TUESDAY, OCT. 3 

Tuesday is for the Birds An early morning walk for birders through Bay Area parklands. Bring water, sunscreen, binoculars and a snack. This week we will visit Arrowhead Marsh. For meeting location or to borrow binoculars, call 525-2233.  

Berkeley School Volunteers Training workshop for volunteers interested in helping the public schools, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. 644-8833. 

Torture Teach-in and Vigil with Father Louis Vitale at 12:30 p.m. at the fountain on UC Campus, Bancroft at College. 649-0663. 

Environmental Links to Breast Cancer at 7:30 p.m. at Elephant Pharmacy, 1607 Shattuck Ave. 549-9200. 

Discussion Salon on Clean Money and Campaign Reform at 7 p.m. at JCC, 1414 Walnut.  

Sleep Soundly Seminar A free class on how hypnosis can help you sleep at 6:30 p.m. at 378 Jayne Ave., Oakland. To register call 465-2524. 

Guitars in the Classroom Free music and guitar classes for public school elementary teachers, beginners at 5:30 and intermediate at 6:30 p.m. at Lakeview Elementary School, 746 Grand Ave., Oakland. Classes run for 8 weeks. Advanced registration is required. 848-9463. 

Albany Library Homework Center is open from 3 to 5 p.m., Tues. and Thurs. for students in third through fifth grades. No registration is required. 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720 ext 17. 

Tuesday Tilden Walkers Join a few slowpoke seniors at 9:30 a.m. in the parking lot near the Little Farm for an hour or two walk. 215-7672, 524-9992. 

Handbuilding Ceramics Class from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. John’s Senior Center, 2727 College Ave. Free, except for materials and firing charges. For information call 525-5497. 

Berkeley Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m., at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. 548-3991. www.berkeleycameraclub.org 

St. John’s Prime Timers meets at 9:30 a.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. We always welcome new members over 50. 845-6830. 

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4  

Dedication of the Eastshore State Park at 11:30 a.m. at Berkeley Meadow, Frontage Road, between University and Gilman. A picnic lunch in the park and optional interpretive walks through the restored meadow will follow the program. For information contact the East Bay Regional Parks District, 544-2208. 

Berkeley Path Wanderers Association’s Fall Leaf Walk An easy stroll to enjoy falling leaves, ending with making leaf prints. Meet at the picnic area with the large fireplace in Live Oak Park, between Shattuck and Walnut, north of Rose. 524-2383. www.berkeleypaths.org  

Neighborhood and Community Green Space with David Dobereiner on “The Legacy of Karl Linn” at 1 p.m. in Wurster Hall, Room 315A, UC Campus. 

Walking Tour of Old Oakland Uptown to the Lake to discover Art Deco landmarks. Meet at 10 a.m. in front of the Paramount Theater at 2025 Broadway. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. 

Friends of the Albany Library Annual Meeting with local author Ellen Ekstrom reading from her new novel, “The Legacy” at 7:30 p.m. at 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720, ext. 16. 

Friends of the Oakland Library Booksale at The Bookmark Bookstore from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to Oct. 7 at 721 Washington St. 444-0473. 

Youth Media Council’s “Unplug Clear Channel” Party at 7 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $3-$5. 849-2568. 

“Know Your Rights: What Employers Don’t Want You to Know” with author Carol Denise Mitchell at 6:30 p.m. at the Oakland Public Library, West Auditorium, 125 !4th St. 238-3134. 

WriterCoach Connection seeks volunteers to help students improve their writing and critical thinking skills. Training session from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. For information call 524-2319. www.writercoachconnection.org  

American Red Cross Blood Services Volunteer Orientation from 10 a.m. to noon. Various East Bay opportunities available. Advanced sign-up is required; please call 594-5165.  

Walk Berkeley for Seniors meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Sea Breeze Market, just west of the I-80 overpass. Everyone is welcome, wear comfortable shoes and a warm hat. 548-9840. 

“Living with Ones and Twos” Practical advice for parents with Meg Zweiback, nurse practitioner at 7 p.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave., Oakland. Advance registration requested. 658-7353. www.bananasinc.org 

Spirited Child Series Learn how temperament affects children’s behavior and how to best live and work with inborn traits at 7 p.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave., Oakland. To register call 752-6150. If you need child care, at $5 per child, call 658-7353.  

New to DVD “Off the Map” Film and discussion at 7 p.m. at the JCC, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237, ext. 132. 

Current Events Discussion Group meets at 7 p.m. at the Niebyl Proctor Marxist Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave. Oakland. 597-4972. 

Fresh Produce Stand at San Pablo Park from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the Frances Albrier Community Center. Sponsored by the Ecology Center’s Farm Fresh Choice. 848-1704. www.ecologycenter.org 

Berkeley Peace Walk and Vigil at the Berkeley BART Station, corner of Shattuck and Center. Sing for Peace at 6:30 p.m. followed by Peace Walk at 7 p.m. www.geocities.com/ 

vigil4peace/vigil 

THURSDAY, OCT. 5 

North East Berkeley Association Candidates Night for Mayor and School Board at 7 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. 

First Thursdays at Fruitvale Village A street fair and farmer’s market with music, arts and crafts, stone fruit tastings, and activities for chidren from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Fruitvale BART.  

