THURSDAY, SEPT. 11 

Walkers 55+ Explore Albany History Join Karen Sorensen, co-author of the recent “Images of America: Albany” on an easy, level walk discussing early days. Meet at 10 a.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic. Free, but registration required. 524-9283.  

“Birding By Ear” A Thurs. eve. class at 7 p.m. at Albany Adult School, 601 San Gabriel Avenue, Albany, through Oct. 2, with Sat. a.m. field trips. Register on-line at http://albany.k12.ca.us/adult 

East Bay Science Cafe “Battle Water versus Tap Water” with Kishore Hari at 7 p.m. at La Peña. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

“Disaster Preparedness” Philip Machel, Red Cross volunteer, will give a talk on how you and your loved ones can prepare to be safe during all types of disasters, at 7 p.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. 526-7512. 

Learning For Life Education Fair Learn about the opportunities for lifelong learning at 4 p.m. at Barbary Lane at Lake Merritt, 1800 Madison St., Oakland. RSVP to 903-3600. 

East Bay Mac Users Group meets to discuss the iPhone and MobileMe at 7 p.m. at Expression College for Digital Arts, 6601 Shellmound St., Emeryville. http://ebmug.org 

Introduction to Golf Learn pre-shot and full-swing fundamentals, and become familiar with terminology/equipment at 5:30 p.m. at Tilden Golf Course. Golf balls and loaner clubs are provided. Cost is $50-$56, but participants receive a range and class discount card. Registration required 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Improv Acting Classes Learn to create characters, scenes and stories spontaneously. No experience required. Meets every Thurs. at 6:45 p.m. at YWCA, 2600 Bancroft Way. Cost is $10. BerkeleyImprov.com 

19th Century Dancing Learn boisterous Scottish dance and elegant English dances a la Jane Austen, ongoing Thurs. at 8:15 p.m. at YWCA, 2600 Bancroft Way. Cost is $10. BerkeleyDancing.com 

Toastmasters Berkeley Communicators meeets at 7:30 a.m. at Au Coquelet, 2000 University Ave. Rob.Flammia@gmail.com. 

Three Beats for Nothing South Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Thurs. at 10 a.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center, Ellis at Ashby. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

Fitness Class for 55+ at 9:15 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

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, SEPT. 12 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with David S. Hill on “So, You Really Want to be Secretary of State!” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $14.50, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 524-7468. www.citycommonsclub.org  

Stockton Avenue Art Stroll, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the El Cerrito Open House Senior Center, 6500 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. 559-7677. 

Dialogue with Mooji A teacher in the tradition of inquiry of Ramana Maharshi at 7 p.m. at 2286 Cedar St. By donation. 495-7511. www.eastbayopencircle.org  

Walk the Line & Connect to the Home Front Walk the line of history and the keel of a victory ship, and learn about the men and women who contributed to victory on the home front during World War II, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by optional 45 min. Bay Trail stroll. Meet park ranger at memorial by main parking lot at Rosie the Riveter Memorial, Marina Bay Park, Melville and Regatta, Richmond. 232-5050. www.nps.gov/rori/ 

All Hands on Deck: Building the Ships that Kept Democracy Afloat Learn about the 747 ships built at the Kaiser shipyards and the people that built them, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Historic Shipyard No. 3, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond. Park outside SS Red Oak Victory gate. 232-5050. Directions to shipyard 237-2933. www.ssredoakvictory.com/contact.htm 

Womansong Circle Participatory Singing for women at 7:15 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, small assembly room, 2345 Channing Way, at Dana. Suggested donation $15-$20. 525-7082. 

Berkeley Women in Black weekly vigil from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. Our focus is human rights in Palestine. 548-6310. 

Three Beats for Nothing Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Fri. at 10 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, Hearst at MLK. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13 

People’s Park Annual Celebration at 1 p.m. at People’s Park with a rally, concert and workshops on global warming, foreclosures, and MacDonald’s firing of disabled and older workers. peoplesparkcommunity@yahoogroups.com 

String Band Contest and Crafts Fair with 20 old-time string bands competing from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Berkeley Farmers’ Market, Center St. at MLK, Jr. Way. 548-3333. www.ecologycenter.org 

9th Annual Pow Wow with Medicine Warriors Dance Troupe and All Nations Singers from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Grand Entry at noon at Clinton Park, International Boulevard between 6th & 7th Aves., Oakland. 

“Create for Change” A community music and arts festival to support Barack Obama, Move On and Rock the Vote from 2 to 6 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. $20-$100 donations requested. www.createforchange.org 

People’s Grocery Annual Brunch Fundraiser “Harvesting Justice 2008” Brunch made with organic produce grown in our gardens and farm, featuring entertainment and a short presentation about People’s Grocery at 10:30 a.m. at Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland. Sign-up on-line, seats are limited. 652-7607. www.peoplesgrocery.org 

Bike Tour: MLK Shoreline Park to Lake Chabot Meet at 10 a.m. at Fruitvale BART, end at Castro Valley BART. Donation $10. Sponsored by Sustainable Pacific Rim Cities (SPRC) and Cycles of Change. Email tourleader at sustainablepacific dot org 

Positively Ageless: A Celebration of Art & Aging Benefit to support frail elders and adults with disabilities from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m., at the 4th Street Studio, 1717 Fourth St. Cost is $40-$60. 883-0874. 

NAACP Berkeley Branch meets at 1 p.m. at 2108 Russell St. There will be a report on the 99th NAACP convention held in Cincinnati, Ohio, and branch election of the Nominating Committee. All are welcome. 845-7416. 

Oakland Eastbay NOW and Physicians for Reproductive Choice & Health present a perspective on Ballot Proposition 4 at 2 p.m. at the Rockridge Library, 5366 College Ave. Speakers include Pratima Gupta, physician at Kaiser Hospital, Libbey Bennet, Asst. Dir., PRCH, and Destiny Lopez, Ex. Dir. ACESSES/ Womens Rights Coaliton. 

El Cerrito City Hall Grand Opening Celebration from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 10890 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 215-4318. 

Natural History and Science Educator’s Academy Learn how to liven up your lessons with crafts, songs, and stories, Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For pre-school to 3rd grade teachers. Cost is $50. Registration required. 525-2233. 

Reptile Rendevous Learn about the reptiles that live in Tilden Park, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center. 525-2233. 

Marsh-kateers! An adventure hike for 6-8 year olds and their caregivers to investigate storm drains and urban run-off pollutionn, and what you and your family can do to prevent it, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center, 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward. Cost is $6, registration required. 670-7270.  

Crossword Puzzle Tournament from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Alameda High School, Cafeteria, 2201 Encinal Ave., Alameda. Benefits the California Dictionary Project. 681-9675. www.bayareacrosswords.org 

The East Bay Chapter of The Great War Society with Dana Lombardy on “The Future of the Society and Growth Potential” at 10 a.m. at Albany Public Library, 1247 Marin Ave. in Albany. 527-7118. 

“Pornography of Power” with Robert Scheer at 7 p.m. at Alameda Free Library, Conf. Room A, 1550 Oak St., Alameda. Sponsored by Alameda Public Affairs Forum and Books Inc. Donations at the door. alamedapublicaffairs@comcast.net 

“ZiZek” A film and discussion about the “wild man of theory” who describes himself as a Marxist"and a Communist at 7 p.m. at The Institute for the Critical Study of Society, at 6501 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. 595-7417. 

