THURSDAY, JAN. 8 

Berkeley Oil Independence Report and Public Hearing at 7 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. The report is available at www.relocalize.net/groups/oilindependentberkeley 

College Admissions Panel with college admissions officers on the college admission process and the abilities and strengths colleges are looking for in applicants at 7 p.m. at Redwood Day School, 3245 Sheffield Ave., Oakland. RSVP to 534-0804 ext. 225. JLewis@rdschool.org 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Kaiser Center Lobby, 300 Lakeside Dr., Oakland. To schedule an appointment go to www.BeADonor.com  

Pacific Boychoir Academy Open House to learn about the academic and music program from 6 to 8 p.m. at 410 Alcatraz Ave. Please RSVP to 652-4722. www.pacificboychoiracademy.org 

Baby & Toddler Storytime at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

East Bay Mac Users Group “MacWorld Roundup!” We’ll tell you what we saw at 7 p.m. at Expression College for Digital Arts, 6601 Shellmound St., Emeryville. http://ebmug.org 

Free Meditation Class at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarians, 2nd flr., 1606 Bonita Ave. 931-7742. 

FRIDAY, JAN. 9 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Frederick Shaw on “An Innovative Primary Health Care Model for Developing Countries.” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $14.50, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 524-7468. www.citycommonsclub.org 

“Evening with an Earthwalker” Slideshow and talk with Paul Coleman who has circled the earth and inspired the planting of millions of trees, at 7 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. 548-2220.  

Master Class “The Spirit of Percussion” with Brazilian percussionist Airto Moreira at 3 p.m. at Oakland Public Conservatory of Music, 1616 Franklin St., Oakland. Cost is $20-$35. $7 for ages 7-12, and free for 12 and under. For reservations call 836-4649 ext.112.  

Womansong Circle Participatory singing for women at 7:15 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, small assembly room, 2345 Channing Way at Dana. Donation $15-$20. 525-7082. 

Berkeley Women in Black weekly vigil from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. Our focus is human rights in Palestine. 548-6310. 

SATURDAY, JAN. 10 

Celebrating Fr. Bill O’Donnell (1930-2003) Salvadoran buffet dinner at 5:30 p.m., program at 6:45 p.m. at Marian Hall, St. Joseph the Worker School, 2125 Jefferson St. Donation $10-$20. 922-8797. 

“Climate Catastrophe and Social Change, an Eco-Socialist Perspective” A conference on the roots of the climate crisis from a socialist perspective. From 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and 7 to 10 p.m., Sun. from 9 a.m. to noon at Laney College Forum Lecture Hall, 900 Fallon St. at 9th, Oakland. Cost is $10 -$30 sliding scale. 415-863-6637. www.ncalcofc.org 

“Coming Clean: Breaking America’s Addiction to Oil and Coal” with author Michael Brune at 7 p.m. at Alameda Free Library, Conference Rooms A & B, 1550 Oak St. at Lincoln, Alameda. Suggested donation $5, no one is turned away. www.alamedaforum.org 

Close the Little Farm Help us close the Little Farm and tuck in the animals for the night, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Tilden Little Farm, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Arrowhead Marsh Bike Trip with the Golden Gate Audubon Society from 9:50 a.m. to the afternoon. For details email Kathy_jarrett@yahoo.com 

Rose Pruning Class at 10:30 a.m. at Berkeley Horticultural Nursery, 1310 McGee Ave. Free. 526-4704. www.berkeleyhort.com 

The East Bay Chapter of The Great War Society meets to discuss “My Boy Jack” by S. Compagno at 10:30 a.m. in the Albany Veterans Building, 1325 Portland Ave., Albany. 526-4423. 

Berkeley Property Owners Association Meeting with a workshop on Rent Control with Michael St. John at 10 a.m. at St. Johns Presbyterian Church, Fireside Room, 2727 College Ave. bpoa@bpoa.org 

Sistaz N Motion Networking Mixer to help women entrepreneurs advance their businesses, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Crescent Park Multicultural Resource Center, 5004 Hartnett Ave., Richmond. For more information call 253-5469. www.sistaznmotion.com 

Winter Story Time for preschool children and their families at 11 a.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

“I’ve Been Framed” workshop for families. Bring in a favorite piece of art and learn how to frame it, Sat. and Sun. from 1 to 4 p.m. at Museum of Children’s Art, 538 Ninth St., Suite 210, Oakland. Cost is $7. 456-8770. www.mocha.org 

San Francisco Girls Chorus Auditions for girls ages 7 to 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Mormon Temple, 4780 Lincoln Ave., Oakland. For audition time please call 415-863-1752, ext. 333. sfgirlschorus.org  

Luna Kids Dance Winter Open House with creative dance and improvisation from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Grace North Church 2138 Cedar St. 644-3629. 

“Reuse your Body” A voice and body workshop on vocal and somatic improvisation, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Oakopolis, 447 25th St., Oakland. Suggested donation $20. 663-6920. 

Auset (Yemaya) Lunar Cycle Workshop meditation class at noon, registration at 11:30 a.m. at ASA Academy, 2811 Adeline St., Oakland. Cost is $10. For additional classes during the day call 536-5934. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. and Sun. at 2 pm. Regional Parks Botanic Garden, Tilden Park. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

Around the World Tour of Plants at 1:30 p.m., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. 643-2755. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

The Berkeley Lawn Bowling Club provides free instruction every Wed. and Sat. at 10:30 a.m. at 2270 Acton St. 841-2174.  

SUNDAY, JAN. 11 

Slimy Slugs and Migrating Newts Rain brings out the limiest winter creatures. Join us at 10:30 a.m. as we look for them at the Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Strollers not advised. 525-2233. 

