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The Inaugural Ball of Greenville
Can’t make it to Washington, DC, for Barack Obama’s Inaugural Ball? Greenville is holding its own celebration featuring a champagne reception, White House-style dinner, big band jazz, and a film montage of the fêtes in Washington. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Project Host soup kitchen. The Poinsett Club, 807 E. Washington St. Wednesday, 7pm. $150. (877)849-5327,
www.greenvilleball.com
Governor’s School for the Arts Foundation Columbia Gala
In this evening to support the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, students will showcase their talents. The Governor’s School is a public residential high school where students study music, visual art, drama, dance, and creative writing. Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main St. Columbia. Wednesday, 6pm. $75. (864)282-1570, www.gsafoundation.net
An Affair With Flair
Experience Tuscany’s Old World romance and vintage wines at this annual event to raise funds for the Upstate Chapter of the Red Cross. Featuring a wine tasting and fine wine auction, this black-tie event also offers dancing and cocktails at the Piazza di Amore. Hyatt Regency, 220 N. Main St. Saturday, 6pm. $150. (864)271-8222, www.redcrosswineauction.com
Bachelor Bid Ball
Join the Greenville Jaycees for this second annual event featuring a bachelor and bachelorette live auction, music, food, and an after-party. Proceeds benefit Jaycee Camp Hope, an outdoor camp at Clemson University for mentally challenged children. The Handlebar, 304 E. Stone Ave. Saturday, 7pm-midnight. $35-$25. (864)294-5400, www.bachelorbidball.org
Roses for Relief Ball
Help Greer Relief provide emergency assistance to individuals and families in Greer, Taylors, Duncan, Lyman, and Wellford with this evening of music, food, and a silent auction. Dance to tunes by the East Coast Band and bid on everything from a child’s playhouse to jewelry. Greer City Hall, 301 E. Poinsett St., Greer. Saturday, 6:30pm. $100 per couple. (864)848-5355, www.greerrelief.org
Dueling Pianos and Dueling Chefs
Celebrate gourmet food and quality music at this fundraiser to benefit the Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra and the Lawson Academy of the Arts program at Converse College. The evening will feature Richard and Marty, formerly of Crocodile Rocks, performing on dueling pianos. Local chefs will also compete for the Hottest Ticket in Town title with the audience judging their dishes.
Chapman Cultural Center, 200 E. St. John St., Spartanburg. Saturday, 7pm. $75. (864)948-9020,
www.spartanburgphilharmonic.org
Chase Away the Blues
Banish the blues and help Compass of Carolina prevent family violence, assist families in debt crisis, provide trauma counseling, and more at this musical event. Headliners include bluesman Tinsley Ellis on Friday and Saffire—The Uppity Blues Women on Saturday. Enjoy a light buffet with a cash bar while you bop the night away. The Handlebar, 304 E. Stone Ave. Friday-Saturday, 7pm. $20 per night. (864)467-3434, www.compassofcarolina.org
Sweetheart Charity Ball
With the money you spend on your ticket to this annual event, Meals On Wheels can feed ten people for one week, delivering hot meals to those who would not normally have one. The evening features a dinner, cocktails, dancing, a prize drawing, and a silent auction. In addition, a Sweetheart of the Year, an individual or couple that exemplifies the organization’s spirit will be honored. Hilton Greenville,
45 W. Orchard Park Dr. Saturday, 6pm. $175. (864)233-6565, www.mealsonwheelsgreenville.org
An Unforgettable Evening
The Peace Center holds its annual gala featuring a “Tribute to Nat King Cole” with the Puppini Sisters recreating the sounds of the 1940s along with Tuxedo Junction, performing swing, beach, and Nat King Cole tunes. Natalie Cole herself will be performing in concert just before the event. In addition to hors d’oeuvres, chefs will be preparing entrées and desserts. Proceeds benefit the POP (Peace Outreach Program) that provides workshops and artist residencies for local teachers and students.
The Westin Poinsett, 120 S. Main St. Friday, event begins following the Cole concert.
$625, price includes Natalie Cole concert. (864)679-9210, www.peacecenter.org
Stay at Home Tea
The Greenville Literacy Association invites everyone to stay at home for a Friday evening, read a good book, relax with a cup of hot tea, and donate to the association what they would normally spend going out. Just call for an invitation and it will arrive with a complimentary tea bag to start off your evening. Locations vary. Friday, times vary. Free. (864)467-3456, www.greenvilleliteracy.org
The Young Einsteins: A Celebration of the Mind
Enjoy good food and entertainment by BandKamp to support the Alliance for Quality Education, a local education fund dedicated to improving student achievement in Greenville County’s public schools. This year celebrates the seventh annual event of creating awareness for the Alliance’s mission.
McAlister Square, 225 S. Pleasantburg Dr. Friday, 7:30pm. $100-$40. (864)255-5333, www.afqe.org
Brides Against Breast Cancer
GSP Bridal Network and the Making Memories Foundation are teaming up to host the 2nd Annual Brides Against Breast Cancer event. More than 1,000 designer wedding dresses will be sold at discount prices and proceeds will benefit the Making Memories Foundation that grants wishes for a memory making event for terminal breast cancer patients. Summit Pointe Conference and Events Center, 805 Spartan Blvd., Spartanburg. Friday, 2-8pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm. Free. (864)423-9559, www.makingmemories.org
Oscar Night America
Tread the scarlet carpet to help raise funds for the Junior League of Greenville’s community programs including, Home Run For Healthy Kids, Kids in the Kitchen, and A Nearly New You. The night features a red carpet arrival, a live broadcast of the Academy Awards, and live and silent auctions. Still Cruzin’ will perform tunes while local restaurants and caterers will compete to win the night’s accolades with their best signature dish. Greenville Country Club, 239 Byrd Blvd. Sunday, 7pm. $65.