“Maquilapolis” A documentary on lives caught in the border-zone of the globalized economy, by Vicky Funari and Sergio De La Torre at 8:30 p.m. at Transmissions Gallery, 1177 San Pablo Ave. 558-4084. www.transmissions-gallery.com  

Workshop for Educators “More Than Your Standard Garden” Your school garden can be an outdoor classroom for science, math, or language arts. Learn how to develop standards-based lesson plans and link existing activities to California Content Standards. From 4 to 6 p.m. in Oakland. Cost is $25, scholarships available. 665-3546. www.thewatershedproject.org  

“Never Again” Photographs and discussion of the physical and human consequences of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at 5 p.m. at the Bade Museum of the Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Ave.  

Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival at 7 p.m. at the Lawrence Hall of Science. Tickets are $13-$15. 530-265-6424.  

Environmental Film Series “Life + Debt”on the effects of globalization on Jamaica and on the world’s developing countries at 7 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. 548-2220, ext. 233. 

WriterCoach Connection seeks volunteers to help students improve their writing and critical thinking skills. Training session from noon to 3 p.m. For information call 524-2319. www.writercoachconnection.org  

Drop-in Health Clinics from 9 to noon at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst. 981-5190. 

Poetry Workshop with Donna Davis from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. Offered by the Berkeley Adult School. 644-6130. 

Avatar Metaphysical Toastmasters Club meets at 6:45 a.m. at Spud’s Pizza, 3290 Adeline at Alcatraz. Free, all are welcome. namaste@avatar.freetoasthost.info  

World of Plants Tours Thurs., Sat. and Sun. at 1:30 p.m. at the UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. Cost is $5. 643-2755. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

FRIDAY, OCT. 6 

Impeachment Banner Fridays at 6:45 to 8 a.m. on the Berkeley Pedestrian bridge between Seabreeze Market and the Berkeley Aquatic Park, ongoing on Fridays until impeachment is realized. www. Impeachbush-cheney.com 

Berkeley Sustainability Summit with presentations on sustainability projects in Berkeley from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Krutch Theater, Clark Kerr Campus, 2601 Warring St. Cost is $25. RSVP to 548-2220 ext. 235. 

Job and Resource Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the garden of the Oakland Museum, 1000 Oak St., Oakland, with presentaions by local companies, workshops and resume clinics, and information on seasonal employment opportunities. www.jobtrain.info 

The Path of Transformation: Heal from Domestic Violence from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, Health Education Center, 400 Hawthorne Ave., Oakland. Cost is $25-$50, financial aid and scholarships available. 869-6763. 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with a debate between Dennis Kuby and Lisa Fullam on “The Morality of Legalizing Physician Aid in Dying” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $14, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 526-2925.  

“Can We Spare Some Change?” An art exhibit of paintings by Milton Bowens and kick-off of a recruitment campaign to increase the number of African American bone marrow donors opens at 6 p.m. at the African American Museum & Library, 659 14th St., Oakland. 637-0200. 

“An Inconvenient Truth” Al Gore’s environmental documentary, at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 1640 Addison St. Free. 482-1062. 

“An Inconvenient Truth” Al Gore’s environmental documentary, at 7 p.m. at Hillside Community Church, 1422 Navellier St., El Cerrito. 236-4348. 

“An Inconvenient Truth” Al Gore’s environmental documentary, at 6:30 p.m. at 565 Bellevue St., at Perkins, Oakland. 541-3009. 

Friends of the Oakland Library Booksale at The Bookmark Bookstore from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to Oct. 7 at 721 Washington St. 444-0473. 

Moonrise, Sunset Hike A 3.5 mile nature hike over varied terrain. Meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Big Springs Staging Area, Tilden Park. Bring flashlight, layered clothing, water and a sack dinner. For information call 525-2233. 

Autumn Harvest Festival at Habitot Museum with storytelling and crafts, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2065 Kittredge St. 647-1111.  

“Investing in Emerging Markets: China, India, Russia” Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Andersen Auditorium, Haas School of Business, UC Campus. ww.haas.berkeley.edu/ 

HaasGlobal/emergingmarketsconference.html 

Mid-Autumn Festival at 1:15 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst. 981-5190. 

Women in Black Vigil, from noon to 1 p.m. at UC Berkeley, Bancroft at Telegraph. 548-6310. 

SATURDAY, OCT. 7 

11th Swim a Mile for Women with Cancer Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mills College, Trefethan Aquatic Center, 5000 MacArthur Boulevard, Oakland. 601-4040, ext. 180. www.wcrc.org/swim/index.htm  

Berkeley Path Wanderers Association leads a free walk exploring Pt. Richmond’s quaint and curious architecture, hillside staircases, and spectacular new waterfront viewpoints. Meet at 10 a.m. at the statue in the triangle bordered by E. Richmond, Park Place, and Washington Avenue. Wear comfortable shoes; dress for all weather; bring water. Optional no-host lunch at local restaurant follows walk. 848-9358. www.berkeleypaths.org 

“Criminal Folly of the Bush Administration: A Casre for Impeachment” with Lewis Lapham, editor emeritus of Harper’s Magazine, in conversation with Harry Kreisler, at 8 p.m. at King Middle School, 1781 Rose St. Tickets are $12-$15. Benefit for KPFA and Global Exchange. 559-9500. 

“The Big Buy: Tom Delay’s Stolen Congress” A documentary by Mark Birnbaum and Jim Schermbeck, 7:30 p.m. at The Oaks Theater, 1875 Solano Ave. 843-3699. 