Little Farm Open House Come grind some corn to feed the chickens, pet a bunny or groom a goat, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Little Farm at Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Berkeley Ballet Theater Summer Workshop Auditions from 1 to 4 p.m. at Berkeley Ballet Theater, in the Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave. Cost is $15. For details call 843-4687, ext. 112. www.berkeleyballet.org 

Berkeley Rep Family Series “Action for the Stage” from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Nevo Education Center, 2071 Addison St. Free, but bring a book to donate to a school library. 647-2973. 

Prepeare Habitat for the California Least Terns from 9 a.m. to noon at the Alameda Wildlife Refuge. Meet at the main refuge gate at the northwest corner of the old Alamda Naval Air Station. jrobinson@goldengateaudubon.org 

“Green Sunday” The Obama Organizing Model: Lessons for Third Parties at 5 p.m. at Niebyl-Proctor Library 6501 Telegraph Ave. at 65th, North Oakland. Sponsored by the Green Party of Alameda County. 

Free Hands-on Bicycle Clinic Learn how to repair a flat, from 10 to 11 a.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. Bring your bike and tools. 527-4140. 

Lake Merritt Neighbors Organized for Peace Peace walk around the lake every Sun. Meet at 3 p.m. at the colonnade at the NE end of the lake. 763-8712. lmno4p.org 

Tibetan Buddhism with Elizabeth Cook on “The Symbolic Language of Tibetan Art” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

“How World Religions Can Help Us with Illness, Loss Aging” with Ana Matt at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

“The Minsk Ghetto 1941-1943: Jewish Resistance and Soviet Internationalism” with Barbara Epstein at 10:15 a.m. at Temple Beth Hillel, 801 Park Central, Richmond. 233-2560. 

Jewish Bedtime Rituals for the Very Young at 10:30 a.m. at JGate, 409 Liberty St., El Cerrito. 559-8140. 

MONDAY, JAN. 12 

Birding at Martin Luther King, Jr. Shoreline, Arrowhead Marsh, Oakland with Bob Lewis from 10 a.m. to noon to see Clapper Rails. Meet at the last parking lot at 9:30 a.m. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. For information contact bob@wingsbeats.org  

“Surfing for Life” A documentary about seniors from the ages of 60+ to their 90s, who are still surfing, at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

Performing Arts Classes for Adults 50+ begin at Stagebridge Theatre Company, 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. Cost is $75 for 11 weeks. For information call 444-4755. www.stagebridge.org 

East Bay Track Club for girls and boys ages 3-15 meets Mon. at 6 p.m. at Berkeley High School track field. Free. 776-7451. 

Small-Business Counseling Free one-hour one-on-one couseling to help you start and run your small business with a volunteer from the Service Core of Retired Executives, Mon. evenings by appointment at the Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge St. For appointment time call 981-6134. www.eastbayscore.org 

World Affairs/Politics Discussion Group, for people 60 years and over, meets at 9:45 a.m. at Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave, Albany. Cost is $3.  

Berkeley CopWatch organizational meeting at 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. 548-0425. 

TUESDAY, JAN. 13 

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll explore the world of water, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 1-888-327-2757. 

Tilden Explorers An after-school nature adventure program for 5-7 year olds. We will learn about the weather from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.. Cost is $6-$8, registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Golden Gate Audubon Society End of Year Celebration with slide shows, stories and awards, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. 843-2222. 

“Snowshoeing Basics” at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Open House from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Berkeley Rep, 2025 Addison St. RSVP to 642-9934. olli.berkeley.edu 

“Staged Reading” Class with Joy Carlin, of Aurora Theatre Company and A.C.T. on Tues. from 1 to 3 p.m. at Stagebridge Theatre Company, 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. Class runs for 11 weeks. Cost is $75. 444-4755. www.stagebridge.org 

Red Cross Blood Services Volunteer Orientation from 6 to 8 p.m. at 6230 Claremont Ave., Oakland. Registration required. 594-5165. 

Family Storytime at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

Tuesday Tilden Walkers Join a few slowpoke seniors at 9:30 a.m. in the parking lot near the Little Farm for an hour or two walk. 215-7672, 524-9992. 

End the Occupation Vigil every Tues. at noon at Oakland Federal Bldg., 1301 Clay St. www.epicalc.org 

Boffers and Board Games from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at Codornices Park, 1201 Euclid Ave. across from the Rose Garden, or 33 Revolutions Record Shop & Cafe, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito when bad weather. Free, but parental supervision required. 526-5985. 

Berkeley Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m., at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda.548-3991. www.berkeleycameraclub.org 

St. John’s Prime Timers meets at 9:30 a.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. We always welcome new members over 50. 845-6830. 

Sing-A-Long Group from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave., Albany. 524-9122. 

Ceramics Class Learn hand building techniques to make decorative and functional items, Tues. at 9:30 a.m. at St. John's Senior Center, 2727 College Ave. Free, materials and firing charges only. 525-5497. 

Yarn Wranglers Come knit and crochet at 6:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. 

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 14 

23rd Annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from noon to 1:30 p.m. at 300 Lakeside Drive, 2nd flr auditorium. 454-7110. 

Berkeley Organizing Congregations for Action “Unity for the Sake of Change” Inauguration Prayer Service at 7 p.m. at St. Paul AME Church, 2024 Ashby Ave. 665-5821. 

LiveTalk@CPS with Chris Hoofnagle on “Our Precarious Privacy” at 7 p.m. at College Prepatory School, Buttner Auditorium, 6100 Broadway. Tickets are $5-$15 at the door. www.college-prep.org/livetalk 

“Planet Earth” the documentary by David Attenborough, episodes I and II, “Ice Worlds” and “Shallow Seas” at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. Donation $5. www.Humanist Hall.org 

“Avalanche Awareness” with Aaron Johnson of Mountain Adventure Seminars at 6:30 p.m. at Marmot Mountain Works, 3049 Adeline St. Cost is $20. 849-0735. 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Oakland State Bldg., Rooms 2,3,4, 1515 Clay St., Oakland. To schedule an appointment go to www.BeADonor.com  

Family Sing-Along at 4:30 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

Poetry Workshop with Alison Seevak from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720, ext. 16. 

