanon Cribbage Club”, Sunday, February 3, 1:30PM-3PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room B, Pittsburgh. “Join the Mt. Lebanon Cribbage group for a couple of friendly rounds of cribbage. Often called "Britain's national card game", Cribbage has been enjoyed for centuries. Beginners welcome. If you have your own board to share, please feel free to bring it with you.”
“Alton Merrell Gospel Jazz Ensemble”, Sunday, February 3, 6PM-8PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Dr. Alton Merrell and Impact is the nation’s premier gospel jazz ensemble. This dynamic and inspirational instrumental and vocal ensemble led by award-winning Pittsburgh-based pianist, Dr. Alton Merrell, is known for dazzling audiences and uplifting hearts through faith-filled lyrics, inventive instrumental and vocal improvisations, and a diverse musical repertoire employing the musical styles of swing jazz, afro-cuban jazz, Latin jazz, tradition gospel, and contemporary gospel, to name a few.” https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/alton-merrell-gospel-choir/
“Historical Tours of Main Library”, Sundays, 1PM and 3PM, and Wednesdays, 11AM and 1PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/historical-tours-of-main-library-registration-46770852880 “Join experienced staff and volunteer docents as we take you on a guided tour through Andrew Carnegie’s Main Library. You’ll get a look at the wonderful art and architecture that created this historic landmark, as well as how the building’s interior has changed over time. Tours will take place on Sundays at 1 PM and 3 PM and Wednesdays at 11 AM and 1 PM, and will last about 1 hour. All tours will meet in the front lobby of the Main Library.”
“Winter Walk at Bird Park”, Sunday, February 3, 11AM, Bird Park, Beadling Road between Cedar Boulevard and Washington Road, Pittsburgh. “Join Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club Mycologist Jim Tunney for a walk through the lovely Bird Park.” https://wpamushroomclub.org/events/winter-walk-at-bird-park/
“Life After High School”, Mondays in February, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Woods Run. “Thinking about where you will be and what you want to do after graduation? Stop in to CLP — Woods Run on Mondays to prepare for Life After High School. Workshops will range from scholarship applications to quick and easy cooking tips to financial literary and more. CLP is here to get you ready for whatever the future has in store.”
“An Evening of Jazz with The Funky Fly Project”, Monday, February 4, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “Squirrel Hill is very excited to welcome local group The Funky Fly Project for an evening of funk and jazz. This fun, funky celebration is for the whole community, all ages welcome. No registration needed – just show up and enjoy the music. The Funky Fly Project is a funk and jazz group operating out of Pittsburgh, PA consisting of Winston Bell, Henry Schultz, Brandon Terry, and Eric Dowdell Jr. A powerful combination of skill and virtuosic playing, you would never know by listening that each member of the project is less than nineteen years old. Developing a sound well beyond their age, the quartet fuse classic jazz styles with contemporary funk to create a unique sound that leaves listeners in awe.” https://www.funkyflyproject.com/
"Andy Warhol: From No Where to New York", Monday, February 4, 7PM-9PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. “Don Warhola, a nephew of Andy Warhol, will speak about the early life of his uncle and how his Slovak/Rusyn heritage influenced his art.”
“Straw Forward”, Monday, February 4, 7PM-9PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/adult-programs-cafe-sci/?utm_source=suggestions&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Programs%20Overview “Straws. One seems to find them everywhere these days: in our drinks, on the sidewalks, in the storm drains, and even on the news. Single-use plastic straws represent just one small component of the plastic pollution found in our streams, rivers, and oceans. Plastic pollution is a critical global issue, as these pieces and parts can damage fragile ecosystems, entangle marine animals, kill wildlife, and impact the health of our food chain. Earlier this year, the nonprofit Sustainable Pittsburgh launched Straw Forward, a collaborative, community-wide campaign involving nearly 40 restaurants, nonprofits, and businesses over a seven-month period. Using straws as the main medium, the Straw Forward team collected used and littered plastic-based items and transformed them into a stunning art sculpture on display from Tues., Jan. 15 through Fri., Feb. 15 in the Riverview Café at the Science Center. On Mon., Feb. 4, join Sustainable Pittsburgh, Allegheny CleanWays, Pennsylvania Resources Council, Construction Junction and First Mile of Thread International for an insider’s look behind the sculpture along with a panel discussion to learn how these organizations are helping to reduce plastic pollution, raise awareness, and build economies through single-use plastics. In addition to the panel, an abridged version of the documentary A Plastic Ocean will also be screened, providing a deeper look into these issues on a global scale. The Straw Forward campaign recognizes that plastic straws are critical for people living with certain disabilities and medical conditions. The goal of this project is to foster meaningful conversations around the problem of plastic pollution. Join us for a discussion about the sculpture and what we can do locally to help solve this globally.”
“In the Workshop: Master Trax w/ Madeleine Campbell”, Monday, February 4, 7PM-9:30PM, Ace Hotel, 120 S. Whitfield St., Pittsburgh. Free. “Madeleine Campbell (sound engineer and editor of Women in Sound Zine) teaches this beginner-level workshop on mastering tracks. We will discuss turning your demos into mixes and how to prep those mixes for a mastering engineer. Madeline will use Pro Tools to demonstrate methods of transforming raw demo tracks into fully-formed mixes and discuss various ways to prep your tracks for a mastering engineer or digital and analog release. Questions encouraged + no experience necessary. Curated by gfx, this hands-on workshop series takes inspiration from electronic and underground pioneers, past and present. Each session will highlight instruments from the Musical Instrument Lending Library at The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. The Library will also be on hand at each session with instruments available for hands-on musical exploration. After making new sounds of your own, stick around to hear girlFx DJs at Ace Hotel’s In the Weeds.” https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/in-the-workshop-master-trax-w-madeleine-campbell/
“The Labs: Visualizing a Migrant’s Story for Teens”, Tuesdays in February, 4PM-6PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview. “The Labs gives teens access to creative technology like 3D printers, digital cameras, and Adobe Photoshop with help and guidance from mentors. In honor of Black History Month, teens will celebrate visual artists who came North during the Great Migration. By exploring different modes of visual art each week, teens will have the opportunity to create their own visuals and personas based on what they learn.”
“Printmaking Presented by AIR”, Tuesday, February 5, Wednesday, February 13, Tuesday, February 19, and Tuesday, February 26, 4PM-6PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hill District. “Learn to screen print with AIR (Artist Image Resources). For teens in grades 6-12.”
“Lunar New Year Celebration”, Tuesday, February 5, 6PM-8PM, Everyday Café, 532 N. Homewood Ave., Pittsburgh. $10 (credit card payments at door) for adults, free for kids. “Join us for music, various Asian cuisines from your favorite local restaurants, Tai-Chi, a Lion Dance performance, raffle prizes and more! Tickets are $10 for adults, free for kids. Payment must be made by card at the door - 70% of proceeds will go to Fondo Solidario (Pittsburgh Solidarity Fund), a local bail fund to support people in immigration detention in PA. Put on some RED and GOLD (for good luck), and come celebrate! The food line-up includes Umami, Banh Mi and Ti, Ineffable CA Phe, Bae Bae's Kitchen, The Hungry Cao, and Yummyholic.” https://www.facebook.com/events/604501336655198/
Author Event, “Marie Benedict”, Tuesday, February 5, 7PM, Barnes and Noble, 700 Mall Circle Dr., Monroeville; Sunday, February 10, 2PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh; and Sunday, February 24, 2PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Marie Benedict, author of ‘The Only Woman in the Room’ will be in store to discuss and sign her new book. Marie Benedict's new book, ‘The Only Woman in the Room’, is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller! It is a powerful novel based on the incredible true story of the glamour icon and scientist, Hedy Lamarr, whose groundbreaking invention revolutionized modern communication.” http://www.authormariebenedict.com/about-the-books.html
“Lecture Series: Ulrike Müller”, Tuesday, February 5, 6:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Mellon University, Kresge Theatre, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Free and open to the public. “Entangling abstraction with representational form, Ulrike Müller’s work investigates and updates visual strategies of modernism and feminist practices of the 1960s and 70s to create a new discourse around contemporary gender identity and politics that resists binaries. She represented Austria in in the 2010 Cairo Biennial, was part of the 2017 Whitney Biennial, and has shown at the New Museum. Organized in collaboration with Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie International, 57th Edition, 2018. All lectures are free and open to the public. Free parking is available in the East Campus Garage after 5:00pm or on Frew, Margaret Morrison, and Tech Streets after 6:00pm.” http://www.art.cmu.edu/event/lecture-series-ulrike-muller/
“Anime Club”, Tuesday, February 5 and Tuesday, February 19, 3:30M-5PM, Sewickley Library. “Love ANIME? Join your fellow fans for your favorite anime movies and series. Plus snacks, crafts, games, and more! Newbies welcome! Open to all students in grades 6-12. No registration required.”
“Green Teens”, Tuesdays, February 5, 12 and March 5, 12, 4PM-6PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Grades 7 and up. “Join Girty’s Run Watershed Association to learn about our water, our environment, and our connections to each other. We will use art and science to consider how we treat our water and how that affects our communities.”
“An Evening with Georgia Hunter”, Tuesday, February 5, 7PM, Carnegie Library Lecture Hall, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. $18 in advance or $20 at the door, free for Holocaust survivors and students with ID. Preregistration required; register online: https://hcofpgh.org/georgia-hunter/ “New York Times bestselling author Georgia Hunter comes to Pittsburgh! Georgia will discuss the backstory on how she discovered her grandfather’s Holocaust-era past, and what the decade-long journey of unearthing and recording her family history entailed. She will share photos from her research and travels. The talk will be followed by a book signing. ‘We Were the Lucky Ones’is Georgia’s first book and spent over four months on the New York Times Bestseller List. It has been translated into 13 languages, and was selected as an Audible Best Book, a Harper’s Bazaar Top Pick, a New York Post Must-Read, and a People Magazine Best New Book. Glamour Magazine picked ‘We Were the Lucky Ones’ as ‘one of the best books to read’ saying, ‘Love in the face of adversity? It couldn’t be more timely.’ ‘We Were the Lucky Ones’ won the 2018 Connecticut Book Award for fiction, and – in recent news – has been optioned for a limited series in television.” https://georgiahunterauthor.com
“Pittsburgh Police Chess Club”, Wednesdays, 4PM, Knoxville Library; Thursdays, 3PM, Sheraden Library; and Thursday, February 7, 4PM, Beechview Library. “Children and teens are invited to join an officer for weekly community chess classes. Develop your mind and practice problem-solving skills that apply off the chessboard, too.”
