Welcome to Festival of the Arts 2023! This year's festival will take place from February 3rd through February 28th.

The festival looks much like it has in the past with a combination of workshops, entertainments, and exhibits for you to enjoy. As in past years, we have offerings from multiple genres and for all age groups, all free of charge except in cases where workshop materials are required.

February in Michigan offers us special challenges in terms of weather, sometimes in regard to entertainers’ ability to reach us, and sometimes in regard to our own ability to reach events. We will put cancellations and rescheduled dates on the website (brfota.org) and also on Facebook. Please join us on Facebook because it is a great way to keep up with what is in store each day and also to see photos after events.

We are excited to be presenting the community with a new piece of public art. This piece will be by Joey Salamon, who is designing art to be dis- played on the west side of the Simonds building. The work will consist of panels that fill the missing windows on the building. We will have four of those panels on display for the opening reception on February 3rd at Immanuel Lutheran Church, and the artist will say a few words about the work prior to the concert that evening.

Schedule:

2023 Festival of the Arts Month-long Exhibits and Activities

Artworks: Discovering Traditions: Anishinaabe Art - Artworks

Monday - Saturday, 10:00am - 4:00pm

Artworks is proud to present the art of four prestigious Anishinaabe artists: Shirley Brauker (potter), Kelley Church (weaver), Stephanie Jackson (painter), and Jason Quigno (sculptor). The Anishinaabe Peoples, comprised of the Ojibwe, Potawatami, Odawa, Salteaux, Chippewa, Mississaugas, Nipissing and Algonquin, are the indigenous people of our Great Lakes region in Michigan, as well as Wisconsin, Minnesota, and sections of Canada. Being Woodlands people, they lived with the land, drawing food, tools, and shelter from nature. Anishinaabe art reflects this harmonious relationship with the surrounding world combining art with craft whether for practical or ceremonial use. The artists in this exhibit continue to use traditional techniques while innovating in order to make their own personal statements.

An opening reception will be held Feb 5 at 1:00 pm at the Batdorff Gallery in the Artworks Building. Award-winning Anishinaabe sculptor Jason Quigno will speak at the event. Quigno, a tribal citizen of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, who has been carving stone since he was 14, is a life-long resident of Michigan and is a direct descendant of Chief Cobmoosa, also known as the Great Walker, one of the most recognized nineteenthcentury Grand River Ottawa leaders. In his words, “One of my purposes in life as an Anishinaabe man and sculptor is to honor my ancestors. My intention is to share a portion of the Anishinaabe’s beautiful history, our stories and rich traditions in stone.”

FSU Fine Art Gallery: Myth Makers - Ferris State University Fine Art Gallery

Myths and myth making are at the crux of this collaborative exhibition between three artists with a unique connection. Working with imagery steeped in symbolism and metaphor, Kathleen VandeMark, Lynette Vought, and Carrie Weis are either referencing myths and fables or creating new ones.

Stylistically their paintings contain a sense of the surreal, where unnatural pairings between plants and animals occur, where animals are comingling in ways not found in nature, or where dream-like imagery sets the stage for referencing the world around us with the intention of sharing stories that reflect upon life, love, and the nature of all things.

VandeMark, Vought, and Weis earned their MFA degrees (printmaking, printmaking, and painting, respectively) from Kendall College of Art & Design of Ferris State University. VandeMark is an FSU Emerita from the College of Business (graphic design), Vought is currently an adjunct professor in the Department of Humanities (art studio), and Weis is the museum and gallery director for the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education.

Artworks Lobby: The Magic of Art and Music - Artworks

Monday - Saturday, 10:00am – 4:00pm

Over the last three years I have been working with a select group of forward-thinking individuals on building a substantial public art statement dedicated to the Wheatland Music Festival. COVID-19 had a considerable impact on the festival, and also kept any forward movement on funding or building the Wheatland Sculpture at bay. This past year the festival bloomed and had a very good year. In support, I created a model of the Wheatland Music Festival sculpture that I titled “The Magic of Art and Music,” dedicated not only to the power of music, but also including a component suggesting the visual arts and writing/ poetry.

The goal from its initiation was for the model to raise awareness and funding for this multiple-component sculpture. Much has already been donated towards the project, but much still remains to be raised. The model was introduced and displayed in two locations at the 2022 Wheatland Festival. However, the festival was just the start to realizing this public celebration of art and music. In essence we needed a public location to display the model for the next month or two, a desired location that stands by ideals and presence as an art environment — Artworks!

The Magic of Art and Music is complex, visually active and is a true multiple-angle view with multiple contents. As has been my tradition, you not only view my public art, you also read that art via cut word content like a figurative form book or story. The model created out of 6000 series aluminum and wood stands at 76” tall and is approximately 28” wide. The finished “Magic of Art and Music” will stand at 20’ tall and will be fabricated out of 6000 series aluminum and corten steel.

Lego in the Library - Big Rapids Community Library

M - F, 11:00am-6:00 pm, Sat., 10:00am-3:00pm

Come and visit the Big Rapids Community Library throughout the month of February and build some amazing things with Lego! Take advantage of true-to-life color and relative scale model kits of some of the world’s architectural masterpieces, or create free-form with blocks of various shapes and sizes. Larger Duplo blocks will also be available for younger builders.

2023 Festival of the Arts Events

Friday, February 3, 2023

6:00pm: Festival Opening Reception - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Join us for an evening of fantastic food, amazing art, and magnificent music, as we celebrate the opening night of the 2023 Big Rapids Festival of the Arts! Come at 6:00 to Immanuel Lutheran Church and enjoy a variety of delicious appetizers provided by Three Girls Bakery. Enjoy the lively music of George Arndt and Havusback as you chat with artists, musicians, FOTA board members and fellow festival-goers. At 6:45 we’ll move to the performance area and, after a few opening remarks and introductions, hear from our 2023 FOTA Public Art creator, Joey Salamon. Joey’s art combines eye-catching patterns, a rainbow color palate, and repeating three-dimensional geometric shapes, with projects ranging from album cover art, larger-than-life street murals to restaurant interior design. His art can be found in cities throughout Michigan and all across the country, and has also been featured in collaborations with Meta (formerly Facebook), Microsoft and Steelcase. For the Big Rapids Public Art piece, Joey has created 69 panels to be installed on the west-facing wall of the Simonds building on N. State Street. Joey will talk about how he went about tackling such a unique project, from conception to completion. Following Joey’s presentation, sit back and prepare to be wowed by the exhilarating Afro-Cuban music of Tumbao Bravo!

7:00pm: Tumbao Bravo Concert - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Winner of three Detroit Music Awards, this exciting Afro-Cuban jazz combo performs the authentic rhythms of Cuba including the
mambo, cha cha cha, rumba and bolero with rich jazz harmonics of mostly original compositions, as well as songs by Mongo Santamaria, Tito Puente, João Dona- to, Juan Portillo de la Luz and more. Tumbao Bravo presents the highest level of musicianship and professionalism with instrumentation that includes congas, timbales, latin percussion, saxophones, flute, trumpet, piano and bass. Their five PKO Records CDs have been featured on all of the major NPR latin jazz programs, including those in Miami, San Francisco, Chicago, New Orleans, Detroit, Cleveland, New York City and more. Tubao Bravo is: Armando Vega - congas; Olman Piedra - timbales; Paul Vornhagen (bandleader) - flute, piccolo, saxophones, latin percussion, and vocals; Paul Finkbeiner - trumpet; Kurt Schreitmueller - piano; and Pat Prouty - electric bass.