Solar Richmond Tour of solar installations in Richmond from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meet at Richmond Main Library, Richmond Civic Center, corner of Macdonald Ave. and Civic Center St. Free, but please register in advance. 758-1267. www.solarrichmond.org  

Autumn Arachnids Learn about the mysteries of the spider, and look for orb weavers, jumping spiders and more, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Kid’s Garden Club for ages 7-12 to explore the world of gardening, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8, registration required. 636-1684. 

Walking Tour of Oakland City Center Meet at 10 a.m. in front Oakland City Hall at Frank Ogawa Plaza. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. 

An Evening with Lewis Lapham in conversation with Larry Bensky at 8 p.m. at King Middle School, 1781 Rose St. Benefit for KPFA and Global Exchange. Tickets are $12-$15. 415-255-7296, ext. 244. 

Benefit Bazaar for the Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Sat. from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sun. from 1:30 to 6 p.m. at 1924 Cedar St., at Bonita. 540-8721. 

Black Panther Party 40th Anniversary with Elbert “Big Man” Howard, from Black Panther Party Minister of Information at 3 p.m. at the Rockridge Branch of the Oakland Public Library, 5366 College Ave. 597-5011. 

East Bay Environmental Training Program on Sat. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Nov. 11 at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $75-$150 sliding scale. 548-2220, ext. 233. 

“The Overlooked Second Generation: Children and Transnational Families in the Global Economy” with Rhacel Salazar Parreñas Professor of Asian American Studies at UC Davis at 2 p.m. at Berkeley City College, Room 51. 

“Enchantment: The Unique Relationship with the Guru” with Bill Gottlieb at 1 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church of Oakland. RSVP to 415-703-0330. 

“Solar Electricity for Educators” A workshop on the global energy situation, the range of solar education projects, and how to address state curriculum standards with these projects, for teachers of grades 4-12. Teachers will receive a $150 stipend, materials, curriculum, and follow-up support. From 8:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at Rising Sun Energy Center, 2033 Center St. 665-1501 ext.13. www.risingsunenergy.org 

“Basic Gardening Techniques Make for Amazing Gardens” Learn about soil preparation, planting techniques, mulching choices and more at 10 a.m. at Magic Gardens, 729 Heinz Ave. 644-2351. 

Introduction to Buddhist Teachings and Meditation with Richard Shankman, co-founder of the Sati Center for Buddhist Studies, at 9 a.m at Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. Donation $20. To register call 547-0757. 

Produce Stand at Spiral Gardens Food Security Project from 1 to 6 p.m. at the corner of Sacramento and Oregon St. 

The Berkeley Lawn Bowling Club provides free instruction every Wed. and Sat. at 10:30 a.m. at 2270 Acton St. 841-2174.  

Bilingual Storytime Stories in English and Spanish for toddlers and preschoolers at 10:30 a.m. in the Edith Stone Room at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720, ext. 17. 

“In God’s House: Asian American Lesbian & Gay Families in the Church,” A documentary at 7 p.m. at Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Ave. 849-8260. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. and Sun. at 2 pm. Regional Parks Botanic Garden, Tilden Park. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

Around the World Tour of Plants at 1:30 p.m., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. 643-2755. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

Yoga for Peace at 9:30 a.m. at Ohlone Park, MLK at Hearst. Bring a yoga mat, warm blanket, and peace sign.  

Adult Fast Pitch Softball at noon. For location call 204-9500.  

Spiritwalking: Aqua Chi(TM) at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley High Warm Pool. Also Wed. at 3:30 p.m. Cost is $5.50, $3.50 seniors & disabled. Bring your own towels. 526-0312. 

Car Wash Benefit for Options Recovery Services of Berkeley, held every Sat. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lutheran Church, 1744 University Ave. 666-9552. 

SUNDAY, OCT. 8 

Spice of Life Festival in North Berkeley’s Gourmet Ghetto with food, culinary demonstrations, live music and more from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m on Shattuck Ave. from Virginia to Rose. 

Architecture Tour of the Oakland Museum of California Tour of the building and gardens with architect Kevin Roche and landscape architect Dan Kiley. Meet at 1 p.m. at the koi pond on the first level. www.museumca.org 

A Day of Peace in People’s Park from 12:30 to 5 p.m. with music and speakers on stopping the war in the Middle East, and the war against civil liberties at home.  

Indigenous People’s Day at Habitot Museum. Learn about the native peoples of California with performances and crafts, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2065 Kittredge St. 647-1111. www.habitot.org 

Desgin Charrette for Halcyon Commons Rejuvenation Project community workshop from 2 to 5 p.m. in the park on Halcyon Ct. at Prince St. In case of rain, meet at 3044-A Halcyon Ct. Free. 644-0172. 

“Green Sunday: Why Should Greens Be Interested In the Upcoming KPFA Local Station Board Election?” Speakers and discussion at 5 p.m. at Niebyl-Proctor Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave. at 65th in North Oakland. 

Turtle Time Meet Tilden’s turtles then walk to Jewel Lake to see the wild turtles that live there, from 11 a.m. to noon at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

The Joy of Rats Learn about basic guardianship of rats with Bay Area Rat Rescue at 2 p.m. at RabbitEars, 303 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 525-6155. 

Free Sailboat Rides from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cal Sailing Club in the Berkeley Marina. Bring change of clothes, windbreaker, sneakers. For ages 5 and up. cal-sailing.org  

Free Hands-on Bicycle Clinic Learn how to do a safety inspection from 10 to 11 a.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. Bring your bike and tools. 527-4140. 

Pancake Breakfast and Fleet Week Events from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. aboard the Red Oak Victory Ship, in Richmond Harbor. Take the Canal Blvd exit off 580 and follow signs to the ship. Cost is $6, children under 5 free. 237-2933. 

