Since its publication more than 150 years ago, Little Women has been adapted into plays, musicals, operas, ballets, silent movies, feature films, TV series and Japanese anime.

One of the most referenced literary works in pop culture, it was even name checked on an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm, whose star—neurotic curmudgeon Larry David—described the March sisters “mawkish and twee.”

Playwright Lauren Gunderson adds her own spin on the classic Civil War-era story in Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women, running at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley Sept. 24 through Oct. 12. In Gunderson’s adaptation, directed by Giovanna Sardelli, Alcott is inserted into the play to show how much of her life directly influenced the book and its themes of family, feminism and resilience.

“I have always loved the book,” Gunderson says. “I was in middle school when I played Jo March in our production, and it meant so much to me back then. I really wanted to do something special with it. So instead of just being the story of the March sisters, it’s also the origin of those beloved characters and Louisa discovering the reason to write them, and stepping into the story through herself and putting her sisters into it. We get to know both the Alcott and the March families.”

Gunderson, who lives in San Francisco, has created several plays inspired by famous historical women, namely supreme court justices, French revolutionaries, tennis player Billie Jean King, author Lorraine Hansberry, astronomer Henrietta Levitt and the first woman in congress, Jeannette Rankin.

TheatreWorks recently staged part of her trilogy Christmas at Pemberley, based on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and co-authored by Margot Melcon. The theater, along with City Theatre Company (Pittsburgh), Northlight Theatre (Skokie, Ill.) and People’s Light (Malvern, Pa.), co-commissioned Gunderson to come up with a “fresh take” on Little Women “that is still really true to the book.”

“It’s really a rare model for developing plays,” Gunderson says. “All of the theaters were looking for a similar thing. But because of the cuts in arts funding and precariousness of our arts sector, none of the theaters could really do this commission on their own, so they all came together. It was a wonderful, fruitful collaboration. And I love all these theaters independently. It was a chance to meet all of them and talk about what each of them is looking for. I just absorbed all of that and filtered it through my own artistic lens.”

Gunderson began writing the play in 2023 and the following year presented a reading of the script at Alcott’s Orchard House and museum in Concord, Mass., where Little Women takes place.

In her interpretation, Alcott’s real-life mother and sisters interact with the fictional Marmee, Meg, Beth, Amy and Jo (the middle March sister and aspiring writer, who also plays the author). The characters speak Gunderson’s dialogue as well as some of the original language from the book, which was published in two parts in 1868 and 1869. The male characters—Laurie, John, Friedrich and the sisters’ father—are also represented. Gunderson’s modern take highlights the parallels between the novel and Alcott’s biography, but it also retains the story of a close-knit family struggling with war, poverty, independence and gender roles in 19th-century society.

“Alcott admits that so much of the book is drawn from her life and her sisters,” Gunderson says. “So it was really easy to see them in each other. By working that into the script we could mix it up. They don’t just stay in their lane. There’s a lot of Meg in Jo, and there’s a lot of Jo in Marmee. Beth isn’t just weak and Meg isn’t just domestic and sweet. Meg has some of Amy’s pluckishness and humor in her. They’re one unit as a family, but they build upon each other’s characteristics.”

After debuting last year at the Northlight Theatre, the production has been commissioned by other theaters beyond the end of its initial run in 2026.

“I hope the audience sees this as an American classic and a classic that is as universal as American classics written for men and boys,” Gunderson says. “Little Women is not a polite, tidy, easy and sweet story, but something that’s raucous, deeply intellectual and romantic. It’s all the things that I want from a great work of literature. And I want audiences to be reminded that women can be brave, brazen, creative, ambitious and, yes, absolutely head over heels in love. And they deserve a big, full-throttled love story.”

The TheatreWorks Silicon Valley production of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women runs Sept 24–Oct 12 at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Tickets are $39-$109. theatreworks.org

Last month, through a cruel trick played by fate, City Lights had to cancel the closing weekend of its season finale, Head Over Heels, due to illness in the cast. As Executive Artistic Director Lisa Mallette stated at the time, “It’s painful to lose performances for any show, but this one is particularly hard, with such a beautiful cast and story, and with such a timely message of love and pride.”

Fortunately, this week the theater troupe is back and ready to deliver a seasonal treat: Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, a gender-bending comedy with six actors playing over a dozen roles. This vampire story, from veteran comedy writers Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen, owes as much to Mel Brooks as it does to Bram Stoker. Caitlin Lawrence Papp, who played Queen Gynecia in Head Over Heels, directs the play, which Forbes magazine describes as “sexy and campy with non-stop hilarity.” 

The production previews on Sept. 25 and 26, with opening night on Saturday, Sept. 27. Performances continue through Oct. 19; tickets are available at cltc.org. 

Thu, Sept 25

Oktoberfest Downtown Redwood City—This peninsula city salutes Germanic traditions with gusto, becoming a magnet for lederhosen-wearing, beer-guzzling crowds, drawn by seasonal contests (stein-holding, yodeling, dancing), lively music, and lots and lots of brats and brews. Tickets: $10-$35 (includes a commemorative stein); food and extra drink tickets are sold separately. Sept 19-28 (every day except Sept 22) in Courthouse Square. redwoodcity.org

McNeal—San Jose Stage presents the West Coast premiere of this play by Ayad Akhtar. The drama explores artificial intelligence, artistic integrity, and the line between genius and fraud. Directed by Randall King. $34–$84. Previews Sept 24-26; opening night Sept. 27, with shows through Oct. 19. The Stage, 490 S 1st St, San Jose. 408.283.7142. thestage.org

A Taste of Ireland—The “Irish music and dance sensation” comes to California on its 2025 world tour, featuring a cast of acclaimed Irish dancers and musicians. Sept 25. Fox Theatre, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City. ATasteofIrelandShow.com

Quilt National 2025—The San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles features selections from Quilt National, a juried biennial exhibition of contemporary quilt art, first held in 1979. Sept 25, 2025-Jan 2, 2026. 520 S 1st St, San Jose. sj-mqt.org

Fri, Sept 26

Festival Fright Nights—In honor of the spooky season, Winchester Mystery House debuts three haunted attractions, themed food and beverage offerings, and access to never-before-used spaces. $54.99+. Sept 26–Nov. 1. Winchester Mystery House, 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose. festivalfrightnights.com

Live on Main—Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab a meal from a local eatery and catch a concert of country pop and rock by Michelle Lambert. Free. Sept 26, 6:30-8:30pm. Town Square, 19419 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino. 

Marcos Varela Trio—The SJZ Break Room Fall Series begin with this trio, whose other members are Liberty Elman and Mark Ferber. $21.80. Sept 26, 8pm. SJZ Break Room, 310 S 1st St, San Jose. sanjosejazz.org

Sat, Sept 27

The Sound of Music—South Bay Musical Theatre presents the beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein musical. Sept 27-Oct 18. Saratoga Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga. southbaymt.com

Mozart and More—Mission Chamber Orchestra of San José opens its season with a program of Mozart’s most popular works, plus Jacques Ibert’s Hommage à Mozart, a tribute to the composer within a 20th century idiom. Plus, pianist Sandra Wright Shen performs the Piano Concerto No. 21. $26.62 (discounts for seniors, students, children). Sept 27, 7:30pm. Shannon Theatre at Fremont High School, 1279 Sunnyvale Saratoga Rd, Sunnyvale. missionchamber.org

Great Glass Pumpkin Patch—Pumpkins come in all colors at this festive annual event sponsored by the Bay Area Glass Institute and the Palo Alto Art Center. Sept 27-28, 10am-5pm. Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Rd, Palo Alto. greatglasspumpkinpatch.org