Walk Berkeley for Seniors meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Sea Breeze Market, just west of the I-80 overpass. Everyone is welcome, wear comfortable shoes and a warm hat. 548-9840. 

Theraputic Recreation at the Berkeley Warm Pool, Wed. at 3:30 p.m. and Sat. at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley Warm Pool, 2245 Milvia St. Cost is $4-$5. Bring a towel. 632-9369. 

Berkeley Peace Walk and Vigil at 6:30 p.m. at the Berkeley BART Station followed by Peace Walk at 7 p.m. www. 

geocities.com/vigil4peace/vigil 

Teen Chess Club from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the North Branch Library, 1170 The Alameda at Hopkins. 981-6133. 

Berkeley CopWatch Drop-in office hours from 6 to 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. 548-0425. 

Stitch ‘n Bitch at 6:30 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

THURSDAY, JAN. 15 

Dream Opening Ceremony Celebrating the life of Martin Luther King, Jr, with entertainment and presentations, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Frank Ogawa Plaza, in front of Oakland’s City Hall. www.oakland.net. 

com/celebrations 

Birding at the Berkeley Fishing Pier from 8 to 10 a.m. Meet at the end of University Ave for a leisurely walk to see Surf Scoters, scaup, greebes and gulls. Bring a scope if you have one. Rain cancels. 540-8749. 

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll explore the world of water, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 1-888-327-2757. 

“How America Got a Great National Park: The GGNRA” with Amy Meyer at 12:30 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts., Oakland. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

Golden Gate Audubon Society “Iceland: Birds, People and Conservation in a Land of Glaciers, Geysers, Volcanoes and Splendid Isolation” with Bill Lidicker at 7 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. 843-2222. 

Free Meditation Class at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarians, 2nd flr., 1606 Bonita Ave. 931-7742. 

Avatar Metaphysical Toastmasters Club at 6:45 p.m. at Spud’s Pizza , 3290 Adeline at Alcatraz. namaste@ 

avatar.freetoasthost.info  

Baby & Toddler Storytime at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

Circle of Concern Vigil meets on West Lawn of UC campus across from Addison and Oxford, Thurs. at noon and Sun. at 1 p.m. to oppose UC weapons labs contracts. 848-8055. 

Fitness Class for 55+ at 9:15 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

FRIDAY, JAN. 16 

Pre-Inaugural Ball celebrating the United States First Black Chief Commander President Elect Barack Obama at 7 p.m. at the West Oakland Senior Center, 1724 Adeline St. Tickets are $25. 238-7016. 

Iraq Moratorium Day and Vigil to Protest the War from 2 to 4 p.m. at the corners of University & Acton. Sponsored by Strawberry Creek Lodge Tenant’s Assoc & Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers. 548-9696. 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Watergate Towers, suite 120, 2200 Powell St., Emeryville. To schedule an appointment go to www.BeADonor.com  

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Jinky Gardner on “Insights from Underwater Archeology” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $14.50, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 524-7468. www.citycommonsclub.org 

Project Censored 2009 with Dr. Peter Phillips, Director of Sonoma State Univ.'s Project Censored, and PC Assistant Director Mickey Huff, on last year's most important and unreported news stories and social issues at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists1924 Cedar St. Suggested donation $10-$20. 527-7543. 

SATURDAY, JAN. 17 

Berkeley Alliance of Neighborhood Associations meets at 10 a.m. at First Pres. Church Berkeley, 2407 Channing Way, Church Lounge. mariebowman@pacbell.net 

Animals Catching Zzzzs Discover the surprising habits of animals that hibernate over the winter from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park Call for meeting place. 525-2233. 

Free Smoking Cessation Class meets Sat. from 10 a.m. to noon at the South Berkeley Senior Center, 2932 Ellis St., through Feb. 17. Acupuncture option available. To register call 981-5330. QuitNow@ci.berkeley.ca.us 

“Creating a More Energy Efficient Home” from 9 to 11 a.m. at Truitt & White Conference room, 1817 Second St. Free, but registration required. 649-2674. 

California Writers Club “Hold on to Your Vision” with Amanita Rosenbush at 10 a.m. at Barnes & Noble, Jack London Square, 98 Broadway, Oakland. 272-0120. 

Winter Story Time for preschool children and their families at 11 a.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

Auset (Yemaya) Healing Meditation at noon, registration at 11:30 a.m. at ASA Academy, 2811 Adeline St., Oakland. Cost is $15. For additional classes during the day call 536-5934. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. and Sun. at 2 pm. Regional Parks Botanic Garden, Tilden Park. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

Around the World Tour of Plants at 1:30 p.m., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. 643-2755. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

The Berkeley Lawn Bowling Club provides free instruction every Wed. and Sat. at 10:30 a.m. at 2270 Acton St. 841-2174.  

Car Wash Benefit for Options Recovery Services of Berkeley, held every Sat. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lutheran Church, 1744 University Ave. 666-9552. 

SUNDAY, JAN. 18 

Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Day with performances, music and activities from noon to 4 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts., Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

Hike to the Peak Join a leisurely hike to Wildcat Peak to see the sights of winter, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Bring lunch. Heavy rain cancels. Call for meeting place 525-2233. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

Lake Merritt Neighbors Organized for Peace Peace walk around the lake every Sun. Meet at 3 p.m. at the colonnade at the NE end of the lake. 763-8712. lmno4p.org 

Tibetan Buddhism with Donna Morton on “Meditations to Transform Pain” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

“How World Religions Can Help Us with Illness, Loss Aging” with Ana Matt at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

“The Minsk Ghetto 1941-1943: Jewish Resistance and Soviet Internationalism” with Barbara Epstein at 10 a.m. at JCC of the East Bay, 1414 Walnut St.. 848-0237. 