Lake Merritt Neighbors Organized for Peace Peace walk around the lake every Sun. Meet at 3 p.m. at the colonnade at the NE end of the lake. 763-8712. lmno4p.org 

Kickabout at Codornices Park Soccer for all, skill and talent not required. For more information contact cambour@hotmail.com  

“A Generous Life” with Bill Hamilton-Holway at 9:30 a.m at Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Tibetan Buddhism with Robin Caton on “Living Fully” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 843-6812. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

MONDAY, OCT. 9 

Reduced City Services Today Call ahead to ensure programs or services you desire will be available. 981-CITY. www.cityofberkeley.info 

National Organization for Women, Oakland/East Bay Chapter with Dana Spatz, executive director of Lifeline, an advocacy program to boost higher education outcomes among mothers on welfare, at 6 p.m. at the Oakland YWCA, 1515 Webster St. 287-8948. 

World Affairs/Politics Discussion Group for people aged 60 and over meets at 9:45 a.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave. Donation $3. 524-9122. 

Men’s Health Series: Prostate Cancer at 3 p.m. at Elephant Pharmacy, 1607 Shattuck Ave. 549-9200. 

Safety and Self Defense Seminar for Women at 7 p.m. at the JCC, 1414 Walnut St. Donation $5. 848-0237. 

“Osteoporosis: Risk, Detection and Prevention” with Beverly Tracewell at 7 p.m. at the Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043. 

Berkeley CopWatch organizational meeting at 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. Join us to work on current issues around police misconduct. Volunteers needed. For information call 548-0425. 

Lead Abatement Repairs Find out about funding for lead hazard repairs for rental properties with low-income tenants or vacant units in Oakland, Berkeley or Emeryville, from 4 to 6 p.m. at 2000 Embarcadero, #300, Oakland. Sponsored by Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. 567-8280. 

CITY MEETINGS 

Commission on the Status of Women meets Wed., Oct. 4, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Tasha Tervelon, 981-5190. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/commissions/women 

Downtown Area Plan Advisory Commission meets Wed. Oct. 4, at 7 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7487. 981-7487. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/planning/landuse/dap 

School Board meets Wed. Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chambers. Queen Graham 644-6147 or Mark Coplan 644-6320. 

Housing Advisory Commission meets Thurs., Oct. 5, at 7:30 p.m., at the South Berkeley Senior Center. Oscar Sung, 981-5400. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/commissions/housing 

Landmarks Preservation Commission meets Thurs. Oct. 5, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Gisele Sorensen, 981-7419. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/commissions/landmarks 

Public Works Commission meets Thurs., Oct. 5, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Jeff Egeberg, 981-6406. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/commissions/publicworks 

West Berkeley Project Area Commission meets Thurs., Oct. 5, at 7 p.m., at the West Berkeley Senior Center. Iris Starr, 981-7520. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/commissions/westberkeley

TUESDAY, OCT. 3 

CHILDREN 

Gretchen Woelfle reads from “Animal Families, Animal Friends” at 7 p.m. at the Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Tania Katan will read from her memoir, “My One-night Stand with Cancer” at 7 p.m. at Women’s Cancer Resource Center, 5741 Telegraph Avenue at 58th St., Oakland. 601-4040, ext. 111. 

Mary Gordon reads from “The Stories of Mary Gordon” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

Freight and Salvage Open Mic at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $4.50-$5.50. 548-1761. 

“Voices of East Bay Lesbian Poets” an anthology by Linda Zeiser at 7:30 p.m. at Montclair Women’s Cultural Arts Club, 1650 Mountain Blvd., Oakland. Cost is $5. 276-0379.  

Agi Mishol, Israeli poet, at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698.  

Joe Gores introduces his latest political thriller, “Glass Tiger” at 7 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

RebbeSoul, world beat, Jewish roots music at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054.  

Singers’ Open Mic with Ellen Hoffman at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island. 841-JAZZ.  

Jimmy Bosch at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10-$16. 238-9200.  

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4 

THEATER 

“The Secret Circus” Wed. and Thurs. at 8 p.m. at The Marsh Berkeley, 2120 Allston Way, through Oct. 19. Cost is $10-$20 sliding scale. 800-838-3006 www.themarsh.org  

EXHIBITIONS 

“Wild About Birds” paintings by Rita Sklar opens at the Lakeview Branch of the Oakland Public Library, 550 El Embarcadero. 238-7344. 

FILM 

Pirates and Piracy “A High Wind in Jamaica” at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Ellen Ekstrom reads from her new novel, “The Legacy” at The Friends of the Albany Library Annual Meeting at 7:30 p.m. at 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720 

Paola Gianturco, photographer, on “Viva Colores! A Salute to the Indomitable People of Guatemala” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698.  

Daniel Goleman explores “Social Intellegence: The New Science of Human Relationships” at 7 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

Berkeley Poetry Slam at 8:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $5-$7. 841-2082  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Terracotta Warriors, Chinese dance, music, martial arts and acrobatics at 8 p.m. at Paramount Theatre of the Arts, 2025 Broadway, Oakland, through Oct. 8. Tickets are $45-$95, discount for children. 625-8497. 

Wednesday Noon Concert: Classical Percussion at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Free. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

Whiskey Brothers Old Time and Bluegrass at 9 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

Creepy, Sugar Eater, Stonecutter at 8:30 p.m. at the Uptown Nightclub, 1928 Telegraph, Oakland. Cost is $8. 451-8100.  