Services Search & Rescue K-9 Benefit—The Quarter Note serves up live music, a car show, a charity auction and a barbecue meal to raise funds for the crucial services provided by K-9 officers and their dogs with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department. Free. Sept 27, noon-6pm. 1214 Apollo Way Sunnyvale. 408.732.2110. quarternote.com

Sun, Sept 28

El Ultimo Baile—San Jose Jazz, in collaboration with the Culture Night Market, presents the closing celebration of the Alebrijes in San Jose installation, featuring music by DJ Chale Brown, Spaghetti Cumbia, Chika Di and La Misa Negra. Sept 28, 2-8:30pm. Plaza de César Chávez Park, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. alebrijes.sanjosejazz.org

Mon, Sept 29

Cook Like a King Book Signing—Top Chef All-Stars winner Melissa King celebrates the release of her debut cookbook, Cook Like a King. $40 (includes signed copy of the book). Sept 29, 6pm. Williams Sonoma at Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto. melissaking.squadup.com

Tue, Sept 30

Maria Pazos—A solo exhibition by the painter goes on view today, with an opening reception Oct 3, 5-8pm. On view Sept 30-Nov 2. Gallery 9, 143 Main St, Los Altos. gallery9losaltos.com

Musician, writer, DJ, manager and producer Peter Asher is putting in a rare appearance in the South Bay, and fans of the British Invasion should take note.

The evening, titled “Peter Asher: Songs and Stories,” covers his career with Peter and Gordon, the music he has produced, his radio show on SiriusXM Beatles channel, firsthand Beatles stories and some discussion of his book The Beatles from A to Zed.

Asher will be on vocals, guitar and bajolele (banjo ukulele), joined by well-known local musician Robert Berry (Hush, Greg Kihn, and too many other bands to name) on vocals, piano and bass, and Robert Aubrey from Americana ensemble Mustangs of the West on vocals, mandolin and violin. $68–$172.57. Sept 12, 7pm. Morgan Hill Community Playhouse, 17090 Monterey Rd, Morgan Hill. Tickets on Eventbrite.com.

Thu, Sept 11

National Theatre Live—Can’t make it to London for an evening at the National Theatre? A filmed production of Vanya, Simon Stephens’ new version of Chekhov’s play, screens Sept 11, followed by Present Laughter—Noël Coward’s comedy, featuring Andrew Scott—on Sept 12. $16-$23. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo De San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Cabaret—Los Altos Stage Company enters the divinely decadent Kit Kat Klub, reprising Kander and Ebb’s indelible musical numbers while exploring the play’s darker side: the spectacle of a cosmopolitan society undone away by virulent demagoguery. $28-$51. Wed-Sun, through Sept 28. 97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos. losaltosstage.org

Little Shop of Horrors—Floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant in this musical adaptation of the Roger Corman horror flick. $47.08-$55.08. Fri-Sun, through Sept 28. Sunnyvale Community Theatre, 550 E Remington Dr, Sunnyvale. sunnyvaleplayers.org

Pushing Boundaries: Ceramic Artists and Identity—The new show presents work by contemporary California-based artists who engage with clay as a medium to explore themes of identity and materiality. Some artists work primarily with clay; others incorporate it as a symbolic reference. Free. Opens Sept 13. Opening reception Sept 19, 6-8pm, featuring art activities, a cash bar and performances from Mosaic America. Runs through Dec 7. Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Rd, Palo Alto. paloalto.gov

Fri, Sept 12

Middle Eastern & Greek Food Festival—Not only is there authentic cuisine; visitors will also encounter Arabic music by Rami Kaileh & Radwan Shakshir, Greek music by Kymata, and dance performances by St James Dabke youth groups. Free. Sept 12, 6-9pm; Sept 13, noon-9pm; Sept 14, noon-7pm. Saint James Orthodox Church, 195 N Main St, Milpitas. sjorthodox.org/festival

Live on Main—Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab a meal from a local eatery and catch a concert by the Country Cougars. Free. Sept 12, 6:30-8:30pm. Town Square, 19419 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino. countrycougars.com

Extremely Close—Smuin Contemporary Ballet presents three company premieres by award-winning choreographers: Extremely Close, by Alejandro Cerrudo; Partita, by Justin Peck; and A Long Night, by Amy Seiwert. $28-$95. Sept 12, 7:30pm; Sept 13, 2 & 7:30pm; Sept 14, 2pm. MainStage, Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. mvcpa.com

Sat, Sept 13

Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival—Artists, crafts makers, food vendors and local nonprofit groups flock to Central Park for this community event, along with live entertainment from local bands. Bululú, The Peelers and Pride & Joy play on Saturday, followed by TBT Jazz Trio, East Side Funk, Aja Vu and Pop Rocks on Sunday. Free. Sept 13, 10am-6pm; Sept 14, 10am-5pm. Central Park, 909 Kiely Blvd, Santa Clara. santaclaraca.gov

Northern California Renaissance Faire—Set the wayback machine to the 1500s and head to this gathering of queens, knights, knaves and wenches. The Queen’s Royal Joust, Cy the Sword Swallower, The Mermaid Tavern Show, sea shanteys from the Sea Dogs and more—it’s all returning, plus a new act from Joweh Belly Dance. Opens Sept 13; running weekends, 10am-6pm, until Oct 19. $25-$35, plus parking. Casa De Fruta, 10031 Pacheco Pass Hwy, Hollister. norcalrenfaire.com

SALA 2025—The South Asian Literature and Art Festival, presented by Art Forum SF, brings together globally celebrated names from South Asia and the diaspora. For two days, these luminaries in the fields of literature, filmmaking, the arts, science and more will engage in conversations around this year’s theme: Thoughts without Borders. Prominent panelists will include Nobel Laureate and economist Abhijit Banerjee, modern mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik, Bollywood filmmakers Kiran Rao and Kabir Khan, and Michelin restaurateur Ajay Walia. Sept 13-14, 11am-7pm. Menlo College, 1000 El Camino Real, Atherton. salafestival.org

Oktoberfest Los Gatos—Presented by KCAT TV & Radio, this festival turns the Los Gatos Civic Center Lawn into a Bavarian village for the day. Food, dancing, family-friendly activities and live music by the Internationals (noon-4pm) and the Lucky Devils (5-8pm) provide reasons to say Prost! Free. Sept 13, noon–8pm. Civic Center Lawn, 110 E Main St, Los Gatos. kcat.org/oktoberfest2025

Baroque Concert—Palo Alto Philharmonic kicks off its nine-concert 2025-2026 season with an evening of select soloists and small ensembles performing an array of music from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. $25. Sept 13, 7:30pm. First Lutheran Church, 600 Homer Ave, Palo Alto. paphil.org

Jimmy O. Yang: Big and Tall Tour—This comedian and actor embarks on his third and largest tour yet, after selling out multiple shows at Carnegie Hall. He’s sold out the Civic too, though tickets can be gleaned from resellers. Sept 13, 8 & 10pm. San Jose Civic, 135 W San Carlos St, San Jose. sanjosetheaters.org

Sun, Sept 14

Engineering Imagination—In collaboration with The Tech Interactive’s Community Day, the co-founder of Rbhu—an engineering firm that specializes in monumental artwork—will reveal secrets behind the large-scale artworks in the Alebrijes exhibition, on view in DTSJ through Sept 28. $5. Sept 14, 1:30-2:30pm. The Tech Interactive, 201 S Market St, San Jose. ticketing.thetech.org

Gatsby Picnic—The Art Deco Society of California turns the clock back to the flapper era at this garden party filled with live music and dancing. For a true immersive experience, attendees embrace the 1920s and 1930 style, from summer suits with straw boaters to light linen garden dresses paired with wide-brimmed hats and parasols. Heidi Evelyn and her dance orchestra will supply the tunes; other entertainments include a Bathing Beauty Revue, a Charleston contest and a vintage car display. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics. $28.52-$74.41. Sept 14, 2-7pm. History Park, 635 Phelan Ave, San Jose. gatsbypicnic.com