CITY MEETINGS 

Commission on Early Childhood Education meets Thurs. Jan. 8, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5428.  

Community Health Commission meets Thurs., Jan. 8, at 6:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5356.  

City Council meets Tues., Jan. 13, at 7 p.m in City Council Chambers. 981-6900. www.ci. 

berkeley.ca.us/citycouncil 

Homeless Commission meets Wed., Jan. 14, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5426.  

Planning Commission meets Wed., Jan. 14, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7484. 

Waterfront Commission meets Wed., Jan. 14, at 7 p.m., at 201 University Ave. 981-6740.  

Design Review Committee meets Thurs., Jan. 15, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7415.  

Transportation Commission meets Thurs., Jan. 15, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7010.  

ONGOING 

Help Low-wage Families with Their Taxes United Way’s Earn it! Keep It! Save It! needs Bay Area volunteers for its 7th annual free tax program. No previous experience necessary. Sign up at www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org

THURSDAY, JAN. 8 

THEATER 

Shotgun Players “Beowulf: A Thousand Years of Baggage” at 8 p.m. at The Roda Theater, 2025 Addison St. Tickets are $30, includes a party after the show. Reservations advised. 841-6500. 

FILM 

“August Evening” A film of undocumented workers at Oaks 2 Theater, 1875 Solano Ave. 526-1836. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Elisabeth Payne Rosen discusses her new Civil War novel “Hallam’s War” at 1 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts., Oakland. 238-2200. 

“Cultural Landscapes” with Cathy Garrett, of PGAdesign landscape architecture at 7:30 p.m. at Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. Cost is $8-$10. 763-9218.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

The Crucible “Fire Ballet” Wed.-Sat. at 8:30 p.m. at 1260 Seventh St., Oakland, through Jan. 17. Tickets are $45-$65. www.thecrucible.org 

Open Decks, Grateful Dead night, at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $6. 525-5054.  

Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $20.50-$21.50. 548-1761.  

Kelly Park & Friends at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ.  

Seconds on End, Tistrya at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $7. 841-2082. 

Brwn Bflo, hip hop, at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $5. 849-2568.  

The Dave G Experience at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790.  

Eclair de Lune at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Airto Moreira with Zakir Hussain at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $20. 238-9200. 

FRIDAY, JAN. 9 

THEATER 

Altarena Playhouse “Art” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Altarena Playhouse, 1409 High St., Alameda, through Feb. 7. Tickets are $17-$20. 523-1553.  

Berkeley Rep “The Arabian Nights” Tues.-Sun. at the Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St., through Jan. 18. Tickets are $27-$71. 647-2949.  

Shotgun Players “Macbeth” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at The Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., through Feb. 1. Tickets are $18-$30. 841-6500.  

EXHIBITIONS 

Berkeley Art Center Members’ Exhibition Wed.-Sun. from noon to 5 p.m. at Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St. in Live Oak Park. Exhibition ends Jan. 25. 644-6893. 

Oakland Art Association Group show of 24 artists in a variety of media. Opens at the Metropolitan Transportation Commission Gallery, 101 Eighth St., Oakland, and runs through April 16. 817-5700. 

“Reflections” Documentary photojournalism by D. Michael Cheers. Opening reception at 5 p.m. at Joyce Gordon Gallery, 406 14th St., Oakland. 465-8928. 

“Rust” Photographs emphasizing aged imperfections by Cary Hock. Reception at 5 p.m. at Awaken Cafe, 414 14th St., Oakland. Exhibition runs to Feb. 4. 836-2058. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Carol Dorf and Tracy Koretsky read their poetry at 7 p.m. at Nefeli Caffe, 1854 Euclid Ave., a little north of Hearst, as part of the Last Word Reading Series. There is also an open reading. 841-6374. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Earl Zero and the Fire Band at 5 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts., Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

Slammin’ All Body Band at UTunes Coffee House at 8 p.m. at First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St., Oakland. Cost is $10-$18. www.brownpapertickets.com 

Dave LeFebvre Group at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ.  

The Isaac Schwartz Quartet at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $12-$18. 845-5373.  

Amha Baraka and friends, reggae, at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10. 525-5054.  

Sourdough Slim at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

Davis Jones, Jenton Lee at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

The Loyd Family Players, Antioquia at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Chris Murray, Monkey, Flip the Switch, at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $6. 525-9926. 

The Todd Shipley Band at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Steve Carter Trio at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Rebecca Griffin, jazz vocal, at 8 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Airto Moreira with Zakir Hussain at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $20. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SATURDAY, JAN. 10 

CHILDREN  

Los Amiguitos de La Peña with Earthcapades at 10:30 a.m. at La Peña. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for children. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

John Weaver, storyteller, Sat. and Sun. at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. Cost is $6. 452-2259. www.fairyland.org 

Hannah Banana, folk music, at 11 a.m. at Studio Grow, 1235 10th St. Cost is $8. 526-9888. 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Challenge of Champions” A three part community art project commenting on the impact of violence and homicide in the East Bay. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at ABCo Artspace, 3135 Filbert St., at San Pablo and 23rd, Oakland. Runs through Jan. 26 by appointment. 415-420-8028. 

