ART

Valley Art Gallery presents their new juried show, “Bay Area Life,” opening May 12, with a free reception from 3 to 6 p.m. on May 12. Juror Emma Acker, associate curator of American Art, Fine Art Museums of San Francisco, will present the juror’s awards at that time. www.valleyartgallery.org

Lamorinda Arts Alliance presents Artist Talk: Joani Share and the Wood Carvings of Oaxaca, Mexico at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 2 at the Lafayette Christian Church, 584 Glenside Drive. Share will present a slide show and talk about the wonderful wooden creatures of Oaxaca called “Alebrijes.” Share will bring examples from her collection and share information about the arts in the villages surrounding the city of Oaxaca. Free. www.joanishare.com

“Creative Synergy” Artists Susan McKenna List, Camille Young and Dalia Alekna, who worked together for years in their Lafayette La Fiesta Square studio, reunite in this show of their original oils, watercolors, pastels and jewelry. The show runs through May at The Orinda Library Art Gallery, 26 Orinda Way, with an opening reception from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on May 6.

Lamorinda Arts Alliance Printmaking Exhibit “Under Pressure” May 2 through June 2 at Main Street Arts Gallery, 613 Main Street, Martinez. There will be a free opening reception from 2 to 5 p.m. on May 5. Light refreshments will be served. A talented group of printmakers will be displaying their etchings, linocuts, woodblock prints and multi-media prints.

MUSIC

SAGE (Students for the Advancement of Global Education) Club at Acalanes High School will be hosting its annual Benefit Concert from 7 to 9 p.m. on May 4 in the Performing Arts Center at Acalanes High School. The acts will feature students showcasing their talents in support of Trust in Education, an organization that promotes education, specifically women’s, in Afghanistan.

Saint Mary’s Jazz Band Concerts: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 3 and 5 p.m. Friday, May 4 at Claeys Lounge and Lafayette Room, 1928 Saint Mary’s Road. Treat yourself to a lively concert of up-tempo numbers, dance tunes, and instrumental jazz soloists under the direction of maestro John Maltester. $5 - General Admission, $2 - Students and Seniors. Tickets may be purchased at the door of the Soda Center. Free parking in the Soda Activity Center upper lot.

Musicians In Concert (MIC) is having its inaugural fundraising event from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday May 5 at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Lafayette. The benefit will generate funds for educational scholarships and grants to assist young musicians and underfunded Bay Area music programs. The live performance will open with a world-class jazz set followed by a 90-minute tribute to the late great Bay Area performer Mic Gillette. Tickets are $35 and are available at www.MusiciansInConcert.org.

Gold Coast Chamber Players concert, “French Connection” at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 19 in the Community Hall at the Lafayette Library. Tickets: $45 General, $40 Senior, $15 Student. Purchase online at www.gcplayers.org or by phone at (925) 283-3728.

The Diablo Women’s Chorale invites you to join them at their Spring Concert, “The Rhythm of Life,” at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 19 at Hillside Covenant Church, 2060 Magnolia Way in Walnut Creek. Join this musical celebration of the changing seasons of our heart, the poetry in both joy and sorrow, and the soaring melodies of our soul as we traverse this thing called life. On a journey through different musical genres and eras, from calypso to folk and Gershwin to Sting, the Diablo Women’s Chorale will move and inspire. Purchase advance tickets by calling 1-800-838-3006 or online at www.DiabloWomensChorale.org. Prices are $25 General Admission and $15 Student.

Cantare Con Vivo closes its 31st season with “A Jubilant Song,” featuring all performing choirs on stage, presenting a diverse selection of American music, including folk, classical, popular, show songs and spirituals. “A Jubilant Song” will begin at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 20 at the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Dr., Lafayette. Tickets: General $27.50; Senior $22; Student $10. Purchase Tickets by phone (510) 836-0789 or online: https://cantareconvivo.secure.force.com/ticket/#details_a0S0B000005BBJMUA4. www.cantareconvivo.org

Stanley Middle School presents Jazz Café from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, June 1 in the Stanley Multi-purpose room. This is a collaborative performance of Jazz student musicians from Stanley, Campolindo and Acalanes. Support the fundraising efforts of the Stanley Middle School Jazz Program and enjoy a memorable evening of music. General admission $10; elementary students $5; free for children under 6. Food, raffle drawings and silent auction (cash only). Tickets at stanleymusic.org or at the door (cash only).