“Book Discussion: 'The Weight of Ink' by Rachel Kadish”, Thursday, February 7, 10AM-11:30AM and 7PM-8:30PM, Monroeville Library. “Set in London of the 1660s and of the early twenty-first century, The Weight of Ink is the interwoven tale of two women of remarkable intellect: Ester Velasquez, an emigrant from Amsterdam who is permitted to scribe for a blind rabbi just before the plague hits the city, and Helen Watt, an ailing historian with a love of Jewish history. When Helen is summoned by a former student to view a cache of newly discovered seventeenth-century Jewish documents, she enlists the help of Aaron Levy, an American graduate student as impatient as he is charming, and embarks on one last project: to determine the identity of the documents' scribe, the elusive ‘Aleph’. Electrifying and ambitious, The Weight of Ink is about women separated by centuries — and the choices and sacrifices they must make in order to reconcile the life of the heart and mind. On February 7 Rabbi Barbara Symons of Temple David will lead two discussions of The Weight of Ink at Monroeville Public Library — a morning discussion at 10:00 a.m. and an evening discussion at 7:00 p.m. The discussions are free and open to the public. Please join us!”
“Talking Comics”, Thursday, February 7, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Maker Space, Pittsburgh. “Do you love comics? Join us as we go beyond the page with discussion and creation in the library’s Maker Space. For kids in grades 6, 7, and 8. Book club books are available at the Children's Desk one month prior to the meeting (September 5th). Registration for all clubs occurs when the book is checked out from the library.”
“Club Otaku -Teen Anime Club”, Thursdays in February, 6PM-7PM, Whitehall Library Pittsburgh. “Club Otaku is a meeting place for anime and manga fans to watch, read, and discuss anime and manga. As well as share your favorite fanfiction and fanart with your fellow otaku!”
“Inkspotters Teen Writing Group”, Thursdays in February, 4:30PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Yates Room, Glenshaw. “Do you write stories, fanfiction, poetry, or blog posts? Need help picking the perfect character names? Join our weekly writing group and meet other writers! Talk, work on an existing project, or try a writing prompt. No registration required.”
“Pittsburgh National College Fair”, Thursday, February 7, 9AM-12PM and 6:30PM-9PM, and Friday, February 8, 9AM-12PM, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.nacacfairs.org/attend/national-college-fairs/pittsburgh-national-college-fair/ “Free and open to the public, National College Fairs are the perfect place to kick off your college search. Admission representatives from schools across the country are all gathered in one place. Their goal: To encourage you to learn more about their institutions, and help you sort through the qualities you’re looking for in a college. Explore your options. Each fair draws representatives from 175 to 400 colleges. The schools are located throughout the US, and from around the globe. Ask questions. What’s college life like? What majors are popular on campus? Chatting with representatives from a variety of colleges can help you cement your own preferences. Gather information. Pick up brochures and other materials about the schools that interest you. Ask admission reps to scan your barcode—an easy way to help colleges follow up with you after the fair.”
“Afro Yaqui Music Collective”, Thursday, February 7, 7PM-9PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Recently returned from the Kennedy Center, The Afro Yaqui Music Collective is a postcolonial big band which imagines a world where many worlds fit. The band is part of the legacy of the Asian-American composer-activist Fred Ho, and their music draws from mainstream jazz, the avant-garde, and traditional forms from both Africa, East Asia, and American Indigenous nations.” More here: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/afro-yaqui-music-collective-3/
“Soul Values and American Slavery”, Friday, February 8, 5PM, Carnegie Mellon University, Simmons Auditorium A, Tepper Quadrangle, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Presented by Dr. Daina Ramey Berry, Oliver H. Radkey Regents Professor of History and African and African Diaspora Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. This lecture is free and open to public. “From the moment of birth and before, those invested in buying and selling human beings put a price tag on enslaved people. This fiscal marker served as a projection of future worth as well as a monetary value of a market price. Regardless of what the figure meant, enslaved people created their own system of valuation that neither the auctioneer nor enslaver could control. Exploring enslaved people’s inner spirits expressed in plantation records, newspapers, testimonies, and letters, brings us to an entirely different system of values which are the focus of this presentation.” https://www.cmu.edu/history/cause/events/daina-ramey-berry.html
Screenings, “Oscar Nominated Short Films”, Friday, February 8 through Thursday, February 14, Regent Square Theater, 1035 S. Braddock Ave., Pittsburgh. They are dividing the screenings into three separate programs, Live Action, Animation and Documentary. You will get to see all the Oscar nominees and pick your favorites to win. The Animation program in particular is always a crowd pleaser. Details and showtimes here: http://cinema.pfpca.org
“Vinyl Cutting 101”, Friday, February 8, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to use the computer controlled vinyl cutter in Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. This introductory class is required in order to use the vinyl cutter during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.”
“Sounds of China”, Friday, February 8, 7:30PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “Led by artistic director and renowned composer Ma Jiuyue, Sounds of China features an outstanding ensemble of contemporary Chinese folk musicians that blend the ancient and the new into an exciting musical mix both traditional and modern. The group features a number of traditional Chinese instruments—such as the erhu (a two-stringed spike fiddle), liuqin (a four-stringed Chinese mandolin), xun (a globular, vessel flute), and pipa (a plucked four-string lute)—but breathes new, electrifying energy into the performance by reframing them with rock and pop elements. Electric guitars, synthesizers, and a drum kit add to the effect. The Beijing-based ensemble, which has performed to critical acclaim across the United States, is recognized for cultivating appreciation and increasing understanding of traditional Chinese music and culture. Jiuyue’s groundbreaking ensemble is sure to defy expectations as it fuses ancient and modern, East and West in this thrilling musical event.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/61112/sounds-of-china
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Presents, “The Great Gatsby”, Friday, February 8 through Sunday, February 17, Benedum Center, 237 7th St., Pittsburgh. “Rediscover the revelry and recklessness of the Roaring ‘20s in Jorden Morris’ poignant new production of The Great Gatsby. In the summer of 1922 a romance rekindles between two of the Long Island elite: married Daisy Buchanan and mysterious Jay Gatsby. Morris brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s drama to life with emotive dancing, an original Carl Davis score, and cinematic sets that draw audiences into Gatsby’s exclusive soirees. At the heart of this story is a man who, beneath the glitz and glamour, sees love as his guiding light to the American dream.” https://www.pbt.org/performances/great-gatsby-pbt-orchestra/
“Bonnie and Clyde the Musical”, Friday, February 8 through Saturday, February 16, The Lamp Theatre, 222 Main St., Irwin. Tickets $15 and $20. “Bonnie and Clyde The Musical presented by Split Stage Production - At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow went from two small-town nobodies in West Texas to America's most renowned folk heroes and Texas law enforcement's worst nightmares. Fearless, shameless and alluring, the Tony-nominated Bonnie and Clyde, is the electrifying story of love, adventure and crime that captured the attention of an entire country.” https://www.lamptheatre.org
“Redeveloping a Peoples’ Movement”, Friday, February 8, 7:30PM-9PM, Community Forge, Atrium, 1256 Franklin Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “In this lecture Nicole Marroquin will discuss graffiti in Chicago as part of a larger social movement for peoples' power and public participation. Marroquin is an artist-educator and professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. This event is part of the Hemispheric Conversations Urban Art Project public lecture series.” https://www.forge.community/events
“Dance Basics”, Friday, February 8, 5PM-7PM, Assemble, 4824 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Ages 10-14. Preregistration required; register online: http://assemblepgh.org/event/youth-maker-night-dance-basics-ages-10-14/ “Do you want to learn about freestyle and hip hop dance? Join Yangzer from Level Up Studios to learn all about dance basics. In this workshop, we will go over dance basics to help students gain an understanding of movement. No prior experience necessary. Youth Maker Night is a free, interactive monthly workshop for students in grades 6-8 (or ages 10-14)! Make new friends in a community setting while participating in hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) projects led by Guest Experts. No experience necessary; just bring yourself and an excitement for learning! Pizza and snacks provided.”
“Beginner Belly Dance Lessons”, Saturday, February 9, 10:15AM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny. “Join us every second Saturday for Beginner Belly Dance lessons with Sourie. This drop in class is free for all ages.”