“Plasma Nation” Group show of plasma and neon sculptors. Closing reception at 6 p.m., presentation by Ed Kirshner at 7 p.m. at Float Gallery, 1091 Calcott Place, #116., Oakland. 535-1702. www.thefloatcenter.com 

“Forty Four Presidents” Works by Lena Reynoso. Opening reception at 7 p.m. at Blankspace Gallery 6608 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. www.blankspace Gallery.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

The Crucible “Fire Ballet” Wed.-Sat. at 8:30 p.m. at 1260 Seventh St., Oakland, through Jan. 17. Tickets are $45-$65. www.thecrucible.org 

Les Grâces Vocal chamber music of the Baroque period at 8 p.m. at Trinity Chapel, 2320 Dana St. Tickets are $8-$12. 549-3864.  

Celestial Mechanics, female vocal trio, 8 p.m. at Oakopolis, 447 25th St., Oakland. 663-6920. 

Celtic and Flamenco Night with Meli, Fanny Ara, Diana Stork, Danny Torres and Katie White at 8 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $12. 849-2568. 

Pamela Rose & Her Quartet, featuring Danny Caron, at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Pellejo Seco at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cuban salsa lesson at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

Big Lion, Julia Francis at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

Steve Seskin, Craig Carothers, Don Henry at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $24.50-$25.50. 548-1761.  

Aaron Bahr, trumpet, at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $10. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

George Cotsirilos Jazz Group at 9:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $3. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

Planet Loop at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Culann’s Hounds, The Trespassers, Ben Bernstein at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $9. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Kate Van Horn, folk rock, at 7 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Ritchie Beltran at 8 p.m. at Spuds Pizza, 3290 Adeline St. Cost is $7-$10. 558-0881. 

Onion Flavored Rings, Trainwreck Riders, The Measure at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $7. 525-9926. 

Kenny Garrett at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $20-$22. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SUNDAY, JAN. 11 

CHILDREN 

Family Square Dance with The Squirrely String Band at Ashkenaz at 3 p.m. Cost is $4-$6. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Meet the Museum” A docent tour of the museum’s past, present and future at 1 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts., Oakland. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

“Orchard Views” Paintings by Sonia Gill on display in the lobby gallery, 1947 Center St., through Feb. 27. 981-7533. 

“Fortuitous Garden” Paintings by Amy St. George. Reception at 4 p.m. at Albany Community Center Foyer, 1249 Marin Ave., Albany. 524-9283. 

FILM 

“August Evening” A film of undocumented workers at Oaks 2 Theater, 1875 Solano Ave. 526-1836. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Julia Morgan” will make a presentation about Oakland’s East of the Lake District referencing buildings she designed at 3 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 114 Montecito Ave. Donation $20 plus non-perishable food items requested. 848-3414. www.stpaulsoakland.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Voices of Music “The Art of the Cello” with Tanya Tomkins, baroque cello, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Albans Episcopal Church, 1501 Washington Ave., Albany. Tickets are $20-$25. 236-9808. www.voicesofmusic.org 

Latin Jazz Youth Ensemble of S.F. at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $5-$10. 849-2568.  

Anna Estrafa & Her Trio at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Arian Shafiee, Isaac Schwartz at 11 a.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Berkeley High School Jazz Band members in a benefit for Akeen Hawkins at 7:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $7-$15. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Tommy Hodul and East Bay Breeze at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $10. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

John McCutcheon at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $26.50-$27.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Jazz Jam Session with Michael Zilber, Jeff Marrs, Peter Barshay and Erik Jekabson at 7 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

MONDAY, JAN. 12 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Sweet Dreams” Works by Ben Hazard from 1969-2008 opens at Craft & Cultural Arts Gallery, State of California Office Building - Atrium, 1515 Clay St., Oakland, and runs through Feb. 27. 622-8190. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Dora A. Sorell, Holocaust survivor and local author, speaks at the Brown Bag Luncheon series at 12:30 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

PlayGround, short works from new and emerging playwrights at 8 p.m., pre-show discussion at 7 p.m., at Berkeley Rep, 2025 Addison St. Tickets are $15. 415-704-3177. www.PlayGround-sf.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

The Ambassador of Trouts, jazz, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Jesse Scheinin Quartet at 8 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

TUESDAY, JAN. 13 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

NIAD 25th Anniversary Retrospective Works by artists with developmental and other disabilities. Artist talk at 1 p.m. at Pro Arts Gallery, 550 Second St., Oakland. Exhibition runs to Jan. 13. 763-9470. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Gator Beat at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun/Zydeco dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Singers’ Open Mic with Kelly Park at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $5. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Freight Open Mic at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $4.50-$5.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

On the Air, jazz, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

John Abercrombie Organ Quartet at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10-$16. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 14 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

William Iggiagruk Hensley reads from his story of the native people of Alaska “Fifty Miles from Tomorrow” at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way. Donation $10. berkeleyarts.org 

Berkeley Poetry Slam with host Charles Ellik and Three Blind Mice, at 8 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $7. 841-2082.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

The Crucible “Fire Ballet” Wed.-Sat. at 8:30 p.m. at 1260 Seventh St., Oakland, through Jan. 17. Tickets are $45-$65. www.thecrucible.org 

Loose Wig Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $8. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Monthly Milonga, Argentine Tango, at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Dance lesson at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054.  

Tone Bent at 7 p.m. at Le Bateau Ivre, 2629 Telegraph Ave. www.lebateauivre.net 

Carol’s Jazz Cats at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

John Abercrombie Organ Quartet at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10-$16. 238-9200.  

THURSDAY, JAN. 15 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Walls” Paintings by Joel Isaacson on contemporary social and political concerns, at Flora Lamson Hewlett Library, 2400 Ridge Rd. Exhibition runs to Jan. 30. 649-2500.  

“Sweet Dreams” Works by Ben Hazard from 1969-2008. Reception and artist talk from 5 to 8 p.m. at Craft & Cultural Arts Gallery, State of California Office Building - Atrium, 1515 Clay St., Oakland. 622-8190. 

FILM 

Josef von Sternberg: Eros and Abstraction “Underworld” with Judith Rosenberg on piano, at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $5.50-$9.50. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Amy Meyer talks about her new book and the fight to create the Golden Gate National recreational Area at 12:30 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts., Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200.  