(864)233-2663, www.jlgreenville.org/greenville
Adult Spelling Bee
Test your vocabulary power and help raise funds for Camp Opportunity, a summer camp for abused or neglected children. This third annual event for twenty-five teams is designed to erase the memories of the nerve-racking spelling bee of your childhood and replace them with recollections of a fun and generous good time. The Handlebar, 304 E. Stone Ave. Thursday, 7pm. $150 minimum per team. (864)282-8633, www.campopportunitygreenville.org
Black Tie and Baklava
Join the fight to end juvenile diabetes, a chronic disease that strikes children suddenly and leaves them dependent on insulin for the rest of their lives, at this formal event. Enjoy a night of cocktails, a seated dinner, silent and live auctions, and, of course, delectable baklava all for a good cause.
Greenville Marriott, One Parkway East. Saturday, 6:30pm. $150. (864)770-0276, www.jdrf.org
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Joshua Bell
He made his Carnegie Hall debut at age eighteen and now tours the country with his three-hundred- year-old violin. The Seattle Times says, “...he plays with such warmth and refinement that you wish the phrases would last longer.” The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Thursday, 7:30pm. $65-$35. (864)467-3000, www.peacecenter.org
Magical Mozart
The Greenville Symphony Orchestra presents this performance featuring principal bassoonist Amy Yang performing “Overture to Lucio Silla, K. 135,” “Bassoon Concerto,” “Idomeneo,” and “Symphony No 28, C major.” Don’t miss these fresh selections by the world’s most influential composers of classical music. The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $35. (864)467-3000, www.greenvillesymphony.org
Troubador Series: Ronn McFarlane
Wofford College presents Scottish lutenist Ronn McFarlane who has recorded more than ten CDs and is one of the foremost performing lutenists today. In this unusual performance, the audience will experience the music onstage with McFarlane. Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, 385 N. Church St., Spartanburg. Friday, 7pm. Free. (864)597-4000, www.wofford.edu
Keiko Sekino
The Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities presents its guest pianist performance featuring Keiko Sekino. Sekino is a professor at East Carolina University and a graduate of the Yale School of Music. South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, 15 University St. Thursday, 7:30pm. Free. (864)282-3782, www.scgsah.state.sc.us
Mighty Clouds of Joy
This nearly fifty-year-old group has been molding gospel music since the late 1950s and its members have been a pioneering force behind many of the genre’s changes over the years. They were the first gospel group to perform on Soul Train and have performed with the likes of the Rolling Stones, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin. The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Friday, 8pm. $30-$20. (864)467-3000, www.peacecenter.org
K2
Imagine two climbers with inadequate gear—one with a broken leg—trapped on an icy ledge at 27,000 feet with an approaching storm and dimming daylight bearing down on them. Don’t miss this intense play that is a thrill from beginning to end. The Warehouse Theatre, 37 Augusta St. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $25-$15. (864)235-6948, www.warehousetheatre.com
Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra with David Cossin
Join the Spartanburg Philharmonic for an evening of haunting music with percussionist David Cossin. He is known for his unusual combination of drums with new media, and his work was featured as the percussion solo in the score to Ang Lee’s film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Twichell Auditorium, 580 E. Main St., Spartanburg. Saturday, 7:30pm. $27-$10. (864)948-9020, www.spartanburgphilharmonic.org
The Eagles
Following the release of their hit album, Long Road Out of Eden, this beloved American rock band comes to Greenville for the first time since 2003. This musical force, which was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, has sold more than 120 million albums worldwide.
Bi-Lo Center, 650 N. Academy St. Monday, 8pm. $135-$60. (864)467-0008, www.bilocenter.com
Robinson & Friends
Joseph Robinson, former principal oboist of the New York Philharmonic, visits Furman for a teaching and performing residency. He is joined by a number of faculty members for this program of beautiful works by Bach, Britten, Godard, Kurtag, and Barber. Daniel Recital Hall, Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy. Tuesday, 8pm. $12-$3. (864)294-2086, www.furman.edu
MOMIX
For twenty years, the MOMIX dance-illusion company has been celebrated for its ability to conjure up a world of surreal images using props, light, shadow, humor, and the human body. The group, under the direction of Moses Pendleton, will perform “The Best of MOMIX,” a compilation of celebrated and popular vignettes of past performances. Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. 8pm. $20; $10 students. (864)656-7787, www.clemson.edu/Brooks
Stephen Taylor
Pianist and teacher Stephen Taylor performs as part of the Faculty Fine Arts Series at the South Carolina Governor’s School. He attended The Julliard School and has been a part of the Governor’s School since its creation. South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, 15 University St. Thursday, 7:30pm. Free. (864)282-3782, www.scgsah.state.sc.us
Foundation Brass
The Bob Jones University professional brass ensemble-in-residence has performed at the university for nearly fifty years. The group presents a concert of quintet and sextet repertoire spanning from Baroque to modern times, including “The Heavens Declare from Psalm XIX” by Marcello, “Concerto Grosso” by Handel, and “Washington Post March” by Souza. Bob Jones University, 1700 Wade Hampton Blvd. Friday, 7pm. Free. (864)242-5100, www.bju.edu
Stories from Shakespeare
The Greenville Symphony Orchestra celebrates the world’s greatest playwright, William Shakespeare, with a concert that includes pieces by some of classical music’s most popular composers. Selections include Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet Overture” and Mendelssohn’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dream.”