K23 Orchestra, CD release party at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $8. 525-5054.  

Rumba Cafe at 9:30 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $5-$10. 548-1159.  

Calvin Keys Trio at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $7. 841-JAZZ.  

Dave Stein Bubhub at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

Bruce Molsky at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

Maraca and The New Collective at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square, through Sun. Cost is $24-$28. 238-9200.  

THURSDAY, OCT. 5 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Colors” A group show by East Bay Women Artists. Reception at 6 p.m. at Royal Ground Gallery, 2058 Mountain Blvd., Montclair, Oakland. Exhibition runs to Jan. 7. 451-2661. 

“Never Again” Photographs of the physical and human consequences of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki opens at 5 p.m. at the Bade Museum of the Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Ave. Open Tues. and Thurs. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Exhibition runs to Oct. 16.  

FILM 

Discovering Syrian Cinema “Shadows and Light” at 5:30 p.m. and “Today and Everyday” at at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Lunch Poems with Les Murray at 12:10 p.m. in the Morrison Library, in the Doe Library, UC Campus. http://lunchpoems.berkeley.edu 

Susan Snyder talks about and shows slides on “Past Tents: The Way We Camped” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

Camille T. Dungy, poet, at 7 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720 ext 17. 

Bruce Wagner and James Ellroy read at at 7 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500.  

George Rabasa reads from his novel “The Cleansing” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Richmond Arts and Culture Commission Youth Performance in celebration of National Arts and Humanities Month. Spoken word, dance, and song presented by youth from East Bay Center for the Performing Arts, Masquers Playhouse, Familias Unidas at 5:30 p.m. at the Richmond Convention Center, 403 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. 620-6952.  

“King Arthur” by Henry Purcell, directed by Mark Morris at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus, through Oct. 7. Tickets are $42-$110. 642-9988.  

Ancient Vision 3, with Wadi Gad, Malika Madremana, Arkangel, We A Dem Band at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Noah Grant at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790.  

Daniel Ho, Keoki Kahumoku and Herb Ohta, Jr. at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

Boneless Children Foundation, Midline Errors, The Young Has Beens at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $5. 841-2082.  

The Swamees, Hollywood 

dopesick, Hobo Jungle, southern and folk rock, at 8:30 p.m. at the Uptown Nightclub, 1928 Telegraph, Oakland. Cost is $5. 451-8100. 

FRIDAY, OCT. 6 

THEATER 

Berkeley Rep “Mother Courage” at 8 p.m. at the Roda Theater, 2025 Addison St., through Oct. 22. 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org 

California Shakespeare Theater “As You Like It” at the Bruns Amphitheater, 100 Gateway Blvd., Orinda. Tues.-Thurs., 7:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 4 p.m. through Oct. 15. Tickets are $15 and up. 548-9666. www.calshakes.org 

Contra Costa Civic Theater, “The Orchid Sandwich” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. through Oct. 21. at 951 Pomona Ave. El Cerrito. Tickets are $11-$18. 524-9132. www.ccct.org 

Impact Theatre “Colorado” A dark comedy about celebrity worship, Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m. at La Val’s Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Ave. Tickets are $10-$15. Runs through Oct. 28. 464-4468. www.impacttheatre.com 

Masquer’s Playhouse “A Walk in the Woods” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond. Tickets are $10. 232-4031. www.masquers.org  

Shotgun Players “Love is a Dream House in Lorin” by Marcus Gardley, inspired by true stories of Berkeley’s historic Lorin District, Thurs.-Sun. at 8 p.m. at the Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., through Nov. 5. Sliding scale $15-$30. 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org 

UC Dept. of Theater “Suburban Motel” six plays by George Walker at Zellerbach Playhouse, UC Campus, through Nov. 19. Tickets are $8-$14. For schedule see http://theater.berkeley.edu 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Whitework Embroidery” Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Lacis Museum of Lace and Textiles, 2982 Adeline St. Runs through Feb. 5. Hours are Mon.-Sat. noon to 6 p.m. Free. lacismuseum.org 

“The Secrets of Ousiders” Mixed media paintings by Diego Rios, oil paintings by Bernadette Vergara Sale and acrylic paintings by Liz Amini-Holmes. Reception at 5 p.m. at the Estaban Sabar Gallery, 480 23rd St. at Telegraph, Oakland. Runs through Nov. 1. 444-7411. www.estebansabar.com 

“Quilombo” Youth Graffiti Exhibition opens at Uhuru House, 7911 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland, at 7 p.m. Includes music, breaking cyphers and Capoeira rodas. www.weekendwakeup.com 

New Work by Travis Browne, Jerry Chang, Nat Chua, Michael Eli, Jose Guinto, and Ajene Zapp Moss. Reception at 7 p.m. at Boontling Gallery, 4224 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. 295-8881. 

FILM 

Berkeley Film and Video Festival at the Oaks Theater, 1875 Solano Ave., through Oct. 8. Three day pass is $20-$25. http://berkeleyvideofilmfest.org  

Discovering Syrian Cinema “The Dream” at 7 p.m. and “The Night” at 9:15 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

James Fallows describes “Blind into Baghdad: America’s War in Iraq” at 7 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

Robert Olen Butler reads from “Severance” fictional monologues, at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

Aya de Leon and “Generation Five” spoken word at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $12. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Falso Baiano Trio, Brazilian jazz choral group, at 8 p.m., at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Cost is $15. 845-1350. www.hillsideclub.org  

Linda Rose Stonestreet, Tricia Godwin, and Irina Rivkin at 8 p.m. at Rose Street House of Music, 1839 Rose St. Donation $5-$20 sliding scale. To RSVP call 594-4000 ext. 687. www.rosestreetmusic.com 

Free Jazz Fridays with Damon Smith, Spirit, drums, and Jon Raskin, saxophone, at 8 p.m. at 1510 8th St., Oakland. sfjazzmusic@yahoo.com 

Oakland Arts Clash, music, dance and visual arts by local Oakland artists at 7 p.m. at Malonga Casquelourd Center Theater, 1428 Alice St., Oakland. All proceeds will benefit youth dance programs in Oakland. 