Baby & Toddler Storytime at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

Walk the Line & Connect to the Home Front Walk the line of history and the keel of a victory ship, and learn about the men and women who contributed to victory on the home front during World War II, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by optional 45 min. Bay Trail stroll. Meet park ranger at memorial by main parking lot at Rosie the Riveter Memorial, Marina Bay Park, Melville and Regatta, Richmond. 232-5050. www.nps.gov/rori/ 

All Hands on Deck: Building the Ships that Kept Democracy Afloat Learn about the 747 ships built at the Kaiser shipyards and the people that built them, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Historic Shipyard No. 3, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond. Park outside SS Red Oak Victory gate. 232-5050. Directions to shipyard 237-2933. www.ssredoakvictory.com/contact.htm 

Buddhist Healing Ceremony Dungse Rigzin Dorje Rinpoche will conduct the Healing Chod Sat. and Sun. from 1 to 5 p.m. at Rudramandir, 830 Bancroft Way. Bring a blanket to lie on and food or drink for offering on Sun. Donation $195 for the Zandokpalri temple in India. 323-2651. 

“Beyond Health: Never Be Sick Again” with Raymond Francis at 2:30 p.m. at Elephant Pharm, 1607 Shattuck Ave. 549-9200. 

Guinea-Piggy-Thon Everything you want to know about adopting a guinea pig or bonding your lonely pet with a new friend, caring for your guinea pig, and making gourmet salads for your new herbivore from 2 to 5 p.m. at RabbitEARS, 377 Colusa Ave., Kensington. 525-6155. www.rabbitears.org 

Meditation Class at noon at 7th Heaven Yoga Studio, 2820 7th St. Free. 665-4300. 

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 

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

SUNDAY, SEPT. 14 

34th annual Solano Stroll “Stroll for Health” with community information booths, food and entertainment, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. along Solano Ave. in Berkeley and Albany. www.solanoave.org 

Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge Workday Help prepare habitat for California Least Terns. Meet at the main refuge gate at the northwest corner of former Alameda Naval Air Station at 9 a.m. For more information or for directions email jrobinson@goldengateaudubon.org 

Inroduction to Fly-Fishing Learn casting at Lake Anza followed by classroom instruction on knots, fly selection, reading the water, and more. From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Tilden Park. Cost is $60-$66. Registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Old Time Radio East Bay Collectors and listeners gather to enjoy shows together at 5 p.m. at a private home in Richmond. For more information email DavidinBerkeley at Yahoo.com 

Personal Theology Seminar with Huston Smith and Walter Truett Anderson at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

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. 

Feldenkrais for Breast Cancer Survivors at 5 p.m. at Elephant Pharm, 1607 Shattuck Ave. 549-9200. 

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

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 

Berkeley Chess Club meets every Sun. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside School, 1581 Le Roy Ave. 843-0150. 

Tibetan Buddhism with Bob Byrne on “Glimpse of Wisdom” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

MONDAY, SEPT. 15 

Peace Corps Presents “Stories from Georgia” Hear from Peace Corps volunteers who have served in Georgia at 6 p.m. at Oakland Public Library-Rockridge Branch, Upstairs Community Room), 5366 College Ave., Oakland. 452-8446. 

Berkeley Green Monday “The Death Penalty: 3 Perspectives” with Aaron Owens, exonerated of murder charges, Elizabeth Zitrin, attorney, Death Penalty Focus, Judy Kerr, California Crime Victims for Alternatives to the Death Penalty at 7:30 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. www.berkeleygreens.org 

Small Businees Workshops Mon. eve. from 6 to 9 p.m., through Sept. 29 at Richmond Public Library, Community Room, 325 Civic Center Plaza. Free, but advanced registration recommended. 620-6561. 

On Lok Annual Golf Tournament to benefit On Lok programs serving the community of frail seniors by helping them to stay living in their own homes at noon at Mira Costa Golf and Country Club, 7901 Cutting Blvd., El Cerrito. Silent auction at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. 415-292-8732. ctam@onlok.org 

World Affairs/Politics Discussion Group, for people 60 years and over, meets at 9:45 a.m. at Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave, Albany. Cost is $3.  

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. 

Dragonboating Year round classes at the Berkeley Marina, Dock M. Meets Mon, Wed., Thurs. at 6 p.m. Sat. at 10:30 a.m. For details see www.dragonmax.org 

Free Boatbuilding Classes for Youth Mon.-Wed. from 3 to 7 p.m. at Berkeley Boathouse, 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Classes cover woodworking, boatbuilding, and boat repair. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

TUESDAY, SEPT. 16 

Berkeley Garden Club meets at 1:45 p.m. at Epworth United Methodist Church, 1953 Hopkins St. Susan Handjian, Water Conservaton Representative, EBMUD, will speak on becoming a Mediterranean Gardener. 433-2911. wwwberkeleygardenclub.org 

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Open House, an educational program for older adults, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, 2025 Addison St. 642-9934. www.olli.berkeley.edu 

LiveTalk@CPS with Farnaz Fassihi, deputy bureau chief of Middle East and Africa for The Wall Street Journal on “Waiting for an Ordinary Day” at 7 p.m. at College Prepatory School, Buttner Auditorium, 6100 Broadway. Tickets are $5-$15 at the door. www.college-prep.org/livetalk 

Political Theater for Everyone A class in experimental political/street theater technique from 6 to 8 p.m. at Rock-Paper-Scissors Collective, Telegraph at 23rd St., Oakland. http://rpscollective.com/new.php 

Improv Acting Classes Play fun games that unleash your imagination, creativity, and confidence. Learn to create characters, scenes and stories spontaneously. No experience required. Meets Tues. at 6 p.m. at YWCA, 2600 Bancroft Way. $10. BerkeleyImprov.com 

Great Mountain Bike Rides in the San Francisco Bay Area with Skye Kraft at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

Randel McGee & Groark the Dragon, puppeteer/ventriloquist at 6:30 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. For ages 3 and up. 524-3043. http://ccclib.org  

Fighting Chronic Illness with Fitness A demonstration and discussion with Alison Roessler, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist from 12:30-2:30 p.m. in Maffly Auditorium, Herrick Campus of Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, 2001 Dwight Way. 644-3273. fibro@bigvalley.net 

“Buddhism: Tendai Founders’ Unique and Enduring Contributions” with VK Leary Keisho at 7 p.m. at Center for Buddhist Education at the Jodo Shinshu Center, 2140 Durant Ave., at Fulton. Free or by donation. 809-1460. www.cbe-bca.org  

“Depth Over Time: The Key to Spiritual Transformation” with Swami Khecaranatha, at 7 p.m. at Rudramandir, 830 Bancroft Way. 486-8700. www.rudramandir.com 

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. 

End the Occupation Vigil every Tues. at noon at Oakland Federal Bldg., 1301 Clay St. www.epicalc.org 

Street Level Cycles Community Bike Program Come use our tools as well as receive help with performing repairs free of charge. Youth classes available. Tues., Thurs., and Sat. from 2 to 6 p.m. at at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

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

Berkeley Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m., at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. Share your digital images, slides and prints and learn what other photographers are doing. Monthly field trips. 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 offer ongoing classes in exercise and creative arts, and always welcome new members over 50. 845-6830. 

Sing-A-Long Group from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave., Albany. 524-9122. 