Così Fan Tutte—Opera San José starts its season with a light touch: Mozart’s Così Fan Tutte, which the company describes as an 18th-century reality show—Temptation Island meets powdered wigs—with two young couples entangled in a scheming philosopher’s loyalty test. $61.50-$221.50. Sun, Sept 14, 2pm. Runs through Sept 28. California Theatre, 345 S 1st St, San Jose. operasj.org

Mon, Sept 15

Linkin Park—The Southern California rock band’s From Zero World Tour hits the South Bay. $55.50-$180.50. Sept 15, 7:30pm. SAP Center, 525 W Santa Clara St, San Jose. sapcenter.com

Tue, Sept 16

38 Special—Southern rock specialists are still shooting straight after four decades. $54-$235. Sept 16, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Wed, Sept 17

Shahzia Sikander: Collective Behavior—A career-spanning exhibition of New York-based artist Shahzia Sikander (born 1969, Lahore, Pakistan), who has been reframing South Asian visual histories through a contemporary feminist perspective for more than three decades. Also opening the same day: Edmonia Lewis: Indelible Impressions. Free. Sept 17, 11am-6pm. Runs through Jan 25, 2026. Cantor Arts Center. 328 Lomita Dr, Stanford. museum.stanford.edu

Alebrijes en San José: Movies y Musica—Spend the night with the visiting alebrijes—outdoor sculptures drawn from Oaxacan folk art—listening to live music by DJ Too Tall and Conjunto Trujillo, followed by an outdoor screening of the movie Encanto. Bring a chair, and enjoy bites from local vendors. Presented by San Jose Jazz in collaboration with Culture Night Market. Sept 17, 6-10pm. Circle of Palms, 124 S Market St, San Jose. alebrijes.sanjosejazz.org

Anthony Cullins—The next-gen guitarist, named Best Blues Artist in the 2023 San Diego Music Awards, calls his eclectic improvisational style “psychedelic soul music.” Catch him at the Club Fox Blues Jam. $13.38. Sept 17, 6pm. Club Fox, 2209 Broadway St, Redwood City. 831.334.1153. clubfoxrwc.com

Eighty years ago, San Jose residents celebrated the end of World War II, which despite the hardships the world endured, was nonetheless a victory over the forces of fascism. That’s no small thing, and History San José—the valley’s center of gravity for the remembrance of times past—is offering locals two opportunities to remember this pivotal time.

In the exhibit “V” for Victory in the Valley: World War II Stories—now on view in the McKay Gallery, located inside the Pasetta House at History Park—life on the home front will come alive via artifacts from San Joseans who contributed to the war effort. The exhibit is on view through October on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 3:45pm.

This Saturday, History San Jose opens the doors of History Park for Spirit of ’45 Living History Day and Swing Dance, running 2-10pm. Activities include building tours, trolley rides, food trucks, a 1940s fashion show, and a meet-and-greet with military veterans and “Rosies” (women who worked in factories during the war). Other historic reenactments include President Truman’s announcement of Japan’s surrender, a homecoming victory parade and a USO-style dance party with a live swing band.

Living History Day admission is $10, with discounts for members, seniors and youths (free for veterans and Rosies). Admission to the dance is $20. History Park is located at 635 Phelan Ave, San Jose. For tickets, visit historysanjose.org.

Downtown Buzz

One might expect downtown San Jose to be a little quieter this weekend, now that Summer Fest is over, but stepping into the space is GalaxyCon 2025—three days of festive fandom celebrating comic books, pop culture, sci-fi, anime, cosplay and pretty much anything the human imagination can dream up. Expect an exhibit hall packed with vendors, comic book artists, cosplay competitions, tattoo artists, panels and workshops, and celebrity guests (including Jeremy Renner, Danny Trejo, Ron Perlman, Jamie Kennedy, Lou Ferrigno and many more—even, yes, William Shatner). The action takes place Aug 15-17 at the San Jose Convention Center. For all the details, visit galaxycon.com.

Speaking of downtown … Voyager Craft Coffee owner Sameer Shah is stepping up his game with Songs on Saturday, a monthly music showcase at his new location on St. John Street.

”We’ve always believed that coffee shops can be more than just places to grab a drink,” Shah explains. “They can be hubs for culture, connection, and creativity.”

Helping Shah with the monthly showcase is local singer-songwriter Mardi Morillo, who has been organizing live music events for the past decade. “Partnering with Mardi to bring live music to our St. John location feels like the perfect way to celebrate the talent in our community,” Shah says.

The first show in the series takes place 2–5pm on Aug. 16. Morillo is curating the free, all-ages series with singer-songwriters in various genres. “I love connecting venues with local live music and creating platforms that build the profiles for the artists and venues alike,” Morillo says.

Songs on Saturday takes place 2–5pm on Aug 16 at Voyager Craft Coffee, 111 W St John St, San Jose. In addition to Morillo, musicians Brian Dublin, Israel Sanchez, JENN!, Sorinvibee and Drew Makes Music will play.

Another notable downtown attraction is BAË Infinite: Beyond All Else, a multidimensional art exhibition at noble workshop & gallery that brings together visual art, poetry, and sound to celebrate “the rich continuum of Black, African, and Afro-diasporic creativity.” Selected works by artists Tachiya Bryant, Shari Bryant, Hunter Saxony III, and Ian Young can be seen through Sept 5; the gallery entrance is at the corner of Almaden Boulevard and Balbach Street and hours are Thu–Fri noon–6pm and Sat noon–4pm. For more information, visit localcolorsj.org.

Thu, Aug 14

New Works Festival—TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s 22nd annual New Works Festival, which lets audiences get a look at new plays and musicals in their early stages of development, continues this week with the following readings: Alice, Formerly of Wonderland, Emmy Award winner Mark Saltzman’s a cappella musical, Aug 16 at 3pm; The Bridge, a new musical about a true story behind the creation of the Brooklyn Bridge, Aug 15 at 7:30pm and Aug 17 at 7pm; Malcreados, by Christopher Oscar Peña, Aug 16 at noon; The Employee Dharma Handbook, Geetha Reddy’s workplace comedy, Aug 14 at 7:30pm and Aug 17 at noon; and Vienna, a new musical from Come From Away creators Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Aug 16 at 7:30pm and Aug 17 at 3pm. Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto. Festival passes: $90; single tickets, $25. 877.662.8978. theatreworks.org

CityDance—At this month’s dance event, the focus is on cumbia, with professional dance instruction, live bands and DJs. All skill levels are welcome. Free (including admission to the museum). Aug 14, 6-9pm. Circle of Palms in front of the San Jose Museum of Art, 110 S Market St, San Jose. sjmusart.org/event/citydance-2025-cumbia

Head Over Heels—Despite cancellations due to illness earlier this month, the show indeed must go on for this delightful musical set to the songs of the Go-Go’s. The City Lights production runs through Aug 24. Performances this week: Aug 14, 7:30pm; Aug 15, 8pm; Aug 16, 2 and 8pm; Aug 17, 2pm. cltc.org/heels

Movies on the Square—Redwood City’s weekly movie night continues, opening with a kid-oriented screening, The Wild Robot, at 6pm, followed by Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire at 8:30pm. Free. Aug 14. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Misspent Youth—The band plays in the Campbell Summer Concert Series. Free. Aug 14, 6:30-8pm. Orchard City Green, Civic Center Drive and N. Central Avenue, Campbell. campbellca.gov