“Celebrate the Ceramic Arts of Berkeley” with authors Nina Lyons, Dean Schwarz, Andrew Martin, Dana Gardner and Stephen DeStaebler from 6 to 9 p.m. at Leslie Ceramic Supply Co., 1212 San Pablo Ave. 524-7363. 

Lyn Hejinian reads from her new volume of poetry “Saga/Circus” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Renee Asteria, with 7th Street Sound at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $5. 525-5054.  

Blue Note Records 70th Anniversary Tour with Pianist Bill Charlap and others at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $30-$50. 642-9988.  

Rhonda Vincent & the Rage at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $38.50-$39.50. 548-1761.  

Stephanie Crawford & Her Trio at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ.  

Roger Roca and the Goldenhearts, Mushroom, Juanita and the Rabbit at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082.  

Tamika Nicole at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10-$12. 849-2568.  

Gregg Cross at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790.  

Dore Coller & Bermuda Grass, bluegrass, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Jeremy Pelt at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $12-$18. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

FRIDAY, JAN. 16 

THEATER 

Altarena Playhouse “Art” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Altarena Playhouse, 1409 High St., Alameda, through Feb. 7. Tickets are $17-$20. 523-1553. www.altarena.org 

Berkeley Rep “The Arabian Nights” Tues.-Sun. at the Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St., through Jan. 18. Tickets are $27-$71. 647-2949.  

Shotgun Players “Macbeth” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at The Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., through Feb. 1. Tickets are $18-$30. 841-6500.  

EXHIBITIONS 

“Fierce Fashion” A group art exhibition. Opening reception at 7 p.m. at Eclectix Gallery, 10082 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 364-7261. 

“Queen & Country” Paintings by Richard Kramer, Dickson Schneider, Raymond Wong. Reception at 6 p.m. at Autobody Fine Art, 1517 Park St., Alameda. 881-6974. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

The Crucible “Fire Ballet” Wed.-Sat. at 8:30 p.m. at 1260 Seventh St., Oakland, through Jan. 17. Tickets are $45-$65. www.thecrucible.org 

Vince Ho, Renaissance organ music of the Hapsburg Court, at 8 p.m. at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 1501 Washington Ave., Albany. Suggested donation $10. 525-1716. 

Dgiin at 9 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $8-10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Robin Gregory & Her Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ.  

Jack Reilly on the music of Bill Evans at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $20. 845-5373.  

Native Elements at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

April Verch at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

Jenn and the Hollowgrams, Melody Eversole at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

Workingman’s Ed at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $12. 841-2082.  

Midnight Train at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790.  

The Pam & Jeri Show at 7:30 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. Cost is $10-$15. 548-5198.  

The Invaders at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Hepburn & Correri, jazz vocal ballads, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $20. 238-9200.  

SATURDAY, JAN. 17 

CHILDREN  

Los Amiguitos de La Peña with Gerry Tenney at 10:30 a.m. at La Peña. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for children. 849-2568.  

“Tales from Winter Wonderland, Sat. and Sun. at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. Cost is $6. 452-2259.  

EXHIBITIONS 

“What the ?” mixed media by Lola, sculpture by Brian Young. Opening party at 6 p.m. at Float Gallery, 1091 Calcott Place, Unit #116, Oakland. 535-1702. 

THEATER 

Rough and Tumble “Stupidity” Play reading and discussion at 11 a.m., potluck lunch at 1 p.m., work session by the company from 2 to 6 p.m., the public is invited to observe, at Civicorps Elementary School, 1086 Alcatraz Ave. Oakland. Free. 499-0356. www.randt.org 

FILM 

“My Name is Orson Welles” at 5 p.m. and Andrzej Wajda: “Ashes and Diamonds” at 8 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $5.50-$9.50. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

American Bach Soloists, “Mass in B Minor” at 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way at Dana. Pre-concert lecture at 7 p.m. Tickets are $18-$60. 800-838-3006. www.americanbach.org 

National Acrobats of China at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $24-$46. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net 

Los Boleros, Havana dance party, at 9:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $8-$10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Lady Bianca Blues at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Savoy Family Band at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $15-$18. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

Owen Roberts and the Doghouse Brewer at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Austin de Lone & Paul Rogers at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Frankye Kelly at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

The Luke Thomas Trio at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Ethan Byxbe and friends, blues, at 8 p.m. at Spuds Pizza, 3290 Adeline St. Cost is $7-$10. 558-0881. 

The Everlovin’, American roots music, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

The Morning Line, King Crab, Pinto Wagon at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Babyland, Mount Vicious, Savior, Absence at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $7. 525-9926. 

James Moody Quartet at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $24. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SUNDAY, JAN. 18 

CHILDREN 

The Kathy Kallick Band at Ashkenaz at 3 p.m. Cost is $4-$6. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

EXHIBITIONS 

“L.A. Paint” Tour of the exhibition at 2 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts., Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

FILM 

“Unfinished Works by Orson Welles” at 2 p.m. and Josef von Sternberg “The Last Command” at 5:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $5.50-$9.50. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Robert “Bud” Roper reads from “Now the Drum of War” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

“In the Name of Love” a musical tribute honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with the Marcus Shelby Jazz Orchestra, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Destiny Arts Youth Performance Company and others, at 7:30 p.m. at Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Dr. Tickets are $5-$12. 287-8880. www.mlktribute.com 

“Rejoice” Pre-Inaugural Gospel Concert at 7:30 p.m. at Star Bethel Church, 5800 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. Suggested donation $20. 978-6470. 

“Jazz at the Chimes” with vocalist Ellen Robinson at 2 p.m. at Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. Tickets are $10-$15. 228-3218. 