Yarn Wranglers Come knit and crochet at 6:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17 

Tilden Mini-Rangers Hiking, conservation and nature-based activities for ages 8-12. Dress to ramble and get dirty. From 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8, registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

“The 11th Hour” A documentary on the perilous state of our planet, narrated by Leonardo Di Caprio, at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. Donation $5. www.Humanist Hall.org  

League of Women Voters Fall Membership Meeting on “Strategies for Combatting Climate Change” at 5:30 p.m. at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 the Alameda. 843-8824. lwvbae.org 

“Canto a lo Poeta: Poet Songs” A documentary about La Paya, improvisational singing in Chile at 8 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $8-$10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Simplicity Forum Presentation by Anastasia Nicole on backyard gardening and permaculture principles at 6:30 p.m. at Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave.  

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. 

Jump Start Entrepreneurs Network meets at 8 a.m. at Cuppa Tea, 3202 College Ave. at Alcactraz. Cost is $5-$6, includes breakfast. 899-8242. www.jumpstartten.com 

Theraputic Recreation at the Berkeley Warm Pool, Wed. at 3:30 p.m. and Sat. at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley Warm Pool, 2245 Milvia St. Cost is $4-$5. Bring a towel. 632-9369. 

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 

Teen Chess Club from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the North Branch Library, 1170 The Alameda at Hopkins. 981-6133. 

Spanish Conversation Classes Wed. and Thurs. at 9:30 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst St. 981-5190. 

Morning Meditation Every Mon., Wed., and Fri. at 7:45 a.m. at Rudramandir, 830 Bancroft Way at 6th. 486-8700. 

Berkeley CopWatch Drop-in office hours from 6 to 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. 548-0425. 

Stitch ‘n Bitch at 6:30 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

THURSDAY, SEPT. 18 

Berkeley Path Wanderers Association Annual Meeting with keynote speaker will be earthquake expert Katherine Stillwell on “The Hayward Fault: Living on the Edge.” The program will include a tribute to retiring council member Betty Olds, a longtime champion of Berkeley’s paths. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. 

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll look for our spider friends from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 636-1684. 

Tilden Explorers An after-school nature adventure program for 5-7 year olds. We will search for spiders from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Cost is $6-$8, registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Urban Bicycle Safety Class Learn how to share the road with cars on busy streets of the East Bay, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Kaiser Oakland Meidcal Center. Sponsored by the East Bay Bicycle Coalition. Free. For information see www.ebbc.org/safety 

“Tracking Bay Area Birds with the San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory“ by Stephanie Ellis at 7 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda, between Solano and Marin. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. 

“A Community Guide to Environmental Health” with author Jeff Conant at 7 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave., near Dwight Way. 548-3402. www.ecologycenter.org 

“A Jihad for Love” Film and conversation on issues of faith and sexuality at JCC of the EAst BAy, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

Berkeley Public Library Master Plan discussion at 6:30 p.m. at Claremont Branch, 2940 Benvenue at Ashby. Plan available on-line at www.berkeleypubliclibaray.org 981-6195. 

The LeConte Neighborhood Association meets at 7:30 p.m. at the LeConte School, Russell St. entrance. Agenda items are welcome. Please contact karlreeh@aol.com 

Berkeley School Volunteers Orientation from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. Come learn about volunteer opportunities. Bring photo ID and two references. 644-8833. 

Green Chamber of Commerce Business Mixer at 5:30 p.m. at Mechanics Bank, 801 San Pablo Ave. 558-2330. Cost is $10-$20. RSVP at www.greenchamberofcommerce.net 

Baby & Toddler Storytime at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

Three Beats for Nothing South Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Thurs. at 10 a.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center, Ellis at Ashby. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

Fitness Class for 55+ at 9:15 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

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 

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

FRIDAY, SEPT. 19 

Iraq Moratorium Day and Vigil to Protest the War from 2 to 4 p.m. at the corners of University & Acton. Sponsored by Strawberry Creek Lodge Tenant’s Assoc & Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers. 548-9696. 

“Special Circumstances” A film about confronting the legacy of Pinochet and US intervention in Latin America, at 8 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $8-$10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Conscientious Projector Film Series “The New Deal” at 7:30 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar at Bonita.  

“1968: A Discussion On The Lessons and Vibrant Legacy Of The Year That Shook The World” with Robert Hillary King, Immanuel Wallerstein, Staughton Lynd, Andrej Grubacic, Paco Ignacio Taibo II, Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz at 7 p.m. at Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College Ave. Cost is $10 at the door. www.juliamorgan.org 

Cancer Prevention and Survival Cooking Course meets for four Fri. from 6 to 8 p.m. at Alta Bates Summit Cardiac Rehabilitation, 3030 Telegraph Ave. Free, but registration required. 869-6737.  

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll look for our spier friends from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 636-1684. 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Meg Burke on “Exploring the Exciting and Unique New Home of the California Academy of Sciences” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $14.50, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 524-7468. www.citycommonsclub.org 

Scottish Dance Party All dances taught, no experience or partner necessary, at 8 p.m. at Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St. 653-7507. 

“Buddhism: Downloadable Dharma” with Clark Strand at 7 p.m., Center for Buddhist Education at the Jodo Shinshu Center, 2140 Durant Ave., at Fulton. Free or by donation. 809-1460. www.cbe-bca.org  

Walk the Line & Connect to the Home Front Walk the line of history and the keel of a victory ship, and learn about the men and women who contributed to victory on the home front during World War II, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by optional 45 min. Bay Trail stroll. Meet park ranger at memorial by main parking lot at Rosie the Riveter Memorial, Marina Bay Park, Melville and Regatta, Richmond. 232-5050. www.nps.gov/rori/ 

All Hands on Deck: Building the Ships that Kept Democracy Afloat Learn about the 747 ships built at the Kaiser shipyards and the people that built them, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Historic Shipyard No. 3, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond. Park outside SS Red Oak Victory gate. 232-5050. Directions to shipyard 237-2933. www.ssredoakvictory.com/contact.htm 

Berkeley Women in Black weekly vigil from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. Our focus is human rights in Palestine. 548-6310. 

Three Beats for Nothing Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Fri. at 10 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, Hearst at MLK. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 20 

California Coastal Clean-up Day from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Berkeley: Behind the Seabreeze Market at the corner of University and Frontage Rd. 981-6720; Emeryville at Emeryville Fire House at 2333 Powell St. 596-3728; Albany at the foot of Buchanan behind the Golden Gate Fields race track, by the big bench; Richmond at Shimada Friendship Park, Marina Bay Pkwy off 580. 374-3231. Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. 525-2233. For other sites see www.coastforyou.org 

West Berkeley Senior Center BBQ, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1900 6th St. at Hearst. Cost is $10.50-$15. 981-5180. 

Walking Tour of the Dimond District A walking tour sponsored by Oakland Heritage Alliance. Meet at 10 a.m. at the Boy Scout hut in Dimond Park. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

Alternative Energy Options including solar power and solar tubes for homeowners from 9 to 11 a.m. at Truitt & White conference room, 1817 2nd St. Free, but registration required. truittandwhite.com 

Adopt A Special Kid Information workshop, in English and Spanish at 10 a.m. at 8201 Edgewater Dr. Suite 103. 553-1748 ext 12. www.aask.org 

Tri-City Safety Day Meet public safety agency representatives from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at El Cerrito Plaza, San Pablo and Fairmount Ave., El Cerrito. 

Vegetarian Cooking Class Demystifying Tofu and Tempeh Learn to make Tofu Benedict, Sweet and Sour Tempeh, Noodle Kugel, Chocolate Mousse and more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro. Cost is $50, plus $5 food and material fee. Advance registration required. 531-COOK. www.compassionatecooks.com 

Shawl-Anderson Dance Center 50th Anniversary Gala from 5 to 10 p.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. Tickets are $75-$125. 654-5921. www.shawl-anderson.org 

Friends of the El Cerrito Library Books Sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and un. from noon to 4 p.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. 526-7512. 