The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $45-$15. (864)467-3000, www.greenvillesymphony.org
Hear What’s in the Heart: The Shoemaker’s Tale
This one-man production features Steve Scionti at a post-funeral gathering to celebrate the life of his grandfather, Angelo Morello. Through a series of humorous and poignant vignettes, Scionti transforms himself into eight family members and friends, jumping back and forth in time to milestone moments in his journey to adulthood. The Warehouse Theatre, 37 Augusta St. Monday, 8pm. $15. (864)235-6948, www.warehousetheatre.com
The Drowsy Chaperone
This entertaining show begins when a die-hard musical theatre fan plays his favorite cast album on his turntable and the musical literally bursts to life in his living room, telling the rambunctious tale of a brazen Broadway starlet trying to find and keep her true love. Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. 8pm. $35. (864)656-7787, www.clemson.edu/Brooks
Shoulder-to-Shoulder
Hear young musicians of the Greenville County Youth Orchestra “shoulder to shoulder” with members of the Greenville Symphony Orchestra in a performance of two orchestral favorites: Edvard Grieg’s “Piano Concerto in A, Op. 16” and Antonin Dvorak’s “Symphony No. 8 in G, Op. 88.”
The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Thursday, 7:30pm. $12. (864)467-3000, www.gcyo.net
David Heller
Presented in conjunction with the 2009 Furman University Church Music Conference, this year’s Belcher Organ Recital features David Heller, organist and professor of music at Trinity University, San Antonio, and artist-in-residence at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Portland, Oregon. Daniel Chapel, Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy. Thursday, 8pm. $12-$3. (864)294-2086, www.furman.edu
Foxfire
A tribute to the preservation of Appalachian heritage, Foxfire is the story of Annie Nations, a woman fighting to save her mountain farm from a brash real estate developer who wants to turn her land into a vacation resort. This story is a tribute to the tenacity of mountain dwellers and a celebration of a woman’s will to maintain her home and family. Foothills Playhouse, 201 S. 5th St., Easley. Friday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $12-$5. (864)855-1817, www.easleyfoothillsplayhouse.com
The Atlanta Sacred Chorale
This chorale has been performing sacred choral music for more than twenty years and brings its skill and emotion to Furman University during the school’s church music conference. The Atlanta Sacred Chorale performs everything from Renaissance-era music to contemporary tunes, along with hymns, gospel selections, and spirituals. Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy. Friday, 8pm. Free. (864)294-2086, www.musicatfurman.com
Jamie Laval
United States National Celtic Fiddle Champion Jamie Laval brings his passionate performance of traditional music of Scotland, Ireland, Brittany, and Quebec with hints of classical and ethnic music to Greenville. His albums include Shades of Green and a duo album with mandolinist Ashley Broder, Zephyr in the Confetti Factory. Greenville Unitarian Universalist Church, 1135 State Park Rd. Sunday, 7pm. $15-$10. (864)593-5350, www.greenvilleuu.org
Clear Lake: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Reunion
It was one of the fiercest winters the Midwest had seen in decades, and it was the middle of the tour known as “The Winter Dance Party.” On February 2, 1959, Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens gave their last performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. This 50th anniversary concert pays tribute to the performers on stage that night, including Dion and the Belmonts and
Frankie Sardo. Centre Stage, 501 River St. Monday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $30. (864)233-6733, www.centrestage.org
Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra
The Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra brings together the finest Irish and European orchestral musicians with Irish and international soloists, conductors and composers, celebrating their shared musical heritage. Bob Jones University, 1700 Wade Hampton Blvd. Tuesday, 8pm. $25-$10. (864)770-1372, www.bju.edu
Turtle Island Quartet with Cyrus Chestnut
The Grammy Award-winning Turtle Island Quartet and jazz pianist Cyrus Chestnut combine their talents to perform a musical feast. Winner of a Grammy for Classical Crossover, the Turtle Island Quartet has been the definition of chamber jazz for more than two decades. Cyrus Chestnut has recorded four critically acclaimed CDs and is considered one of the best sidemen in the business.
Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. Tuesday, 8pm. $20-$10. (864)656-7787,
www.clemson.edu/Brooks
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves learn that winning isn’t everything and losing doesn’t always make you a loser in this Tony Award-winning musical comedy. The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm & 7:30pm. $47-$32. (864)467-3000, www.peacecenter.org
Kyra Zhang and Paula Riddle
Instructors for talented young students at the South Carolina Governor’s School, Kyra Zhang and Paula Riddle perform in this installment of the Faculty Fine Arts Series. Zhang has served as the principal clarinet of the Orquesta Sinfónica del Estado de México and soloist with the Milwaukee Artist and Ensemble Series. Riddle is principal horn of the Hendersonville Symphony and a section member of the South Carolina Philharmonic. South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, 15 University St. Thursday, 7:30pm. Free. (864)282-3782, www.scgsah.state.sc.us
Clemson University Choral Pops Concert
Members of the six Clemson University choral ensembles present a lively program of golden oldies, spirituals, jazz favorites, and contemporary pop. Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. Friday, 8pm. $8-$5. (864)656-7787, www.clemson.edu/Brooks
Beyond the Lines
The Carolina Ballet presents a dance choreographed by Alonzo King of the LINES Ballet in San Francisco. King is known as a master of movement and innovation and spent several days in December working with the ballet’s company. This performance is the culmination of that collaboration. The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 7:30pm. $30-$25. (864)467-3000, www.carolinaballet.org
Oliver!