“Snowshoeing for Beginners”, Saturday, February 9, 10AM-11AM and 2PM-3PM, Canoe Creek State Park, Wentz Education Center, 205 Canoe Creek Rd., Holidaysburg. $10. Preregistration required; call 814-695-6807. “Celebrate winter by getting into the woods and learning how to snowshoe! We’ll provide the snowshoes and poles and get you started, then we’ll head out for a beautiful winter hike. Only 15 pairs of adult (med and large) snowshoes available.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov
“Steel City Kitties Cat Show”, Saturday, February 9 and Sunday, February 10, 9AM-4PM, Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Plaza Boulevard, South Hall. Cash admission $8 adults, $6 kids, free for kids 4 and under. http://www.steelcitykitties.com/
“Pittsburgh Pogo Meetups”, Saturday, February 9, and Saturday, February 23, 1PM, Community Forge, 1256 Franklin Ave., Wilkinsburg. “Come to the Xpogo Office the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month in the start of 2019 to pogo with us. We have sticks for riders of all skill levels and Xpogo Pros will be around to help you whether you're just starting out or already a master. Completely free and open to everyone!” https://www.facebook.com/pg/CommunityForgePGH/events/?ref=page_internal
“Winter Fun Day”, Saturday, February 9, 10AM-2PM, Prince Gallitzin State Park, 966 Marina Rd., Patton. Free. “Join us at the Prince Gallitzin Marina for some fun winter activities! Go sledding, try cross country skiing or snowshoeing, do some ice skating, or play Winter BINGO. You can also learn about animal furs, winter birds and bird feeding, outdoor winter safety, ice fishing, and more. Or just cozy up by the bonfire. Equipment for all activities will be provided on a first come first serve basis, but you may wish to bring your own sled. Hot dogs and drinks will be provided by the Friends of Prince Gallitzin. There is no charge for this event, but donations will be accepted by the Friends for upcoming park improvement projects. Scheduled activities will depend upon existing outdoor conditions.” Check their website for details of activities: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/winter_fun_day_6406
“February Brown Bag Concert”, Saturday, February 9, 12PM-1PM, Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Love (and War?) is in the air this February. You're invited to our free February Brown Bag concert for an afternoon of love songs and a preview of our upcoming production of Glory Denied! Bring your valentine, galentine, or entire family! The performance takes place in the George R. White studio at Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters, 2425 Liberty Avenue in the Strip. It's free and open to everyone. Bring a friend and bring a lunch! Meet the Resident Artists afterward in an informal reception.” https://www.pittsburghopera.org/calendar/detail/february-brown-bag-concert3
“Winter Walkabout: Signs of Life”, Saturday, February 9, 2PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, Buffalo Creek Nature Center, and Succop Nature Park. $10, or $6 for members. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “Even in the midst of winter the forest is teeming with life! Join a naturalist for the subtle and not-so-subtle signs of animal activity on the Reserve. Program is outside. Adults and families.”
“Backyard Maple Sugaring”, Saturday, February 9, 8:30AM-12:30PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/home_sweet_home_backyard_maple_sugaring_7210 “Here’s an opportunity for adults who want to try making their own tasty maple syrup! From choosing appropriate trees through tapping, collecting and evaporating maple sap, participants will learn, observe and practice the steps in the sugaring process, and discover how it can be done on a backyard scale. Information and resources will be provided for finding out more and getting started at home. An optional tour of Jennings' sugar bush will follow the workshop, from 1-2 p.m. The program is free, with equipment available to purchase. Registration is required by February 6.”
“Pittsburgh Composers’ Project”, Saturday, February 9, 7:30PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/pittsburgh-composers-project-2/ “The annual Pittsburgh Composers’ Project features the work of established and emerging composers based in Pittsburgh. This year’s concert includes the winners of NAT 28’s third annual Call for Scores by emerging composers. Additionally, we will feature Leonardo Balada’s Caprichos No. 1 for guitar and string quartet, a magnificent multi-movement, concerto-style work based on Federico Garcia Lorca’s arrangements of Andalusian folk songs. Fans of Rodrigo’s famous Concierto de Aranjuez will certainly fall in love with this work. A Piano Concerto by Jean-Patrick Besingrand (NAT 28 Composer-in-Residence) will receive its Pittsburgh premiere with our special guest Yumi Suehiro at the piano.”
“Valentine Floral Arrangement Class”, Saturday, February 9, 10AM-11:30AM, South Fayette Township Library, Morgan. Class takes place in the Senior Center of the Township building. “Barb Vock will teach the class how to make floral arrangements for Valentine's Day. You can keep it to decorate your own home, or give it to a friend to brighten their holiday. Cost: $15/person for materials. You must pay and register at the circulation desk at South Fayette Library.”
“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, February 9, 2PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh East Liberty. “Join fellow anime enthusiasts around Pittsburgh, where otaku and noobs alike come to hang out, explore Japanese culture, enjoy Anime, showcase cosplay and munch on Pocky.”
“Destination Moon Family Day: Women in Space”, Saturday, February 9, 10AM-2PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free with regular admission, and admission for kids 17 and under is free between 10AM-2PM. “Join the Heinz History Center for an out-of-this-world day of family fun focused on women in space! From female astronauts at the International Space Station to engineers and scientists on the ground, America’s space program wouldn’t be where it is today without the incredible contributions of incredible women. Join us for special activities throughout the day, including a performance of the Pittsburgh CLO’s latest production, “Beyond the Moon” at 11 a.m. This musical performance in our fifth-floor Mueller Education Center is geared toward kids and families. The production celebrates the 50th anniversary of Neil Armstrong’s moonwalk, featuring a 16-year-old student with ‘astronaut-ical’ dreams of being the first person to set foot on Mars!” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/destination-moon-family-day-women-in-space
“Sunday Afternoon Music Series Presents The Stapletons”, Sunday, February 10, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Quiet Reading Room. “The Stapletons are a husband and wife harp and guitar duo. Together, they write baroque folk rich with hints of Appalachian balladry, Delta blues, and echoes of the English folk revival movement. Casey, a mariachi from LA, married Kate, who grew up in Middle Ridge, WI. Six years later, they sat down with a Celtic harp and a Mexican guitar and began writing music. Their unique, ‘chamber folk’ style features blues driven harp riffs, tightly interwoven vocals, and ethereal harmonies, and their songs bring the past alive, illuminate the present, and lift listeners into the stars.” https://www.thestapletonsmusic.com/
“Opera Up Close- Glory Denied”, Sunday, February 10, 2PM-3:30PM, Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. $5. “Join Robert Boldin, Artistic Administrator, and special guests from the production, for an in-depth look at Tom Cipullo's Glory Denied.” https://www.pittsburghopera.org/calendar/detail/opera-up-close-glory-denied
“Attracting Bluebirds and Why It’s Important”, Sunday, February 10, 2PM, Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector. Free. “If you plan to attend and would like to build a bluebird house, please let us know by calling 724-593-6105. Not very long ago, bluebirds were in big trouble. Thanks to many dedicated lovers of nature, they are doing much better. Can this improvement be sustained? Join us and explore the bluebird’s history in Pennsylvania, their uncertain future, and what you can do to help. After the lecture, you can build a bluebird house to take home.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/powdermill-nature-reserve/
Concert, “Trio Cassatt”, Sunday, February 10, 3PM, Heinz Memorial Chapel, S. Bellefield Ave. at 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Inspired by Pittsburgh-born Impressionist artist Mary Cassatt, Trio Cassatt is a performing group whose goal is to bring enchantingly rare music to the world. Founding members Phoebe Robertson (flute), Bronwyn Hagerty (cello), and Alyssa Hensley (harp) will perform works by Joseph Jongen, Arthur Foote, Claude Debussy, Lori Laitman, and more, as well as a premiere by Pittsburgh composer Nancy Galbraith. This is a celebration of music that you won't want to miss!” https://www.heinzchapel.pitt.edu/events/trio-cassatt
“Pittsburgh Reptile Show and Sale”, Sunday, February 10, 9AM-3PM, Harmar House, 1321 Freeport Rd., Cheswick. $5 per person, free for kids 3 and under. “Thousands of animals and supplies all under one roof! Bring the family and don’t forget the camera! Buy direct and save, wholesale pricing!” http://pghreptileshow.com
“Martin Luther King Jr. Keynote Lecture: Khalil G. Muhammad”, Monday, February 11, 4:30PM, Carnegie Mellon University, McConomy Auditorium, Cohon University Center, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. “Khalil Gibran Muhammad, a leading scholar on racial justice in America, will share his perspective on ‘Race, Inequality, and the American Democracy.’ The United States’ global dominance has long been the envy of the world. But the role of race to native born and newcomer alike has been treated often as aberrational, an unfortunate artifact of the nation’s past. Muhammad is a professor of history, race and public policy at Harvard University’s Kennedy School and the Suzanne Young Murray Professor at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Studies. His research focuses on the racial politics of the criminal justice system, from laws to policing and punishment. His award-winning book, ‘The Condemnation of Blackness: Race, Crime, and the Making of Modern Urban America,’ chronicles the formation of black criminality in contrast to working-class whites and European immigrants.” https://www.cmu.edu/uls/
“Walden Warming: Climate Change Comes to Thoreau’s Concord”, Monday, February 11, 12PM-1PM, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Interested in learning about scientific discoveries directly from scientists? Carnegie Museum of Natural History scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on a wide variety of scientific topics at the free R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar Series. Seminars are free and no registration is required. Each seminar begins at noon in Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s Earth Theater and lasts about an hour. Visitors attending solely for the seminar are asked to check in at the front desk. Richard Primack, a Professor of Biology at Boston University, will present ‘Walden Warming: Climate Change Comes to Thoreau’s Concord’. Henry David Thoreau was a climate change scientist! For the past 15 years, Professor Richard Primack (Boston U.) and his team have been using Thoreau’s records from the 1850s and other Massachusetts data sources to document the earlier flowering and leafing out times of plants and the more variable response of migratory birds. Most noteworthy, plants in Concord are also changing in abundance due to a warming climate. This work has received extensive media coverage and is now being extended to the neglected autumn season. What would Thoreau tell us to do about global warming if he were alive today? Richard Primack is a Professor of Biology with a specialization in plant ecology, conservation biology, tropical rain forest ecology, and climate change biology. He is the author of two widely used conservation biology textbooks; local co-authors have helped to produce 36 translations of these books with local examples. For nine years, he was the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Biological Conservation, and served as the President of the Association for Tropical Biology and Conservation. Primack is the author and editor of books about tropical rainforests and has written a popular book about his Concord research: Walden Warming: Climate Change Comes to Thoreau’s Woods.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/things-to-do/rw-moriarty-science-seminars/
“Darwin Day 2019”, Monday, February 11, 7PM-8:30PM, Duquesne University, Charles J. Dougherty Ballroom, Duquesne Power Center, 600 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. “From Darwin to DNA: Digging for genes that contribute to behavior. Presented by: Dr. Hopi Hoekstra - Harvard University. Free and open to the public with a reception to follow. Co-sponsored by the Dean's Office of the Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, the National Aviary, and the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania.” https://www.duq.edu/events/darwin-day-2019
“Feeding the Future”, Monday, February 11, 4:30PM, Carnegie Mellon University, Porter Hall Room 100, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Presented by Evan Fraser, Professor of Geography, University of Guelph. “Creating food systems capable of sustainably, equitably, and nutritiously feeding 9 billion people while dealing with climate change is one of the 21st century’s 'Grand Challenges'. Meeting this challenge is about more than just producing enough-we already produce enough for everyone, but more than a billion are overweight while almost a billion under nourished. To help feed the future we must not only produce the right kinds of food, but must also innovate on food processing and ingredients, make diets more nutritious, cut back on waste/emissions, reduce the amount of water and chemicals we use, and ensure that small scale farmers around the world have access to markets. To explore these issues, this talk will first present the factors that are driving changes in our food systems. Second, this talk will explore where some of these trends are heading.” https://www.cmu.edu/cas/events/2018-19/spring/feeding-the-future.html
“Jazz in the Hill for Teens”, Tuesday, February 12, 3PM-5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hill District. “To celebrate Black History Month, teens will learn how the Great Migration further developed jazz music. We will listen to jazz, learn about jazz musicians from the Hill District, and create our own jazz inspired tunes.”