7:00pm: BRHS Drama One Acts - BRHS Auditorium

Under the direction of Lori Hathaway, BRHS drama students present a series of one-act dramatic presentations. The Theatrical Arts department at Big Rapids High School
has long been regarded as one of the premiere programs in the state of Michigan. Come and watch these talented students as they take on a variety of roles. Tickets $5 Adults/$3 Students — available at the door

Saturday, February 4, 2023

10:00am - 4:00pm: Quilts of Valor National Sew Day - Artworks

The Old Jail Quilters will be taking part in Quilts of Valor National Sew Day on Saturday, February 4, quilting to honor and comfort those touched by war. Quilts of Valor Foundation began in 2003 with a dream, literally a dream. Founder Catherine Roberts’ son Nat was deployed in Iraq. From the beginning, she had definite ideas about standards of excellence for Quilts of Valor: I knew a Quilt of Valor had to be a quality-made quilt, not a “charity quilt.” Quilts of Valor would be the civilian equivalent of a Purple Heart award. A Quilt of Valor had to be quilted, not tied, which meant hand or machine quilting. Quilts of Valor would be “awarded,” not just passed out like magazines or videos. A Quilt of Valor would say unequivocally, “Thank you for your service, sacrifice, and valor in serving our nation in combat.” Anyone wishing to participate is welcome. Quilting will take place from 10:00am until 4:00pm in the lower level of Artworks. Join in the quilting or just stop by and watch the quilters make their magic. The quilts that are produced will be presented to local veterans.

10:00am: Clay Birdhouse Workshop - Artworks

In this workshop, instructor Joe Percy will guide participants in the creation of a clay birdhouse, using traditional hand building techniques. Birdhouses will be decorative, as well as functional enough to use outdoors.

11:00am - 3:00pm: Artworks Artist Demonstrations - Artworks

Throughout the year, Artworks provides workshops for community members, both children and adults, in various media. Standing workshops include pottery, mosaic, dance, basket weaving, jewelry making, wood carving, photography, painting, and more. An array of local artists who often teach these workshops will demonstrate their artistic abilities at this event. They will be creating pieces on site, and will be available to answer questions and offer insight to their artistic processes. Enjoy this opportunity to watch, discuss, and experience artists demonstrating their works in progress.

7:00pm: Flat River Big Band - St. Peter’s Lutheran School, Gymnasium

Join us for a night of big band music and dance! Great for dancers and listeners, the St. Peter’s gym will be filled with swing-era tunes performed by the Flat River Big Band of Greenville. Come and join in the fun as this popular group returns to the Festival of the Arts! The eighteen member Flat River Big Band is made up of musicians from all walks of life — band directors, business professionals, factory workers, engineers, medical professionals — including a few Big Rapids musicians. The group’s repertoire includes well-known selections from the famous orchestras of Glen Miller, Benny Goodman, the Dorsey Brothers, and more, while also serving up contemporary selections.

7:00pm: BRHS Drama One Acts - BRHS Auditorium

Under the direction of Lori Hathaway, BRHS drama students present a series of one-act dramatic presentations. The Theatrical Arts department at Big Rapids High School
has long been regarded as one of the premiere programs in the state of Michigan. Come and watch these talented students as they take on a variety of roles. Tickets $5 Adults/$3 Students — available at the door

Sunday, February 5, 2023

1:00pm: Artworks Artist Reception: Discovering Traditions: Anishinaabe Art - Artworks

Artworks is proud to present the art of four prestigious Anishinaabe artists: Shirley Brauker (potter), Kelley Church (weaver), Stephanie Jackson (painter), and Jason Quigno (sculptor). The Anishinaabe Peoples, comprised of the Ojibwe, Potawatami, Odawa, Salteaux, Chippewa, Mississaugas, Nipissing and Algonquin, are the indigenous people of our Great Lakes region in Michigan, as well as Wisconsin, Minnesota, and sections of Canada. Being Woodlands people, they lived with the land, drawing food, tools, and shelter from nature. Anishinaabe art reflects this harmonious relationship with the surrounding world combining art with craft whether for practical or ceremonial use. The artists in this exhibit continue to use traditional techniques while innovating in order to make their own personal statements.

An opening reception will be held Feb 5 at 1:00 pm at the Batdorff Gallery in the Artworks Building. Award-winning Anishinaabe sculptor Jason Quigno will speak at the event. Quigno, a tribal citizen of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, who has been carving stone since he was 14, is a life-long resident of Michigan and is a direct descendant of Chief Cobmoosa, also known as the Great Walker, one of the most recognized nineteenthcentury Grand River Ottawa leaders. In his words, “One of my purposes in life as an Anishinaabe man and sculptor is to honor my ancestors. My intention is to share a portion of the Anishinaabe’s beautiful history, our stories and rich traditions in stone.”

4:00pm: Michigan State University Jazz Octets concert - Immanuel Lutheran Church

In 2021 Tuba Bach entered into a collaborative partnership with the Michigan State University College of Music, bringing student and faculty musicians from East Lansing to Big Rapids for a variety of concerts throughout the year. This concert features student octets from MSU’s award-winning Jazz Studies program, under the direction of Professor Rodney Whitaker. Jazz Studies at Michigan State University is committed to the highest level of performance, mentoring, education, and community outreach, providing numerous opportunities with world-renowned faculty. All faculty in the jazz studies area have performed with top recording and performing artists in the jazz music industry, and are devoted to the tradition of mentoring the next generation of jazz musicians.

The MSU College of Music has established a jazz studies artist in residence program, thanks to an endowment from the MSU Federal Credit Union, the largest-ever investment in the college’s curriculum. Every academic year, multiple nationally and internationally known jazz artists visit campus for a week-long residency to teach and perform with College of Music students and faculty, including regional tours across the state. This concert’s artist in residence is guitarist Bruce Forman. Mr. Forman, who always has multiple projects in the works, “can shred bebop at blistering tempos with the best of ‘em,” but his music has also been described as “hobo chic” and “western bebop.” An innovator and an educator, Forman will surely add a new wrinkle to an already diverse history of the MSUFCU Jazz Artist in Residence program. Barney Kessel, of Jazz Times, says, “Bruce Forman is one of the great lights of our age.”

Monday, February 6, 2023

7:00pm: Social Media Workshop - Big Rapids Community Library

How much do you really know about social media? You might be thinking that social media is hard to navigate. There are so many different platforms! How can social media help me or my business? Is it really that important? Well, Ferris State University Music and Entertainment Business Majors, Arley Ricketts and Alexis Stump, will tell you that social media is actually very important! Arley is the Social Media & Physical Publicity Coordinator and Alexis the Vice President of Programming for Entertainment Unlimited, a Ferris State University Student Registered Organization which hosts, promotes, and plans events on the campus, from concerts to game nights. Arley has also had a social media and communications internship with Tuba Bach, and she is currently an intern with The Big Rapids Festival of the Arts. Alexis has worked with the Roadie Clinic, a non-profit organization that supports traveling musicians and their families.