Oliver! brings to the stage some of Charles Dickens’ most unforgettable characters along with one of Broadway’s most memorable scores. Hits such as “Consider Yourself At Home,” “Food, Glorious Food,” and “Where Is Love” surround this heartwarming tale of the orphan Oliver Twist in this new production of Lional Bart’s musical treasure. Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. Saturday, 7pm. $25. (864)656-7787, www.clemson.edu/Brooks
Troubador Series: Paul Vondiziano
Paul Vondiziano, a native of Cyprus, began his study of the guitar at age eight. He holds a Master of Music degree from Duquesne University in Pennsylvania and has premiered works for guitar including “Memories of Inner Time” and “Triptych,” as well as Will Bottje’s “Lighter Strings” for guitar and harpsichord. Leonard Auditorium, Wofford College, 429 N. Church St., Spartanburg. Tuesday, 7pm. Free. (864)597-4000, www.wofford.edu
Drumline Live
From the musical team that created the movie Drumline comes a live performance inspired by a historically black college and university marching band. This energetic group performs funk classics, hip-hop, and R&B with riveting rhythms and pounding force, showcasing everything from choreographed routines to breathtaking drum riffs. The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Thursday, 7:30pm. $35-$20. (864)467-3000, www.peacecenter.org
The Reluctant Dragon
Celebrating the power of friendship, this South Carolina Children’s Theatre production also reveals the absurdity that comes with stereotypes and judging others simply because they are different. The play centers on a peace-loving, poetry-spouting, tea-drinking dragon who is befriended by a village boy.
The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Friday-Sunday, times vary. $25-$16. (864)467-3000, www.scchildrenstheatre.org
An American Adventure
The Furman Symphony Orchestra joined by the Furman Singers presents an all-American program including Aaron Copland’s “Rodeo,” James Beckel’s “Liberty for All,” John Williams’ “Hymn to the Fallen” and arrangements by Carmen Dragon of “O Susannah,” “Shenandoah,” and “America the Beautiful.” McAlister Auditorium, Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy. Friday, 8pm. $12-$3. (864)294-2086, www.furman.edu
Love Waltz
Love is in the air and you can celebrate your Valentine’s Day with the Greenville Symphony Orchestra at this love-inspired concert including two special works for soprano, featuring Tamara Matthews. The performance includes pieces by Albert Roussel, Philip Glass, Sir Edward Elgar, and Luciano Berio.
Centre Stage, 501 River St. Friday, 10:30am & 7pm. $15. (864)233-6733, www.greenvillesymphony.org
Grease
Join the Fountain Inn Repertory Experience’s high school company as they present this classic musical exploring the complexities of life at Rydell High School. This well-known production includes a score that echoes the music of early, raw rock and roll. Fountain Inn Civic Center for the Performing Arts, 315 N. Main St., Fountain Inn. Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 3pm. $10-$7. (864)409-1050, www.fountaininn.org
This Prison Where I Live
One of two world premieres in the On the Edge series, this production is adapted by the Warehouse Theatre’s Journeymen from a PEN/International collection of writings by authors who were imprisoned for their political, social, or intellectual beliefs. The Warehouse Theatre, 37 Augusta St. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $10. (864) 235-6948, www.warehousetheatre.com
Hear What’s in the Heart: The Shoemaker’s Tale
This one-man production features Steve Scionti at a post-funeral gathering to celebrate the life of his grandfather, Angelo Morello. Through a series of humorous and poignant vignettes, Scionti transforms himself into eight family members and friends, jumping back and forth in time to milestone moments in his journey to adulthood. The Warehouse Theatre, 37 Augusta St. Monday, 8pm. $15. (864)235-6948, www.warehousetheatre.com
Troubador Series: William Yelverton
Experience the diversity of William Yelverton’s performances, including jazz, folk, Latin, and flamenco selections, together with early music performed on the Renaissance lute. Leonard Auditorium, Wofford College, 429 N. Church St., Spartanburg. Wednesday, 7pm. Free. (864)597-4000, www.wofford.edu
Kathryn Dey
A violist with a diverse background in performing and teaching, Kathryn Dey is currently principal viola of the Greenville Symphony Orchestra and violist of the orchestra’s string quartet. See this versatile soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player perform in the Faculty Fine Arts Series.
South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, 15 University St. Thursday, 7:30pm. Free. (864)282-3782, www.scgsah.state.sc.us
Winter Winds
Step inside out of the wintry night and join Furman University for an evening of warmth and music as the school’s woodwind, brass, and percussion students present a variety of selections for symphonic
concert band. McAlister Auditorium, Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy. Thursday, 8pm. $12-$3. (864)294-2086, www.furman.edu
Fred Eaglesmith
This Canadian alt-country singer and songwriter who plays two hundred dates a year brings his western brand of music, featuring trucks, trains, tired cowboys, and rural life to Greenville.