“The Five Essential Friendships That Enrich Our Lives”, Tuesday, February 12, 7PM-8:30PM, Monroeville Library. “Good friends renew, restore and revitalize the spirit. The support of friends enables us to move through our lives with confidence. Friends were there for Christine Mabon, giving her the confidence to create a new and fulfilling life when she needed it. Now she wants to share the valuable lessons she learned. Christine details the lessons she learned about friendship in the manuscript for her forthcoming book, Comfort Food: Amazing Friends and the Stories That Happen Around Food. In addition, she publishes a monthly e-newsletter called The Five Essential Friendships, which is all about the different kinds of friends we make and the roles they serve in our lives. Her first book 101 Ways to Nurture Yourself was published in 2016.”
“Meet, Play, Learn: Dungeons and Dragons”, Wednesday, February 13, 5PM- 8PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Come play Dungeons and Dragons at the library! Bring a character and some dice or just your imagination. All experience levels are welcome. Please register beforehand by emailing Wren at mcgalliardw@carnegielibrary.org. Indicate your experience as a player, so that we can assign you to an appropriate table. If you are interested in learning how to be a Dungeon Master, let us know and we can help you run a game at this event.”
“The Wonder of Whistle-pigs”, Wednesday, February 13, 1PM-2PM, Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Pl, Building A, Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/the_wonder_of_whistle-pigs_5064 “Why do we celebrate Groundhog Day, and why is it in the middle of winter? Learn the answers to these and other questions while we take a walk around the park. Please be sure to dress for the weather, as we will be outside the entire time. This program is free, but space is limited so pre-registration is required. Please register by clicking the green register button. Meeting location will be emailed to you after you register. This program may be cancelled due to inclement weather (such as an ice storm).”
Screening, “Whose Streets?”, Wednesday, February 13, 6:30PM-9PM, Chatham University, Eddy Theater, 1 Woodland Rd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.chatham.edu/events/details.cfm?eventID=22389 “Whose Streets? examines how the Black Lives Matter movement grew in the wake of the riots in Ferguson, Missouri. In the aftermath of the police shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown, activists poured into the streets to demand justice and shake America into awareness about the exhausting, violent reality of racism. You will leave the theater filled with a renewed hunger for justice. This event is free and open to the public. The film will be followed by a panel discussion and Q / A session.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upiJnjJSerw
“Teen Anime Club”, Wednesday, February 13, and Wednesday, February 27, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Monroeville Library. “Are you a fan of anime? Manga? Looking for someone to share your favorite animes and mangas with? Look no further than MPL's anime and manga club! Join us as we watch the first season of My Hero Academia. We'll always have snacks! Free! No registration required. Open to grades 7 -11!”
“B- The Underwater Bubble Show”, Wednesday, February 13, 7PM, Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. “Inspired by childhood standards like Alice in Wonderland, The Little Mermaid and Peter Pan, 'B-The Underwater Bubble Show' is a modern fairy tale with one major twist. ‘Each classic tale represents a journey of a kid who grows up and learns something,’ explains co-creator and director Enrico Pezzoli. ‘We wanted a story about an adult character who discovers that he can still go back and enjoy life. We don’t always need to grow up. Sometimes we need to step backwards for a bit and restart.’ The show follows Mr. B, a creature of modern habits who ‘always feels pressed by a thousand things to do in a world that seems to be moving too fast.’ The office worker discovers a little aquarium that appears like magic inside his briefcase and gradually becomes enchanted by the wondrous underwater world of Bubblelandia, which is full of seahorses, dragon fish, starfish, mermaids and other creatures. ‘Mr. B represents each of us,” Pezzoli notes. ‘His transformation is a journey which each of us could take ‘only if’…everyone dreams about the possibilities of taking a break to sit, relax and simply daydream.’ Inspired by the famous Canadian troupe Cirque du Soleil, the show is rich in various stage effects using the latest laser technologies, snow cannons, soap bubble tornadoes, theatrical fog, gigantic smoke rings, smoke-filled soap bubble machines, optical illusions and many other surprises.” https://www.thepalacetheatre.org/concerts-events/underwater-bubble/
“February Meeting of the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh and the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh”, Wednesday, February 13, with science lectures at 5:30PM and 8PM, Duquesne University, Duquesne Union Building. Campus map here: https://www.duq.edu/about/campus/map-and-directions There is a dinner in between the lectures, and if you want to attend you will need to reserve a meal and pay in advance. But if you just want to attend either lecture, they are free and open to the public. At 5:30PM, Dr. Kerri Pratt, University of Michigan presents “Novel Applications of Mass Spectrometry to Atmospheric Chemistry”. At 8PM, Dr. David A. Hounshell, David Roderick Professor, Emeritus, of Technology and Social Change, Carnegie Mellon University presents “Pittsburgh’s Industrial History Through the Lenses of Geography, Materials and Knowledge Production”. Details here: http://www.ssp-pgh.org/ssp-monthly-meeting/
“Interfaith Panel: Thou Shalt — Sources of Religious Authority”, Wednesday, February 13, 7M-8:30PM, Monroeville Library. “At this Interfaith Panel discussion, members of the Monroeville Interfaith Ministerium (MIM) will discuss sources of religious authority within their respective faith traditions. Panelists will include representatives of the Buddhist, Catholic, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, Protestant, Sikh, and Unitarian Universalist faith communities.”
“America and World War I”, Wednesday, February 13, 7PM-8:45PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. “Speaker Todd Depastino. For two-and-a-half years, Americans looked on in horror as the European war killed unprecedented millions. Then, the US joined the fight, and the first American to die in the war would be the 1st Division’s Private Thomas Enright of Pittsburgh, PA. By early 1918, American fighting tipped the balance, broke the stalemate, and the Great War—the War to End All Wars—finally shuddered to a close. What followed was a peace so disastrous that it virtually guaranteed a resumption of war. This 'Peace to End All Peace' was known as the Versailles Treaty, which Woodrow Wilson negotiated in 1919. The end result was an impoverished, humiliated, but not entirely broken German, a Soviet Russia, and a newly isolationist United States. The stage was set for another World War far more catastrophic than the first. Come hear how the 20th century was born from this end of World War I.”
“Teen Gender and Sexuality Alliance”, Thursday, February 14 and Thursday, February 28, 5PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “The Teen Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) is a place where you can be yourself! We’re a group of LGBTQIA teens and allies who are having fun, being supportive, learning about local resources, and striving to make our community stronger.”
Concert, “Yoko Suzuki: A Love Supreme”, Thursday, February 14, 7PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh, “Join us for an evening of jazz with Yoko Suzuki. Yoko and company will play from Coltrane’s A Love Supreme for this special Valentine’s Day concert!” https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/yoko-suzuki-a-love-supreme/
“African Americans in WWI”, Thursday, February 14, 12PM-8PM, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum, 4141 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. Free with museum admission, $10 adults, $5 seniors, students and children. “Artifacts associated with African American soldiers who served in World War I are rare and not often found in museum collections. In honor of African American History Month, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum will be reaching into its archive to gather pieces that illustrate the important role that Black soldiers played during the war. Visit Soldiers and Sailors to see these cultural and historical pieces on exhibit.” https://soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/spotlight-on-african-americans-in-world-war-1/
The Duquesne Red Masquers Present "Six Characters in Search of an Author”, Thursday, February 14 through Sunday, February 24, Duquesne University, Genesius Theater, 600 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. $5. “Six Characters in Search of an Author' by Luigi Pirandello, and directed by Ashley C. Brown explores an acting company preparing to rehearse the play Mixing It Up. As the rehearsal is about to begin, they are unexpectedly interrupted by the arrival of six strange people. The director of the play, furious at the interruption, demands an explanation. The Father explains that they are unfinished characters in search of an author to finish their story. The director initially believes them to be mad, but as they begin to argue among themselves and reveal details of their story, he can't stop himself from wanting to explore more.” http://www.duqredmasquers.com/current-production
“Snow White the Ballet”, Friday, February 15 through Sunday, February 17, Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, 1 Lincoln Park, Midland. “2017 Lincoln Park alumnus Zachary Mendola returns with the world premiere of his original ballet, Snow White. Featuring a live 20 piece orchestra, this timeless fairy tale will enchant audiences of all ages. Follow along as an evil witch, a poison apple, and the seven dwarfs tell the story of the fairest in the land.” http://www.lincolnparkarts.org/event/32a282052c482ffe520722f0fd34e80f
Screenings, “Mega Time Squad”, Friday, February 15 through Thursday, February 28, Harris Theater, 809 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Showtimes here: http://cinema.pfpca.org/films/mega-time-squad “A low-level criminal steals an ancient Chinese time-travel device, but he may not survive the demonic consequences of tampering with time. MEGA TIME SQUAD is a wildly entertaining time travel/sci-fi comedy out of New Zealand. A fan favorite on the festival circuit, the film stars Jonny Brugh (What We Do In The Shadows) and was praised by Variety as ‘fast-paced, determinedly silly, with sharp slangy dialogue’, the film blasted out of the gate at this year's Fantasia and is destined to become a cult favorite.” https://www.megatimesquad.com
“Laser Cutting 101”, Friday, February 15, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to use the 40W laser at Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center to safely cut and etch your own designs! This introductory class is required in order to use the laser cutter during any Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.”