Terracotta Warriors, Chinese dance, music, martial arts and acrobatics at 2 and 8 p.m. at Paramount Theatre of the Arts, 2025 Broadway, Oakland, through Oct. 8. Tickets are $45-$95. 625-8497. 

Oakland Opera “Les Enfants Terribles” Fri. - Sun. at 8 p.m. at Oakland Metro Opera House, 201 Broadway, through Oct. 22. Tickets are $32-$36. www.oaklandopera.org 

On the Last Day, Karate High School, Four Letter Lie at 9 p.m. at Blakes on Telegraph. Cost is $10. 848-0886. www.blakesontelegraph.com 

Doug Arrington & Trio at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

The Flux, Baba Ken & Afro-Groove ConneXion at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz Cost is $10-$12. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Baguette Quartette at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Bobbe Norris & the Larry Dunlop Trio at 9 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

Jessie Turner and Megan McLaughlin at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

The Hellouts, Huckleberry Flint, Dave Hanley Band, Barefoot Nellies at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Decry, Retching Red, Z.B.S. at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $5. 525-9926. 

Dave Ellis & Zoe Ellis at 8 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $5. 548-1159.  

Seventeen Evergreen, Minmae, Pants Pants Pants at 9 p.m. at the Uptown Nightclub, 1928 Telegraph, Oakland. Cost is $5. 451-8100. www.uptownnightclub.com 

Bitches Brew at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

Maraca and The New Collective at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square, through Sun. Cost is $24-$28. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SATURDAY, OCT. 7 

CHILDREN  

Los Amiguitos de La Peña with Gerry Tenny singing silly songs at 10:30 a.m. at La Peña. Cost is $4 for adults, $3 for children. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Dashka Slater tells stories from “Firefighters in the Dark” at 4 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

THEATER 

“Meet Julia Morgan” A one-woman show performed by Betty Marvin at 2 p.m. at the Lakeview Branch of the Oakland Public Library, 550 El Embarcadero. 238-7344. 

EXHIBITIONS 

Past/Present/Future One year anniversary of the Living Room Art Gallery. Music by Antarctica Takes It, Social Studies and The Pets at 8 p.m. at 3230 Adeline St. 601-5774. www.thelivingroomgallery.com 

“Can We Spare Some Change?” An art exhibit of paintings by Milton Bowens and kick-off of a recruitment campaign to increase the number of African American bone marrow donors opens at 6 p.m. at the African American Museum & Library, 659 14th St., Oakland. 637-0200. 

20th Annual Emeryville Art Exhibition from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 5630 Bay St., through Oct. 29. Free. 652-6122. www.EmeryArts.org 

FILM 

Ousmane Sembéne “Black Girl” at 6:30 p.m. and “Mandabi” at 8:15 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

Berkeley Film and Video Festival at the Oaks Theater, 1875 Solano Ave., through Oct. 8. Three day pass is $20-$25. http://berkeleyvideofilmfest.org  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Bay Area Poets Coalition open reading, from 3 to 5 p.m., at Strawberry Creek Lodge, dining hall, 1320 Addison St. Park on the street. Free. 527-9905. poetalk@aol.com.  

Lewis Lapham, editor emeritus of Harper’s Magazine, in conversation with Harry Kreisler, at 8 p.m. at King Middle School, 1781 Rose St. Tickets are $12-$15. Benefit for KPFA and Global Exchange. 559-9500. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Four Seasons Concerts, with Leon Bates, piano, at 7:30 p.m. at Regents Theater, Holy Names University, Oakland. For tickets call 601-7919. 

Oju Eegun, Afro-Cuban ritual, music, song and dance at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $15-$18. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Callaloo Steel Drum Band with Jeff Narell at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $12. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

The Zydeco Flames at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $11-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

Sotaque Baiano, Brazilian music, at 8 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $10. 548-1159. www.shattuckdownlow.com 

John Craigie and Kurt Huget at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

House Jacks at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Sitting Duck at 9 p.m. at Blakes on Telegraph. Cost is $10. 848-0886. www.blakesontelegraph.com 

Dayna Stephens Quintet at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $12-$15. 845-5373.  

Caroline Chung Trio at 9 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810. 

Jazz Fourtet at 9:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $3. 843-2473.  

Shiloh, hip hop, at 8 p.m. at Spuds Pizza, 3290 Adeline St. Cost is $7-$10. 558-0881. 

Two Ton Boa, The Thrones, Year Long Disaster at 8 p.m. at the Uptown Nightclub, 1928 Telegraph, Oakland. Cost is $10. 451-8100. www.uptownnightclub.com 

Tippy Canoe, Naked Barbies Dandeline at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

The Jim Dangles at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

Love Equals Death, Lucky Stiffs, Sugar Eater at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $5. 525-9926. 