A Streetcar Named Desire—Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby and Ben Foster star in the Tennessee Williams drama, filmed during a 2014 National Theatre Live production at the Young Vic Theatre. $16-$23. Aug 14, 7pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Emma—This production written by Kate Hamill and directed by Erin Southard offers a fresh take on Jane Austen’s beloved pre-feminist heroine. $31-$61. Shows this week: Aug 16-17. Through Aug 31. Sanborn Skyline County Park, Saratoga. svshakespeare.org

Fri, Aug 15

Careless Whisper—The band takes the stage at the Morgan Hill Friday Night Music Series. Free. Aug 15, 5:30-9:30pm. Downtown Amphitheater, Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill. morganhillchamber.org

Music on the Square—This week’s musical offering: Foreverland. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket. Free. Aug 15, 6-8pm. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Bollywood Night—Music in the Square Summer Series spotlights sounds from the subcontinent. Free. Aug 15, 6-8pm. 4055 Evergreen Village Square, San Jose. instagram.com/evergreenvillagesquare

Importance of Being Earnest—Oscar Wilde’s story of identity, impersonation and romance is filmed live from the National Theatre in London. $16-$23. Aug 15, 7pm; Aug 17, 2pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Sanctuary City—Written by Pulitzer Prize winner Martyna Majok and directed by Anthony Doan, Sanctuary City follows two friends, both with undocumented parents, as they contend with the complexities of immigration, identity, belonging and love in the post-911 world. Aug 15, 8pm; Aug 16, 2 and 8pm; Aug 17, 2pm. Presented by More Mas Marami Arts at San Jose Stage Company, 490 S 1st St., San Jose. moremasmaramiarts.carrd.co

Sat, Aug 16

The Two Gentleman From Verona—The San Francisco Shakespeare Festival brings this captivating play to Redwood City for three weekends. Free. Running through Aug 24; shows this week: Aug 16-17, 6pm. Red Morton Park, 1120 Roosevelt Ave, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Richard III—Framed with traditions of film noir and featuring an all-female and nonbinary cast, this production by Silicon Valley Shakespeare takes an innovative look at the Bard’s familiar tale of treachery. $31-$61. Running through Aug 29; shows this week: Aug 14-15, 7pm. Sanborn Skyline County Park, Saratoga. svshakespeare.org

Long Gone Bon—The AC/DC tribute band plays while diners enjoy beer, brats and other German favorites. $25. Aug 16, 8pm. Teske’s, 255 N 1st St, San Jose. 408.292.0291.

Sun, Aug 17

Japantown Farmer’s Market—Find fresh produce, artisanal food products and handmade crafts. Free. Every Sunday through Oct 26, 8am-noon. Gordon Biersch Brewery, 357 E Taylor St, San Jose. jtownfarm.org

The Beach Boys—They’ve been “Surfin’ USA” since 1961, spreading harmonies and good vibrations. Original Beach Boy Mike Love and longtime veteran Bruce Johnston are still in the lineup. $78+. August 17, 7:30pm, Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Tue, Aug 19

Video Game Orchestra—It’s too late to get tickets to the sold-out Grateful Dead tribute band Jerry’s Middle Finger the day before, but tickets are available for the third concert in a six-show series at the historic Filoli house and gardens, which features the UC Davis Orchestra’s melodic take on the aural themes from popular video games. $55 general/$125 VIP. Aug 19, 7pm. filoli.org

Wed, Aug 20

Vines & Vibes—The Top Secret Band reveals a set of rock, pop and soul classics at Guglielmo’s summer concert series. Free. Aug 20, 3-4pm. Guglielmo Winery, 17575 Peak Ave, Morgan Hill. guglielmowinery.com

Los Gatos Jazz on the Plazz—Tony Lindsay and the Soul Soldiers march into the town of the cats for the final date in this concert series. Free. Aug 20, 6:30pm. Town Plaza, West Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos. jazzontheplazz.com

Pink Martini—Founder Thomas Lauderdale and longtime vocalist China Forbes are toasting their 30th anniversary tour, serving up fizzy, retro sounds. $54-$258. Aug 20, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Cadillac Jack—Enjoy live music at the weekly Music in the Square Summer Series. Free. Aug 20, 6-8pm. 4055 Evergreen Village Square, San Jose. instagram.com/evergreenvillagesquare

Alebrijes are small, jewel-like Mexican folk art sculptures traditionally made from papier-mâché or wood.

This week, large-scale versions of these creatures will come alive in a touring exhibit, Alebrijes en San Jose, that will be on view in Plaza de Cesar Chavez during the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest. And the good news is that these monumental sculptures will continue to stand sentinel in the park until Sept. 28.

Other events will be happening in the park while the alebrijes are on view, including Ritmo y Colores, a festival on Sept 6 that will include a procession, live music from Las Cafeteras and a drone show. There will also be outdoor movie nights, a glass-blowing demonstration by the Bay Area Glass Institute on Sept 8, and a closing celebration on Sept 28 featuring Afro-Latin band La Misa Negra.

Thu, Aug 7

The Haberdasher Shows—A music residency, pop-up photo exhibits and drink specials on the first Thursday of the month.This week: Bennett Roth, Jonathan Borca, Mark Arroyo and friends. 21 and over. Free. Aug 7, 6-10pm. Haberdasher, 43 W San Salvador St, San Jose. haberdashersj.com

Soul Kiss—Live music continues at the Campbell Summer Concert Series. Free. Aug 7, 6:30-8pm. Orchard City Green, Civic Center Drive and N. Central Avenue, Campbell.  campbellca.gov

Emma—This production written by Kate Hamill and directed by Erin Southard offers a fresh take on Jane Austen’s beloved pre-feminist heroine. $31-$61. Shows this week: Aug 7-8. Through Aug 31. Sanborn Skyline County Park, Saratoga. svshakespeare.org

Movies on the Square—Redwood City’s weekly movie night continues with two screenings. A short from the BraveMaker Film Festival will play first, followed by Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Free. Aug 7, 8pm. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Fri, Aug 8

The Hitmen—Enjoy a mix of funk, soul, disco and Latin at the Morgan Hill Friday Night Music Series. Free. Aug 8, 5:30-9:30pm. Downtown Amphitheater, Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill. morganhillchamber.org

Los Amigos—Live music in the Music in the Square Summer Series. Free. Aug 8, 6-8pm. 4055 Evergreen Village Square, San Jose. instagram.com/evergreenvillagesquare

Music on the Square—This week’s musical offering: Orquesta Dharma delivers a fusion of jazz, Afro-Cuban and Latin American sounds. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket. Free. Aug 8, 6-8pm. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

New Works Festival—TheatreWorks Silicon Valley is in the midst of its 22nd annual New Works Festival, which lets audiences get a look at new plays and musicals in their early stages of development. The kick-off reception takes place at 6pm on Aug 8 at the Lucie Stern Ballroom followed by these readings: Alice, Formerly of Wonderland, Emmy Award winner Mark Saltzman’s a cappella musical, Aug 9 and 13 at 7:30pm and Aug 16 at 3pm; The Bridge, a new musical about a true story behind the creation of the Brooklyn Bridge, Aug 10 at 3pm, Aug 15 at 7:30pm and Aug 17 at 7pm; Malcreados, by Christopher Oscar Peña, Aug 12 at 7:30pm and Aug 16 at noon; The Employee Dharma Handbook, Geetha Reddy’s workplace comedy, Aug 14 at 7:30pm and Aug 17 at noon; and Vienna, a new musical from Come From Away creators Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Aug 16 at 7:30pm and Aug 17 at 3pm. Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto. Festival passes: $90; single tickets, $25. 877.662.8978. theatreworks.org