“Beats, Bops and the Blues Music Series”, Saturday, February 16, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “Join your friends and neighbors for this after-hours, all-ages, musical get-together at the Library. Enjoy food, fun, and an opportunity to talk with the artists. Each session will focus primarily on music, but the musicians also will discuss the genre they are performing--from history to the artists most known for the brand of music. February 16: New Orleans R and B: Doctors, Professors, and Maharajahs with Tom Roberts, which will focus on New Orleans R and B pianists, including Doctor John, Professor Longhair, James Booker, and Harry Connick. A leading exponent of early jazz piano, Tom Roberts has played everywhere from New York’s Carnegie Hall and the Tonight Show to the major jazz clubs in the French Quarter.”
“The Trials and Triumphs of African American Armed Forces During and After WWI”, Saturday, February 16, 1PM-3PM, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum, 4141 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. Free.” In this talk Robert Hill focuses on the experiences these men and women faced, how they persevered, and the impact their actions had on and off the field. Particular attention is given to the 351st Field Artillery Regiment—which comprised mostly Pittsburghers—and the productive lives some members built after the war.” More details here: https://soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/the-trials-triumphs-of-african-american-armed-forces-during-after-wwi/
“Snowman in the Forest Day”, Saturday, February 16, 11AM-2PM, Cook Forest State Park, Cooksburg. Free. “Come join us for a day of fun wintry activities along the picturesque National Wild and Scenic Clarion River within Cook Forest State Park. Various activities will be held at the new River Shelter by the playground on River Road approximately 1-mile up-river from the Park Office: 1130am - Chili Cook-Off (hot and mild divisions); 1130am-230pm - carriage rides, sledding, snowman building, ice skating (ice skates available); 1200-100pm - Snowshoe interpretive hike within the old growth forest along Cook Trail, meet at the new River Shelter; 100pm - Happy Dog Contest; 200pm - door prize awards. Come sample the chili during the ‘Free Chili Cook-Off’, that is, after the judges have tried some first. Hot chocolate and coffee will be on hand to help take the chill out of your bones. Enjoy a wonderful day among family and friends in Cooksburg’s winter wonderland. Event sponsored by the Cook Forest Vacation Bureau.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/snowman_in_the_forest_day_4436
"Great Backyard Bird Count Walk", Saturday, February 16, 10AM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, Buffalo Creek Nature Center, and Succop Nature Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “Join the ASWP naturalists for our annual Great Backyard Bird Count walk on Audubon’s trails.” http://aswp.org/events
“Destination Moon Closing Weekend”, Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. "Saturday Schedule: At 11 a.m., enjoy a special public performance of 'Beyond the Moon' by Pittsburgh CLO’s Gallery of Heroes. Geared toward kids and families, this mini-musical celebrates the 50th anniversary of Neil Armstrong’s Moonwalk and tells the story of a 16-year-old student with 'astronaut-ical' dreams of being the first person to set foot on Mars. Performance is included with museum admission. Saturday At 2 p.m., explore how a Pittsburgh company is innovating the future of space travel with Astrobotic CEO John Thornton. In this special lecture, Thornton will discuss what the company is doing to help NASA return to the lunar surface, what the future of space flight looks like, and some current projects the award-winning Astrobotic team is working on, including some prototype spacecraft on display in the Destination Moon exhibit. Presentation is included with museum admission. Sunday Schedule: At 2 p.m., National Air and Space Museum curator Dr. Jennifer Levasseur will present a special lecture on space photography. The Apollo astronauts made history not only with their travels to and from the Moon, but with the incredible photographs they took along the way. Dr. Levasseur will discuss Apollo photography and its incredible connections to Pittsburgh… there are more than you might think!” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events
“Carnegie Mellon Contemporary Ensemble”, Saturday, February 16, 7:30PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “The Carnegie Mellon Contemporary Ensemble, under the direction of Daniel Nesta Curtis, will present “now it’s time,” a program that features the music of six trailblazing female composers. Two of the featured composers, Binna Kim and Annika Socolofsky, are recent graduates of CMU’s composition program and have written new works for the contemporary ensemble for the occasion. The program will also include the premieres of two works by CMU faculty composers Nancy Galbraith and Marilyn Taft Thomas, each of whom wrote works that feature female alumni soloists. Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Julia Wolfe’s music will complete this program, which traces the struggles and triumphs of outstanding female artists at various points in their careers.” https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/carnegie-mellon-contemporary-ensemble/
“C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters”, Saturday, February 16, 4PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “Set in an eerily stylish office in Hell, one of Satan’s senior tempters, Screwtape, schemes meticulously to capture the soul of an unsuspecting human on earth. An international smash hit, this stage adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters satiric masterpiece creates a morally inverted universe that reveals unseen spiritual powers and principalities in humorous, vivid and surprising ways.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/61682/cs-lewis-the-screwtape-letters
Concert, “Kamraton”, Sunday, February 17, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, North Wing Music Room, 2nd Floor. “Kamraton, an all-women collective made up of a dynamic group of musicians, exists to challenge the boundaries of music performance, expand the contemporary chamber music repertoire, and celebrate the role of women as leaders in the arts.” https://www.kamraton.org/
“Hike with a Naturalist: Owl Prowl”, Sunday, February 17, 6PM-8PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://embed.showclix.com/event/owl2019 “Winter nights full of snow can be some of the most silent, peaceful, and beautiful moments outdoors, but as we enter the last part of winter, that silence is often broken by the hooting of secretive forest dwellers. Owls are supremely adapted for survival, but these skills take time to learn, requiring them to be the early-birds to nesting season. Join Naturalist Educator Stephen Bucklin on a dusk-to-dark hike through Frick Park in search of owls while learning more about these charismatic animals who call Pittsburgh home.”
“Paper Quilled Shamrock Cards”, Sunday, February 17, 2PM-3PM, South Park Township Library. Preregistration required; call 412-833-5585. “What is paper quilling and why would you want to learn this craft? Paper quilling is the art of cutting paper into long thin strips, rolling and pinching the pieces into different shapes and then gluing the shapes together to form decorative art. The decorative pieces can be simple or complex, but one thing is for sure, paper quilling can be mastered in an hour or two. Quilling is the perfect project for beginners! It is easy for a novice paper crafter to get good results, and another plus is the fact that this craft costs almost next to nothing to make. Space is limited, registration required.”
“Masters of Illusion: Believe the Impossible”, Sunday, February 17, 3PM, Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. “Masters of Illusion–Believe the Impossible includes grand illusions, levitating women, escapologists, comedy magic, sleight of hand, and beautiful dancers. And it’s all LIVE! No camera tricks, no computer graphics—just amazing illusions in real time in front of a live audience. Everything you could possibly imagine and performances that you never dreamed possible—all rolled up into a live show!”
Author Talk, “Gary Smith”, Sunday, February 17, 2PM, Barnes and Noble, 800 Settlers Ridge Center Dr., Pittsburgh. “Gary Smith, author of A History of Christianity in Pittsburgh will be in store from 2PM-4PM. Gary Smith, an ordained minister, has taught at Grove City College for 39 years and is the author of 13 books. His current book describes the exciting story of Christians in Pittsburgh. Their quest, as Episcopal rector Samuel Shoemaker put it, ‘to make Pittsburgh as famous for God as for steel’."
Screening, “We Knew What We Had: The Greatest Jazz Story Never Told”, Sunday, February 17, 2PM-4PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. “Join the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild for a screening of their documentary We Knew What We Had: The Greatest Jazz Story Never Told, followed by a Q/A session and recordings of MCG Jazz. ‘We Knew What We Had: The Greatest Jazz Story Never Told’ chronicles the unrecognized history of jazz in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The hour-long documentary features the talents of international jazz legends George Benson, Ahmad Jamal, Stanley Turrentine, Billy Eckstine, Kenny Clarke, Art Blakey, Billy Strayhorn and Mary Lou Williams-all Pittsburghers. Using archival footage and photos, it also sheds light on the social conditions and historical events that conspired to make Pittsburgh one of the world’s leading contributors to the legacy of jazz music.”
“What’s Cooking? For Teens”, Monday, February 18, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny. “Learn to feed yourself and your friends! Chop, dice and mince your way to culinary mastery — then eat what you cook. For teens in grades 6-12.” (Confirm time with the library.)
“Full Moon Hike”, Tuesday, February 19, 7PM-8PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “This is a teenage and adult event. Join a naturalist for a free evening hike through Frick Park during the full moon! This hike takes place regardless of weather. Weather-appropriate clothes and footwear with good tread are encouraged. Hike will meet at the Frick Environmental Center. We'll be relying on moonlight for this hike, so please leave your flashlights at home.”