Taste of Bay Street with music, food samples and Apple Fest from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Bay Street, Emeryville. 655-4002. www.baystreetemeryville.com 

California Writers Club meets to discuss "Are You Good Enough To Be Published?" with Alan Rinzler at 10 a.m. at Barnes & Noble, Jack London Square. 272-0120. www.berkeleywritersclub.org 

Jewish Literature and Discussion Series meets to discuss “A Simple Story” by S.Y. Agnon at 2 p.m. at the Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043. 

Deva Primal and Miten Voice Workshop from 4 to 7 p.m. at Rudramandir at 830 Bancroft Way. Cost is $60. 486-8700. www.rudramandir.com 

Meditation Class at noon at 7th Heaven Yoga Studio, 2820 7th St. Free. 665-4300. 

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 

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

Oakland Artisans Marketplace Sat. from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Jack London Square. 238-4948. 

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, SEPT. 21 

Run for Peace 5/10K walk/run at 9 a.m. at Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina. Sponsored byt UNA-USA East Bay. to register see www.run4peace.org 

Take a Stand, Sit for Change Ait-A-Thon from noon to 5 p.m. at MLK Civic Center Park, MLK at Center St. Admission by donation/pledges, no one turned away. 549-3733. urbanpeace.org 

Community Labyrinth Peace Walk at 3 p.m. at Willard Middle School, Telegraph Ave. between Derby and Stuart. Everyone welcome. Wheelchair accessible. 526-7377. info@eastbaylabyrinthproject.org  

East Bay Atheists Annual Picnic from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Big Leaf Picnic Area, Tilden Park. 222-7580. eastbayatheists.org 

Lawrence Hall of Science Community Day with ice cream making, bubbleology, and the science show “Flames, Flares, and Explosions” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at LHS, Centennial Dr. 642-5132. www.lawrencehallofscience.org 

“Local Medicinal Herbs and Your Health” Learn the benefits of herbs and their use in western herbal medicine from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at EcoHouse, 1305 Hopkins St., enter via garden entrance on Peralta. Cost is $15, plus $5 materials fee. To register call 548-2220 ext. 242. 

Bike Tour of Oakland Meet at 10 a.m. at the 10th St. entrance of the Oakland Museum of California. Bring your bike, helmet and repair kit. Reservations required. 238-3514. 

Dynamite History Walk Discover the park preserved by dynamite on an easy-paced 3-mile walk, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. along Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. For meeting place call 525-2233. 

Walking Tour of Hidden Haddon Hill A walking tour sponsored by Oakland Heritage Alliance of a neighborhood of Mediterranean-style homes. Meet at 10 a.m. at the triangle at Kenwyn Rd. and McKinley Ave. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

“Climate Change and Peace” with Daniel M. Kammen, UC Prof., Energy and Resources Group, at 3 p.m. at International House, 2299 Piedmont Ave. Sponsored by United Nations Association East Bay. 849-1752. www.unausaeastbay.org 

Jewish Coalition for Literacy Training for volunteer tutors arom 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 300 Grand, Oakland. Register at www.jclread.org 

Personal Theology Seminar with Ruth Gendler on “An Invitation to Beauty” at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Gallery of Thingamajigs Explore sounds produced by unusual instruments created from found materials, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10 and Oak, Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. 

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

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 

Berkeley Chess Club meets every Sun. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside School, 1581 Le Roy Ave. 843-0150. 

Tibetan Buddhism with Tom Mead on “Bringing Balance and Creativity to the Workplace” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

Sew Your Own Open Studio Come learn to use our industrial and domestic machines, or work on your own projects, from 4 to 8 p.m. at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Also on Fri. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $5 per hour. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

CITY MEETINGS 

Commission on Early Childhood Education meets Thurs., Sept. 11, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5428. 

Community Health Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 11, at 6:45 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5356.  

West Berkeley Project Area Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 11, at 7 p.m., at the West Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7520. 

Zoning Adjustments Board meets Thurs., Sept. 11, at 7 p.m., in City Council Chambers. 981-7410.  

Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board meets Mon., Sept. 15, at 7 p.m. in City Council Chambers. 981-7368. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/rent 

Council Agenda Committee meets Mon. Sept. 15, Sept. 29, at 2:30 p.m., at 2180 Mil

THURSDAY, SEPT. 11 

THEATER 

San Francisco Mime Troupe “Red State” at 7 p.m. at Lake Merritt, Oakland. Free, donations accepted. 415-285-1717. www.sfmt.org 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Human Remains” Art influenced by the Iraq war opens at Float Art Gallery, 1091 Calcot Place, Unit # 116, Oakland. 535-1702. 

Pro Arts New Visions 2008 Group Show Artists’ reception at 6 p.m. at Pro Arts Gallery, 550 Second St., Oakland, and runs through Oct. 24. www.proartsgallery.org 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Writin’ on Empty: Parents Reveal the Upside, Downside, and Everything in Between When Children Leave the Nest” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

New Century Chamber Orchestra “Nadja Plays Piazzolla” The Sounds of Brazil and Argentina with Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, violin, at 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way. Tickets are $32-$45. 415-357-1111.  

Phoenix & Afterbuffalo at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10-$20 sliding scale. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Berkeley Old Time Music Convention with Sheila Kay Adms, Evo Bluestein, and the Stairwell Sisters at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $15.50-$16.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

John Herbst’s “Epicenter” at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

The Marlenes at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Lady Genius The Parish, Sweetie at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082.  

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

Bill Collins 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. 

James Carter at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10-$20. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

FRIDAY, SEPT. 12 

THEATER 

Aurora Theatre “The Best Man” Wed.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 and 7 p.m. at 2081 Addison St. through Sept. 28. Tickets are $40-$42. 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org 

Berkeley Rep “Yellowjackets” by Itamar Moses, a Berkeley resident, set at Berkeley High School, Tues.-Sun. at the Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St., through Oct. 12. Tickets are $27-$71. 647-2949. berkeleyrep.org 

Impact Theatre “Ching Chong Chinaman” Thurs.-Sat at 8 p.m. at La Val’s Subterranean, to Oct. 11. Tickets are $10-$17. 464-4468. impacttheatre.com 

Masquers Playhouse “The Petrified Forest” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond, through Sept. 27. Tickets are $18. 232-4031. www.masquers.org 

Oakland Public Theater, “Before the Dream: The mysterious death (and life) of Richard Wright” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at the Noodle Factory Performing Arts Center, 1255 26th St., corner of Union, Oakland, through Oct. 5. Tickets are $9-$20. 534-9529. www.brownpapertickets.com 

Rough and Tumble “Candide” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun at 7 p.m. at Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave. through Sept. 21. Tickets are $16-$22. 499-0356. www.randt.org 

Shotgun Players “Ubu for President” An adaptation of the plays of Alfred Jarry, Sat. and Sun. at 4 p.m. at John Hinkel Park, Southampton Ave., off the Arlington, through Sept. 14. Free, donations accepted. 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org 

Woodminster Summer Musicals “The Pirates of Penzance” Fri.-Sun. at 8 p.m., at Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park, 3300 Joaquin Miller Rd., Oakland. through Sept. 15. Tickets are $23-$38. 531-9597. www.woodminster.com 

FILM 

“Pennies From Heaven” View and discuss the archetypal, mythic, depth psychological dimensions af the film at 7 p.m. at The Dream Institute, 1672 University near McGee. Cost is $12. 845-1767. 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Contemporary Abstracts” Works by Susan Putnam, Leslie Carabas, Cathy Coe, Mary DePaolo and Mitchel Rubin. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at ACCI Gallery, 1652 Shattuck Ave. Exhibition runs to Oct. 5. 843-2527. 

