Hi friends,
Looking for a little non-holiday, post-election, New Year’s musical inspiration? I suggest a deep listen to Nina Simone’s 1971 version of “New World Coming.” If Nina, with all she experienced in her life, can sing this with conviction and joy, after the meltdown of the late 1960s, then what do we have to whine about?
Now, on with the show.
THIS JUST IN
Twenty years ago, he was an iconic entertainer filling a unique literary niche with an audience of millions. But it’s a quiet decade in the life of writer and storyteller Garrison Keillor. Fans who remember his heyday might like to know he’s back on the road and slated for Felton Music Hall on Jan. 14. The well-known Bay Area string band Brothers Comatose get a two-night stand at Moe’s Alley, April 10-11. Reggae artist Collie Buddz, a frequent visitor to town, is due to perform at The Catalyst on April 19. 1980s ska stars The English Beat is headed back to the area with a Feb. 22 gig at Felton Music Hall. A big, loud and defiant DJ show called the Galactic New Year’s Eve celebration rocks the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium on Dec. 31. The innovative New York jazz/hip-hop trio The Pickle Mafia comes to the Kuumbwa Jazz Center on Feb. 5. And Santa Cruz writer Liza Monroy discusses her disquieting new novel “The Distractions” at Bookshop Santa Cruz on Jan. 15.
Be sure to check out Lookout’s carefully curated and constantly updated planning guide, Down the Line, for the staggering riches and amazing choices awaiting Santa Cruz audiences. It’s our look ahead at the best shows, concerts and events through the rest of the year at clubs, stages and venues all over the county.
CHECK THIS OUT
Best 9: Top events for the week ahead in Santa Cruz County arts & entertainment, Dec. 5-12
THIS WEEK IN A&E
Poet Gary Young leads effort to honor the art of Santa Cruz sage Gene Holtan
On the heels of the release of his new book of poems, Santa Cruz’s Gary Young draws new interest in the art and life of his mentor, the painter and illustrator Gene Holtan. An exhibition is on now at downtown’s M.K. Contemporary Art, with a […]
Santa Cruz Pride to go big to celebrate 50th anniversary
Santa Cruz Pride is in the planning stages of a big celebration breaking the bonds of Pride Month for 2025, with events and activities that will begin as early as February, culminating in the 50th-anniversary Pride parade on June 1.
What stand-up comic DNA has meant to Santa Cruz — and what we’re losing as he departs
The stand-up comic known as DNA is leaving Santa Cruz County after almost 20 years of tirelessly building a comedy subculture there. He worked hard to plant those seeds in a town that didn’t always appreciate his efforts.
A guide to Santa Cruz County holiday fun 2024
From big traditional productions like “A Christmas Carol” and “The Nutcracker” to the return of the Flynn Creek Circus to lights at the fairgrounds, the downtown parade and a medley of other happenings, Santa Cruz County is brimming with the holiday spirit, and Wallace Baine […]
That’s all I got, friends. Come at me with comments, ideas, complaints, or thundering insights. Thanks to all Lookout members for your faith and support, and please, spread the word on what we’re doing.