“Celebration of Ornette Coleman”, Tuesday, February 19, 7PM and Wednesday, February 20, 6:30PM, Alphabet City, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh, and Saturday, February 23, 5PM, Carnegie Museum of Art Theater, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “A three-evening celebration of the life and work of jazz legend Ornette Coleman.” Details and preregistration here: https://www.alphabetcity.org/events/
“Art Lecture: Thaddeus Mosley with Naomi Chambers”, Tuesday, February 19, 6:30PM, Carnegie Mellon University, McConomy Auditorium, Cohon University Center, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. “Thaddeus Mosley’s towering, hand-carved, wood sculptures often seem to defy gravity with sensual, cantilevered shapes. A fixture of Pittsburgh’s artistic and cultural life for more than 50 years, he has had solo exhibitions at the Carnegie Museum of Art and the Mattress Factory. His public works can be found around the city including at the Pittsburgh International Airport and outside the Martin Luther King Jr. Library in the Hill District. Mosley will be in conversation with Pittsburgh artist Naomi Chambers, who is the co-creator of FlowerHouse, a community art studio and creative space in Wilkinsburg.” http://www.art.cmu.edu/event/thaddeus-mosley-with-naomi-chambers/
“Glacial and Holocene Lacustrine Records of Paleoenvironmental Change”, Wednesday, February 20, 8PM, Cefalo’s Banquet and Event Center, 428 Washington Ave., Carnegie. Meeting of the Pittsburgh Geological Society. There is a dinner before the meeting, and you can reserve spots and pay for your meal in advance, or you can just attend the lecture. Presenter is Dr. Matt Finkenbinder, Professor of Geology at Wilkes University. https://pittsburghgeologicalsociety.org/index.html
“Tubman”, Wednesday, February 20 and Thursday, February 21, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “August Wilson Cultural Center in partnership with HI-ARTS presents TUBMAN. This one woman show presents the story of Harriet Tubman reimagined as a young woman growing up in Harlem through a theatrical lens. Harriet Tubman is a heroine and American legend in her own right. This session will take the story of Harriet in the 19th century and places her in the 21st century; laced with the problems facing African-American youth all over the country. And especially focusing on the mistreatment of black girls in schools. What would happen if a young woman like Harriet became a leader in this new world? Would her struggle be the same? Would she know her power? This play examines the centuries old fight with race, gender, and equality through a theatrical lens centered around the most influential female leaders in American history.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/61671/tubman
“Nature at Night”, Wednesday, February 20, 7PM, Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector. Free. “In January, we hiked Sugar Camp Trail in the snow, observing animal tracks and listening to coyotes barking as they moved through the woods. If you missed this nighttime hike, or just want to do it again, you are in luck! With a full moon the night before, the forest should be set for a beautiful evening. Bring your flashlight or headlamp, jacket, boots, and gloves, and come hit the trail at night.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/powdermill-nature-reserve/
“Roberto Clemente Museum Presents the Life of Roberto Clemente”, Wednesday, February 20, 6PM-7PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Lawrenceville. “Celebrate Black History Month! A docent from Lawrenceville’s Roberto Clemente Museum will be presenting on the life of the legendary and boundary breaking baseball play.”
“It’s In The Bag”, Wednesday, February 20 through Saturday, February 23, Carnegie Mellon University, Helen Wayne Rauh Studio Theater, 5000 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. “In 1940, a famous comedienne by the name of Gracie led one of the greatest radio pranks of all time: a ‘run’ for president of the United States. It’s in the Bag puts together highlights of Gracie’s prank with the lowlights from the dozens of real campaigns women have run for U.S. President. Old time radio soundstage magic, classic and contemporary misogyny, and a whole lot of campaign pins prick through decades of U.S. political noise to ask: how long will a woman running for president still be just a joke?” https://drama.cmu.edu/box-office/in-the-bag/
“Eager to Serve: Young George Washington, the Venango Path and Logstown” , Wednesday, February 20, 7PM-8PM, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd., Allison Park. $6. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/upcoming.lecture.shtml “Learn about George Washington's early historic trips to Western Pennsylvania, the importance of the Venango Path, and the politically significant Logstown Indian village on the Ohio River. Presented by the Depreciation Lands Museum historian, Jonathan Klemens, illustrated with historic paintings, maps, and photos. Lectures are held in the Museum Tavern and are appropriate for adults and teens.”
Screening, “Negroes with Guns: Rob Williams and Black Power”, Wednesday, February 20, 5:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Homewood. “Join us for a screening of “Negroes with Guns: Rob Williams and Black Power” at the Carnegie Library – Homewood Branch on Feb. 20, as part of the 2019 From Slavery to Freedom Film Series presented by the African American Program of the Heinz History Center. The forefather of the Black Power movement and broke dramatic new ground by internationalizing the African American struggle. ‘Negroes with Guns’ is not only an electrifying look at an historically erased leader, but also provides a thought-provoking examination of Black radicalism and resistance and serves as a launching pad for the study of Black liberation philosophies. Insightful interviews with historian Clayborne Carson, biographer Timothy Tyson, Julian Bond, and a first-person account by Mabel Williams, Robert’s wife, bring the story to life.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/film-series-negroes-with-guns
“The Phantom of the Opera”, Wednesday, February 20 through Sunday, March 3, Benedum Center, 7th St. at Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA will make a triumphant return to Pittsburgh as part of its North American Tour. Critics are raving that this breathtaking production is “bigger and better than ever before” and features a brilliant new scenic design by Paul Brown, Tony Award®-winning original costume design by Maria Björnson, lighting design by Tony Award®-winner Paule Constable, new choreography by Scott Ambler, and new staging by director Laurence Connor. The production, overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh, boasts many exciting special effects including the show’s legendary chandelier. The beloved story and thrilling score - with songs like ‘Music of the Night,’ ‘All I Ask Of You,’ and ‘Masquerade’ - will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making this PHANTOM one of the largest productions now on tour.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/59414/the-phantom-of-the-opera
“Soldiers and Sailors Museum Presentation”, Thursday, February 21, 11AM-12:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “Join us as Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum bring artifacts and photos from different American Conflicts through history. Learn about a soldier’s life in the war including the equipment they carried and their experiences.”
“Marketing The Presidency”, Thursday, February 21, 1PM, Mars Area Library. Registration required. Visit or call the library: 724-625-9048. “Most people think the term ‘marketing’ is a relatively modern one, but in terms of presidential candidates--from George Washington to today--candidates have been marketing themselves, their ideas, or marketing against their opponent, from the beginning. This presentation focuses on the array of ‘odd’ artifacts that candidates have produced to get the candidate’s name and ideas in front of the electorate. Thus, some of the items in the presentation include a James Monroe snuff box promoting the Monroe Doctrine, a Teddy Roosevelt cast iron door stop, an Eisenhower bar of soap with Ike’s image on it and the words ‘Clean Up With Ike,’ and a Richard Nixon shower head where the water comes squirting out of his mouth, just to name a few. Presenter Steve Mihaly focuses on the whimsical, while explaining why candidates would produce such oddities and what is the historical significance behind them.”
“What’s Cooking?”, Friday, February 22, 12PM-2PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hazelwood. “Join dietitian Rikki Rabbin and her team to learn culinary skills and nutrition facts. Your kitchen game will be strong after learning techniques like knife skills and sauteing. You’ll set yourself up for healthy growth and strong bones, hair, and nails. And of course, we eat everything we prepare!”
“CNC Embroidery 101”, Friday, February 22, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Design and create your own embroidery using a computer! After this introductory workshop you will have the foundation to design and embroider your own pillows, towels, and much more using our computer-controlled sewing and embroidery machine.”
“A Night at the Oscars: Hollywood Epics”, Friday, February 22 through Sunday, February 24, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Lights – Camera – POPS! Jack Everly returns to lead the magnificent music of the silver screen. The stirring themes from more than a dozen award-winning epics. Perfect for Oscar season!” https://www.trustarts.org/production/55861/a-night-at-the-oscars-hollywood-epics
“Black Bottom Film Festival 2019”, Friday, February 22 through Sunday, February 24, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “From age-old classics to contemporary work, the second annual Black Bottom Film Festival will illuminate and celebrate African American cinema and unique Black people. The festival will showcase movies that focus on the recurring themes of spirituality, race, family conflict, honor, duty and working-class struggle, themes ever-present in August Wilson’s The Pittsburgh Cycle plays. In particular, the festival will celebrate African-American filmmaking pioneers of recent decades. The BBFF fosters an examination of how Black filmmakers use art to inspire, challenge, confront, and influence American culture.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/61754/black-bottom-film-festival-2019
“Anime Club”, Saturday, February 23, 3PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Hazelwood. “Get hyped about anime and manga! Hang out with your friends and find out what everyone has been watching and reading.”
“Free FrogWatch Training”, Saturday, February 23, 2PM-4:30PM, Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events “This is your chance to become a FrogWatch USA volunteer! FrogWatch USA is a nationwide citizen-scientist program where volunteers help monitor frog and toad populations by recording and reporting information on their calling activity. At this training, you will learn how to: identify the various calls of our local frog and toad species; identify a good wetland to monitor; and record and enter your data into the FrogWatch USATM online database. Once trained, FrogWatch USA volunteers will monitor a wetland of their choice for frog calling as often as they are willing, ideally twice a week during the frog breeding season (March-August). The data that is collected is made available to both the public and scientists and is used to track changes in species distributions.”
Pittsburgh Opera Resents, “Glory Denied”, February 23 and 26, and March 1 and 3, Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. “Based on a book by Tom Philpott, Glory Denied tells the true story of Colonel Jim Thompson, America’s longest-held prisoner of war. The opera deals not only with Thompson’s suffering in the jungle of southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, but also the tragic aftermath that followed his liberation. Colonel Thompson endured his brutal captivity by doggedly clinging to memories of his loving wife Alyce and their children. Alyce, however, believed Jim was dead. She and her children moved to Massachusetts with another man, leading to a painful reunion after Jim’s release. Glory Denied is, above all, the story of an American family during one our nation’s most turbulent eras. In its review of Mr. Philpott’s book, The New York Times stated: ‘Indeed it is not too much to say that Glory Denied and Colonel Thompson’s mixed feelings about it encapsulate something of the moral essence of the Vietnam War and the imperishable bitterness of its legacy.’ Glory Denied will star Pittsburgh Opera’s Resident Artists, and be performed in the intimate environs of Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters. Limited capacity- order now!” https://www.pittsburghopera.org/show/glory-denied
“Washington/ Cherry Pie Hike Day”, Saturday, February 23, 8:30AM-2PM, Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Rd., Slippery Rock. Register for individual hikes and nature walks here: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/jennings_environmental_education_center/calendar “This event combines the annual ‘Cherry Pie Hike’ and ‘Washington's Trail Hike.’ It commemorates George Washington's birthday and the Virginia Colony mission demanding French withdrawal from British territory that precipitated the French and Indian/Seven Years War. The 30-minute history hike explains Washington’s 1753 mission and lets visitors witness the musket shot that almost killed Washington at age 21. There will also be historical displays, and reenactors with clothing and equipment of the time period. The day-long event will begin at 8:30 AM and end at 2:00 PM. It will also feature 75-minute winter nature walks led by Jennings’ staff, and a 7-mile hike along a section of the North Country Trail where Washington may have traveled. Participants can choose one or more favorite hike option and enjoy a taste of cherry pie, courtesy of North Country Brewing Company. The event is free and open to the public, although a $3 per person donation will be encouraged for participation in the guided hikes/walks. Reservations are required for hikes and nature walks by February 21. Carpooling is encouraged, because parking may be limited.”