“Goddesses” Prints by Mayumi Oda Artist’s talk at 5:30 p.m. at IEAS Gallery, 2223 Fulton St. 6th flr. 643-6536. 

Eth6 Magazine Issue 3:Contributing Artist Exhibition Artist reception at 7 p.m. at blankspace, 6608 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. 547-6608. 

“Intimate Immensity” Paintings by Michael Shemchuk and soft sculpture and wearble art by Lori Goldman. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Cecile Moochnek Gallery, 1809-D Fourth St., upstairs. Exhibit runs through Nov. 2. 549-1018. www.cecilemoochnek.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Cathy Barber, Arthur Dawson, Albert Flynn DeSilver, and others read as part of The Last Word Reading Series, at 7 p.m. at Nefeli Caffe, 1854 Euclid Ave, just north of Hearst. 841-6374. 

Christopher Grampp describes “From Yard to Garden: The Domestication of America’s Home Grounds” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Point Richmond Summer Music with Gumbo West and Ed Early at 5:30 p.m. outdoors at Park Place in downtown Point Richmond. www.pointrichmond.com 

Kristen Strom & Jennifer Scott Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $12. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Donny McCaslin at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $12. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Creation, reggae, at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Judea Eden at 8 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Berkeley Old Time Music Convention with Benton Flippen, Paul Brown & Frank Bode, Claeb Klauder & Sammy Lind and Rayna Gellert at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $15.50-$16.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Nada Lewis, Eastern European, French and italian violin and accordian, at 7 p.m. at Le Bateau Ivre, 2629 Telegraph Ave. www.lebateauivre.net 

Dave Matthews Blues Band at 8 p.m. at The Warehouse Bar & Grill, 4th and Webster, Oakland. 451-3161. 

Locura, Sol Jibe, Maracatu Luta at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Ceremony, Foreign Nature, Crucified, benefit for EDS, at 7:30 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $8-$10. 525-9926. 

Green Machine at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

The Itals at 9 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $13-$18. 548-1159.  

El Debarge at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square, through Sun. Cost is $40. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13 

CHILDREN  

“The Girl Who Lost Her Smile” adapted from a poem by Rumi, at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. Cost is $6. 452-2259. www.fairyland.org 

“The Sleeping Giant: A Tale from Kaua’i” at 1 p.m. at Museum of Children’s Art, 538 Ninth St., Oakland. 465-8770. 

EXHIBITIONS 

Landscape and Urban Photography by Patrick Smith Opening reception at 3 p.m. at the LightRoom Gallery, 2263 Fifth St., and runs through Oct. 3. 649-8111. www.lightroom.com 

“Human Remains” Art influenced by the Iraq war. Requiem and performance at 6 p.m. at Float Art Gallery, 1091 Calcot Place, Unit # 116, Oakland. Cost is $2. 535-1702. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Places at the Table: Asian Women Artists and Gender Dynamics” A conference from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Berkeley Art Museum, 2621 Durant Ave. Free, but registration required. http://ieas.berkeley.edu/events/2008.09.13w.html 

Robert Scheer introduces his new book “Pornography of Power” at 7 p.m. at Alameda Free Library, Conf. Room A, 1550 Oak St., Alameda. Sponsored by Alameda Public Affairs Forum and Books Inc. donations at the door. alamedapublicaffairs@comcast.net 

Society of American Magicians “Stars of Magic” at 12:30 p.m. at Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave. Tickets are $10-$14. 925-798-1300. www.willowstickets.org 

Deep Green Comedy Show at 8 p.m. at Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave. Tickets are $10-$25. 925-798-1300. www.willowstickets.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra “Myth & the Muse” at 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way. For ticket information call 415-252-1288. 

Create for Change A Community music & arts festival to support Barack Obama, Move On and Rock the Vote with music by The Jolly Gibsons, Mo’Fone, Youngsters, EthNohTec, Joel Ben Izzy, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. Donation $20-$100. www.createforchange.org 

“Experience on the GreenChapter One” Performances by Roberta Flack, Patrice Rushen, Dr. Donald Byrd, Ray Parker Jr., Michael Henderson, drummer Ndugu Chancler, and Kevin Toney of the Blackbyrds at 2 p.m., doors at noon, at The Great Court Garden of the Oakland Museum, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. Tickets are $70-$125. 1-877-EXP-THE-GREEN. www.511Tickets.com, www.brownpapertickets.com. 

Amor Cubano, with music, performances, food and dancing at 7 p.m. at Pro Arts Gallery, 550 2nd St., Oakland. Cost is $10 and up. 590-6762. 

Sammy Figueroa and his Latin Jazz Explosion at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $16-$18. 849-2568.  

Ellen Hoffman Quartet featuring India Cooke at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Berkeley Old Time Music Convention Square Dance with Foghorn String Band, Benton Flippen, Paul Brown, Frank Bode & Friends, Squirrelly String Band. Clogging workshop at 7 p.m., Square Dance at 7:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $15, children 5-18 $5. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

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

Roger Rocha and the Golden hearts at 9:30 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790.  

“The Erotic Campaign” Performance by Frank Moore at 8 p.m. at Wildcat Studio, 2525 8th St., studio #15. 526-7858. fmoore@eroplay.com 

Steve Carter Jazz Trio at 9:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $3. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

Dylan, Val Esway and El Mirage, Joni Davis, Michael Hamm at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082.  

Slydini at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Floating Corpses, Hunx and his Punx, The No Gos 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. 

El Debarge at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square, through Sun. Cost is $40. 238-9200.  

SUNDAY, SEPT. 14 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Aimee Suzara reads from her poems “The Space Between” at 7 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $5-$8. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Matthew McKay reads from his novel “Wawona Hotel” at 4 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Memorial Concert for Jorge Liderman, featuring music by Liderman, at 2 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net 

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra “Myth & the Muse” at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way. For ticket information call 415-252-1288. 

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

Americana Unplugged at 5 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Big Lou’s Polka Casserole at 5 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Pappa Gianni and the North Beach Band at 2 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Asher/LaMacchia at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

MONDAY, SEPT. 15 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Strictfathermodel” Works by Joseph Essoe Paintings, photographs, sculpture and video. Opens at 21 Grand, 416 25th St. at Broadway, Oakland. www.21grand.org 

“Heads Up” Faces featured in canvas, drawings and sculpture, opens at The Ames Gallery, 2661 Cedar St. Mon.-Fri. 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., through Dec. 31. 845-4949. 

“Love Never Fails” Works by Kelvin Curry opens at the Craft & Cultural Arts Gallery, State of California Office Bldg., 1515 Clay St., Oakland. 622-8190. 

Berkeley High School Art Teachers Exhibition on display to Oct. 17 at Addison Street Windows Gallery, 2018 Addison St. 981-7546. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Jon Carroll in Conversation with Anne Lamott at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Rep, 2025 Addison St. Tickets are $25. Benefit for Park Day School. 653-0317, ext. 103. 

Thanks to Berkeley Poetry Reading with Robert Hass, faculty, students and staff at noon in Sproul Plaza. 643-0421. 