The Handlebar, 304 E. Stone Ave. Friday, 9pm. $18-$16. (864)233-6173,
www.handlebar-online.com
Music on the Mountain
Enjoy traditional bluegrass as musicians gather at the Table Rock Lodge for a jam session. Players bring their own instruments and create beautiful music that draws from a tradition reaching back to some of the first immigrants to the area. Table Rock State Park Lodge, 158 E. Ellison Ln., Pickens. Saturday, 2-9pm. Free. (864)878-8384, www.southcarolinaparks.com
Chorale Chamber Ensemble
The Chorale Chamber Ensemble brings together twenty professional singers to present a program featuring Gabriel Faure’s best-known choral work, “Requiem, opus 48,” along with Renaissance madrigals, “Trois Chansons” by Claude Debussy, and a musical treatment of Walt Whitman’s “Carols of Death” by American composer William Shuman. Daniel Chapel, Furman University, 3300
Poinsett Hwy. Sunday, 2pm. $20-$15. (864)294-2086, www.furman.edu
Leider, Brass, & Brahms
The Furman faculty chamber series concludes with three masterworks: Schubert’s “Shepherd on the Rock,” Anthony Plog’s “Trio for Brass,” and Johannes Brahms’ “Piano Quintet in F minor.”
Daniel Recital Hall, Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy. Tuesday, 8pm. $12-$3. (864)294-2086, www.furman.edu
Born Yesterday
Garson Kanin’s story features a vulgar, egotistic junkman, Harry Brock, and his uneducated showgirl girlfriend, Billie, who come to Washington to make crooked deals with government big-wigs. Billie’s lack of social grace embarrasses Harry who hires a young idealistic newspaperman named Paul to educate her and gets more than he bargained for. University of South Carolina Upstate, 800 University Way, Spartanburg. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $6-$4. (864)503-5695, www.uscupstate.edu
Two Gentlemen of Verona
Adapted from the Shakespearian comedy of the same name, this award-winning rock musical boasts a score by Hair composer Galt MacDermont. In lyrics that veer between Shakespeare’s poetry and pop verse, the musical brings to life the adventures of lifelong friends Proteus and Valentine.
Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $10-$5. (864)656-7787, www.clemson.edu/Brooks
Shall We Dance?
Brilliantly orchestrated Renaissance lute tunes and simple folk melodies combine with modern ballet and tap as the Greenville Symphony Orchestra waltzes into spring. Internationally acclaimed tap dancer Lane Alexander will wow audiences with his fancy footwork in Morton Gould’s “Tap Dance Concerto.” The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $35. (864)467-3000, www.greenvillesymphony.org
Inherit the Wind
This outstanding drama by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee centers on the famous Scopes Monkey Trial. Fresh off a recent Broadway revival, it’s the story of a high school teacher who’s jailed for teaching Darwin’s famous book, “Origin of the Species.” Two of the most famous lawyers of the era are brought in to represent the opposing sides, making it the trial of the century.
Greenville Little Theatre, 444 College St. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $25-$17. (864)233-6238, www.greenvillelittletheatre.com
Garth Fagan Dance
Known for his mix of African-Caribbean experimentation, breathless speed and precision, Garth Fagan rose to the top of dance with his Tony-winning choreography for the musical “The Lion King.” His company has been honored with the New York Governor’s Arts Award for its excellence and originality. The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Saturday, 8pm. $40-$20. (864)467-3000,
www.peacecenter.org
Vega Quartet
Don’t miss a performance by the quartet-in-residence of Emory University that the New York Times describes as “playing that had a kind of clean intoxication to it, pulling the listener along…the musicians took real risks in their music making….” Leonard Auditorium, Wofford College, 429 N. Church St., Spartanburg. Monday, 7pm; Tuesday, 11am. Free. (864)597-4000,
www.wofford.edu
Clemson University Symphonic Band
Clemson’s top-auditioned wind and percussion players present “Music of America,” featuring the best works for band by classic American composers, including Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, and Charles Ives. Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson. Tuesday, 8pm. Free. (864)656-7787, www.clemson.edu/Brooks
Souvenir—A Fantasia on the Life of Florence Foster Jenkins
Florence Foster Jenkins was an American soprano born in 1868 who had a great passion for music and began giving recitals in 1912. Unfortunately, the sounds she produced failed to resemble the music that resonated in her head. This play is the story of the odd partnership between accompanist and “singer.” Centre Stage, 501 River St. Monday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. $25-$13. (864) 233-6733, www.centrestage.org
Ethos Percussions Group
Ethos combines chamber music with the exotic rhythms of India, the Middle East, and Africa. The group integrates global instruments and playing styles into the conventions of Western chamber music to create a visually and aurally compelling performance. The Peace Center, 300 S. Main St. Friday, 8pm. $37. (864)467-3000, www.peacecenter.org
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“Stephen Chesley”
Stephen Chesley is a modern tonalist painter and one of South Carolina’s best-known living landscape artists. He credits diverse artists such as Inness, Hopper, Pollack, Rembrandt, and Seurat as influences. His paintings often depict the fleeting light of dawn and dusk, combined with elements such as water, wind, and fire. Spartanburg Art Museum, 200 E. Saint John St., Spartanburg. Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 10am-8pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm. Free. (864)582-7616, www.spartanburgartmuseum.org
“American Idols: Andrew Wyeth and Jasper Johns”
The Greenville County Museum brings together two true art “American Idols,” Andrew Wyeth and Jasper Johns, for a special exhibit. Wyeth is known for his realistic style and South Carolina native Jasper Johns is known for laying the groundwork for pop art and minimalism with his rich paintings of flags, maps, and targets. Greenville County Museum of Art, 420 College St. Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm; Thursday evenings until 8pm. Free. (864)271-7570, www.greenvillemuseum.org
“Gary Grier”
This exhibit features Charleston-based painter Gary Grier who is known for his depictions of contemporary life, Charleston residents and its neighborhoods in deep hues. Also an illustrator of children’s books, Grier worked as a studio assistant for famed neo-pop artist Jeff Koons. Greenville County Museum of Art, 420 College St. Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm; Thursday evenings until 8pm. Free. (864)271-7570, www.greenvillemuseum.org
“E. Ambrose Webster: Pioneer Modernist”
Webster embraced a modernist style characterized by a brilliant palette and broken brushwork. This exhibition features examples that show the remarkable evolution of his work from 1905 until 1935.
