Shop two holiday markets, laugh along to The Thanksgiving Play, get the scoop on careers in STEM, and learn something new
Artists, scientists, historians, and holiday shoppers all have something to look forward to this week! Catch a show at Altarena Playhouse’s production of The Thanksgiving Play Friday through Sunday, November 15 to 17. On Saturday, November 16, get inspired at the Apollo 12 55th Anniversary and Techs on Decks event at the USS Hornet—featuring lots of cool science, free admission for students, and free pizza, too. The Immanuel Lutheran Church’s annual Holiday Boutique on Saturday, November 16 will help shoppers get into the holiday spirit with lots of local wares and a photo opportunity with Mrs. Claus. Keep the shopping going on Sunday, November 17 with Temple Israel of Alameda’s Holiday Fest. Last but not least, on Wednesday the 20th, Faction Brewing is hosting another fascinating lecture from Profs & Pints® called “Bridgerton and the Bodice-Ripper,” which will dive into the history of the well-loved “bodice-ripper” genre.
The Thanksgiving Play at Altarena Playhouse
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, November 15-17
Catch a show this weekend at The Thanksgiving Play, a “wickedly funny satire” at Altarena Playhouse, 1409 High Street. There are three performances this weekend: Friday, November 15 at 8 p.m., Saturday, November 16 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, November 17 at 2 p.m.
The Thanksgiving Play is written by Larissa FastHorse, and it follows a troupe of misguided teaching artists as they struggle to create a pageant celebrating both Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Month. “Hamlet famously observed that ‘the purpose of playing…is to hold as ’twere the mirror up to nature,’” writes local director and theater reviewer Gene Kahane. “In this case FastHorse has written a hugely successful play…The Thanksgiving Play is her mirror, which she holds up and used to hit us over the head.”
If you can’t make it this weekend, The Thanksgiving Play runs for one more weekend, Friday to Sunday, November 22 to 24. Tickets are available online. Guests who require mobility accommodations are encouraged to reach out to the theater in advance.
Apollo 12 55th Anniversary and Techs on Decks at the USS Hornet
Saturday, November 16
What could be better than science and free pizza? Join the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum for a celebration of the Apollo 12 mission on Saturday, November 16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For this special event, kids receive free admission, and students can get in for free with a student I.D. And, yes—there’s free pizza from Domino’s Pizza while supplies last.
This “Techs on Decks” themed extravaganza is more than just a simple party. Attendees are welcome to explore interactive experiences, meet with real life science and technology innovators, and learn about internships and early career paths in the sciences. Visitors can expect a wide variety of exhibits, including multiple drone demonstrations throughout the day.
See the full list of the event’s STEM educators and get a sneak peek of the day’s schedule online. If you have any questions, please contact the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum at (510) 521-8448 or [email protected].
Holiday Arts & Crafts Boutique
Saturday, November 16
Get ready for some holiday shopping at Immanuel Lutheran Church’s annual Holiday Boutique on Saturday, November 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 1910 Santa Clara Avenue.
Over two dozen local artisans will be selling their wares, including food and treats for the family. Festivities for the day include live music, a raffle, and an appearance from Mrs. Claus! Children are welcome to participate in a photo opportunity, and they will receive a free children’s book, thanks to the East Bay Children’s Book Project.
Admission to the boutique is free, and proceeds will support church-sponsored community outreach projects. Attendees are asked to enter the event from the Chestnut Street entrance. If you have any questions, please contact the church office at (510) 523-0659.
Alameda Holiday Fest
Sunday, November 17
Holiday shopping opportunities continue on Sunday, November 17, at Temple Israel of Alameda’s Holiday Fest. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., shop this annual craft fair across two buildings: Temple Israel, at 3138 Mecartney Road, and HBI Community Center, at 3195 Mecartney Road.
Leading up to the big day, Alameda Holiday Fest is highlighting a selection of this year’s vendors on their Facebook page. So far, we know that local beekeeper Andre of Twin Bee Apiaries will be selling jars of delicious honey. Jeani Miller Mine’s unique Christmas decor is sure to be a hit, and Mary Gold’s beautiful statement jewelry will be on full display at the event. Keep your eyes peeled for more vendor reveals on the Alameda Holiday Fest Facebook page.
Entrance to the event is free, and parking is available on site. If you have any questions or need more information, please call (510) 522-9355 or email [email protected].
Profs & Pints®: Bridgerton and the Bodice-Ripper
Wednesday, November 20
Dearest Gentle Reader,
You are formally invited to “Bridgerton and the Bodice-Ripper,” a fascinating lecture by Associate Professor Julia Fawcett at Faction Brewing, 2501 Monarch Street, on Wednesday, November 20, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Grab a drink at the bar and get ready for an examination of the “bodice-ripper” genre—and of Bridgerton’s place within it—from Julia Fawcett, associate professor of theater, dance, and performance studies at UC Berkeley and scholar of life in eighteenth century London. The lecture promises to be a load of fun, and regency period attire is encouraged.
This lecture is presented by Profs & Pints®, an organization with a mission to bring “college faculty members into bars, cafés, company offices, and other off-campus venues to share their knowledge.” Get a sneak peek of this lecture online. Tickets are available for advance purchase online, or may be purchased at the door.
What else is going on in Alameda?
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Amanda Laird is the Content Manager and Events Editor of the Alameda Post. Reach her at [email protected].