Come be a part of Arley and Alexis's special workshop at the Big Rapids Library, where they will explain how social media can be used for personal and business settings to the best of its potential. They will speak on the importance of networking, creativity, confidence, and consistency, as well as give their content creation tips and tricks for a variety of social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn. They will also demonstrate how to use the content creation tool Canva. Participants will be able to use their own laptops or mobile phones to create a visual piece of content uniquely for them.

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

2:00pm: Knitting Workshop - United Church of Big Rapids, Parlor

Knitters Anonymous seeks to provide fellowship and support for the art of hand knitting – crocheters and other needle artists are also welcome to attend. Please bring your own materials, i.e. yarn and needles. Four sessions will be offered on the Tuesdays of February in the United Church Parlor from 2 – 4 p.m. Participants will be asked to bring a donation for Project Starburst to each session – non-perishable food or handmade hats, mittens or scarves for the pantry. There will be door prizes. If the weekly topic doesn’t interest you, come anyway and knit or crochet with us.

Show and Tell. It’s always fun to see what others have made. Bring one or more completed projects so we can all admire them.

7:00pm: Drawing With the Director - Big Rapids Community Library

Carrie Weis is the gallery director of Ferris State University’s Fine Art Gallery and also the director of the Card/Riley Conservation & Wildlife Education Center. An MFA graduate of FSU’s Kendall College of Art and Design, Carrie has an extensive resume of working with a variety of artists, and is an outstanding artist herself.
Whether you are an experienced artist yourself, a novice who enjoys drawing but needs some tips and encouragement, or have an as yet unexplored yearning to draw, bring a sketch book and drawing pencils to the Big Rapids Community Library on February 7 and join Carrie for an evening of creativity and artistic guidance. All ages are welcome, and materials will be available for those in need.

7:00pm: Adventuring in Africa - Big Rapids City Hall

Paul and Maryanne Heidemann have traveled extensively and have been especially taken with their discoveries in Africa. They will share a few of their experiences in three very different areas of that vast continent. It is often one picture or potential experience that draws them to a particular trip. Originally drawn to Morocco by the idea of tent-camping in the Sahara, they loved staying in a riad in Marrakesh, eating the local tajines and visiting a women’s cooperative near Ouarzazate. Drawn to Egypt by the pyramids and the Sphinx, they reveled in their time on a classic dahabeeyah on the Nile from Esna to Aswan. Drawn to their southern Africa trip by the hope of seeing elephants and giraffes, they found the exotic birds fascinating. Join Paul and Maryanne for a 50-minute journey in Africa.

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

1:00pm: Big Rapids Garden Club Event: Invasive Species - MOISD Career Center, Miller Wing

Vicki Sawicki, from North Country CISMA, will talk about invasive species and the impacts they may have on your gardening endeavors. In addition to her lecture and Q & A opportunities, Vicki will have a hands-on project for attendees to do as well. Join Vicki and members of the Big Rapids Garden Club in what should be a very fun and informative presentation

7:00pm: Solo and Ensemble Performances - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Each year the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) and Michigan School Vocal Music Association (MSVMA) present their annual Solo & Ensemble Festivals, an opportunity for individual students from member schools to perform a selection of their choice for adjudication. District-level festivals are held in late January through midFebruary. Each student or group of students is evaluated by a judge and rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the highest rating possible. Students or groups that earn a rating of 1 (or "Superior") are qualified for State Solo & Ensemble Festivals, which are held in March. The basic structure of State Solo & Ensemble Festival is the same as District, but the students are held to a higher standard.

Come and enjoy a variety of performances by area high school instrumentalists and vocalists who have recently participated in district festivals and are now preparing for their state festival events. What a wonderful opportunity to hear talented young musicians in solo and small ensemble settings, and encourage them in their musical endeavors!

Thursday, February 9, 2023

5:00pm: FSU Fine Art Gallery Artist Reception: Myth Makers - Ferris State University Fine Art Gallery

Myths and myth making are at the crux of this collaborative exhibition between three artists with a unique connection. Working with imagery steeped in symbolism and metaphor, Kathleen VandeMark, Lynette Vought, and Carrie Weis are either referencing myths and fables or creating new ones.

Stylistically their paintings contain a sense of the surreal, where unnatural pairings between plants and animals occur, where animals are comingling in ways not found in nature, or where dream-like imagery sets the stage for referencing the world around us with the intention of sharing stories that reflect upon life, love, and the nature of all things.

VandeMark, Vought, and Weis earned their MFA degrees (printmaking, printmaking, and painting, respectively) from Kendall College of Art & Design of Ferris State University. VandeMark is an FSU Emerita from the College of Business (graphic design), Vought is currently an adjunct professor in the Department of Humanities (art studio), and Weis is the museum and gallery director for the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education.

6:00pm: Culinary Medicine — Mediterranean Diet - West Commons, Room WCO 108

Join Spectrum Health in partnership with Ferris State University’s Hospitality Management Program and Dining Services to learn how to use food as a tool in achieving optimal health. Participation in this culinary medicine experience will offer hands-on learning, featuring delicious and flavorful Mediterranean recipes that also happen to be excellent for your health! You will learn essential cooking skills and nutritional concepts to help you prepare and enjoy health-promoting foods in your own home. Join Ferris State University Chef Steven Dorey and Spectrum Health Registered Dietician Bailey Parmelee to:
-Learn about scientific and medical evidence supporting food as medicine
-Discover the health benefits of specific foods and recipes
-Learn and practice hands-on cooking skills
-Prepare recipes
Pre-registration is required by telephone at (231) 598-1580

6:30pm: Argentine Tango Workshop - Artworks

Erin Malley & Doruk Golcu are an internationally touring, teaching couple of Argentine Tango. Partners on the dance floor and in life, they recently relocated to Big Rapids, and are eager to share this beautiful dance form with their new community. This 90 minute workshop covers the fundamentals of Argentine Tango. No previous dance experience necessary, bring shoes with a leather or suede sole (if you have them) and clothes that you feel comfortable moving in. It is not required to come with a partner, and you may dance whichever role you like (leading or following). Please visit www.erinanddoruktango.com for more information about Erin and Doruk.

7:00pm: “Defiance” - Movie and Panel Discussion - Ballroom at David L. Eisler Center

Defiance is a 2008 American war film directed by Edward Zwick, set during the occupation of Belarus by Nazi Germany. The screenplay by Clayton Frohman and Zwick was based on Nechama Tec’s 1993 book Defiance: The Bielski Partisans, an account of the Bielski partisans, a group led by Polish Jewish brothers who saved and recruited Jews in Belarus during the Second World War. The film stars Daniel Craig as Tuvia Bielski, Live Schreiber as Zus Bielski, Jamie Bell as Asael Bielski, and George MacKay as Aron Bielski.