Sat, Aug 9

Saturdays: Kids Rock!—This free outdoor concert series for kids will feature James Henry’s House of Samba Kids, which will get the crowd moving, grooving and learning through rhythm, percussion, and global beats. Free. Aug 9, 10am-noon. Courthouse Square, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

H.M.S. Pinafore—Lamplighters Music Theatre presents Gilbert & Sullivan’s beloved operetta, filled with hummable tunes and a satirical plot that still resonates today, poking fun at patriotism, party politics, the military and—perhaps most relevant—the rise of unqualified people to positions of authority. A “Queen V Photobooth” will be open to all patrons, and the Lamplighters are inviting all to dress in “Sailor Chic.” $35-$95. Aug 9-10, 2pm. Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. lamplighters.org

The Groove Doctors—The high-energy party band plays in Redwood City’s live music series Sounds of the Shores. Free. Aug 9, 5pm. Marlin Park, 500 Cringle Drive, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

The Two Gentleman From Verona—The San Francisco Shakespeare Festival brings this captivating play to Redwood City for three weekends. Free. This week, performances are Sat-Sun, Aug 9-10, 6pm. Continues through Aug 24. Red Morton Park, 1120 Roosevelt Ave, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

National Theatre Live: A Streetcar Named Desire—Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby and Ben Foster star in the Tennessee Williams drama, filmed live during a 2014 production at the Young Vic Theatre. $16-$23. Aug 14, 7pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Richard III—Framed with traditions of film noir and featuring an all-female and nonbinary cast, this production by Silicon Valley Shakespeare takes an innovative look at the Bard’s familiar tale of treachery. Running through Aug 29. $31-$61. Shows this week: Aug 9-10. Sanborn Skyline County Park, Saratoga. svshakespeare.org

Wed, Aug 13

Vines & Vibes—The Top Secret Band plays at Guglielmo’s summer concert series. Free. Aug 13, 3-4pm. Guglielmo Winery, 17575 Peak Ave, Morgan Hill. guglielmowinery.com

Los Gatos Jazz on the Plazz—Vocalist Clairdee performs. Free. Aug 13, 6:30pm. Town Plaza, West Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos. jazzontheplazz.com

Sammy Obeid: No Place Like Fremont!—The writer and stand-up comedian performs live. $39.19-$60.54. Aug 13, 7pm. Fremont Clubhouse, 4020 Technology Place, Suite 1, Fremont. eventbrite.com

Despite devoting most of her adult life to Abhinaya Dance Company—a South Indian dance troupe now marking its 45th anniversary—Mythili Kumar didn’t find it easy to forge a career in the arts.

She came from a family that pushed high academic achievement with an emphasis on the sciences. Growing up in Mumbai, New Delhi and Hyderabad, she received a master’s degree in food and nutrition before coming to America. Once here, she got a second master’s at UC Davis and a job at Stanford University.

But she also studied dance, music and art during her childhood in South India, starting at the age of eight. “Learning an art form was really important for our communities. In my mother’s old town in South India, at 5:30 in the morning you could hear children practicing their scales.”

Despite the pressure to continue her career (“Pursuing anything other than science was considered not good”), Kumar says both she and her sister deviated from the approved lane.

In January 1980, Kumar began teaching dance in a friend’s garage, introducing children to Indian culture. In 1983, when her first daughter was born, Kumar began to spend more time on teaching. In 1986 she had her first big production at Cubberley Theatre in Palo Alto. Since then, 176 dancers have performed for her studio.

But it may be that her scholastic pursuits gave her the discipline to tackle something as rigorous as the classical art form of Bharatanatyam. This style of movement has a science to it that dates as far back as 2,000 years.

“I’m very content-related, going back and reading, asking scholars in India and locally for meanings and interpretations,” Kumar says, as she describes the process of ensuring accuracy for her shows. The themes that she presented with Abhinaya Dance Company were new for people here in the Unite States.

When she began producing shows, Kumar researched the dances so she could present them with clarity, which propelled her to reach out to scholars in India. She explored older literature to gather themes and stories, because the dances are not just about movement—they tell stories. There are also compositions that have existed for centuries, so she would learn from these scholars and then work with local musicians.

Among those 2,000-year-old documents is a treatise called Natya Shastra, which combines Sanskrit verses and describes the music, dance and drama that make up what is defined as natya. Different hand motions and positions help tell the stories. Her father was a book collector, and he would return from India and bring Kumar a suitcase filled with books.

Learning this style of dance demands at least eight years of study to have some proficiency. “It takes dedication and passion, and with having an interest in dance, there must be an interest in music as well.”

Since Covid stifled the ability to properly celebrate Abhinaya’s 40-year anniversary, the 45-year mark calls for an even bigger occasion. Natya Dhaara (the unceasing flow of dance) will include performances, a panel discussion and live music. The event takes place Aug 3 at Canada College in Redwood City, where 25 alumni will participate. Although they have their own families and careers now, this will be a moment for them to come back and celebrate as a community once again.

Abhinaya Dance Company’s 45th anniversary event begins at 3pm on Aug 3 at Canada College Main Theatre, 4200 Farm Hill Blvd, Redwood City. Tickets: $35-$75. abhinaya.org

It’s certain that some in the audience at Haley Reinhart’s show at the Fox Theatre on Aug. 2 will be there to see the singer who got her initial start on American Idol back in 2009. But Redwood City is home base for her opening act, Mike Annuzzi, and he’s very revved up about this concert.

Annuzzi, who guesstimates he plays about 300 shows a year, has been on stages as large as the BottleRock Napa music festival and as small as any number of local clubs. But this show is different. “As a musician walking onto the stage at the Fox Theatre, you feel a big responsibility to perform among the greats who have been there before me. I think of Tony Bennett, Etta James, Neil Young, BB King, Lyle Lovett, and so many others.” Annuzzi says. “This venue is truly a capsule of history and I am so happy to be included as a local independent artist, especially having the opportunity to share the stage with Haley.”

The show begins at 7pm on Saturday, and the Fox is located at 2221 Broadway St, Redwood City. Tickets are available at foxrwc.com.

Wed, July 30

Santa Clara County Fair—The 81st Annual Santa Clara County Fair opens July 30, with this year’s theme being “Still Hare and Kicking.” Expect traditional fair-style food and drink, carnival rides, livestock shows, exhibits, arts and crafts, and lots of live entertainment. $7.50-$12. Hours: July 30-Aug 1, 3-10pm; Aug 2, 1-11pm; August 3, 1-10pm. Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Rd, San Jose. 408.494.3100. thefair.org

MJ the Musical—Now touring North America, this new musical follows superstar Michael Jackson as he rises to fame. Now touring North America, with MJ’s crowd-pleasing hits. $91+. Through Aug 3. Center for the Performing Arts, 255 S Almaden Blvd, San Jose. san-jose-theater.com/shows

Thu, July 31

Curator Talk—Maggie Dethloff, one of the curators of the exhibit Second Nature: Photography in the Age of the Anthropocene, will give a free talk. July 31, 6pm. Cantor Arts Center, Stanford. museum.stanford.edu/programs

Pobladores Night Market—This open-air market brings together local makers and business, artists, performers and food purveyors. Free. July 31, 5:30-9pm. Parque de los Pobladores, 501 S 1st St, San Jose. sjdowntown.com

Movies on the Square—Redwood City’s weekly movie night continues with two family-friendly titles. Moana 2 screens at 6pm, followed by Sonic the Hedgehog 3 at 8:30pm. Free. July 31. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Campbell Summer Concert Series—Cocktail Monkeys play. Free. July 31, 6:30-8pm. Orchard City Green, Civic Center Drive and N. Central Avenue, Campbell.  campbellca.gov

