Hi friends,
Prediction: Given the daily absurdity of today’s world, I can see the point when April Fool’s Day could morph into its opposite, the day we can all wake up and pretend things are normal and boring and predictable, and no one is gobsmacked by a news headline all day long. Wouldn’t that be nice?
Now, on with the show.
THIS JUST IN
Fans of 1970s vintage might remember singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff emerging briefly from the Southern California scene of the era, both as a performer in her own right and a primary collaborator with Linda Ronstadt. Bonoff has been booked for a show at Felton Music Hall on Nov. 8. The Oakland music project known as Tune-Yards is also set to drop into Felton, on June 14. The English Beat returns for two big back-to-back shows of two-tone ska June 6 and 7, also at Felton Music Hall. The B-Side Players roll into Moe’s Alley on May 1. The Christian-music brother band Strings and Heart is booked at The Catalyst on May 30. And well-known Santa Cruz troubadour Keith Greeninger is playing the Kuumbwa Jazz Center on April 5 (that’s soon!) with the fine guitarist Nina Gerber and a duo from the local band Wolf Jett.
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, March 27-April 3
THIS WEEK IN A&E
Janet Johns named 2025 Santa Cruz County Artist of the Year
Janet Johns, who co-founded folklórico dance company Esperanza del Valle in 1978 and has been a fixture in Santa Cruz County arts & culture, has been named the county’s 2025 artist of the year.
Well-known artist Kiebert focus of latest PVA exhibit
Sculptor, teacher and psychologist Coeleen Kiebert is the focus of a new exhibition titled “Art & Spirit” at the Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery in Watsonville.
Begonia Fest remembered by new art piece in Capitola
Santa Cruz artist Geoffrey Nelson has recently installed his new piece, “Beguiling Begonias,” at the tiny Soquel Creek Park on the corner of Wharf Road and East Cliff Drive, next to the Stockton Avenue Bridge.
Old as Dirt: How the Banana Slug String Band has stayed relevant for 40 years
The Banana Slug String Band has achieved something remarkable, having played together continuously for 40 years with all its original members. The Slugs owe their longevity to a specific mission as both educators and entertainers, providing one generation after another with relevant and fun information […]
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.