5 things to do this weekend: 'Women playing Hamlet,' Jerry Garcia tribute and more
It looks like we may be in for a snowed-out Saturday this weekend, but there's plenty of great events all weekend long. From a taste of the Bard to a Jerry Garcia tribute band to an Owl Prowl, there's plenty to entertain the whole family. There's also a little New Orleans funk soul and show tunes thrown in to get you moving and possibly singing on a cold winter's night.
'Women Playing Hamlet' opens
New Hampshire Theatre Project presents a sophisticated new comedy "Women Playing Hamlet" by William Missouri Downs beginning this weekend. Directed by Blair Hundertmark, four women play multiple roles (including Hamlet) in a show that’s been described as “rip-roaring fun for Shakespeare fans and haters alike.” As the titular character Jessica faces a personal existential crisis when cast as the Prince of Denmark; she has numerous hilarious encounters with past actors of both genders who have made the role their own. Under all the fun, however, lies the serious question of whether or not true equity is realizable in contemporary theatre.
The play stars Amy Desrosiers, Kate Kirkwood, Courtney St. Gelais and Jenn Towle, with stage management by Samantha Smith, assistant stage manager Hannah Hall, set design by Quentin Stockwell, lighting design by Tayva Young, costume design by Jenn Towle, and sound design by CJ Lewis.
The play opens Friday, Jan. 28 and runs through Feb. 6 Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The show will also be streamed for home viewing Feb. 3 to 6. More info and ticket links can be found at nhtheatreproject.org/onstagenow.
Go on an Owl Prowl
On Friday afternoon at 4, you can spend an early evening outside learning about our native owl species and hit the trails to have a look for the owls that live right in our own backyards. Join Jane Kelley and Sarah Kern of On The Wing on Friday, Jan. 29 for this fun event at the Word Barn Meadow in Exeter that starts with a meet and greet with some of On The Wing's magnificent non-releasable owls, and a talk about their ecology and adaptations, importance to our ecosystem, and how you can help them. Following the presentation, there'll be a short walk on the neighboring beautiful Raynes Farm property to spot signs of wild owls in the area and learn what to look for.
This is super family-friendly and children are welcome. Children under 10 are free, but are required to register given capacity limitations. Tickets are $25 and include a complimentary beer, cider, or hot cider. Proceeds from this program will support the On The Wing's rehabilitation efforts and The Word Barn.
Rachael & Vilray in concert
Rachael Price of Lake Street Dive and guitarist-singer-composer Vilray return to Portsmouth to create a rare old vinyl gem, an unearthed jazz-vocal treasure, on Saturday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m. at The Music Hall in Portsmouth. Tickets are $35 to $45 and available at themusichall.org.
Rigor Mortis at The Dance Hall
You won't be able to sit still despite Rigor Mortis, which plays the music of New Orleans legends The Meters. Their funk/soul instrumental music, funky guitar melodies, heavenly organ swells and tight, grooving, rhythm section will get you moving. The band includes Mike Effenberger on organ, Greg Glasson on bass, Rick Habib on drums and Stu Dias on guitar. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the doors, which open at 7:30 p.m. for the 8:30 p.m. show. Visit thedancehallkittery.org.
Showtunes with Tim Goss
After years of politely playing through musical theater’s most beastly repertoire, pianist Tim Goss is getting his revenge on the singers of New Hampshire. The game is simple, every song, every singer, is picked by Tim Goss. Come celebrate the man behind the keys in a musical theater extravaganza! "Dive In To - Tim Goss on the Keys" will take place Friday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. at The Players' Ring in Portsmouth. Tickets are $15 and available at playersring.org.
A little Jerry Garcia might be the cure
Sans Souci, a Jerry Garcia Tribute band, will warm up The Press Room on Saturday, Jan. 29. Founded in Spring 2017 and led by organist Max Chase and guitarist Bobby O’Neill, Sans Souci serves up meticulously crafted takes of JGB, Garcia & Saunders, and Legion Of Mary favorites. Show starts at 9 p.m. Tickets $20 to $25 and available at pressroomnh.com/live-music-portsmouth-nh-events.