Greenville County Museum of Art, 420 College St. Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm; Thursday evenings until 8pm. Free. (864)271-7570, www.greenvillemuseum.org
“The Making of a Masterpiece”
Although today’s museum visitors can readily enjoy the beauty of Old Master paintings, few realize the artistic processes and organizations behind the production of these works. Learn about the art academies and artists’ guilds that influenced artistic choices, styles, subject matter, and the methods of art instruction. Bob Jones University Museum & Gallery at Heritage Green, College St. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday 2–5 pm. $5-$3. (864)770-1331, www.bjumg.org
Anita Jung
Printmaking is an art form that is as diverse as it is ancient and lends itself to a variety of processes, including screen printing, lithography, engraving, and more. Anita Jung, a professor of printmaking at the University of Iowa, presents a mixed media exhibition. Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, 15 University St. Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm. Free. (864)282-3782, www.scgsah.state.sc.us
“Agglomerating Spaces: Sculpture and Drawing by Elizabeth Mead”
Mead uses her sculptures to remind us of time and space, the usually forgotten mediums through which we experience physicality. She also explores memory and is attentive to the question: “How do we come to exist, and, most importantly, how do we remember that we do?” Furman University, 3300 Poinsett Hwy. Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Free. (864)294-2074, www.furman.edu
Mark Gordon—Sculpture
Mark Gordon is a ceramics instructor at Barton College in North Carolina and brings examples of his sculpture to Greenville. He has adapted a technique he first observed being practiced by traditional Egyptian brick makers. A closing lecture and gallery reception will be held Thursday, February 19 at 4:30pm. University Gallery, University of South Carolina Upstate, 800 University Way. Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Free. (864)503-5838, www.uscupstate.edu
“The Grand Picture Gallery”
In the spirit of the great private collections and museums of the past, the gallery will be transformed into a showcase of the collection’s greatest Baroque paintings hung salon-style—floor-to-ceiling. Visitors will discover how great collections were formed and how a collector’s prized possessions were exhibited. Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery, 1700 Wade Hampton Blvd. Tuesday-Sunday, 2-5pm. $5-$3. (864)770-1331, www.bjumg.org
Portraits in Courage
Greenville County Museum of Art curator Martha Severens presents this illustrated lecture discussing the visual portrayal of the five figures who are the subject of Greenville Chautauqua’s “America in Crisis”: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt, and Rosa Parks. Greenville County Museum of Art, 420 College St. Thursday, 6:30pm. Free. (864) 271-7570, www.greenvillemuseum.org
Wit’s End Poetry: Christian Drake
Wits End Poetry presents Christian Drake, founder of the Hampshire College Poetry Slam Team in 2004 and member of the DC/Baltimore 2005 Slam Team and Berkeley 2006 Slam Team. The event will also include an open mic session. Coffee Underground, 1 E. Coffee St. Sunday, 7:30pm. $5. (864)298-0494, www.witsendpoetry.com
Emrys Reading Room: John Jeter and Nancy Dew Taylor
The Handlebar owner John Jeter opened his award-winning concert venue in 1994 and recently published his debut novel, The Plunder Room. He has been a reporter and editor for the St. Petersburg Times, Chicago Sun-Times, and San Antonio Express News. Nancy Dew Taylor, a former high school English teacher and university instructor, has published short stories, poetry, and a book. Her latest work is a chapbook, Stepping on Air. The Handlebar, 304 E. Stone Ave. Monday, 7pm. $4-$2. (864)233-6173, www.emrys.org
Thomas Scanlon Collection of African Art
View selections from Thomas Scanlon’s extensive collection of African art that he began in the 1970s. The exhibit of primarily West African pieces features sacred objects and masks from Zaire, Mali, and Angola. Sandor Teszler Library, Wofford College, 429 N. Church St., Spartanburg. Monday-Thursday, 8am-midnight; Friday, 8am-7pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday 1pm-midnight. Free. (864)597-4000, www.wofford.edu
Flicks for Thought Film Series
The Upcountry History Museum, Greenville Organic Foods Organization, and Upstate Forever present a film series exploring agricultural and environmental issues. Films include King Corn, A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash, The Real Dirt on Farmer John, and Renewal. A reception with light refreshments will precede each screening. Upcountry History Museum, 540 Buncombe St. Thursday, 5:30pm. $5. (864)467-3100, www.upcountryhistory.org
Christo and Jeanne-Claude Works in Progress with Q & A
Internationally known artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude are known for temporary works of art that reflect and reinterpret their surroundings. The Asheville Art Museum brings this husband and wife team to Asheville for “Art and Its Environment.” The couple constructs temporary, environmental artworks including “The Gates” installation in New York City’s Central Park featuring 7,500 gates.
Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, 87 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC. Thursday, 7pm. $28-$14. (828)251-5505, www.ashevilleart.org
Greater Greenville Gardening Symposium
Learn how to make your garden grow at this event for gardeners and plant lovers. Speakers will cover cultivation inspiration, the ancient art of bonsai, English gardens, and more. Presenters include Arthur Joura, Bonsai Curator at the NC Arboretum; Scott McMahan, international plant hunter; and Marian St.Clair, local garden writer. Carolina First Center, One Exposition Dr. Saturday, 8am-3:15pm. $55. (864)235-8781, www.greatergreenvillemastergardener.org
James D Cockman Distinguished Lecture Series
Dr. Wesley Willmer, author of Revolution in Generosity, will speak on "Are We Really That Generous?" in this series. Lunch will be served from noon to 12:30pm and with Dr. Willmer will speak at 12:30pm. Please visit www.leprosy.org to RSVP. American Leprosy Missions, 120 Broadus Ave. noon-1:30pm. Free. (864) 271-7040, www.leprosy.org
World Film Series: Zwartboek
Zwartboek (Black Book) features the story of a young Jewish girl who is hiding from the Nazis during World War II. She later joins the resistance and seduces an SS official’s son. After someone within the resistance betrays her, she has to make the choice to flee with the man she now loves or stay and prove her innocence. Wofford College, 429 N. Church St., Spartanburg. Wednesday, 3:30pm & 7:30pm. Free. (864)597-4000, www.wofford.edu
Reel Genders Foreign Film Series
This film series combining gender, international culture, and film features In the Mood for Love that tells the story of a married man and a married woman living in neighboring apartments. They fall in love with each other while grappling with the infidelities of their respective spouses whom they discover are involved with each other. Tukey Theatre, University of South Carolina Upstate, 800 University Way. Thursday, 7pm. Free. (864)503-5724, www.uscupstate.edu
Robert E. Lee and Wade Hampton
Two famous generals will show us a thing or two about handling a crisis in this Chautauqua performance. Both were Southern by birth and leaders by destiny—hear in their own words a presentation that can offer a unique understanding of what it is to be American and the price that can be demanded for keeping one’s convictions. Wade Hampton High School, 100 Pine Knoll Dr., Saturday, 3pm & 7:00pm. Free. (864)244-1499, www.greenvillechautauqua.org
Greenville County Historical Society Winter Meeting
The featured speaker will be Dr. Jeffrey Willis speaking on “The Cunningham Brothers, Greenville Architects.” He is the college archivist at Converse College and author of three books of photographic history: Spartanburg: A Postcard History, Converse College, and Remembering Greenville: Photographs from the Coxe Collection. Canal Insurance Company Auditorium, 400 E. Stone Ave. Sunday, 3pm. Free. (864)233-4103, www.greenvillehistory.org
Wit’s End Poetry: Wally B
Walter “Wally B” Jennings is the founder of Black on Black Rhyme—Tampa and recently hosted the 2008 Southern Fried Poetry Slam. The event will also include an open mic session.
Coffee Underground, 1 E. Coffee St. Sunday, 7:30pm. $5. (864)298-0494, www.witsendpoetry.com
Emrys Reading Room – Sarah Blackman and John Pursley III
Sarah Blackman is a poet and fiction writer who recently taught composition, creative writing and literature at the University of Alabama where she also served as the fiction editor for the “Black Warrior Review.” She teaches creative writing at the Fine Arts Center in Greenville. John Pursley III teaches writing and literature at Clemson University. “Supposing, for Instance, Here in the Space-Time Continuum,” his new chapbook, won the Apprentice House Press Second Annual Poetry Chapbook Contest. The Handlebar, 304 E. Stone Ave. Monday, 7pm. $4-$2. (864)233-6173, www.emrys.org
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Starry Nights
Visit the planetarium on Fridays for a glimpse of the cosmos. This month’s shows include Oceans in Space, a search for life in the universe from Earth’s oceans to the stars featuring narration by Avery Brooks of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. All ages can also peek through the 23-inch telescope at the observatory—open 8-10pm. Roper Mountain Science Center, 402 Roper Mountain Rd. Friday, 7:30pm. $4-$3. (864)355-8900, www.ropermountain.org
A Day On, Not a Day Off
Initiated by Congress in 1994, King Day of Service is a nationwide effort to transform the federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. into a weekend of community service, grounded in King’s teachings of nonviolence and social justice. From cleaning up your community to painting murals to spending time at a food bank, Hands on Greenville can link you to ways you can serve.
Locations vary. Thursday-Monday, times vary. Free. (864)242-4224,www.handsongreenville.org
GSO Lollipops Concert
Join the Greenville Symphony Orchestra for a sweet time during Lollipops concerts for young audiences. These performances introduce children ages three to seven to classical music and children’s literature featuring a chamber ensemble and a storybook reading. This month, the group will present “The Bremen Town Musicians,” collected by the Brothers Grimm and featuring music by Bach. Of course, audience members receive a lollipop at the end of each performance.