Through the generosity of Detroit-area businessman and real estate developer Mickey Shapiro – a child of Holocaust survivors who began his college career at Ferris State University – Ferris State University has acquired full access to the USC Shoah Foundation’s Visual History Archive, founded by film director Steven Spielberg in the aftermath of his 1993 film, Schindler’s List. With the acquisition, Ferris becomes only the third institution in Michigan and the 53rd in the world to have access to a streaming video collection of more than 55,000 primary source testimonies of survivors and witnesses of the Holocaust and other genocides from 65 countries around the world.

Ferris State University’s Shoah Visual History Archive Project will hold a discussion following a showing of the film, lead by Scott Cohen, whose grandparents were members of the Bielski brothers’ group of refugees and Partisan fighters in the woods of Belarus depicted in this film.

Friday, February 10, 2023

12:00pm: Artworks Brown Bag Lunch: Stephanie Jackson - Artworks

Anishinaabe artist Stephanie Jackson speaks about how cultural appropriation and misrepresentation has affected Native American culture historically through today. From Halloween costumes and mascots, to the misappropriation of sacred items and traditions, Jackson explains why these practices are so harmful and offers alternative ways to appreciate Native American culture.

3:30pm: Lego in the Library with FSU Students - Big Rapids Community Library

Come and visit the Big Rapids Community Library throughout the month of February and build some amazing things with Lego ! Take advantage of true-to-life color and relative scale model kits of some of the world’s architectural masterpieces, or create free-form with blocks of various shapes and sizes. Larger Duplo blocks will also be available for younger builders. On Fridays, February 10, 17, and 24, students from Ferris State University’s Construction Technology and Management program will be on hand to share their skills and knowledge with budding young builders and architects (including those young at heart!). What a great opportunity for Ferris and community students to connect with each other!

7:00pm: Lisa Sung Concert: Korean Children’s Songs a la Jazz - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Pianist Lisa Sung is an award winning jazz educator, composer, and performer. She holds a Bachelor of Jazz degree in piano performance from Temple University, and a Master of Jazz Performance degree from New York University. Ms. Sung studied composition with Ron McClure and Dave Schroeder, and studied jazz piano with Thomas Lawton, Don Friedman, and Don Glanden.

In her professional career, Lisa Sung has performed and recorded with Ron McClure, Jeff Brillanger, and Patrick Wolf, Gerald Benson, Rodney Whitaker, Terrel Stafford, Thomas Knific, Stafford Hunter, Diego Rivera, David Alvarez, Dmitri Methany, Max Colley III, John Weber, Jordan VanHemert, James Sawyer, Marion Hayden, and many other jazz notables. Currently residing in the Grand Rapids area, Ms. Sung has been serving as the music director for the Calvin University Gospel Choir and teaches jazz piano at Hope College and Calvin University. She has also been a regular performer on the Central Michigan University jazz faculty concert series.

For this Festival concert, Ms. Sung will be joined by trumpeter Josh Lawrence, bassist Tom Knific, and percussionist/drummer Kevin Jones. The quartet will present a program featuring original jazz arrangements of pre-war Korean children’s songs from her most recent recording project, as Lisa prepares for an upcoming Asian tour, traveling to Indonesia, Korea, Vietnam and the Philippines to present concerts and masterclasses.

Saturday, February 11, 2023

1:00pm: Kids’ Cookie Baking Workshop - St. Peter’s Lutheran School, Gymnasium

Entering a kid zone here!! Drop your child off and have them spend a few hours having fun making cookies. They’ll be measuring, mixing, rolling dough into balls, and baking cookies. We’ll be making peanut butter cookies, whoopie pies, sprinkle, and monster cookies, along with one or two more varieties. Each child will go home with a plate of their homemade cookies. Children ages 6 and older.

1:00pm: Poetry Workshop - Artworks

This class is for all poets, real or wannabe, writers who want to express themselves, hone their skills or simply want to improve. All levels are welcome and will find some encouragement and improvement.

Topics will include writing poetry - rhyming or free verse, tools used, delivery/voice work, feedback if wanted or just be heard and supported. Bring a pen, paper, notebook, original or favorite poems and let’s rock! Encouragement oriented. No fear.

7:00pm: MEBA Student Performance Showcase - BUS 112, Business Building

The Ferris State University Music and Entertainment Business Association (MEBA) is a professional registered student organization within the Music and Entertainment Business program. Comprised of musicians, music producers, songwriters, vocalists, performers, and industry enthusiasts, the MEBA student organization is an inclusive group that prides itself on the passion of music and the professionalism of the business. As members of the Music and Entertainment Business Association, students help produce live shows and other entertainment events on campus by booking artists and venues and managing promotion, sponsorship, hospitality, stage set-up and more.

What is the “business of music?” Well, it takes more than musicians to put on a concert, produce and distribute a great recording, or get a new guitar into the hands of a player. It takes many people doing the business of music. MIMA students develop a deep understanding of the multi-faceted music and entertainment industry, of which music creation, distribution, and consumption are only one part of. They expand their essential knowledge and skills into production and promotion of concerts and festivals. Entertainment is also involved in branding, fashion and merchandising. Students are able to participate in internships in places like Los Angeles, Nashville and New York. Led by Assistant Professor and Program Director Paul Kwant, the program is entering into its 28th year of academic excellence.

The MEBA Student Performance Showcase will feature students performing original compositions, cover versions of previously recorded songs, and a few surprises. The organization will also offer tours of the facility/space and provide time to meet with our performers.

Sunday, February 12, 2023

4:00pm: Sergei Kvitko Concert: Schubert Bei Kerzenlicht - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Sergei Kvitko’s career is as diverse as it is successful. As a pianist, Mr. Kvitko has captured the attention of music critics with his “polished pianism… glorious Horowitzian three-dimensional perspective” (Gramophone Magazine), “masterful, intuitive playing… arresting artistry… an iconoclastic sense for rubato rhythm and phrasing” (Fanfare Magazine), and has been praised for his “luminous touch… warm, round sound… plenty of brilliance” as well as “a natural, appealing musicality and sensual understanding of piano tone” (The Chronicle-Herald). American Record Guide placed his recording of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition “among the best ever made” and included it on its coveted Critics’ Choice List. His critically acclaimed 2021 CD “Mozart. Post Scriptum” with Madrid Soloists Chamber Orchestra was praised as “an absolute explosion of creativity for Mr. Kvitko” (EarRelevant, Atlanta). In 2013 Mr. Kvitko made his New York City debut with a solo recital at Carnegie Hall that “was met with rousing applause, bravos, and a standing ovation” (New York Concert Review). He has made solo, chamber, and orchestral appearances in the United States, Canada, Ireland, Spain, Italy, Austria, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.

Sergei Kvitko was born in Russia and began studying music at the age of six. After receiving the highest musical education there, he came to the United States to pursue a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at Michigan State University, where he studied with Ralph Votapek. He is also an award winning recording engineer and producer, and is a voting member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (GRAMMY).

In this “Schubert Bei Kerzenlicht” (Schubert by Candlelight) program, Sergei presents Franz Schubert’s “Sechs Moments Musicaux,” D 780 and “Vier Impromptus,” D. 899.