Poetry Express with John Moore of San Jose at 7 p.m. at Priya Restaurant, 2072 San Pablo Ave. 644-3977. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Trovatore, traditional Italian music, at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Richard Julian and Bhi Bjiman at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage Coffee House. Cost is $14.50-$15.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Downtown Jam Session with Glen Pearson at 7 p.m. at Ed Kelly Hall, Oakland Public Conservatory of Music, 1616 Franklin St., Oakland. Cost is $5. www.opcmucsic.org 

Shaynee Rainbolt: A Tribute to Russ Garcia at 8 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $16. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

TUESDAY, SEPT. 16 

CHILDREN 

Randel McGee & Groark the Dragon, puppeteer/ventriloquist at 6:30 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. For ages 3 and up. 524-3043. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

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

“Best American Poetry 2008” with contributors Robert Hass, Michael Palmer, D.A. Powell, and Chad Sweeney at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Courtableu at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Singers’ Open Mic with Ellen Hoffman at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $5. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Susan Rancourt at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $7-$14. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

Jazzschool Tuesdays, a weekly showcase of up-and-coming ensembles from Berkeley Jazzschool at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Human Form in a Wild World” Mixed-media works by Louise Greenberg. Reception at 4 p.m. at Bucci’s, 6121 Hollis St., Emeryville. Exhibit runs to Oct. 10. 547-4725. 

FILM 

“Canto a lo Poeta: Poet Songs” A documentary about La Paya, improvisational singing in Chile at 8 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $8-$10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Latino Film Festival “Brassier de Emma” at 6:30 p.m. at Richmond Public Library, Madeline F. Whittlesey Community Room, 325 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. Free. 620-6561. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Poetry Flash with Robert Hass, Maxine Hong Kingston and Fred Marchant reading from William Stafford’s “Another World Instead” at 7:30 p.m. at Moe’s Books, 2476 Telegraph Ave. 849-2087. 

Cafe Poetry at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Berkeley Poetry Slam with host Charles Ellik and Three Blind Mice, at 8:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $7. 841-2082 .www.starryploughpub.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Music for the Spirit with Ron McKean on harpsichord at 12:15 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Oakland, 2619 Broadway. 444-3555. 

Wednesday Noon Concert, with Marié Abe and Mils Bultmann at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Free. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

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

Helenicks, Greek songs, at 7 p.m. at Le Bateau Ivre, 2629 Telegraph Ave. www.lebateauivre.net 

Whiskey Brothers, old-time and bluegrass at 9 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

Helladelics/Edessa at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Balkan dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

La Verdad at 9:30 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Salsa dance lessons at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $5-$10. 548-1159.  

The Invaders at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Steppin In It at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Kanda Bongo Man at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $12-$20. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

THURSDAY, SEPT. 18 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Love Never Fails” Works by Kelvin Curry. Opening reception at 5 p.m. at the Craft & Cultural Arts Gallery, State of California Office Building - Atrium, 1515 Clay St., Oakland. 622-8190. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Unni Wikan reads from “In Honor of Fadime: Murder and Shame” at 6 p.m. at University Press Books, 2430 Bancroft Way. 548-0585. www.universitypressbooks.com 

Susan Dunlop reads from “Hungry Ghosts” the second installment in her Darcy Lott mystery series, at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

Jeff Conant discusses his new book “A Community Guide to Environmental Health” at 7 p.m. at Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. 548-3402. www.ecologycenter.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Willy Porter at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $19.50-$20.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Gerald Beckett Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Berklee Latin Jazz All-Stars at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $10. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

The Dance, Dorado, Sean Hodge with High Heat, funk, rock at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $5. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Tracy Sirota at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

The Gibson Brothers, Homespun Rowdy at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082 www.starryploughpub.com 

“Encuentros 2: Dispatches from the Queer Borderlands” at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

The Sacred Profanities at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Kanda Bongo Man at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $12-$20. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

FRIDAY, SEPT. 19 

THEATER 

Aurora Theatre “The Best Man” Wed.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 and 7 p.m. at 2081 Addison St. through Sept. 28. Tickets are $40-$42. 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org 

Berkeley Rep “Yellowjackets” by Itamar Moses, a Berkeley resident, set at Berkeley High School, Tues.-Sun. at the Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St., through Oct. 12. Tickets are $27-$71. 647-2949. berkeleyrep.org 

California Conservatory Theatre “They’re Playing Our Song” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., 2 p.m. on Sat. and Sun. at 999 East 14th St, San Leandro City Hall Complex, near BART, through Oct. 12. Tickets are $20-$22. 632-8850. www.cct-sl.org 

Impact Theatre “Ching Chong Chinaman” Thurs.-Sat at 8 p.m. at La Val’s Subterranean, to Oct. 11. Tickets are $10-$17. 464-4468. impacttheatre.com 

Masquers Playhouse “The Petrified Forest” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond, through Sept. 27. Tickets are $18. 232-4031. www.masquers.org 

Oakland Public Theater, “Before the Dream: The mysterious death (and life) of Richard Wright” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at the Noodle Factory Performind Arts Center, 1255 26th St., corner of Union, Oakland, through Oct. 5. Tickets are $9-$20. 534-9529. www.brownpapertickets.com 

Rough and Tumble “Candide” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun at 7 p.m. at Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave. through Sept. 21. Tickets are $16-$22. 499-0356. www.randt.org 

Shotgun Players “Vera Wilde” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at The Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave. Tickets are $17-$25. 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Portraits of Diversity” Works by Rita Sklar. Reception at 4 p.m. at LunchStop Cafe, Joseph P. Bort MetroCenter, 101 Eighth St., Oakland. 817-5773. www.ritasklar.com 

“And Thus ... Accordingly” Works from found materials by Robert Armstrong on display from 1 to 5 p.m. Fri.-Sun. at Garage Gallery, Berkeley Outlet, 3110 Wheeler St. near Ashby and Shattuck. 549-2896. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Mark Richardson reads from “Zen and Now: On the Trail of Robert Pirsig and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

“Sex for America” An anthology of eroica inspired by Capitol Hill with Stephen Elliott, Daphne Gottleib and Sarah Fran Wisby at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books Downtown, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Lantana Koto Ensemble, Japanese and American ensemble in a concert of contemporary works composed and arranged for the traditional Japanese instruments at 8 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Tickets are $10-$15. 845-1350. www.hillsideclub.org/concerts.htm 

Schola Cantorum San Francisco “Western Wind, When Will Thou Blow?” at 8 p.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2300 Bancroft Way. Tickets are $12-$15, 18 and under, free. www.scholasf.org 

11th Annual Music for People & Thingamajigs Festival Artists working with made/found objects, at 8 p.m. at 21 Grand, 416 25th St., Oakland. Cost is $10-$15 sliding scale. 444-1322. reserve@thingamajigs.org 

Andrew McKnight, guitar, accompanied by bassist Sean Kelly at 7:30 p.m. at Unity of Berkeley, 2075 Eunice St. Suggested donation $10-$20. 528-8844. 

Chad Manning, Jody Stecher & Keith Little at 8 p.m. at First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St., Oakland. Tickets are $10-$18. www.utunescoffeehouse.org 

Otmaro Ruiz Group at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $20. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Pamela Rose & Her Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Entrenos, Aquarela, Brazilian, at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10-$12. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Tamra Engle at 8 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Steve Seskin, Allen Shamblin & Chuck Jones at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $22.50-$23.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

The Patrick Winningham Band, Glider, Aiden Hawken at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $15. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Sabertooth Zombie, Zann, Graf Orlock 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. 

The PPL at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Anthony B, Rootz Underground, reggae, at 9 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $20-$25. 548-1159.  