THEATER/DANCE

DVC Drama presents a new musical “Godspell” running May 4 through 20 at 321 Golf Club Rd., Pleasant Hill. A small group of people help Jesus tell different parables by using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques, and a hefty dose of comic timing. An eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, is employed as the story of Jesus’ life dances across the stage. The messages of kindness, tolerance, community, and love come vibrantly to life. Show times are at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. For tickets, call (925) 969-2358 or go to our website at www.dvcdrama.net.

The SMC Dance Company presents “Radical/Rituals” 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday (3 p.m. show) May 10, 11 and 12 at the LeFevre Theatre, 1928 Saint Mary’s Road, Moraga.  Faculty choreographers explore the possibilities of dance as resistance, in a concert featuring the Saint Mary’s College Dance Company.  The concert also features works choreographed by guest artist Andrew Merrell. General admission tickets are $15 and can be purchased online at https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/radicalrituals.  Student and Senior discounts.

Saint Mary’s Theater Department Presents “Under 30: A Festival of One Acts” at 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 16 at LeFevre Theatre, 1928 Saint Mary’s Road, Moraga. The Festival is an evening of plays written by creative writing and theater students, as well as being performed and directed by students. This year’s themes move widely to explore American gun culture, family history, grief and memory. Come support our rising playwrights, actors and directors. Admission is free to all.
 
The Peter Pan Foundation presents its annual original musical “Wish Upon a Star” over Memorial Day weekend May 26-28 at Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, in Pleasant Hill. The magical musical adventure includes princesses, villains, heroes and many other beloved characters sure to delight audiences of all ages. Proceeds benefit UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland. The show features more than 200 performers in several alternating casts. Showtimes and casts available online. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students, seniors and military and can be purchased at www.peterpanfoundation.org.




LECTURE & LITERATURE

KPFA Radio 94.1 FM presents Nomi Prins, author of “Collusion: How Central Bankers Rigged the World” from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 6, at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Avenue, Berkeley. Nomi Prins will discuss her new book, answer questions and sign books. Hosted by Vylma V. Cost: $12 advance, $15 door. For more info see http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3353349 or call (510) 967-4495.

Orinda Books presents a Luncheon with Georgeanne Brennan, introducing her new book, “Windows on Provence,” at 11:30 a.m. on May 17. Luncheon will include Salade Nicoise using Georgeanne’s recipe, crusty French bread, a glass of Rose’ and a Provencal biscuit. $20 includes $10 off price of book. Call (925) 254-7606 to make your reservation.

KIDS, PARENTS & TEENS

Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church will hold a Respite Night from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 4, a fun night out for special needs children and siblings while their parents get some time off. Free and open to everyone. To register your children, contact Mary Kaye Stephens: grammykaye@sbcglobal.net. 10 Moraga Valley Ln., Moraga. (925) 376-4800; mvpctoday.org.

Free event for Lamorinda families and students to bring awareness surrounding internet bullying from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 9 in the Orinda Library auditorium. Dr. Gary Nye, a prominent psychiatrist in Lamorinda for decades, will share his expert opinion on the subject matter and will hold a panel discussion with the audience. There will be refreshments, food, and entertainment while several speakers address issues surrounding social media abuse.

Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church invites moms, grandmothers and daughters in preschool/kindergarten to a Royal Princess Tea Party from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, including tea, scones, crafts, story time and more. Register online: mvpctoday.org. 10 Moraga Valley Ln., Moraga. 376.4800; mvpctoday.org.