Monday, February 13, 2023

6:00pm: Petoskey Stone Polishing Workshop - Artworks

Petoskey stones, Michigan’s state stone since 1965, are a stone/fossil hybrid formed by ancient glaciation, and are unique to the northern lower peninsula of Michigan. Pebbles and stones can be found in their natural state on the beaches and dunes along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, as well as in cut and polished form in many gift shops and galleries throughout Michigan.

Have you ever wanted to polish a Petoskey Stone? Did you know that all you need is a few types of sandpaper? This could be your opportunity to learn how to turn a dull stone into a polished keepsake. All materials will be provided, including the stones. If you have your own stone and would like to polish it, please bring it with you. All ages are welcome — children must be accompanied by an adult

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

2:00pm: Knitting Workshop - United Church of Big Rapids, Parlor

Knitters Anonymous seeks to provide fellowship and support for the art of hand knitting – crocheters and other needle artists are also welcome to attend. Please bring your own materials, i.e. yarn and needles. Four sessions will be offered on the Tuesdays of February in the United Church Parlor from 2 – 4 p.m. Participants will be asked to bring a donation for Project Starburst to each session – non-perishable food or handmade hats, mittens or scarves for the pantry. There will be door prizes. If the weekly topic doesn’t interest you, come anyway and knit or crochet with us.

My Favorite Hat. Pattern, that is. Hats are necessary items of clothing in Michigan. And we are always on the lookout for another cool hat pattern

7:00pm: Children’s Literature - Big Rapids Community Library

Whether you fancy yourself a budding children’s author, are a new parent looking for books for family, or you want to purchase an appropriate book for the child of a friend, there is quite a bit to know about children’s literature and young adult fiction. The genre encompasses a wide range of works, including classics of world literature, picture books and easy-to-read stories written exclusively for children, as well as fairy tales, lullabies, fables, folk songs, poetry, non-fiction, and more. Children’s literature is all about the audience, so the features of books, the language — both structure and vocabulary, need to be compatible with the age of the child, and the same is true for the illustrations. Like all literature, children’s literature has changed over time, evolving with our changing social conventions. Digital media is just one of the most recent changes.

Melissa Sara Smith has a Ph.D. in English Studies and specializes in Children’s and Young Adult Literature. She teaches courses in Children’s Literature, The Golden Age of Children’s Literature, and Young Adult Literature at Ferris State University. She will give an overview of some of the important features of children’s literature to consider when selecting a text and also discuss some of the recent trends in the field.

7:00pm: Saints and Santeros - Big Rapids City Hall

A rich religious art tradition followed the Spanish conquest and habitation of the American Southwest in the 17th century that continues to flourish today. Large alter pieces and palm-sized personal saints from Europe, particularly Spain, made their way into the new frontier to aid the clergy in instruction and worship in the new land. These “santos” of the Holy Family, the angelic host, and a multitude of saints were known to provide protection, provision and a window into Heaven for the faithful.

With the growth of newly established churches and communities and the conversion of large groups of the indigenous Pueblo people, the need for more santos grew. With the increased need came a demand for “santeros,” saint makers. Untrained in the academic style of the high church and far from the strict oversight of the religious authorities, these santeros created a unique style that sets their work apart from santos around the world.

This slide-based presentation will introduce participants to the unique and historic art style of the New Mexico santo. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the iconography and the spiritual significance of the santo. The role and craft of the santero/santera will also be discussed.

David C. Cowles holds a BS in Anthropology (major) and History and Art (minor) from the University of New Mexico. He has extensively researched the history and prehistory of the American West and Southwest. He and his wife, Anita, live in Big Rapids.

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

7:00pm: Big Rapids Middle School Band Concert - BRHS Auditorium

Under the direction of Albie Todd, the Big Rapids Middle School seventh and eighthgrade bands will perform a concert in preparation for their upcoming Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association District 1 Band Festival appearance.

8:00pm: FSU Jazz Ensemble Winter Jazz Concert - G. Mennen Williams Auditorium

Ferris State University’s Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Matt Moresi, presents their annual Winter Concert. In alignment with Ferris’ “MUSIC FOR LIFE!!” initiative, the jazz ensemble is made up of students representing a wide variety of majors, as well as community members. Join them at 8:00 Wednesday evening, February 15, for some be-bopping Bulldog fun!

Thursday, February 16, 2023

3:00pm: Novel Tea Book Club: “A Woman Is No Man” - Artworks

Isra is a young mother who finds herself in an abusive arranged marriage far from her home country. Deya, her daughter, is a teenager growing up in modern-day Brooklyn who finds herself facing the same: an arranged marriage to a stranger and a life devoid of her own ambitions. Isra and Deya struggle to stay true to themselves — and Rum’s portrayal of their feats and flaws is masterful.

Come and join the discussion at Artworks. Learn a bit more about the book, the author, the culture, and the Novel Tea Book Club.

7:00pm: An Evening in the Tea Room - Three Girls Deli and Bakery

Is there anything more calming than a cup of tea? When you’re feeling stressed out, sad or just a little wound up, few beverages can positively affect your mood quite like tea. Coffee has its benefits, but tea is special in its own right ? and you'll find countless new reasons to love it when you visit Three Girls Deli and Bakery for an evening in the Tea Room.

Sip on a variety of different teas while enjoying a slice of quiche or indulging in a piece of cake, and learn about some of the tea customs around the world, including the proper way to serve teas in other countries.

7:00pm: An Evening with Cary Grant - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Barbara Pillsbury continues her Festival of the Arts tradition of highlighting a great American film star — this year, the incomparable Cary Grant. Come and spend the evening with the most debonair actor of the classic era and some of his lovely ladies, such as Ingrid Bergman, Irene Dunn, Audrey Hepburn, Katharine Hepburn, Deborah Kerr, Myrna Loy, Ginger Rogers, Rosalind Russell, and Eva Marie.

Join Barbara as she discusses the actor’s life and career, highlighted with some wonderful clips of Cary’s films, including An Affair to Remember, Arsenic and Old Lace, Bachelor and the Bobby Soxer, Bringing Up Baby, Charade, Father Goose, His Girl Friday, My Favorite Wife, North By Northwest, Notorious, Once Upon a Honeymoon, and Topper.

7:00pm: Big Rapids Middle School Choir Concert - BRHS Auditorium

Vocal music director Amy Schroeder will lead her middle school students in a concert program featuring a variety of musical styles and ensemble configurations.

Friday, February 17, 2023

12:00pm: Artworks Brown Bag Lunch: Gordon Henry - Artworks

Gordon Henry is an enrolled member of the White Earth Anishinaabe Nation in Minnesota and a Professor in the English Department at Michigan State University, where he teaches American Indian Literature, Creative Writing, and the Creative Process, in Integrative Arts and Humanities.

Gordon is a published poet and fiction writer. In 1995 he received an American Book Award for his novel “The Light People,” and his poetry, fiction, and essays have been published extensively in the U.S. and Europe. He co-published an educational reader on Ojibwe people with George Cornell. In 2007, Henry published a mixed-genre collection, titled “The Failure of Certain Charms.” In 2018 he published a co-edited volume of graphic literature, titled “Not (Just) (An)other.” In 2019 the University of New England Press released Afterlives of Indigenous Archives, coedited by Gordon and Dartmouth Professor Ivy Schweitzer.