“Author Discussion and Signing with YA Author Edward Torba”, Saturday, February 23, 1:30PM, Riverstone Books, 8850 Covenant Ave., Pittsburgh. “Join us for a wonderful tale of adventure and dentistry. Edward Torba will sign and discuss his newest book Matt Monroe and the Secret Society of Odontology.” https://www.riverstonebookstore.com/event/author-signing-edward-torba/ https://edwardtorba.com/product/matt-monroe-and-the-secret-society-of-odontology
“Guided Cross County Skiing”, Saturday, February 23, 10AM-12:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Ohiopyle. Preregistration required; contact Barbara Wallace at 724-329-0986 or bawallace@pa.gov.” This is your opportunity to try cross country skiing with a guide. We will meet at the Visitor's Center to gear up. Then we will pick a trail based on skill and snow levels.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/guided_cross_country_skiing
“History Hike”, Saturday, February 23, 2:30PM-3:30PM, Canoe Creek State Park, Wentz Education Center, 205 Canoe Creek Rd., Holidaysburg. “What a beautiful time to get out and visit our beautiful limestone kilns for a glimpse into the history of this area. Learn about the railroad, immigrants and the connection to the steel industry.”
“Rise N’Shine Snowshoe”, Saturday, February 23, 7AM-9AM, Forbes State Forest, Laughlintown. Free. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Wake up, bundle up, and head to the forest for an early morning snowshoe.. This moderately-paced hike will take us to a scenic vista to enjoy the sun rise. After the hike, warm up with a cup of locally roasted coffee.” https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/rise_nshine_snowshoe
“Otter Watch”, Saturday, February 23, 7:30AM-11:30AM, Cook Forest State Park, 113 River Rd., Cooksburg. “Please bring your binoculars and spotting scopes to the Park Office for a driving tour to otter hotspots along the National Wild and Scenic Clarion River. This is the prime time of the year to witness otter activity. Chances are good to observe otter sign such as slides, tracks, and carp kills along the banks of the river. Hot chocolate and coffee will be available at the Park Office to warm us up.”
“Paul Taylor Dance Company”, Saturday, February 23, 8PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “The Paul Taylor Dance Company is one of the world’s most highly acclaimed and sought-after performing arts ensembles. Founded in 1954 by choreographer Paul Taylor, PTDC was led by Mr. Taylor until his death at 88 in 2018, after which dancer Michael Novak became Artistic Director. The evening's program will feature a collection of Mr. Taylor’s masterpieces from his astonishing seven-decade career, including Aureole (1962), Company B (1991), Promethean Fire (2002), and his oldest-surviving work, 3 Epitaphs (1956).” https://www.trustarts.org/production/59604/paul-taylor-dance-company
“Tribute to Mary Lou Williams”, Saturday, February 23, 8PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Pay what makes you happy: https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/mary-lou-williams/ “Pittsburgh is home to one of the richest music legacies in America, and percussionist extraordinaire Roger Humphries has assembled a four-part tribute to some of our most influential artists. For the second in the series, Humphries and his band RH Factor celebrate the legendary pianist, arranger and composer Mary Lou Williams. She has been called “perpetually contemporary” by none other than Duke Ellington, and recorded over 100 albums and composed and arranged for Ellington, Benny Goodman and Cab Calloway. This seasons concert series shares her most notable compositions, and takes audiences on a journey through our local musical history.”
“A Celebration of Seeds: 7th Annual Seed and Plant Swap”, Saturday, February 23, 11AM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Swap seeds, seedlings and perennials at the library. Bring your untreated, non-GMO seeds and plants to share or just pick up seeds donated by local gardeners, farmers and seed companies! Plenty of activities will take place during the day—including some hands-on fun in the Children’s Department perfect for children and their caregivers.”
“Hands On Workshop: Bath Bombs”, Saturday, February 23, 1:30PM-2:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny. “Join us for a fun and creative make and take workshop. Materials provided.”
“Origami Paper Crafts Workshop”, Saturday, February 23, 1PM-2PM, Dormont Library Pittsburgh. “By popular demand, our Origami Paper Crafts workshops will be continuing! Sessions are held on the fourth Saturday of each month from 1-2 PM. This program is open to adults, teens, and children 3rd grade and up. You can see some photos of our previous workshops on Facebook. Registration is requested for this program. To register or for more information, please call 412-531-8754 or ask at the front desk.”
Concert, “Jemiriye”, Sunday, February 24, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Quiet Reading Room. “Charismatic, elegant, stylish, beautiful and blessed with a powerful sonorous voice, Jemiriye is a force to be reckoned with in her generation. She uses her songs to campaign for the liberation of the African woman, for children’s education, peace in Africa and for an end to child marriage. Jemiriye plays the traditional Yoruba talking drum. She is a recipient of several awards, including the Award of Excellence from Canada in November 2018.” https://jemiriye.com/
“East European Festival”, Sunday, February 24, 12PM-4PM, Cathedral of Learning Commons Room, 5th Ave at Bigelow Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join the Center for Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies for the annual East European Festival on Sunday, February 24, from noon until 4:00pm in the Cathedral of Learning. Enjoy regional cuisine, a Russian tea ceremony, and other entertainment. We’ll also have a table with activities for the kids. Thank you to our co-sponsors, including the Yugoslav Nationality Room, the Graduate Organization for the Study of Europe and Central Asia, and our many student organizations.” https://calendar.pitt.edu/event/east_european_festival
“3D Wet Felt Flower”, Wednesday, February 27, 1PM and 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. $5. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Fiber Artist Judé Ernest will help you learn to Wet Felt roving wool and other materials into a beautiful 3D Flower. Participant please bring a towel. $5 donation suggested. Registration required.”
“Crash Course: Ancient to Now”, series of 5 classes, each with three sessions, with the first beginning Wednesday, February 27 and the last one ending Wednesday, June 12, Carnegie Museum of Art, 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh. You can register for one 3-session class for $75 adults, $55 members, or $45 students, or register for the whole series for $255 adults, $210 members or $105 students. You have a choice of morning 10:15AM-12:15PM or evening 6PM-8PM classes. Details and registration: https://cmoa.org/calendar/ “Only offered on occasion, this extensive series of classes focuses on the breadth and depth of CMOA’s world-renowned collection while covering hundreds of years of human creativity. The art and architecture of each historical period responded to and inspired new cultural contributions from people around the world. Gain deeper insight into these periods of art history as knowledgeable and engaging scholars guide you through the famous, the infamous, and all the artists in between.”
“Science Fiction Book Discussion Group”, Wednesday, February 27, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room B. “The science fiction book discussion group focuses on classic, ‘hard,’ and/or award winning science fiction books.” Novel: “In the Ocean of Night” by Gregory Benford; Short Fiction: “Red in Tooth and Cog” by Cat Rambo; “Southpaw” by Bruce McAllister.
“Otaku Lebo”, Thursday, February 28, 3PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. “Share your love for all things manga and anime! For ages 12-18.”
“Black History Month Lecture: Black Power and Black Politics of the 1960s-‘70s”, Thursday, February 28, 6PM-8PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/black-history-month-lecture-black-power-black-politics-leonard-moore “The African American Program of the Senator John Heinz History Center will hold its fifth annual Black History Month Lecture featuring Leonard Moore, Ph.D., who will speak on the topic of Black power and Black politics of the 1960s and ’70s.”