OTHER

“Stroke Prevention and Life’s Simple 7” is the topic for the First Friday Forum at 1:30 p.m. on May 4 in the Sanctuary of Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette. Dr. Mary K. Donnelly, who holds a doctorate in nursing practice, and is an assistant professor at the University of San Francisco School of Nursing and Health Professions is the speaker. Refreshments will be served at 1 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Free. For further information, call (925) 283-8722.

Mt. Diablo Peace and Justice Center presents “Addressing Racism In Our Community” - Alyson Reimer, UC Berkeley from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 at Oak View Room, Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek. From UC Berkeley’s Haas Institute for a Fair and Inclusive Society, ‘Building the Beloved Community: Addressing Racism Inside the Classroom and Out’. Cost: $10 in advance; $15 at the door; free for students. For more info see http://ourpeacecenter.org or call (925) 933-7850 or email margli@ourpeacecenter.org.

The Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association (BAHA) will hold its 43rd annual Spring House Tour and Garden Reception from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 6. This year’s house tour takes us to Berkeley Woods, the bucolic hilltop tract adjoining Tilden Regional Park. Tour map, illustrated guidebook, and refreshments will be provided. General admission $45; BAHA members $35. For tour information and reservations, visit the BAHA website http://berkeleyheritage.com, email baha@berkeleyheritage.com, or call (510) 841-2242.


How to Generate Leads from your Website - 6 to 7:30 p.m. on May 9 at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Homework Center. Your website is the center of all marketing efforts, and should communicate how you serve your customers. Registrants can submit their website to Thomas Petty (thomaspetty.com/contact-us) for possible selection for mini-review during class. Register at http://www.lafayettechamber.org/workshops/.

“How to Talk with your Kids About Race”- a panel discussion- from 7 to 9 p.m. on May 9 at the Community Hall of the Lafayette Library and Learning Center will be hosted by Pacific Coast Psychiatric Associates. Tickets are available at www.pcpasf.com/events and seating is limited.  Everyone is welcome and snacks will be provided.

The 2018 Moraga Community Faire and Car Show will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 12 at the town’s Rheem Valley Shopping Center - offering a wonderful opportunity for a “family fun day.” Kid’s Zone activities include pony rides, climbing wall, bounce house and basketball shoots. Grab a quick lunch at the food trucks, relax with a glass of local wine or beer and check out the over 70 amazing classic cars. Introduce yourself to over 50 local artists, business and organizations. Live entertainment will be presented all afternoon from the Saint Mary’s Jazz Band to local Battle of the Bands winners. For more information, visit www.moragachamber.org/faire.

Lafayette Hiking Group Chinatown and Oakland murals hike meeting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 12. Meet inside the Lafayette BART station at 9:30 a.m. - bring Clipper Card and lunch money. Visit Oakland’s Chinatown, and see a range of murals in Oakland’s Chinatown and Downtown/Uptown. We will take BART to Lake Merritt station, and return from 19th Street BART. Visit Oakland’s Chinatown, and see a range of murals in Oakland’s Chinatown and Downtown/Uptown. Questions? Email LafayetteHiking@comcast.net.

Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church in conjunction with the American Red Cross will hold a Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 12. To register: redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code “MVPC”. 10 Moraga Valley Ln., Moraga. (925) 376-4800; mvpctoday.org.

Taste of Lafayette from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 15 begins at the Bank of the West building with more than 20 restaurants participating for the stroll. A hosted wine and beer reception starts at 5:30 p.m. and the “stroll” begins at 6:30 p.m. when ticket holders head out at their own pace with friends to stop at any or all of the participating restaurants for sampling. Tickets available at www.lafayettechamber.org.

Lafayette Juniors 19th Annual Kitchen Tour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 19. Tour six beautiful Lafayette homes for a great cause, with masterfully designed unique, elegant, and awe-inspiring kitchens. The Tour benefits No One Left Behind, Girls Inc., City Slicker Farms, White Pony Express and Contra Costa Crisis Center. Tickets are $50 ($45 tax deductible), box lunch available for $15. Purchase tickets at www.lafayettejuniors.org or Premier Kitchens in Lafayette.