Gordon will read some selections from his works and talk about some of his projects as they relate to Anishinaabe art and traditions.

3:30pm: Lego in the Library with FSU Students - Big Rapids Community Library

Come and visit the Big Rapids Community Library throughout the month of February and build some amazing things with Lego ! Take advantage of true-to-life color and relative scale model kits of some of the world’s architectural masterpieces, or create free-form with blocks of various shapes and sizes. Larger Duplo blocks will also be available for younger builders. On Fridays, February 10, 17, and 24, students from Ferris State University’s Construction Technology and Management program will be on hand to share their skills and knowledge with budding young builders and architects (including those young at heart!). What a great opportunity for Ferris and community students to connect with each other!

6:00pm: Wine & Canvas Date Night - Artworks

Join Artworks instructor Toinette Wicks for a unique wine and canvas experience that you won’t want to miss. Relieve the stress of your week with this social painting experience, as you are guided step by step through an acrylic painting. Bring your own beverages and snack and relax! No experience necessary; all materials provided.

7:00pm: Lisa Selene Donahue Concert - Immanuel Lutheran Church

“If anyone had told me in early March of 2020 that in two years, I’d no longer be a mental health counselor, but would be preparing to release an album of original music, both in the United States and in the UK, I might have suggested that person have his or her head examined. But then life happened. And death. And Covid. Everyone laughs. Everyone struggles. Everyone loves. Everyone loses people they love. No one is immune. We are all so much more alike than we are different. Young or old, Republican or Democrat, atheist, Jew, Muslim, or Christian . . . we are all part of the human race. I hope these songs get people talking. To each other. About what’s really important. About love. And how to become better at it. I’m open to suggestions. Because I’m still learning. And I hope I always will be.” - Lisa Selene Donahue Lisa Selene Donahue is a Michigan singer/songwriter. She seeks to bring people of all ages and backgrounds together through music. Born in Big Rapids, Lisa comes from a long line of music educators, and grew up listening to music of many genres. She loves God, her husband, children and all her family, Michigan, and all things Celtic. She is interested in improving mental health in the United States, conserving the natural beauty and resources of our planet, and bringing people together through music who wouldn’t normally speak to each other. She lives with her husband and two very lucky dogs in “the middle of the Mitten.” Lisa’s father, William Donahue, was instrumental in establishing the Big Rapids Festival of the Arts, and she is pleased to be a part of this year’s Festival. Joining her for the concert is pianist Pat Cronley. The duo will present several of Lisa’s original songs, as well as some well-known jazz favorites.

Saturday, February 18, 2023

10:00am: Festival of Banners 2023 Paint Day - Artworks

Young, old, artists, nonartists, individuals, groups, and families are invited to design and paint a banner. Your banner will be hung on the City of Big Rapids’ light poles along Michigan Avenue, Maple Street, and the Baldwin Street Bridge in the spring of 2023. For more information call Artworks at 231-796-2420 or visit their website at artworksinbigrapids.org

1:00pm: Rainbow Art Workshop - Artworks

Joey Salamon is the creator of the Festival of the Arts 2023 Public Art installation ? 69 eye-popping geometric designs in the windows of the Simonds International building on North State Street in Big Rapids. His artistic style combines eyecatching patterns, a rainbow color palate, and repeating three-dimensional geometric shapes in work that spans projects ranging from album cover art, larger-than-life street murals, to restaurant interior design.

Participants in this Festival workshop will have the opportunity to create an original work of art in Joey’s unique style. Come and learn from this amazing artist — not only about the technical aspects of creating in his style, but also his approach to personal creativity and expression and his unbridled enthusiasm for art and life.

7:00pm: Austin Benzing Concert - Sawmill Saloon

Austin Benzing is a West Michigan singer-songwriter and guitarist making a mess in the genre sandbox. His original releases boast a wide array of influences, resulting in Michigan made country fueled progressive rock that is guaranteed to excite crowds of all ages and interests. Growing up on the fringe of the Manistee National Forest, Austin Benzing picked up a guitar at age 10. Inspired by classic country and heavy metal influences like Buck Owens, George Jones, and Metallica, it quickly became his focus to make his own mark. As his musical appetite increased to artists like bluegrass’ Punch Brothers, jazz artist Julian Lage, and the jam band Umphrey’s McGee, his songwriting delved into multiple projects and interests. Benzing is a member of acclaimed West Michigan band The Turnips and the Avocadsquad collaboration collective. He was also part of the Balsam Brothers, a popular "aggressively happy" progressive rock band that came out of Ferris State University and birthed two records. Benzing also plays with Michigan country band Gunnar and the Grizzly Boys, various bluegrass trios, and Bluewater Kings Band. Benzing also curates and leads a classic two-hour Grateful Dead tribute show a few times a year, upon special request. Conceding that he caught “a touch of that country bug,” Benzing’s solo twangy 2021 full length release “Steady Your Nerves,” boasts classic country harmonies, searing instrumentals and some heavier, rock-edged salvos. “My solo album has eight tracks exploring the boundaries of country music,” says Benzing, noting the project features contributions from Joe Hettinga and members of The Turnips and Ultraviolet Hippopotamus, among others. His most recent EP, “Live from Dogtown,” features original songs recorded at Dogtown Studios with Robby Fischer and Michael Dause (The Accidentals), then mixed by Devin Anderson. Released on November 18, 2022, this live tracked EP can be found on all streaming platforms. When he's not shredding guitar, Austin enjoys spending time in nature and working on guitars. He currently resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Sunday, February 19, 2023

4:00pm: ConTempus Quartet Concert - Immanuel Lutheran Church

ConTempus Quartet is a subset of ConTempus Initiative, a Michiganbased contemporary music collective, committed to making new music accessible to everyone by creating collaborative performances that connect with today’s audiences. Drawing on the members’ wide-ranging careers as performers, composers, educators, and scholars, ConTempus’ principal activities include: commissioning new works, discovering unpublished works by living composers, collaborating with other forms of art, and presenting educational workshops and community outreach. ConTempus Initiative has been featured in the Lansing Symphony Orchestra’s annual Chamber Series and Library Family Series, Lansing Absolute Music Chamber Series, Detroit National Association of Asian American Professionals Gala, Detroit Dance City Festival, WKAR-PBS Kids Day at the Library, Friday Night Live! of the Detroit Institute of Arts, and as guest artists and speakers at Spring Arbor University and Michigan State University. ConTempus Quartet is comprised of violinists Ji Hyun Kim and Sarah Patterson, violist Christine Beamer, and cellist Jinhyun Kim.

Monday, February 20, 2023

10:00am: Festival of Banners 2023 Paint Day - Artworks

Young, old, artists, nonartists, individuals, groups, and families are invited to design and paint a banner. Your banner will be hung on the City of Big Rapids’ light poles along Michigan Avenue, Maple Street, and the Baldwin Street Bridge in the spring of 2023. For more information call Artworks at 231-796-2420 or visit their website at artworksinbigrapids.org

7:00pm: Evening with an Astrologer - Artworks, Lower Level

Astrology is both a science and an art, essentially representing a hybrid of astronomy and psychology. The casting of an astrological chart is scientific; the interpretation of that chart is an art. An undergraduate physics professor once referred to our solar system, upon which astrology is largely based, as “a vision of beauty in order.” From ancient times, mankind has always been fascinated with the vast heavens and twinkling stars. From there, the cyclical movement of heavenly bodies and positioning of the fixed stars were correlated with the affairs of mankind below. While different cultures developed different systems, the study of the stars was universal. Astrology as we know it began in the Middle East, and the Wise Men were astrologers.