Fri, Aug 1

Morgan Hill Friday Night Music Series—San Benito County Line plays at the weekly event. Free. Aug 1, 5:30pm. Downtown Amphitheater, Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill. morganhillchamber.org/friday-night-music-series

First Friday at SJMA—Enjoy free admission to the museum’s exhibits and listen to the Trevor O’Loughlin Trio, featuring Patrick Talesfore Jr. and Nima Hafezieh, who will present compositions designed to resonate in the museum’s high-ceilinged lobby. Free. Aug 1, 6-9pm. San Jose Museum of Art, 110 S Market St, San Jose. sjmusart.org

Music in the Square Summer Series—Classic Rewind takes the stage at this weekly community concert. Free. Aug 1, 6-8pm. 4055 Evergreen Village Square, San Jose. instagram.com/evergreenvillagesquare

Music on the Square—This week’s musical offering: ’70s tribute band Mustache Harbor. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket. Free. Aug 1, 6-8pm. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Summer Concert Series—Fleetwood Macrame. Free. July 31, 6:30pm. Hillview Soccer Field, 97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos. losaltosca.gov

Emma—This production written by Kate Hamill and directed by Erin Southard offers a fresh take on Jane Austen’s beloved pre-feminist heroine. Aug 1–31. Sanborn Skyline County Park, Saratoga. svshakespeare.org

Tech Roast Show—Socially Inept, a group of comedians, is roaming “the world’s biggest tech hubs roasting tech companies and alleged humans like you.” The show hits the West Coast before heading to Texas and cities in India. $32.25-$94.80. Aug 1, 7:30-9pm. California Theatre, 345 S 1st St, San Jose. sociallyinept.io

Lynyrd Skynyrd—Over 50 years after the band’s debut in 1973, “Free Bird” continues to fly, embodying the spirit of 1970s Southern rock. The current lineup features Johnny Van Zant, the younger brother of the late Ronnie Van Zant, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s co-founder. Aug 1, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Morgan Wallen—The country music bad boy from Tennessee is releasing his fourth studio album, I’m the Problem. With 37 songs on the album, there will be plenty of material—and to boot, each night in Santa Clara he’ll have two special guests: Miranda Lambert and Anne Wilson on the first night, and Brooks & Dunn and Anne Wilson on the second. $173-$822. Aug 1-2, 5:15pm. Levi’s Stadium, 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara. levisstadium.com

Possibilities—The opening reception for an art show featuring work by Elaine Sheen, Alexis Moorhead, Inga Poslitur, Elisabeth Koss and Mario Montes Pozo. Free. Aug 1, 6-8pm. Hammer Theatre, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Sat, Aug 2

National Theatre Live: A Streetcar Named Desire—Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby and Ben Foster star in the Tennessee Williams drama, filmed live during a 2014 production at the Young Vic Theatre. $16-$23. Aug 2, 2pm & Aug 14, 7pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Pub in the Park—The Purple Mountain Majesty Band performs soulful, high-energy bluegrass and country music. Free. Aug 2, 11am-4pm. Red Morton Park, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Frozen—A cast of youngsters, ages 14-20, perform in this CMT Mainstage production based on Disney’s Frozen, which includes all the songs by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Aug 2, 2 & 7pm; Aug 3, 1 & 6pm. Montgomery Theater, 271 S Market St, San Jose. sanjosetheaters.org

Sun, Aug 3

Psychedelic Latinx Night—Valley Wolf and Ritmos Tropicosmos play at a concert co-presented by Needle to the Groove and Levitt San Jose. Free. Aug 3, 3:30-7pm. St James Park, San Jose. levittsanjose.org

National Theatre Live: Importance of Being Earnest—Oscar Wilde’s story of identity, impersonation and romance is filmed live from the National Theatre in London. $16-$23. Aug 3 & 17, 2pm; Aug 7 & 15, 7pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Tue, Aug 5

Maren Morris—Even with pop and R&B highlights, this American singer-songwriter’s country roots show through, earning her five Academy of Country Music awards, and five Country Music Association awards. $78-$436. Aug 5, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Wed, Aug 6

Downtown Farmers’ Market—Stroll through stalls filled with fresh produce, locally made packaged goods and hot meals from local food vendors. No admission. Aug 6, 9am-1:30pm. 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. sjdowntown.com

Vines & Vibes—Sound Decision plays hits from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and beyond at Guglielmo’s summer concert series. Bring a picnic or purchase food from a rotating lineup of local food trucks. Wine is available by the glass or bottle; no outside alcohol. Free. Aug 6, 3-4pm. Guglielmo Winery, 17575 Peak Ave, Morgan Hill. guglielmowinery.com

Mission College Summer Concert Series—A top swing and blues band, Lavay Smith & The Red Hot Skillet Lickers transport audiences to the smoky clubs of the Jazz Age. Free. Aug 6, 6pm. Central Plaza, Mission College, Santa Clara. missioncollege.edu

Los Gatos Jazz on the Plazz—Jazz Mafia has performed at major festivals including Outside Lands and the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest. With over 40 albums released, the band continues to push musical boundaries. Free. Aug 6, 6:30pm. Town Plaza, West Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos. jazzontheplazz.com

Alebrijes en San Jose—For those not familiar with the term, alebrijes are the visual embodiment of magical realism: Mexican folk art sculptures traditionally made from papier-mâché or wood. Large-scale versions of these creations will come alive in a touring exhibit, Alebrijes en San Jose, that will be on view in Plaza de Cesar Chavez during the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest. There will also be an alebrijes-themed drone show on Aug. 9 after PJ Morton’s set. But before all that, there will be a gala event welcoming the massive artworks to town, held Wednesday at the San Jose Museum of Art. In addition to the visual attractions, there will be live music and performances, culinary tasting stations, and delectable desserts paired with tequila, mezcal, wine and coffee pairings. Tickets are $108.55; available on eventbrite.com. Aug. 6, 7-10pm. San Jose Museum of Art, 110 S Market St, San Jose. For information on the Summer Fest, visit sanjosejazz.org.

Music in the Park, San Jose’s premier outdoor concert series, is back with its first-ever triple-show weekend. The opening concert takes place Friday, July 25 and will be headlined by Stevie B, known for his freestyle hits “Spring Love,” “Party Your Body” and “Because I Love You (The Postman Song).” (For more, read Dan Pulcrano’s interview with Stevie B.)

Stevie B will be joined by Jaya, the “Queen of Soul” of the Philippines, and Shannon, a freestyle pioneer whose 1983 hit “Let the Music Play” continues to fire up dance floors today. Plus, a lineup of Bay Area DJs—Hugo & Chuy Gomez, DJ Looney Tunes & DJ Cris Campos, Brotha Reese and local legend Cutso, of The Bangerz— will keep things moving. The music runs from 5 to 10pm.

Headlining on Saturday, July 26 are the Psychedelic Furs, led by vocalist and songwriter Richard Butler and his bass-wielding brother, Tim. (For more on the Furs, read Bill Kopp’s interview with Tim Butler.) The post-punk progenitors—known for songs where rawness and romanticism meet, such as “Pretty in Pink” and “Heaven”—will play after opening act Rooney, led by singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Robert Schwartzman. Doors open at 4pm. 

The weekend closes out with the Island Party, a night of tropical sounds provided by soulful singer/songwriter FIA, emerging artist Acari (read more about her in this interview) and DJs BigBodyCisco and Westafa, also known as Western Conference. The music begins at 4pm.

All three shows are at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. For more information, visit mitpsj.com. Purchase tickets at caltix.com.