River City Brass Presents “Celtic Connections III”, Thursday, February 28 through Tuesday, March 12, various venues. “Our popular Celtic Connections is back for a third time! We honor the musical heritage of Ireland, Scotland, and Appalachia. Selections include: Amazing Grace, Highland Cathedral, Oh, Danny Boy, Take Me Home, Country Roads, Rocky Top, and The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” https://www.rivercitybrass.org/celtic-connections-iii/
************Road Trips************
Buffalo:
“Lumagination 2019”, now through February 23, Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, 2655 S. Park Ave., Buffalo. $14 adults, $12 seniors and students, $6 kids 3-12, free for ages 2 and under. “The Magic of Air - The interior of the Botanical Gardens will be illuminated to excite imaginations, stimulate the senses and entertain all ages! Air motivates ordinary things to move in amazing ways. There are so many magical surprises in store at this exhibit - colorful and creative lighting, dancing silks, bouncing paper cranes, hot air balloons and kites of all sizes, metallic mobiles, cyclones of fabric and so much more!” https://www.buffalogardens.com/products/lumagination-2019
“Ice Bikes Buffalo”, Rental hours Thursdays 4PM-7PM, Fridays 4PM-10PM, Saturdays 10AM-10PM, and Sundays 12PM-7PM, Canalside, 44 Prime St., Buffalo. $12 per half hour. "Buffalo's Canalside exclusive attraction, Ice Bikes of Buffalo combines the activity of riding a bike along with the ability to perform this feat while on the surface of the ice. Ice Bikes of Buffalo will give you a way to participate on the ice if you are not the best on ice skates. This stable unit allows you to pedal and steer your way around the rink in the same manner as you would if you were going for a traditional bike ride. Come down and experience the newest way to see Canalside, Ice Bikes of Buffalo.” https://www.waterbikesofbuffalo.com/ice-bikes/
Exhibit, “The Art of the Brick”, Saturday, February 9 through Sunday, May 5, Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, NY. “Named one of CNN’s Top Ten ‘Global Must-See Exhibitions,’ The Art of the Brick exhibit by artist Nathan Sawaya is a critically-acclaimed collection of inspiring artworks is made exclusively from one of the most recognizable toys in the world: the LEGO® brick. From child’s toy to sophisticated art form and beyond, the world’s most elaborate display of LEGO art ever features original pieces as well as re-imagined versions of the world’s most famous art masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa as well as a gallery showcasing an innovative, multimedia collection of LEGO brick infused photography produced in tandem with award-winning photographer Dean West.” https://www.sciencebuff.org/
“Mastodons (and Others) from the Hiscock Site”, Wednesday, February 13, 7PM, Gateway Building, 3556 Lake Shore Rd., Blasdell, NY. $4. Presented by Dr. Richard S. Laub. “Hiscock is a paleontological and archaeological site in northern Genesee County. It was excavated by the Buffalo Museum of Science from 1983 to 2011, revealing a rich record of changing faunas, floras, cultures and environments over the past 13,500 years. From the late Ice Age, through the period of the virgin forest, to the time of European settlement, we found confirmation of much that we had expected. However, there were also many surprises, such that what we thought we were getting into at the beginning had changed dramatically by the time we came out the other end. One point that was driven home is that, more often than not, the most important objects are the small ones, which can so easily be overlooked. An illustrated presentation in the auditorium of the Gateway Executive Office Building, 3556 Lake Shore Rd. Blasdell, NY.” https://penndixie.org/calendar/
“Winter Woods Battle”, Saturday, February 16, 10AM-4PM, Old Fort Niagara, 102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY. “Experience winter life in the 18th century at Old Fort Niagara's Winter Woods Battle. The event features a skirmish in the woods between British and French troops, snowshoeing (weather permitting), winter survival techniques, shelter building, winter games, fur trading, musket firings, demonstrations of fire starting with flint and steel and more.” Complete schedule here: https://www.oldfortniagara.org/event/100160/winter-woods-battle
Columbus:
Exhibit, “Edward S. Curtis: Beauty, Heart, and Spirit”, now through March 30, Shumacher Gallery, Capital University, Blackmore Library 4th Floor, Columbus, OH. Campus map here: https://www.capital.edu/maps-and-locations/ “This exhibition features an extraordinary selection of vintage photographs by Edward S. Curtis, which highlights both iconic and previously little-known images, many of which are printed in Curtis’ most compelling and rare processes. The prints are among the finest examples that exist and, in some cases, are the only known example of an image. Every style, subject matter, cultural/geographic area, and medium Curtis worked in will be included. The collection from which this exhibition is drawn comprises over 3,000 vintage Curtis photographs and related objects and is widely recognized as the world’s definitive Curtis Collection. This exhibition has been organized by Christopher Cardozo Fine Art, Minneapolis, in collaboration with The Schumacher Gallery. (Please note: The gallery is closed February 23 - March 3 for mid-term break.)” https://www.capital.edu/schumacher/
Erie:
“14th Annual Winterfest”, LEAF, 1501 W. 6th St., Erie. Free. “A great time and great exercise in the great outdoors! Indoor and outdoor activities for all! Wagon rides, ice sculptures, snow painting, nature crafts, ice fishing and ice carving demos, scavenger hunt, face painting, door prize, homemade sled contest.” https://www.leaferie.org/winterfest/
Maryland:
“Black History Month in Tubman Country”, throughout February, Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park, 4068 Golden Hill Rd., Church Creek, MD. Many special events and lectures: https://go.activecalendar.com/doit-md/location/FE1EAD8E-9AA8-4335-8CCA-1338DDCB3109/
Philadelphia:
Exhibit, “Vikings: Beyond the Legend”, now through March 3, 2019, Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia. “Viking treasures — 600 artifacts in all — travel from the National Museum of Denmark to North America for the first time. Who were the Vikings? How did they live? How did their belief, skills, and culture influence our modern world? Journey back to Scandinavia in the Viking Age! While Vikings engaged in invading and pillaging, their societies were complex and multifaceted. They were skilled craftspeople, successful merchants, and hard-working farmers whose influence was felt across western Europe and beyond. Vikings: Beyond the Legend brings people from the Viking period to life with a wealth of unique objects, multimedia productions and interactive elements revealing the captivating story of the explorers who set sail from Scandinavia centuries ago. What to Expect: 600 Artifacts; full-size 21-foot replica Viking Ship; activities about everyday life; authentic Viking games; Norse mythology.” https://www.fi.edu/exhibit/vikings-beyond-legend
“Orchid Extravaganza”, now through March 24, Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennet Square, PA. Timed admission tickets $23 adults, $20 seniors and students, $12 youth 5-18, free for ages 4 and under. They are expecting to sell out. “Experience the peaceful beauty of winter—inside and out. Embrace the warmth of a lush sanctuary filled with thousands of vibrant, artfully presented orchids. Lavish Cymbidium dramatically spill from basins, grand Phalaenopsis float overhead, and tiny orchid species make a big impact, among other show-stopping arrangements. Step outside into a world of stillness, solace, and subtlety. Take a quiet stroll through our outdoor gardens and reflect amid the solitude.” https://longwoodgardens.org/events-and-performances/events/orchid-extravaganza
“Lunar New Year”. There are lots of festivities in Philadelphia in honor of the New Year. Check here for a list: https://www.uwishunu.com/2019/01/guide-lunar-new-year-philadelphia-2019/
“African American Children’s Book Fair”, Saturday, February 2, 1PM-4PM, Community College of Philadelphia, 17th and Spring Garden Streets, Philadelphia. Free. “The African American Children's Book Fair is one of the oldest and largest single-day events for African-American children's books in the country, with an average yearly attendance of more than 3,500. The event features nationally known bestselling authors/illustrators, many of whom have won some of the most prestigious American Library Association awards including the Coretta Scott King Award. These authors/illustrators have produced some of the best books of our generation.” http://theafricanamericanchildrensbookproject.org
Exhibit, “Ancient Egypt: From Discovery to Display”, opening Saturday, February 23, Penn Museum, 3260 South St., Philadelphia. “Mummies and artifacts tell archaeologists about what life was like in ancient Egypt, but how do objects make their journey from excavation site to Museum display? Peel back the curtain and get a behind-the-scenes view of the Penn Museum’s famed Egyptian collection. This roughly 6,000-square-foot exhibition introduces visitors to the history of ancient Egypt—many from the Lower Egypt Gallery that is currently under renovation—and includes elements of open artifact storage as well as active object conservation, offering an inside look into where objects come from, how they are researched and cared for, and how they are prepared for display.” https://www.penn.museum/exhibitions/upcoming-exhibitions
Exhibition, “From Today, Painting is Dead: Early Photography in Britain and France”, Sunday, February 24 through May 12, Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia. “In its second photography exhibition, the Barnes presents nearly 250 iconic pictures created in Britain and France between the 1840s and the 1880s. Following the production of the first photographs in the 1830s, and before the advent of Kodak’s point-and-shoot camera in 1888, artists experimented with photography, creating innovative processes and uniquely compelling representational tropes. When the influential French painter Paul Delaroche saw a photograph for the first time, he proclaimed, ‘From today, painting is dead!’ This exhibition explores the very fertile period in the early history of photography, when the medium’s pioneers were grappling with the complex inheritance of official, state-sponsored visual culture.” https://www.barnesfoundation.org/whats-on/early-photography
Virginia:
“Night Howl”, Thursday, February 21, 5:30PM-7PM, Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoake, VA. $15 adults, $12 children. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.mmzoo.org/experiences/events/ “Bundle up and bring your friends to the zoo to hear the wolves howl, the owls hoot and the big cats call! Participants will begin the night indoors enjoying hot cider and cookies while learning about nocturnal animals and the noises they make. Guests will then proceed outdoors for a guided tour of the zoo in the dark to observe the creatures and enjoy spectacular views of the city at night.”
Washington DC:
Exhibit, “200 Years of German Toys”, now through March 28, German American Heritage Museum of the USA, 719 6th St NW, Washington DC. “For many centuries Germany has long been recognized as one of the world’s great toy producers, and the German-American Heritage Museum is honoring this cultural legacy with a special exhibit. From December 1, 2018 until March 28, 2019 the GAHM will be displaying German toys from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. This exhibit spans over 200 years of history of the German toy industry; it begins with the simplistic yet wildly popular wooden toys handcrafted in the regions of Thuringia and Erzgebirge, then explores how industrialism and two World Wars up-ended the German toy industry and influenced its exports to the United States. The exhibit also details different toy varieties and how and why those products were made, then ends with a focus on German toy producers who have continued to thrive despite heavy competition in the 21st century. Featuring artifacts such as porcelain dolls whose heads were produced in German factories, original Steiff teddy bears and stuffed animals, tin soldiers from renowned producers such as Heyde, a model train, and much more, there will be toys of every variety to delight all of our visitors. With cooperation and generosity from private collectors, private companies, and other museums, this exciting exhibit, curated entirely by GAHM employees, presents visitors with a backdrop of beautiful vintage toys while teaching them about the history of the German toy industry. As a unique aspect this exhibit will also have a play area open to children and adults alike, where visitors can experience German toys hands-on and play classic German board games such as Mensch ärgere dich nicht (similar to the American game Sorry) and newer ones such as Settlers of Catan.” https://gahmusa.org/how-german-toymakers-captured-the-hearts-of-americans-200-years-of-german-toys/
“Chinatown Lunar New Year Festival 2019: The Year of the Pig”, Sunday, February 10, 12:30PM-5PM, Chinatown Community Cultural Center, Gallery Place, 616 H St NW, Washington DC. Free. “The Chinatown Community Cultural Center will host a special program featuring live cultural performances, family-oriented events and educational activities at its facility in Gallery Place. You can stop in to enjoy the festivities before or after you enjoy the DC Chinese New Year Parade (2PM).” http://www.ccccdc.org/templates/content.asp?articleid=580&zoneid=12
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