Diana Rowen, Rachel Durling, Gari Hegedus and others at 8 p.m. at Wisteria Ways, Rockridge, Oakland. Not wheelchair accessible. Cost is $15-$20. Reservations required. info@WisteriaWays.org 

National Acrobats of China at 3 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $24-$46. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net 

Sergey and Lusine Khachtryan, violin and piano at 3 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $46. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net 

Sandy Perez y Su Lade, Afro-Cuban, at 7 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $15-$20. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Conspiracy of Beards at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Em K at 11 a.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Ranzel Merritt Quartet at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $10. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Devine’s Jug Band at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Jazz Jam Session with Michael Zilber, Jeff Marrs, Peter Barshay and Erik Jekabson at 7 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Harold Rosenberg, the eminent art critic and friend of the Abstract Expressionists, defined their paintings as “arenas to act in.”  

This description certainly applies to Joel Isaacson’s paintings currently on view at the Graduate Theological Library. At first viewing these canvases look abstract and, indeed the painter welcomed accident, using his palette knife as well his brushes when he made these pictures.  

To be sure, Isaacson began his career as a painter, working in the Abstract Expressionist mode, when he studied with Ad Reinhardt and Mark Rothko at Brooklyn College in the late ’40s and early ’50s. After his service in the army he decided to change his vocation and to study the history of art, earning his doctorate here at UC Berkeley.  

He then taught the subject for over thirty years at the University of Michigan. Upon his retirement at Ann Arbor he returned to Berkeley and to his previous calling. His field in art history is Impressionism, and indeed some of the paintings on view, such as West Bank (2006) are done in an Impressionist palette and could almost be enlarged details of a Monet panting. Actually, it is a view of villages and the land of Palestine fractured by the walls erected by Israel’s neo-colonial regime. 

The exhibition is entitled “Walls” and addresses the barriers erected by Israel as well as the U.S. to keep out undesired Arabs or Mexicans, respectively. These barriers, to which the Israelis refer euphemistically as “Security Borders,” merely replaced suicide attacks with rocket strikes. One of the paintings on view, called Road Map—West Bank (2008) signifies these walls with straight red, yellow blue and green lines, which rigidly cut across Palestinian towns, villages, olive groves and their secondary roads, ensuring continued Israel control.  

The parallel enterprise of exclusion, the U.S. wall on its Mexican border is the subject of Isaacson’s painting of a map showing the barrier next to the Rio Grande. In the exhibition there is also a highly evocative and deeply troubling canvas, Ghosts of Guantanomo (2008). 

The lower floor of the exhibition displays another kind of wall, the burqa which Afghan women are made to wear to separate their persona from the world outside. Typical is a beautifully painted canvas, Orange Burqa, showing the grid of heavy fabric, resembling a helmet, which makes sure that the woman cannot be seen and may barely look at her surroundings through the small threaded opening.  

In his artist statement Isaacson writes that “the burqa through which Afghan women look out at the world became a sign of everything that was wrong with the Afghan misadventure.” For Isaacson it is a symbol of the suffering of the Afghan people and the cynical claim of the Bush administration of having “liberated” the Afghan people, as well as a continuing manifestation of a restrictive Islam culture. 

The visitor to this exhibition will be well served by examining the fine works on paper in the display cases. The include sketches and studies for the paintings as well as extremely fine renderings of tree trunks and two commanding imaginary portraits of Walter Benjamin. 

Walls 

Joel Isaacson 

Through Jan. 30 

Graduate Theological Library 

2400 Ridge Road

Aurora Theatre recently announced a breakthrough—literally.  

The Berkeley company, celebrating its 17th season, has been quietly campaigning for $2.1 million in capital to expand its Addison Street location, just west of Shattuck, cheek-by-jowl with Berkeley Rep and the Jazz School. 

And this coming Monday, Jan. 12, Aurora will hold a ceremony to break through the wall connecting its complex to an adjacent space. Once completed, the pending expansion will add 2,600 square feet to the 7,200 square feet currently occupied by the company. The new space will house a new rehearsal space for main stage productions, readings and workshopping new shows, plus artistic offices and an increase in space for in-house set building.  

Additional space will allow Aurora to increase the number of performances per show, extend current productions while preparing for the next show (reducing turnaround time to as little as two weeks) and allow for a larger lobby and other patron amenities. Projected completion for the expansion is this coming summer. 

“Up until now, the dedicated campaign committee has been working diligently behind the scenes. The response to our efforts has been very enthusiastic and we’re pleased to announce that we’ve reached $1.3 million in cash and pledges, over 62 percent of our goal,” said campaign co-chair Robert B. Hetler. 

In December, the Harold and Mimi Steinberg Trust, of New York City, announced a $200,000 grant over four years in support of the campaign to establish a Fund for Artistic Initiatives to underwrite the development of new work as well as the adaptation of large-scale classics, which the expansion will make possible. The Bernard Osher Foundation has also awarded a $45,000 grant to Aurora’s campaign in memory of Frederick Balderston. 

Aurora was founded in 1992 by Barbara Oliver, along with Dorothy Bryant, Marge Glicksman, Richard Rossi and Ken Grantham.  

“It’s remarkable to me that in its 17 years, Aurora ... has grown from a single theater production produced in a room where women once played cards [the 67-seat drawing room at the Berkeley City Club, where Central Works is now in residence] into a thriving Bay Area institution that continues to grow artistically, and once again physically,” said artistic director Tom Ross. “This is the next logical and essential step in our development.” 

Aurora moved into its current 150-seat location seven years ago. The new expansion is the final project of the late theater architect Gene Angell and his partner Brian Rawlinson.

Forty-three years after the poet’s death in San Francisco, My Vocabulary Did This to Me: The Collected Poetry of Jack Spicer, edited by Peter Gizzi and Kevin Killian, a handsome 496-page volume, easy to hold and to read, has been issued by Wesleyan University Press ($35), with Spicer’s poetry arranged in chronological order, including several of his “serial poems” previously unpublished. 