Thu, July 24

Curator Talks: Dwelling—Kathryn Cua and Jorge Eduardo Sibaja, curatorial assistants at the Cantor Arts Center, present a highlights tour of Dwelling: New Acquisitions, which showcases recent acquisitions to the collection and explores how these works expand our understanding of home. Free. July 24, noon. Cantor Arts Center, Stanford. events.stanford.edu

Pobladores Night Market—Through July 31, this open-air market brings together local makers and business, artists, performers and food purveyors. Free. July 24, 5:30-9pm. Parque de los Pobladores, 501 S 1st St, San Jose. sjdowntown.com

Summer Concert Series—Neon Velvet plays danceable hits from the ’70s to today. Free. July 24, 6:30pm. Hillview Soccer Field, 97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos. losaltosca.gov

National Theatre Live: Fleabag—See a filmed production of the one-woman show that inspired the BBCs hit TV series Fleabag, written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and directed by Vicky Jones. $16-$23. July 24, 7pm & Aug 23, 2pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Movies on the Square—Redwood City’s weekly double-feature movie night continues with a screening of the musical Wicked. Free. July 24, 8:30pm. Courtyard Square, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Fri, July 25

Morgan Hill Friday Night Music Series—The Cheeseballs play at the weekly event. Free. July 25, 5:30pm. Downtown Amphitheater, Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill. morganhillchamber.org

Music on the Square—This week’s musical offerings come from the band Careless Whisper. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket. Free. July 25, 6-8pm. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Music in the Square Summer Series—Latin Remix is the featured music at this weekly community concert. Free. July 25, 6-8pm. 4055 Evergreen Village Square, San Jose. instagram.com/evergreenvillagesquare

Campbell Summer Concert Series—San Benito County Line. There are several parking garages within walking distance of the Orchard City Green, including the 2nd Street Parking Garage. Free. July 24, 6:30-8pm. Orchard City Green, Civic Center Drive and N. Central Avenue, Campbell.  campbellca.gov

National Theatre Live: A Streetcar Named Desire—Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby and Ben Foster star in the Tennessee Williams drama, filmed live during a 2014 production at the Young Vic Theatre. $16-$23. July 25, 7pm; July 27, 2pm; Aug 2, 2pm & Aug 14, 7pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

Richard III—Framed with traditions of film noir and featuring an all-female and nonbinary cast, this production by Silicon Valley Shakespeare takes an innovative look at the Bard’s familiar tale of treachery. Running through Aug 29. $31-$61. Shows this week: July 25-27, 7pm. Sanborn Skyline County Park, Saratoga. svshakespeare.org

New Works Festival—Theater buffs can get an advance look at tomorrow’s hits at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s 22nd annual New Works Festival, running July 25-Aug 17. This week the offerings are Old Cock, a political satire by Robert Schenkkan presented in partnership with Portugal’s mala voadora theatre company and Peacedale Global Arts. There will also be a one-night-only presentation of Schenkkan’s Motion/Capture. Old Cock will be performed July 25-26 & 29 at 7:30pm and July 27 at 7pm. Motion/Capture will be performed July 28 at 7pm. Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto. 877.662.8978. theatreworks.org

Los Lonely Boys—Texican rock ’n’ rollers Los Lonely Boys show off their tight harmonies and guitar work, with two opening acts from Los Angeles: Thee Sinseers, an East Los outfit dedicated to reviving classic soul and R&B sounds, and The Altons, whose soul, rock, and Latin rhythms will fit right into the mix. July 25, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Sat, July 26

Beatles vs. Stones: A Musical Showdown—Taking the side of the Fab Four is Abbey Road, one of the country’s top Beatles tribute bands. They engage in a battle of the bands with premier Stones tribute band Jumping Jack Flash. $45-$65, plus fees. July 26, 7:30pm. Heritage Theatre, 1 W Campbell Ave, Campbell. 408.866.2700.

Smokey Robinson: Legacy Tour—The singer, songwriter, record producer and all-around Motown genius does his first tour in a decade, marking the 50th anniversary of his 1975 album, A Quiet Storm. Robinson will also perform other top hits from throughout the decades. $90-$371. July 26, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Sun, July 27

Saratoga Classic & Cool Car Show—A week of activities for car fanatics culminates with a car show along Big Basin Way, live music, food trucks and a variety of vendors. Free. July 27, 10am-4pm. Saratoga Village & Big Basin Way, Saratoga. saratogachamber.org/saratogacarshow

Starlight Sundays—San Jose Downtown Association’s outdoor movie series, presented by UA Local Union 393, continues with A Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black, plus opening act Character Select. Food trucks and a beer garden provide additional entertainment. Free. July 27, 5:30pm. St. James Park, 2nd St &, E St James St, San Jose. sjdowntown.com/starlight-cinema

Tue, July 29

MJ the Musical—Now touring North America, this new musical follows superstar Michael Jackson as he rises to fame. Now touring North America, with MJ’s crowd-pleasing hits. $91+. July 29-Aug 3. Center for Performing Arts, San Jose. san-jose-theater.com/shows

Wed, July 30

Santa Clara County Fair—The 81st Annual Santa Clara County Fair opens July 30, with this year’s theme being “Still Hare and Kicking.” Expect traditional fair-styel food and drink, carnival rides, livestock shows, exhibits, arts and crafts, and lots of live entertainment. $7.50-$12. Hours: July 30-Aug 1, 3-10pm; Aug 2, 1-11pm; August 3, 1-10pm. Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Rd, San Jose. 408.494.3100. thefair.org

Vines & Vibes—The Bent Band throws a rock ’n’ roll party at Guglielmo’s summer concert series. Bring a picnic or purchase food from a rotating lineup of local food trucks. Wine is available by the glass or bottle; no outside alcohol. Free. July 30, 3-4pm. Guglielmo Winery, 17575 Peak Ave, Morgan Hill. guglielmowinery.com

Iko Ya Ya—Bringing the spirit of New Orleans to the Mission College Summer Concert Series, Iko Ya Ya blends R&B, blues, zydeco, and Cajun music. Free. July 30, 6pm. Central Plaza, Mission College, Santa Clara. missioncollege.edu

Jazz on the Plazz—Heidi Evelyn Dance Orchestra plays. Free. July 30, 6:30pm. Town Plaza Park, West Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos. jazzontheplazz.com

When Corey O’Brien and punk magazine publisher Larry Trujillo bought the Blank Club in 2003, they were two locals who understood that the alt-music scene in San Jose needed a space.

Trujillo and O’Brien coined the name for a weekly dance party that drew in DJ Basura—aka Michael Boado, general manager at San Jose’s Needle to the Groove Records—its name inspired by Blondie’s disco-rock anthem “Atomic.”

When the Blank Club closed in 2015, O’Brien opened the Ritz a few months later. Atomic came with him, though it morphed into a monthly event in 2022.

Atomic celebrates its 20th anniversary this Saturday at The Ritz. DJ Basura will headline the night, joined by industrial-techno DJ Plastic Disease and goth/darkwave DJ Bit.

