Hi friends,
If you’re a bit confused by the omnipresent meme “Hold my beer,” let me present a vivid example. Last summer, because I’m a hopeless masochist, I read the book “Griftopia” by the Rolling Stone politics writer Matt Taibbi, a caustic account of the 2008 financial crisis, subtitled “The Most Audacious Power Grab in American History.” To which, 2025 says, “Hold my beer.” I hope that makes it clearer.
Now, on with the show.
THIS JUST IN
One of America’s great folk-music voices, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, 93 years young, visits Moe’s Alley on March 30. Another legend, novelist Isabel Allende, is set to come to the Rio in a May 11 event presented by Bookshop Santa Cruz. Journalist Malcolm Harris, the author of the acclaimed history book “Palo Alto” (and a Santa Cruz native), is set to come to Bookshop on April 24. Former Tom Petty sideman Benmont Tench plays the Kuumbwa Jazz Center on April 4. Cartoonist Alison Bechdel, whose graphic memoir “Fun Home” was made into a Tony Award-winning musical, visits Bookshop on May 28 to talk about her new book. The singer-songwriter known as Amigo the Devil performs at Felton Music Hall on May 28. The great British drummer Simon Phillips plays the Kuumbwa with his latest band June 6. Opening night for Cabrillo Stage’s big summer production of the lurid musical “Sweeney Todd” is set for July 18. And the Kuumbwa Jazz Center celebrates 50 years with a photography exhibit of the club’s history, with an onstage conversation between co-founder Tim Jackson and performer Kim Nalley. The event is set for May 2.
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, Feb. 13-20
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THIS WEEK IN A&E
Happy Valentine’s Day, Santa Cruz: Let’s celebrate with poems of love – and an experiment
What better time than stormy February to celebrate the richness of Santa Cruz’s literary community? What better time to read poetry than a stormy day amid political upheaval? Lookout launches an experiment in poetry – and asks for your input on creating a regular […]
Artist Ed Penniman brings his vision to Santa Cruz City Hall
Veteran Santa Cruz painter Ed Penniman is the man of the moment at Santa Cruz City Hall, which will hang one of his paintings after a reception Wednesday. Penniman will also curate an ongoing show showcasing artists who used their art as […]
Santa Cruz native Pascal Le Boeuf wins Grammy, putting him in august company
Santa Cruz native and jazz pianist Pascal Le Boeuf won the Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Composition, an honor that in the past has gone to the likes of Duke Ellington and Henry Mancini.
What’s next for the MAH? New leader Porcella begins to outline her vision
Santa Cruz’s Museum of Art & History has a new leader, veteran curator Ginger Shulick Porcella, who is looking to rethink the museum’s gift shop, examine new festivals and bring some new energy to the MAH’s beautiful atrium.
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.