Everyone is invited to explore astrology with a seasoned practitioner. The first part of the evening will be a Q and A session; the second half will be sample readings. If you choose to participate, find out what time you were born before you come, so you can provide Deb with your date, time and place of birth. Your natal chart will be calculated instantly with the help of a computer. This is certain to be an entertaining, and possibly informative event!

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

2:00pm: Knitting Workshop - United Church of Big Rapids, Parlor

Knitters Anonymous seeks to provide fellowship and support for the art of hand knitting – crocheters and other needle artists are also welcome to attend. Please bring your own materials, i.e. yarn and needles. Four sessions will be offered on the Tuesdays of February in the United Church Parlor from 2 – 4 p.m. Participants will be asked to bring a donation for Project Starburst to each session – non-perishable food or handmade hats, mittens or scarves for the pantry. There will be door prizes. If the weekly topic doesn’t interest you, come anyway and knit or crochet with us.

Double Knitting. This session was postponed from last year. Kristy Motz will help us explore the world of Double Knitting. She’ll let us know what, if anything, to bring for practice.

7:00pm: Open Mic Night - Cranker’s Restaurant and Brewery

Successful writers and artists share their work with others. The definition of success can, of course, vary greatly from one creator to the next, but if you want to make a living from your work and add value to your talent you need to start sharing your artwork and writing with an audience. Early career artists and writers, with no connections to the art or publishing industries, often struggle to get the ball rolling. Where do I start? What should I share with the world? Where should I share my work? Why should I share my work? There is no manual for this, or a one-size-fitsall approach to this scenario, but in all cases being an artist or writer should be about collaborating with others. Contribute to literary and artistic discussions by sharing your ideas, your work, and your opinions. We invite you to share your work with the community at our Open Mic Night at Crankers. Enjoy an evening of sharing work with other writers, poets, and artists. You are, of course, welcome if you just want to come and listen to others, but we encourage you to share you own creative works, as well.

6:30pm: Pangelic Duo Concert - David L. Eisler Center, Fireplace Stage

The Pangelic Duo, a harp and steelpan (steeldrum) duo, offers audiences a fresh and exciting blend of sonorities rarely heard in the world of music. This unique duo steps outside conventional boundaries, playing original compositions, jazz standards and classics with improvisation arranged to compliment each instrument. Steelpan virtuoso Liam Teague offers a colorful palette of sounds, while harpist Faye Seeman, known for her musical versatility, provides a tapestry of creative ideas for the duo. The Pangelic Duo can be heard in recital at Northern Illinois University, on YouTube, presenting master classes at colleges and universities, and concertizing throughout the Midwest. Together, the spectrum of resonances created by these stellar musicians leaves listeners asking for more.

6:30pm: Women in the Arts: A Panel Discussion - Artworks, Batdorff Gallery

In the art world, women are underrepresented and undervalued. Only a third of artists represented by commercial galleries are women, and women working in arts professions are paid on average 74 cents to every dollar paid to men (from National Museum of Women in the Arts). This is what motivates AAUW (American Association of University Women) of Big Rapids to present women artist’s voices to highlight and gain perspective of this inequality. Join Tara McCrackin, President of Ferris State University’s Kendall College of Art and Design, as she moderates this enlightening panel. After graduating from KCAD with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design degree, McCrackin began her career in the industry working for Custer in Grand Rapids. In 2000, she began teaching at KCAD as an adjunct faculty member, and advanced through the faculty ranks to become a fulltime, tenured associate professor and program chair for the Interior Design program. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education degree from Western Michigan University and a Master of Education in Adult and Higher Level Learning from Grand Valley State University.

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

6:00pm: Deirdre Fagan: “Finding a Place for Me” - Artworks, Batdorff Gallery

Author Deirdre Fagan will be reading from and discussing the subjects in her new memoir, Find a Place for Me: Embracing Love and Life in the Face of Death, (Pact Press, Nov. 1, 2022) now available at The Painted Turtle and wherever books are sold. There will be time for Q&A about the subjects in the memoir and memoir/creative nonfiction writing. Find a Place for Me is a memoir about facing a marriage’s last act—a spouse’s death—as a couple united in mind and holding hands. Deirdre and Bob are married eleven years and have two young children when forty-three-year-old Bob is diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. ALS determines the journey their marriage will now take, but Bob and Deirdre are resolute in how they will traverse their remaining months as a couple. Chronicling Bob’s illness, Find a Place for Me is also the love story of a happy marriage filled with humor, honesty, and essential conversations. In this moving, tragic, and surprisingly funny book, Deirdre and Bob raise a glass to love and the life each of them has left while learning how to lovingly say goodbye. Deirdre Fagan is a widow, wife, mother of two, and the award-winning author of the memoir Find a Place for Me (Nov. 1, 2022), a collection of short stories, The Grief Eater (2020), a poetry chapbook, Have Love (2019), and a collection of poetry, Phantom Limbs (forthcoming, 2023). She is an associate professor and coordinator of creative writing at Ferris State University. Read more about Find a Place for Me and Deirdre’s other work at deirdrefagan.com

7:00pm: “Spring Has Sprung” Arranging Workshop - Patterson’s Flowers

Chase away the cold days of Winter with Bob Patterson’s Festival of the Arts fresh flower hands-on floral arranging class, "Spring Has Sprung!" The workshop will focus on the creation of a bright tropical bouquet, just the kind to brighten up your home on a cold winter day. Participants will learn the basic principles of flower arranging and design using fresh flowers. All supplies and tools are provided.

Thursday, February 23, 2023

7:00pm: Irish Baking Workshop - Three Girls Deli and Bakery

Happy St. Patrick’s Day — a little bit early! Let the folks at Three Girls Bakery bring out the Irish in you, helping you create delicious breads and decadent desserts. You will leave the class with everything you have made, plus the recipes, knowledge, and skills to recreate them at home. Participants will learn two different ways to make Irish Soda Bread, and finish off with Guinness Stout Chocolate Cupcakes, filled with Jameson Ganache and topped with Bailey's Irish Cream Frosting. Erin go bragh! Workshop is open to participants 21 and older

7:00pm: Classic Film Night: “Casablanca” - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Join host Barbara Pillsbury for a Classic Film Night, featuring Casablanca, 1943 Oscar winner for best film and selected by the American Film Institute as the 2nd best film ever produced. Casablanca is a 1942 American romantic drama film directed by Michael Curtiz, starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid. Filmed and set during World War II, it focuses on an American expatriate (Bogart) who must choose between his love for a woman (Bergman) or helping her husband (Henreid), a Czech resistance leader, escape from the Vichycontrolled city of Casablanca to continue his fight against the Germans. The screenplay is based on Everybody Comes to Rick's, an unproduced stage play by Murray Burnett and Joan Alison. The supporting cast features Claude Rains, Conrad Veidt, Sydney Greenstreet, Peter Lorre, and Dooley Wilson. Although Casablanca was an A-list film with established stars and firstrate writers, no one involved with its production expected it to stand out among the hundreds of pictures produced by Hollywood. Casablanca was rushed into release to take advantage of the publicity from the Allied invasion of North Africa a few weeks earlier. It had its world premiere on November 26, 1942, in New York City and was released nationally in the United States on January 23, 1943.