Info: $13.50 general/$262.58 VIP. July 19, 9pm, at the Ritz, 400 S 1st St, San Jose. theritzsanjose.com. —Melisa Yuriar

Thu, July 17

Ebb & Flow—Celebrate NUMU’s newest exhibition, featuring work by Chieko Shimizu Fujioka, Moeko MACHIDA and Margaret Luo, at the opening reception. Free with registration. July 17, 5-7pm. New Museum Los Gatos, 106 E Main St, Los Gatos. numulosgatos.org

Pobladores Night Market—Through July 31, this open-air market brings together local makers and business, artists, performers and food purveyors. Free. July 17, 5:30-9pm. Parque de los Pobladores, 501 S 1st St, San Jose. sjdowntown.com

CityDance—It’s Country Night at the city’s monthly dance event, with live music by Country Cougars and dance instruction by Miguel Allende. All skill levels are welcome. Free. June 17, 6-9pm. Circle of Palms in front of the San Jose Museum of Art, 110 S Market St, San Jose. facebook.com/citydancesj

Chain of Fools—This local band brings danceable rock, blues and country classics to the Campbell Summer Concert Series. Free. July 17, 6:30-8pm. Orchard City Green, Civic Center Drive and N. Central Avenue, Campbell.  campbellca.gov

Summer Concert Series—The Cheeseballs play on the Hillview Soccer Field. Free. July 17, 6:30pm. 97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos. losaltosca.gov

The Movie Music of Hans Zimmer—Conductor Sarah Hicks and the San Francisco Symphony performs movie music from many of Hans Zimmer’s best-loved film scores, including The Lion King, Sherlock Holmes, Interstellar, Pirates of the Caribbean, Batman: The Dark Knight and Gladiator. $15-$150. July 17, 7:30pm. Frost Amphitheater, 351 Lasuen St, Stanford. live.stanford.edu

An Evening with Victor Lin—Stanford Jazz Workshop favorite Victor Lin reimagines the music of Studio Ghibli through the lens of jazz piano and violin. Lin and his ensemble will bring these beloved film scores to life. $44-$62. July 17, 7:30-9pm. Dinkelspiel Auditorium, 471 Lagunita Dr, Stanford. events.stanford.edu

Fri, July 18

Faithfully Live—The Journey tribute band plays at the Morgan Hill Friday Night Music Series. Free. July 18, 5:30-9:30pm. Downtown Amphitheater, Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill. morganhillchamber.org

Music on the Square—This week’s musical offering: Boys of Summer, a touring Eagles tribute band. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket. Free. July 18, 6-8pm. Courtyard Square, 2200 Broadway, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

One Night of Queen—Gary Mullen and the Works give a live concert featuring the music of Queen, paying tribute to the band’s stage theatrics, showmanship and music. $54-$235. July 18, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Sat, July 19

Apricot STEM Fair—Explore hands-on science, technology, engineering and math activities with apricot-themed and nature-inspired fun. $10. July 19, 10am-4pm. Los Altos History Museum, 51 S San Antonio Rd, Los Altos. losaltoshistory.org

SJ Made Summer Fair—San José Made holds its third annual summer fair, a celebration of local crafts and creativity, with DIY workshops and the work of artists, designers, illustrators, artisans, creators, crafters and creative small businesses. Free. July 19-20, 11am-6pm. Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara. sanjosemade.com

Sounds of the Shores—San Jose rock trio act PB&J performs. Free. July 19, 5-7pm. Marlin Park, 500 Cringle Drive, Redwood City. redwoodcity.org

Maoli—Combining island music with reggae and pop influences, Maoli creates an uplifting sound that will resonate across the Pacific Rim on the Last Sip of Summer Tour. $116-$772. July 19, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Sun, July 20

National Theatre Live: Fleabag—See a filmed production of the one-woman show that inspired the BBCs hit TV series Fleabag, written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and directed by Vicky Jones. $16-$23. July 20, 2pm & July 24, 7pm. Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose. hammertheatre.com

La Vie Parisienne—Pocket Opera recreates the hustle and bustle of a Paris train station, as a millionaire from Brazil, a Swedish baron and a sultry local actress all cross paths to start a madcap plot. $37-$92. July 20, 2:30pm. Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St, Mountain View. tickets.mvcpa.com

Brit Floyd: Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary—Though they’re not the musicians who, five decades ago, created the classic tracks on Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Mood, Brit Floyd has performed more than 1,000 shows since it debuted in 2011. $54-$854. July 20, 7:30pm. Mountain Winery, 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga. mountainwinery.com

Wed, July 23

Curator Talk—Joanna García Cherán, one of the curators of the exhibit Second Nature: Photography in the Age of the Anthropocene, will give a free talk. July 23, noon. Cantor Arts Center, Stanford. museum.stanford.edu/programs

Los Gatos Jazz on the Plazz—Monterey Jazz Regional All Star Band and Vocal Ensemble performs. Free. July 23, 6:30pm. Town Plaza, West Main Street and Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos. jazzontheplazz.com

Vines & Vibes—Southbound 101 performs country music hits at Guglielmo’s summer concert series. Bring a picnic or purchase food from a rotating lineup of local food trucks. Wine is available by the glass or bottle; no outside alcohol. Free. July 23, 3-4pm. Guglielmo Winery, 17575 Peak Ave, Morgan Hill. guglielmowinery.com

An old favorite Broadway play has gotten a facelift. Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean: A New Musical is being produced by TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, with its world premiere on June 18. This is a reimagined, pump-up-the-volume version that is spearheaded by the original creators—and Shakina.

Not everyone will recognize the name yet, but Shakina has been wowing audiences with her acting on Hulu’s Difficult People, and NBC’s Connecting, her work behind the camera on Quantum Leap, and her one-person show, Manifest Pussy.

Before all that, Shakina lived in Central California, getting degrees in community studies and theater arts at UC Santa Cruz. But academia was never her sole/soul focus.

“Even while working on my degrees, I was directing at the Actors’ Theatre, in Santa Cruz,” Shakina says, speaking from rehearsals for 5 & Dime. “Basically, I always believed that you don’t need permission to make theater, so I just found ways to make it.”

With a passion for the avant-garde, like ritual movement theater, Shakina was able to manifest her obsessions. But she secretly longed for her roots in musical theater. And now, with the world premiere of Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean: A New Musical, everything is coming together for this powerhouse performer and artist.

“I wrote the lyrics with my mentor and lyricist, the incomparable William Finn, who just passed in April. He would always say, ‘A song isn’t a song until someone else is singing it.’ I saw him work with so many songwriting students, but it wasn’t until the words got into the mouth of an actor, who could interpret them, that the song really came to its own life. And getting to be not only a singer of some of those songs but to also work on both sides of the creative team has been incredible,” Shakina says.

Ed Graczyk’s play has already had numerous renditions across the country since its launch in 1976—even resulting in a Robert Altman film with Karen Black, Cher and Kathy Bates. The story follows a group of James Dean fans who gather inside a piece of history, the local 5 & Dime store, in a small Texas town. They are an all-female fan club for actor James Dean, whose reunions are hectic and funny.

“The community of creation is so massive in TV and film. Having worked on camera, and in producing and writing on TV, I’ve seen the teamwork that really goes into making anything happen—it’s just so brilliant and mind-blowing.

“On Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean: A New Musical, we have between 100 and 250 people on our contact sheet,” she continues. “There are creative production crews in our marketing office, a team who focuses on catering, and it just takes such a human effort of passion to put on a show.”

Shakina has been a director, an actor, a book writer and lyricist, and in this new project, all of her hard-earned skills come into focus. Finding new back stories, subtext and nuance, she was able to give voice to the poetic subconscious of the characters that were already so artfully drawn in the original play.

“We moved around gender in the piece with me playing the trans woman [Joanne, played by Karen Black in the Altman film],” says Shakina, who herself is trans. “And we have the young version of the trans woman, played by a trans masculine actor. So no matter when you meet the character of Joanne, whether you’re meeting Joanne or Joe, it’s being played by an actor of trans experience—which I think is pretty radical.”

While the setting of the play is in Texas, no previous productions leaned into the Latina experience. Shakina had no such restrictions. “The show takes place in South Texas, along the borderlands. When they filmed the movie Giant there in the 1950s, so many people from across the border were instrumental in its success. And that narrative was left out of the original play. We found room to bring it in, which only adds to the complexity of the story, in a really beautiful, harmonic way. I’m super excited for people to see it, and feel it, and receive it.”

TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s production of Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean: A New Musical runs June 18–July 13 at Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View. Tickets: $34-94. theatreworks.org.