Amel Larrieux at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square, through Sun. Cost is $26. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 20 

CHILDREN  

“Aesop’s Fables” at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. Cost is $6. 452-2259. www.fairyland.org 

FILM 

Jewish Film Series “Two Minutes from Faradis” at 7 p.m. at Temple Israel, 3183 Mecartney Rd., Alameda. Cost is $10. 522-9355. 

EXHIBITIONS 

Pro Arts New Visions 2008 Group Show Artists’ Talk at 1 p.m. at Pro Arts Gallery, 550 Second St., Oakland, and runs through Oct. 24. www.proartsgallery.org 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Tim Porter describes “Organic Marin: Recipes from Land to Table” at 4 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Grosse Abfahrt with Tom Djll, Fred Frith and others at 8 p.m. at Trinity Chapel, 2320 Dana St. Tickets are $8-$12. 549-3864. www.trinitychamberconcerts.com 

“In Magdalene’s Garden” A vespers benefit for Katrina Tree Recovery at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley. Proceeds will go to planting trees in the Gulf region devastated by the hurricane. 653-7196. www.sagrada.com 

Hillbillies from Mars at 3 p.m. at Wisteria Ways, outside venue, 383 61st St., Oakland. Bring something to sit on. Donation $15-$20. RSVP to info@WisteriaWays.org 

Grupo Araucaria in a celebration of Chilean Independence Day at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $12. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Robin Gregory & Her Trio at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $12. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Samba Ngo at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $12-$15. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

Josh Jones Trio at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Lost Weekend at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $20.50-$21.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Joseph Israel, Lafa Taylor at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Jazz Fourtet at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Amel Larrieux in a benefit for La Clinica de La Raza at 6:30 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $26. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

Phobia, In Disgust, Semetex Vest, Godstomper 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, SEPT. 21 

CHILDREN 

Gallery of Thingamajigs Explore sounds produced by unusual instruments created from found materials, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10 and Oak, Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

11th Annual Music for People & Thingamajigs Artists working with made/found objects, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. 444-1322. reserve@thingamajigs.org 

Rudolf Buchbinder, piano, at 3 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $46. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net 

Art Song Recital with Angela Arnold, soprano, and Jeffrey Sykes, piano at 2 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley. Free. 848-3696.  

Jazz at the Chimes featuring Vive Le Jazz at 2 p.m. at Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. Tickets are $10-$15 at the door. Children under 12 free. 228-3218. 

Terroritmo, música latina cumbia, salsa, reggaton, at 8 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $5-$7. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Alexa Weber Morales Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Kim Nalley at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15-$18. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Americana Unplugged at 5 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Chirgilchin, Tuvan throat singing at 7 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $15-$20. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Gandalf Murphy & the Slambovian Circus of Dreams at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

“C’mon, man. I’m just playin’. I ain’t got no knife!” Yellowjackets, set at Berkeley High, opens on the Berkeley Rep Thrust Stage with two students at their desks, side by side, at the beginning of the school year, with Annie Smart’s set of a frieze of a slave from antiquity, blowing a clarion, and much-tagged murals above a cyclone fence, with lockers to the side. 

The bigger student (Guillem, played by Brian Rivera) asks the other’s name. “Trevor,” he says (Craig Piaget). “What kind of name is that?” And the hazing begins, with Guillem writing Trevor’s name on the desk, teasing him (Trevor nervous over being blamed for vandalism), finally—after some exaggerated, ambiguous threats—opening his hand to show a tagging pen instead of a blade. 

The sardonic odd couple never really come to grips with each other, setting off a periodic, minor flurry of incidents which underscore the main event and its repercussions in Itamar Moses’ new play, commissioned by The Rep and performed by a bright cast of younger local performers, many of whom were raised or schooled in Berkeley, directed by Rep Artistic Director Tony Taccone. 

The core incident of Yellowjackets, the Berkeley High team name, is two-fold and based on events when Moses attended there during the mid-’90s. A clash on campus (here a stroboscopically lit brawl between on and off-campus opponents, in which an administrator, trying to break it up, gets a broken arm instead) is reported in the student newspaper (The Jacket). The story is harshly criticized as insensitive by faculty members, who organize a boycott of the paper. The drama develops (with a considerable amount of humor) as Jacket staffers are caught in the middle and air or act out their own beefs, while other students (some of them actors in or witnesses to the incident), parents and faculty members navigate through the ever-more treacherous maze of reactions, repercussions and misunderstandings that turn an open campus into a closed one, bringing to light—and often twisting—dormant attitudes which set liberal-minded characters at odds with members of the minorities they thought they favored. Strife bursts out both openly in groups or in quiet, personal conversations that escalate into fierce debate, derogation, denial. 

Yellowjackets is episodic; the string of scenes snakes around, and frays a little. Its free, modular form embodies the quick, energetic (or slower, more morose) incidents in the teenagers’ lives, how they’re elliptically related—and, ironically, how school dices them up into seemingly discrete segments. Moses has said he wanted to write something like an epic, and Yellowjackets has something of that torrential quality, a rush of actions in which a number of tableaux stand out, emblematically, like the “playful” hazing scene at the top, or when brawler Damian (Shoresh Alaudini, in an exceptional performance) is grilled by the hurt administrator (Alex Curtis as Mr. Franks) and his own brother (Lance Gardner, who finely renders Rashid’s character), a campus security officer, later revealed to have destroyed copies of Huckleberry Finn while a student. 

(It’s no mistake that Moses chose Mark Twain’s masterpiece as an unseen realia—an object that occasions dramatic action, like Yorick’s skull or the swords and poisoned cup in Hamlet. Besides being the focus of the ongoing controversy over the role of race and inflammatory language in the book, Huck Finn is the American epic of youth adrift in the deadly contradictions of an adult world.)  

Moses has put both heart and soul into the play, and yet kept true authorial distance, remarkable in that he was Jacket editor at the time of the original incident and controversial story about it, leaving the Bay Area immediately after graduation. He strives to both unleash and yet dramatically harness all the energies, all the contradictions, implicit and explicit, around a situation which served as a watershed for a school that mirrored a community, which in turn reflected the struggles of society at large.  

It’s exhaustive, maybe dragged out, maybe needing cutting or rewriting before finding its ideal form—and maybe troubled by a kind of media feedback, dogged by an unwitting echo in certain respects from cable TV movies or miniseries.  

But, before anything else, Yellowjackets presents itself both boldly and intimately, and it’s very watchable (another media-coined word, alas!). Its triumph in its Rep staging is shared by the playwright and the 11-member cast with the theater that commissioned it, the cast doubling in playing both students and adults with extraordinary verve and commitment.  

On opening night, there was laughter and excited talk afterwards among Berkeley High alumni about the portraits—or caricatures—of teachers, especially. “Some real icons appear in the play,” Moses has said. Shoresh Alaudini, Jahmela Biggs, Alex Curtis, Ben Freeman, Lance Gardner, Amaya Alonso Hallifax, Kevin Hsieh, Adrienne Papp, Craig Piaget, Brian Rivera and Erika Salazar each deserve special mention, but even more so as an ensemble. 

It concludes uncompromisingly, yet poignantly, without nostalgia. Jacket editor Avi (Ben Freeman as Moses’ cognate), talking about leaving it all behind, is told by his visuals editor and sometime girlfriend Alexa, “You don’t have to stay here, but wherever you go, this’s where you’re fucking from!” Later, Damian, who’s slugged Avi in a quick, “blind” incident (the two don’t know each other), asks him his name—and then says, desultorily, “So, Avi, what now?”—as the lights go down. 

YELLOWJACKETS 

Tuesday-Sunday through Oct. 12 at  

Berkeley Rep, 2025 Addison St. $27-$71. 