A tribute reading, which will celebrate the new book, will be held this Saturday at 1 p.m. in Koret Auditorium of the San Francisco Main Library, admission free. Readers will include Killian and Spicer’s friend Lewis Ellingham, co-authors of Spicer’s biography, Poet, Be Like God (Wesleyan). Spicer can be heard reading his poetry online at PennSound. 

The title of the Collected Poetry comes from Spicer’s last words to his friend and fellow poet, Robin Blaser, who edited The Collected Books of Jack Spicer (Black Sparrow, 1975). A structural linguist who did research at UC Berkeley, Spicer—born in Los Angeles—would playfully give 1945 as his birthdate, when he arrived in Berkeley. 

With Blaser and Robert Duncan, Spicer co-founded the Berkeley Renaissance poetry movement, and hosted “the most educational folk-song program West of the Pecos,” as he’d introduce his KPFA show of the late ’40s, with its deadpan mutations of the received word of folk-art, foreshadowing one mode of his later writing (though Spicer also contributed to music anthologist and filmmaker Harry Smith’s work).  

Spicer introduced a reading of his “Imaginary Elegies I-IV, for Robin Blaser,” featured in Donald Allen’s seminal New American Poetry anthology, with an epigraph from W. B. Yeats: “All that a man knows and needs to know is found in Berkeley,” to gales of laughter at the “pun” on the city and its philosopher namesake. The first poem in the new Collected Poetry is entitled “Berkeley in Time of Plague;” Spicer’s last public talk and reading were at the Berkeley Poetry Conference, just weeks before his death. His poetry career could be said to have begun and ended in Berkeley. 

Spicer’s poetry took an extraordinary turn in the late ‘50s, when he went away from writing the single lyric in favor of what he called the serial poem—“a name I dreamed up [to describe] what Duncan and Robin and I were like that others weren’t like.”  

He embarked on an exploration where a series of poems would “go from one point to another, to another, to another ... echo and reecho each other ... create resonances. They cannot live alone any more than we can.” Not mapped out in advance, a “book,” a kind of narrative was created, poetry telling of its own making. 

Spicer eschewed the academic, “the English Department of the spirit—that great quagmire that lurks at the bottom of all of us.” He mustered considerable abilities in composing after models of earlier British and American poetry, from Poe to Gertrude Stein to The Cantos, masters like Yeats and Rilke, Dada and Surrealist experimentation, with a remarkable ear for American speech, as well as great humor and wit—all delivered in a very different, ever-unfolding style that turned his “sources” to a radically innovative purpose.  

Blaser, whose Spicer essay “The Practice of Outside” can be found in The Fire (UC Press), recently called Spicer’s poetry “constantly oppositional.” Breaking with the Emersonian-Whitmanian tradition (of which Duncan was a great practitioner) and its spin-offs (autobiographical and confessional poetry), Spicer was caustic about “the big lie of the personal” (“For example/ The poem does not know/Who you refers to”), yet often wrote in a personable, playful manner about unusual or difficult things. His final serial poem ends with an admonition to Allen Ginsberg, just crowned King of the May in Prague: “At least we both know how shitty the world is. You wearing a beard as a mask to disguise it. I wearing my tired smile ... Why/ fight the combine of your heart and my heart or anybody’s heart. People are starving.” (Ten Poems For Downbeat, Book of Magazine Verse) 

A year or so before, he’d written some of the most unusual American love poems in Language: “Do the flowers change as I touch your skin?/They are merely buttercups. No sign of death in them. They die and you know by their death that it is no longer summer. Baseball season ...” 

Spicer pitched his sail to fickle winds, but never too far from shore, making his own sightings in a countercurrent, poetry that seems to appear and disappear with the weather, like the Farallons. “We are a coast people/There is nothing but ocean out beyond us. We grasp/The first thing coming.” also from Book of Magazine Verse, used as an epigraph by Richard Brautigan, who dedicated Trout Fishing in America to Spicer. 

Glibert Sorrentino, another writer Spicer influenced, said in 1966 that he had “achieved that rare and difficult feat—he created an art which was at once subservient to, and dominant over, a set of ideas.”  

Spicer’s 20-year engagement with the Bay Area poetry community is legendary, from the founding of the 6 Gallery, where Ginsberg famously debuted “Howl,” to satirizing the late ’50s scene that arose from the publicity that followed (the inspiration for a film project by Raul Ruiz), from collaborating with painters to reading (according to Herb Caen) to Dave Brubeck’s accompaniment; from the creation of poetry presses and magazines, as well as Blabbermouth Night in North Beach, where anyone could read or simply talk until told by the audience to sit down—to the sheaves of poems addressed to friends and fellow poets. 

This history of involvement makes it puzzling to read the recent slew of reviews—New York and Los Angeles Times, The Nation, The Chronicle—and postings on poetry websites that peg Spicer as loner and malcontent: “Belated Book From A Misfit Poet Who Didn’t Want To Be Published,” read the dismal headline draped over a dreary review in the Chron’s Datebook section a month ago.  

To be maladroitly preoccupied with psyching out a poet by stitching together a few scraps of quotation and rumor is only to prove Spicer’s distrust of the politics of reputation—“As far as the poet and his audience, I just don’t believe there is an audience for poems. There is an audience obviously for poets ...”—versus the making of poetry, which Spicer gave everything to, encouraging other poets to do the same.  

“Graphemes should not be looked at so minutely. The/Forest for the trees. The kisses for the love.” (”Graphemics,” in ‘Language’)  

My Vocabulary Did This to Me: The Collected Poetry of Jack Spicer is available at Moe’s Books, 2476 Telegraph Ave.