Dogtown Downtown, from 9:30 a.m. to noon on May 19 at Lafayette Plaza Park. The event starts in the Lafayette Library and Learning Center outdoor pavilion with Downward-Dog Yoga followed by a Police Escorted Doggie Parade from the Lafayette Library and Learning Center up Golden Gate Way to Lafayette Plaza at 10 a.m. At the Plaza enjoy demonstrations, exhibits, marketing and swag. Contests include Looks Most Like Owner; Best Costume; and Best Team Trick, (register your pet for the contests at the Library Plaza beginning at 9 a.m.). Dogs must be social, friendly and on leash at all times. http://www.lafayettechamber.org/events/dogtown-downtown/

Come celebrate diversity and promote our unity at Soul Food Lamorinda from 2 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 20 at the Intercultural Center at Saint Mary’s College. Soul Food Lamorinda is a free Baha’i-inspired program that combines an audio-visual presentation with readings from various faiths, philosophers and leaders, allowing us to reflect on inspiring themes and reminding us of the oneness of humanity. This month’s program, “Planet Dreams” will explore the unity and diversity of the human family, and how this can be celebrated and encouraged through a collective vision. Free. For more info: www.meetup.com/Soul-Food-Lamorinda/

Lafayette Chamber is having a mixer 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 23 at Premier Kitchens 3373 Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette. Free to members and those interested on becoming a member.

The City of Orinda is hosting a Pan-Asian Arts Festival this Memorial Day weekend, May 26 and 27 at the Orinda Community Center and Orinda Library. The two-day celebration, part of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, is free of charge and features programs for all ages. The festivities include a Chinese lion dance, Asian art exhibits, Bollywood dancing, Japanese animated films, Henna hand painting, Gamelan dance, food trucks and Mochi-making. More information and a full schedule of events is available at http://friendsoftheorindalibrary.org/2018/04/03/pan-asian-arts-festival/

Wine Tasting to Benefit Family Builders from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on May 31 at Wine Thieves - 3401 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette. Cost: $40. Ticket Purchase: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/family-builders-wine-tasting-benefit-tickets-44393389824

SENIORS

Sons in Retirement Lamorinda Branch 174 lunch meeting at 11 a.m. on May 9 at Holy Trinity Culture Center 1700 School Street, Moraga, will feature guest speaker Giorgio Tavecchio (The Raiders’s kicker. A Campolindo and Cal graduate. Local boy makes good). For attendance and membership info, call Tyler at (925) 963-5741 or visit www.branch174.sirinc2.org.

The 19th annual Three-quarter Century Club luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16 at the Orinda Community Church, 10 Irwin Way, Orinda.  Orinda residents 75 years and over will enjoy guest speaker Dr. Walter Bortz, Stanford Gerontologist, speaking about enjoying a higher quality of life while aging. For reservations contact John Fazel, runmtns@prodigy.net; (925) 324-207.

Contra Costa County Community Warning System - How to Receive Emergency Notifications by Vincent Martinez, Senior Emergency Planning Coordinator from 10:30 a.m. to noon on May 24 in the Cedar Room, Lafayette Community Center. Contra Costa’s Community Warning System (CWS) is an all-hazards integrated system designed to warn and inform residents about an emergency or disaster and the protective action residents need to take to stay safe. Learn about the various methods of notification and how to register to receive them. Free.

GARDEN

The Lafayette Garden Club will hold its first garden tour in many years from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at a series of five unique, private gardens in Lamorinda. The tour, “Artful Gardens,” also will include a pop-up market and a plant sale. The tour can give you good ideas of what you might want to do in your garden, to learn about new plants, and to have a fun day out with friends and family. The pop-up market, will offer a wide selection from local artisans featuring jewelry, ceramics, botanical art and specialty food items. The plant sale will include specimens propagated by club members. Tickets cost $40, or $35 each when four or more are purchased. lafayettegardenclub.com.