Virtual Centennial Celebration of Perfect 36
August 26 at 5:30 p.m.

This timely digital presentation of Perfect 36 not only celebrates a historic anniversary of Women’s Equality Day and the Centennial of the 19th Amendment, but reminds us all to honor these women by exercising the hard-fought right to vote as the 2020 election approaches. In celebration of this historic occasion, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley and The Woman’s Club of Palo Alto present a virtual performance of excerpts and songs from Perfect 36, with lyrics and book by Laura Harrington, music by Mel Marvin, and direction by Mac Pirkle. This dynamic musical commemorates a pivotal moment in Democracy when women won the right to vote. Set in 1920, Perfect 36 honors the indomitable spirit of the suffragettes as they battle to secure a 36 state majority in order to ratify the 19th amendment. Hosted by TheatreWorks’s Artistic Associate and Director of New Works Giovanna Sardelli, this special streamline event will feature a conversation with the show’s book writer and lyricist Laura Harrington.

Information
Free, but the donations are welcome
650-463-1960
theatreworks.org
The show will be available to stream at https://www.theatreworks.org/online/womensequality

Photo courtesy of Theatreworks

The Lost Pianos of Siberia
August 27 at 10 a.m.

Join the fascinating conversation with remote travel writer Sophy Roberts, direct from London, about her first book, The Lost Pianos of Siberia. Although Siberia’s story is usually one of exile, penal colonies and unmarked graves, there is another tale to tell about one of our planet’s harshest landscapes. Dotted throughout this remote land are many pianos―-grand instruments created during the boom years of the 19th century, as well as humble, Soviet-made uprights. These pianos bear witness to the enthusiasm with which Russians have taken to piano music ever since Catherine the Great’s westernizing influences introduced it to Russian culture. Follow Roberts as she tracks pianos and their histories through a desolate land inhabited by wild tigers and deeply shaped by its dark history—-such as the piano that Maria Volkonsky, wife of an exiled Decembrist revolutionary, used to spread music east of the Urals. That these pianos still exist in such a hostile landscape is remarkable. That they are still capable of making music in far-flung villages is nothing less than miraculous.

Information
This program is free but your donation during the registration will be welcome
commonwealthclub.org
415-597-6705
This program will be online-only. Pre-register to receive for a link to the program
Copies of Roberts’ book can be purchased during registration (for shipment to domestic U.S. addresses only)

Photos courtesy of Commonwealth Club

Drive-in Movie Theaters are Finally Open!

Movie lovers rejoice! Who remembers spending each weekend at the drive-in movies? I do. Pack your kids and your pooch into your car and head over to a drive-in movie theater in the Bay Area. West Wind Drive-In & Public Market announced that they’ll reopen a number of their all-digital drive-in theaters to the public, including those located in Concord, San Jose and Sacramento. Guests will be required to wear a face mask whenever they are outside of their vehicle, and they won’t be permitted to leave their cars throughout the duration of the movie (except to use the restroom). Cars must park ten feet apart and moviegoers are also asked to prepare for socially distanced lines. The snack bar will be closed, although guests can bring their own food. With a bucket of fresh, buttery popcorn your evening will be delightful and delicious.

Information
westwinddi.com
Photo courtesy of West Wind Drive-In

Lina Broydo immigrated from Russia, then the Soviet Union, to Israel where she was educated and got married. After working at the University in Birmingham, England, she and her husband immigrated to the United States. She lives in Los Altos Hills, CA and writes about travel, art, style, entertainment, and sports. She hardly cooks or bakes, with no borsch or piroshky on her home cooking menu. Therefore, she makes reservations and enjoys dining out, mostly sushi.