Hendricks Library, 626 NE Main St., Simpsonville. Saturday, 10am; Jean M. Smith Library, 505 Pennsylvania Ave., Greer. 11:30am. Free. (864)232-0344, ext. 19, www.greenvillesymphony.org
Ringing in the New Year with Old Time Music
Visit Pickens for foot-stomping fun hosted by multi-instrumentalist Bob Buckingham and his band, The Blue Ridge Rounders. This group of musicians goes beyond droning fiddles and presents a variety show from the stringband tradition. Hagood Mill Historic Site and Folklife Center, 138 Hagood Mill Rd., Pickens. Saturday, 10am-4pm. Free. (864)898-2936, www.co.pickens.sc.us/culturalcommission
Survivor Casting Call at Sunrift Adventures
Ready for your close up? Sunrift Adventures in Travelers Rest has been selected as a "casting call location" for Survivor wannabes. Think you've got what it takes to be on the show? Be first in line to shoot a two-minute video telling the CBS crew why you'd be an excellent pick. Think of it as your first challenge. Sunrift Adventures, 1 Center Street, Travelers Rest. Wednesday, 10am- 4pm. (864)834-3019, http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor/
Upstate South Carolina Boat Show
Check out the latest and greatest in recreational boats, fishing boats, ski boats, and personal watercraft, plus marine electronics and boating accessories at this annual show. Wander among the wares of more than one hundred exhibitors to pick up the latest gadget for your vessel.
Carolina First Center, One Exposition Dr. Thursday-Friday, noon-9pm; Saturday, 10am-9:30pm; Sunday, noon-6pm. $6-$5. (864)233-2562, www.upstatescboatshow.com
Greenville News Run Downtown
One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to lose weight. Start your new exercise regimen off right and pound the pavement with hundreds of other runners in this annual 5K road race through the streets of downtown Greenville. South Main and Broad streets, downtown Greenville. Saturday, 9am. $35-$23. (864)640-1725, www.rundowntowngreenville.com
Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus
Witness the new circus production, “Zing, Zang, Zoom,” when the circus comes to town. This production features a disappearing act by a four-ton elephant, high flying trapeze artists, human cannonballs, animals and, of course, the clowns. Bi-Lo Center, 650 N. Academy St. Wednesday-Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 11am, 3pm & 7pm; Sunday, noon & 4pm. $24-$15. (864)233-2525, www.bilocenter.com
Smoothing the Transitions of Puberty
An after school program for mothers and daughters, ages eight to eleven, will address the changes of puberty that occur as girls make the transition into young women. Refreshments will be served.
Roper Mountain Science Center, 402 Roper Mountain Rd. Thursday, 3:45-5pm. $12-$10. (864)355-8901, www.ropermountain.org
First Friday Nature Walk
Meet at the Red Caboose at the South Carolina Botanical Gardens for a one- to two-hour walk with naturalist and Clemson University professor David Bradshaw. Learn about all forms of nature, including birds, trees, and signs of wildlife. South Carolina Botanical Gardens, Silas Pearman Blvd., Clemson. Friday, 9am. Free. (864)656-3405, www.clemson.edu/scbg
Storytelling and Art
Join the staff of Bob Jones University’s Museum and Gallery the first Saturday of each month for story time for all ages featuring a Caldecott Medal-winning book. Following the reading, learn about the methods used to create the book’s illustrations in a discussion at the TechConnect Station.
Bob Jones University, 1700 Wade Hampton Blvd. Saturday, 3pm. $5-$3; free for ages 12 and under. (864)770-1331, www.bjumg.org
Winter Bird Count
Enjoy a morning of birdwatching and help the Cornell Lab of Ornithology complete a winter bird study in this survey at Table Rock State Park. Bring a pair of binoculars and see if you can spot a variety of bird species in wooded, weedy, and wetland habitats. Table Rock State Park, 158 E. Ellison Ln., Pickens. Saturday, 8:30am. Free. (864)878-9813, www.southcarolinaparks.com
Timbre Tales
Witness the melding of classical music, literature, and theatre in this program for pre-school through elementary-aged children and their families. Greenville Symphony Orchestra musicians perform pieces while a story is presented with costumed characters. “The Frog Prince Continued” by Jon Scieszka will be presented with music by Gustav Holst. South Carolina Children’s Theatre, 153 Augusta Rd. Tuesday, 4:30pm. Free. (864)232-0344; www.greenvillesymphony.org
CycleWorld International Motorcycle Show
Feast your eyes upon vehicles with the best gas mileage on the planet: motorcycles and scooters. This nationwide show features motorcycles, dirt bikes, scooters, and ATVs. Not sure whether you want to buy that Vespa? Try it out during demo rides in the Scooter Pavilion. Carolina First Center, One Exposition Dr. Friday, 4-9pm; Saturday, 9:30am-8pm; Sunday, 9:30am-5pm. $13-$6. (800)331-5706, www.motorcycleshows.com
Deep Winter Blues
Come out of your cold weather shell and enjoy some tunes with great acoustic folk and blues by Steve McGaha and friends. McGaha is known for his finger picking guitar style that echoes those of Mississippi John Hurt and Piedmont bluesman Pink Anderson. Hagood Mill Historic Site and Folklife Center, 138 Hagood Mill Rd., Pickens. Saturday, 10am-4pm. Free. (864)898-2936,
www.co.pickens.sc.us/culturalcommission
Clues to the Past Hike
A walk around Lake Placid at Paris Mountain State Park reveals many clues to the past, from geological history to the story behind the dam built in 1898 and the structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Even the rings of fallen trees have a story to tell. Historians of all ages can also participate in a scavenger hunt. Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Rd. Saturday, 1pm. $5. (864)244-5565, www.southcarolinaparks.com
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