SUNDAY, OCT. 8 

CHILDREN 

“Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day” at 2 p.m., and Mon. at 2 p.m. at Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College Ave. Tickets are $10-$18. 925-798-1300. 

Derek Anderson on friendship in the forest at 4 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

EXHIBITIONS 

Photo Exhibit of Foster Children and Youth sponsored by the Bay Area Heart Gallery on display at the Berkeley Public Library central lobby, 2090 Kittredge St. and Downtown Berkeley YMCA, 2001 Allston Way, through Oct. 31. www.bayareaheartgallery.com 

Works by Paul Veres opens at 2 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

THEATER 

“Shorts ‘N Champagne” eight short comedies from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Gaia Bldg., 2120 Allston Way. Tickets are $35. 704-8855. 

FILM 

The Mechanical Age “Steel Beast” at 3:30 p.m. and “La bete humaine” at 5:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Architecture Tour of the Oakland Museum of California Tour of the building and gardens with architect Kevin Roche and landscape architect Dan Kiley. Meet at 1 p.m. at the koi pond on the first level. www.museumca.org 

Salim Lamrani on “Superpower Principles” at 5 p.m. at Casa Cuba Resource Center, 6501 Telegraph Ave. Oakland. 219-0092. 

Poetry Flash with Robin Ekiss and Thomas Heise at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Gospel On High from 2 to 6 p.m. at Woodminster Amphitheater, 3300 Joaquin Miller Rd., Oakland. 238-3052.  

Prometheus Symphony Orchestra performs Rimsky Korsakov’s Le Coq d’Or suite and Dvorak’s Symphony #9 at 8 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 116 Montecito St., Oakland. Free, donations requested. 

Maxim Vengerov, violin, at 3 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $36-$68. 642-9988. www.calperfs.berkeley.edu 

Charles Hamilton Band at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $12. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

The Venezuelan Music Project with Aquiles Baez & Gonzalo Teppa at 6 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $12-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Wayne Wallace at 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $25. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Pine Leaf Boys, Cajun, Zydeco at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Brook Schoenfield at 11 a.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Americana Unlpugged: The Shots at 5 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

7 Generations, Eye of Judgement, Gather, Time for Change at 5 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $7. 525-9926. 

MONDAY, OCT. 9 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Matthea Harvey and Cort Day, poets, read at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books Downtown, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

Steven Vincent and Charles Faulhaber introduce “Exploring the Bancroft Library: The Centennial Guide to Its Extraordinary History, Spectacular Special Collections, Research Pleasures, Its Amazing Future & How it All Works” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

Poetry Express with Terry McCarty from Los Angeles at 7 p.m., at Priya Restaurant, 2072 San Pablo Ave. berkeleypoetryexpress@yahoo.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Blue Monday Jam at 8 p.m. at the Uptown Nightclub, 1928 Telegraph, Oakland. Cost is $5. 451-8100. www.uptownnightclub.com 

Khalil Shaheed, all ages jam, at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $5. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Tomasz Stanko Quartet at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10-$14. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

From an Ohlone woman’s menage with a zoot-suited Coyote, through a Japanese ex-houseboy and his picture bride eating pickled plums while awaiting relocation, a pair of Cain-and-Abel brothers who end up as Black Panther and strung-out Vietnam vet to the hip-hop kid of an interracial couple who bought a fixer-upper amid the drive-bys, the Shotgun Players’ premiere of Marcus Gardley’s Love is a Dream House in Lorin employs a cast of 30 to play 40-some characters that personify the story of the South Berkeley district in something like the narrative style of a WPA mural, all chromatic persona and event, motifs overlapping in time and space, recurring in gesture and song. 

The elaborate and engaging show, a true group effort to reflect a community’s reemergent identity, reads like a staged mission statement for the Players, who have called the Ashby Stage home just over two years. 

It began right after Shotgun had settled in, when Aaron Davidman, artistic director of San Francisco’s Traveling Jewish Theatre (who directs Dream House), a resident of Lorin in the early 1990s, read Melody Ermachild Chavis’s neighborhood memoir Altars in the Streets, and approached Shotgun founder Patrick Dooley about working together on a show that featured the community itself. Oakland-born Yalie playwright and Columbia U. teacher Marcus Gardley was comissioned last year, local people’s stories were gathered by the Shotgun team, Gardley’s many drafts of the play that he workshopped with the cast during his residency swelled (“We told him, let your imagination run wild,” said Dooley), and an exultant yet fiery public reading and discussion of a late version in July set the stage for last week’s triumphant opening night. 

Dream House, with its broad spectrum of present-day and historical (and mythic) local characters, its elliptical leaps between interlocking events from all eras, its language that ranges from Sunday sermon to rhymed street talk to song, sprawls—yet is tightly interlaced in all its vignettes and incidents, completely coherent, until at the end the crowd of previously divisive locals steps forward to tell their stories, their spirit eliciting a glowering gunman to put down his piece, have his say, and join them. 

“In some ways it was a lot easier than writing a play from my own imagination,” Gardley told Shotgun’s literary manager Liz Lisle. “For one, the stories were already rich and moving; I just had to thread them together.” 

But Gardley’s script is indeed rich with imagination, following a pattern he saw emerge from the research: a place where all kinds of people came to live, all with dreams they watched crumble. “’This land is cursed,’” Gardley recalls saying out loud, adding, “It wants to be healed.” 

Whatever they see in it, the stories Dream House provides a mirror to stimulate imaginations of locals and visitors alike, touching on both the dreams and hard times, and just suggesting current controversies. It’s an evening-long paean to that time-honored but neglected injunction, “Love Thy Neighbor.” 