647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org.

Walking up the path to Woodminster Amphitheatre, after parking on Joaquin Miller Road, a little bit past Woodminster Village in the Oakland hills—past the jets of the fountain and up along the torrential Cascade, spilling down through pools in Writers Grove along the beautiful man-made watercourse—is part of the enjoyment of going to see the summer musicals staged there, though there is a City of Oakland parking lot at the top available for $4. 

Through the oaks and redwoods, the sculptures on the back wall of the Amphitheatre quickly come into view, and the WPA origins of this site, constructed in 1939-40, in Joaquin Miller Park are made plain by the style of ornament. 

Once inside, it’s worth asking for a picnic table, if early; there are also some available for reservation through Oakland Parks & Rec and, within the theater, for a fee, from Producers Associates, the producer of the Summer Musicals. 

The vistas out through the trees, over the flats to—and across—the bay make for a perfect pre-show meal or get-together. (It’s family-friendly, with kids 16 and under free, with paying adult.)  

It’s a big amphitheatre, though the action’s plenty visible from the rim. Musicals are the fare at Woodminster, and, after Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Seussical, The Pirates of Penzance concludes the season, closing this weekend. 

The Pirates of Penzance is, of course, Gilbert & Sullivan and light (or comic) opera. This version of it was adapted by William Elliott to a more Broadway musical style for Joseph Papp’s New York Shakespeare Festival to commemorate the centennial of Pirates opening in America (staged in New York before London, on New Years Eve, 1879, ironically to head off piracy, considering the lack of American copyright protection). Though controversial with G & S purists, it ran 800 performances for Papp, once moved to Broadway itself, nominated for and winning Tonys, including its leads, Kevin Kline (award) and Linda Ronstadt (nominated). 

Since operetta is usually considered one point of origin for the musical, it’s interesting to see how Pirates is gathered into the Broadway fold. The result is a mixed bag. In the pit, Brandon Adams conducts an orchestra of 12 from Local 6. Many cast members have opera credits and background. There’s something in the rescoring, perhaps, that makes for a little fuzziness in some of the singing and much of the dynamics. In particular, the adroit G & S shifts from deadpan parody to arch comedy, galloping off into total burlesque (probably inspired by Offenbach) seldom come across so delectably, though spirited choruses of beautiful maidens and querulous cops—and some solid, knowing leads and character roles, especially Juliet Heller’s delightful Mabel and Carson Church’s Sergeant of Police—bridge the gap betwixt one stylized form (or its parody) and its looser godchild. Still, there’s some disparity; one spectator—a musician, though neither operatic nor cabaret, remarked that one singer sounded like a voice out of a Disney musical. 

But it’s all great fun, with an enthusiastic audience and a lot of juice up onstage, with a striking Pirate King (Robert Robinson), Gene Brundage singing that old chestnut “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major General,” Heller’s splendid rendition of “Poor Wandering One!” to John Walbolt--and excellent production values (Robert Broadfoot, set designer), set off by Union Jack and Jolly Roger, as well as some new additions to Graciela Daniele’s choreography by Jody Jaron: the beautiful maidens spinning like demure dandelion fluff on the breeze, fretting if they should doff their hats and gloves (then getting down to petticoats); the truncheon-wielding bobbies spieling those lines poet Marianne Moore quoted as illustrative of satiric song: “And yet when someone’s near/We manage to appear/As unsusceptible to fear/As anybody here.” 

The very title, The Pirates of Penzance, is a G & S oxymoron, like saying “The Gang-Wars of Carmel.” In any form, it remains fun, tongue-in-cheek—and seeing it at Woodminster is like taking a quick vacation. 

PIRATES OF PENZANCE 

8 p.m. Sept. 11-14 at Woodminster Amphitheatre at Joaqin Miller Park, 3300 Joaqin Miller Road, Oakland. $23-38 (discounts for children and seniors; limited Kids Come Free program. 531-9597. www.woodminster.com.

Hedging, when I saw that Impact’s new production, Ching Chong Chinaman, was written by Lauren Yee, a San Francisco native, I said to myself, “It isn’t Sarah Silverman, so I guess I can review it.” 

But what’s wicked about the play isn’t the derisive title. It’s the satiric results of assimilation and a left-handed longing for tradition—any tradition—in a white bread (not white rice, though daughter Desdemona [Cindy Im] might opt for brown), chopstick-challenged suburbanite Chinese-American family, harboring an illegal alien as an indentured servant to teenage son Upton Sinclair Lewis Wong (Arthur Keng), who justifies exploitation by citing the Transcontinental Railway, giving Jin Qiang (the “Ching Chong” of the title) his math homework, while practicing up video games for a Xmas-time tournament in Seoul. 

It turns out to be a wild ride—fast, furious and very funny—as the well-matched cast of six takes it around the bend, ending up with Yuletide in Mexico over tequila, in search of supposed Hispanic roots dug up on the web, a baby on the way and further unsettling revelations of who begat whom, as well as championship dance routines to “Hernando’s Hideaway” as well as James Brown, featuring math-challenged Jin Qiang (Sung Min Park) and occupationally handicapped housewife mom Grace (Lisa Kang). 

As father, whose self-described job is keeping everyone happy, Ed (Dennis Yen) puts it perfectly when his daughter laments that her Princeton application may be trashed by the latest cross-ethnic revelation: “Who knows the difference? Nowadays, we’re all Asian!” 

There’s a wealth of throwaways adding to the hilarity, from offhandly camp Chinese Opera gestures to “Frosty the Snowman” in Cantonese, to daughter Desi’s reaction to the heartwarming angst after watching a DVD of Joy Luck Club: “Dad, why didn’t you ever tell me? Exactly what I need for my Princeton application!” 

Her search for her ancestors’ culture (read “hardship”) as antidote to her pampered upbringing pushes the limit over and over, as she snaps at her parents not to talk with Jin Qiang (”It’s insulting!”) to bursting out with, “If you disowned me and I had cancer, I could be myself!” 

And there’s much in the way of funny sight gags. The pacing sometimes syncopates physical humor with skewed lines that become silly non sequiturs, like “Time is money, not socks!” 

The cast, both as ensemble and in each player’s performance, shows verve and invention, with energetic and savvy direction by another, not so clueless Desdemona, surname Chiang, one of Impact’s artistic associates, who’s helmed a couple other fast-paced comedies in La Val’s basement for them. 

Entering the action at all angles throughout the show is Pearl Wong, playing countless roles, from an adopted Korean orphan to Jin Qiang’s mother, whom he calls (she’s apparently in customer service or phone sex) to report on his American family: “They eat their food with this sweet-and-sour sauce—only not sour; they wear their shoes indoors,” to which she replies, “Why? To track in the dirt? Is this family really Chinese?” 

On all levels, it’s an exhilarating send-up of that Yankee mock-up and fixation, Tradition. As one character says, “I love Christmas. It’s so American!” 

Even Colin Trevor’s sound design proves hilarious. There are little touches, too, in set (Edward Ross), costume (Choco Couture/Sarah Pugliaresi), lighting (Kelly Kunaniac) and props (C3/Joshua Schisser). And I promised to mention the new seats! Impressive, and a relief to those who’ve braved padded folding chairs in the past. As Steve, at the ticket counter asserted, “We insist you bring food in ... and now the seats are drip dry, too!” 

CHING CHONG CHINAMAN 

Presented by Impact Theatre at 8 p.m. Thursday–Saturday through Oct. 11 at  

La Val’s Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Ave. 

$10-$17. 464-4468. www.impactteatre.com.