Across the board—cast of 30, all ages and levels of performing experience, and production team of half that size—everybody has delivered to the best of their considerable abilities, costumed variously and choreographed across a set of a house undergoing remodelling under a backdrop of hills and swirling clouds, with quick, dramatic changes in light and sound. 

It would be unfair to single out anyone without naming all of them. Or maybe provoking a roll call of Lorin itself, past and present—of which only a dozen or so residents came to greet the opening of the Ashby Stage two years ago, but as of now, according to Dooley, “the biggest zipcode in our database is South Berkeley.” 

Love is a Dream House in Lorin 

8 p.m. Thursday-Sunday through Nov. 5 at the  

Asbhy Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave. $15-$30.  

841-6500, www.shotgunplayers.org.

The Oakland Opera Theater opens this Friday its third Philip Glass opera—the compelling dance opera Les Enfants Terribles. This final opera of his trilogy based on the work by French artist Jean Cocteau, Les Enfants Terribles has been described by Glass as Cocteau’s “tragedy”: 

“If Orphée is Cocteau’s tale of transcendence and La Belle et la Bête his romance, then Les Enfants Terribles is his tragedy. Like the others, it articulates Cocteau’s belief in the power of imagination to transform the ordinary world into a world of magic. But unlike the two previous works, in which transformation leads to love and transcendence, Les Enfants Terribles takes us to the world of Narcissus and, ultimately, Death.” 

The opera, which is sung in French with a narration in English, tells of a teenage brother and sister, Paul and Elizabeth, who after the loss of their parents strive to live in a fantasy world they call “playing the game.” Increasingly isolated, they pass the days acting out their bizarre imaginings.  

Two friends—Gerard and Agathe—join them to form an oddly four-sided love triangle. When Paul falls in love with Agathe, Elizabeth connives to have Gerard marry Agathe. By ensuring that her brother will never leave her, Elizabeth leads them both into destruction. 

Although the original story was set in Paris, director Tom Dean has moved the setting to 1954 French Indochina. Placing the story amidst the turmoil of war, Dean gives the opera a context that lends motivational logic to the characters’ escapism. It also restages the piece as a commentary on the self-reflective nature of colonialism. The children of the story are adopted, just as in Indochine, French couples found it fashionable to adopt Vietnamese children who were then treated as someone (or something) between a child and a servant.  

Soprano Joohee Choi makes her Oakland Opera Theater debut in the principle role of Elizabeth. Choi recently completed a two-year residency with the Los Angeles Opera, and was acclaimed for her performances in Aida, Romeo et Juliette, Der Rosenkavalier, and Falstaff.  

Axel Van Chee returns to Oakland Opera Theater in the role of Paul. Recently described by Opera News as a “resonant baritone with striking stage presence,” Chee performed Captain Valentine in Oakland Opera Theater’s Johnny Johnson. 

Mezzo-soprano Cary Ann Rosko plays Agathe. Tenors Ben Johns and Johathan Smucker alternate in the role of Gerard.  

Soprano Choi says she had doubts about singing the part of Elizabeth. Although she wanted to add Glass’ work to her repertoire, she was taken aback by the piece’s difficulty. At first glance, she says, the music looked simple: “just a piano line.” Further study revealed the opera’s difficult tones and disharmonies.  

Baritone Chee agrees, describing the music as a game of cat and mouse: “The singers are the cat and the notes are the mice. You have to keep chasing them.” 

The music layers an intense rhythmic drive with a melodic line that Chee describes as “very romantic.” There are no duets or trios within the opera; the singers continuously switch from line to line, the music making slight shifts between singers. Because the music is minimalist, however, the smallest shift can sound huge. 

The singers agree that the melodic lines are lovely. In contrast, Chee remarks, this “very interesting and beautiful” melody provides the setting for a disturbing text. The story is a classic tragedy, with the characters fated to die, unaware that their obsessiveness will ultimately destroy them.  

The original score was written so that the singing line could be played on one piano; second and third pianos enrich the music by adding subtle complexity. Oakland Opera has engaged four of the Bay Area’s top accompanists—Skye Atman, Paul Caccamo, Daniel Lockert and Kymry Esainko—to perform the three-piano score under the musical direction of Diedre McClure.  

Dance, integral to the opera, is woven in from play’s beginning to end, and represents the children’s fantasy world. Each singer has his or her dance double, and must dance as well.  

The eight dancers working with the singers on stage are from the Oakland-based Nguyen Dance Company. Choreographer Danny Nguyen was recently recognized as one of the seven best creative choreographers in the Bay Area at Paul Taylor’s annual choreographic symposium in San Francisco. 

The sets, painted by Garrett Lowe, represent the house the characters inhabit, and like the music and the realities the children inhabit, are built in many levels like an intricate labyrinth. 

Once again Oakland Opera is offering a unique and fascinating theatrical experience with excellent singers, musicians and performers. The company’s increasing recognition for its innovative performances of 20th and 21st century operas is well earned and deserves the best of the community’s support.  

Oakland Opera Theater presents three operas per year, two fully staged and one in concert. Thanks to Jo Vincent Parks, a new member of the board of directors, the theater will launch a concert series this year that will include recitals and instrumental music. 

Les Enfants Terribles 

8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays from Oct. 6 to Oct. 22 at the Oakland Metro Operahouse,  

201 Broadway, Oakland (one block from Jack London Square). 763-1146, www.oaklandopera.org.