Friday, February 24, 2023

3:30pm: Lego in the Library with FSU Students - Big Rapids Community Library

Come and visit the Big Rapids Community Library throughout the month of February and build some amazing things with Lego ! Take advantage of true-to-life color and relative scale model kits of some of the world’s architectural masterpieces, or create free-form with blocks of various shapes and sizes. Larger Duplo blocks will also be available for younger builders. On Fridays, February 10, 17, and 24, students from Ferris State University’s Construction Technology and Management program will be on hand to share their skills and knowledge with budding young builders and architects (including those young at heart!). What a great opportunity for Ferris and community students to connect with each other!

7:00pm: Big Rapids Middle School: “Peter Pan, Jr.” - BRHS Auditorium

Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars. The travelers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, the fierce Brave Girls, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook. Based on J.M. Barrie's classic tale, Peter Pan is one of the most beloved and frequently performed family favorites of all time. Big Rapids Middle School proudly presents this high-flying, Tony Award-winning musical in this new adaptation for young performers. Tickets $5 Adults/$3 Students — available at the door

7:00pm: Bossa and Beyond: Chico Pinheiro and Greg Jasperse - Immanuel Lutheran Church

Brazilian jazz guitarist Chico Pinheiro and American jazz vocalist/pianist Greg Jasperse are taking the stage together for the first time this coming February. Longtime friends, collaborators and co-writers, they are finally bringing their music and the music they both love to life. Pinheiro, a two-time Grammy Award nominee and “one of the brightest lights on today’s Brazilian scene” according to the Boston Globe, has released five solo albums, as well as a collaboration entitled “Triz” with pianist/composer André Mehmari and singer/composer Sergio Santos. He has recorded and toured with artists Placid Domingo, Dianne Reeves, Herbie Hancock, Esperanza Spalding, and many more. Jasperse, a member of Vertical Voices and a frequent sub in the New York Voices, has spent the last decade as the Director of Vocal Jazz and Gold Company at Western Michigan University’s Irving S. Gilmore School of Music. He has performed with the Bob Mintzer Big Band, Chris Potter, Adele, Bobby McFerrin, Rosemary Clooney, and Dianne Reeves, to name a few. Big Rapids Festival of the Arts is thrilled to present Pinheiro/Jasperse in the debut of their synergistic collaboration. Over ten years in the making, this evening’s musical tapestry blends Bossa Nova, Jazz, and The Great American Songbook - all woven throughout with new music written by Pinheiro and Jasperse.

Saturday, February 25, 2023

10:00am: Festival of Banners 2023 Paint Day - Artworks

Young, old, artists, nonartists, individuals, groups, and families are invited to design and paint a banner. Your banner will be hung on the City of Big Rapids’ light poles along Michigan Avenue, Maple Street, and the Baldwin Street Bridge in the spring of 2023. For more information call Artworks at 231-796-2420 or visit their website at artworksinbigrapids.org

12:00pm: Clay Birdhouse Workshop - Artworks

In this workshop, instructor Joe Percy will guide participants in the creation of a clay birdhouse, using traditional hand building techniques. Birdhouses will be decorative, as well as functional enough to use outdoors.

1:00pm: “Strings and Things” Workshop - Quinn’s Music

Quinn’s Music is excited to have local musician Zach Potter leading this “Strings & Things” workshop. Zach has over 10 years of experience playing and teaching a variety of stringed instruments, and is passionate about sharing his knowledge and skills with others. This 90 minute interactive event, suitable for all skill levels, will cover a variety of topics related to stringed instruments, including guitar, bass, and ukulele. During the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to learn about different types of strings, how to properly care for their instruments, and basic maintenance techniques. Zach will also demonstrate a variety of techniques and styles on the guitar and will be available for one-on-one instruction lesson opportunities and instrument repair questions. As a special bonus, Quinn’s Music is offering a 10% discount on all acoustic instruments, strings, and accessories for workshop attendees. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to improve your skills and learn from one of Big Rapids’ best!

2:00pm: Big Rapids Middle School: “Peter Pan, Jr.” - BRHS Auditorium

Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars. The travelers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, the fierce Brave Girls, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook. Based on J.M. Barrie's classic tale, Peter Pan is one of the most beloved and frequently performed family favorites of all time. Big Rapids Middle School proudly presents this high-flying, Tony Award-winning musical in this new adaptation for young performers. Tickets $5 Adults/$3 Students — available at the door

7:00pm: Drew Hale Concert - Cranker’s Restaurant and Brewery

All over the Midwest and around the country, the name Drew Hale is synonymous with soaring vocals, haunting melodies, and high energy live shows. A native Texan, Drew’s style of music pays homage to his roots in the red dirt and southern rock scenes of Texas and the Southwest, while his lyrics speak to his deep affection for the lifestyle and culture of his home in Northern Michigan. Drew is the winner of the 34th annual Country Showdown national championship, which took place at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and earned him the title of ‘Best New Act in Country Music.’ Drew refers to his unique musical genre as “Roots Rock,” a high-octane blend of country, blues, and rock and roll. In this special acoustic performance, you will hear several of Drew’s original compositions featured on his four stellar prior album releases.

Sunday, February 26, 2023

4:00pm: FSU Band and Orchestra 2023 Festival Closing Concert - G. Mennen Williams Auditorium

Come join us for the annual Festival of the Arts Closing Concert, featuring Ferris State University’s West Central Concert Band and West Central Chamber Orchestra. The Ferris West Central Concert Band is currently in its 30th season, while the Ferris West Central Chamber Orchestra is celebrating its 56th concert season. These groups, conducted by Scott Cohen and Dale Skornia, are part of Ferris State University’s “MUSIC FOR LIFE!” initiative, which provides music performance opportunities for Ferris students, and strives to help them make the transition to the world of adult amateur musical ensembles. There are no music majors at Ferris, so ALL students can study their chosen career paths while being able to continue their passion for making music by participating in one of Ferris’ many musical ensembles that include both university students and community members from throughout West Central Michigan. There is also an increasing number of music scholarships that help students’ efforts to find ways to afford college. New members are always welcome, and we also welcome alumni and other community music lovers who would like to support our amateur student musicians! To learn more, please contact the FSU Music Center at [email protected] or (231) 591-2501.

Monday, February 27, 2023

7:00pm: Big Rapids High School Band Concert - BRHS Auditorium

The BRHS Concert Band and Wind Symphony, both under the direction of Brian Balch, are pleased to present a concert in preparation for their District Band Festival performance. Mr. Balch is in his 14th year as director of bands at BRHS. The band program has a long history of awards and recognition at the state level, including over 40 consecutive years of Division 1 ratings at district and state MSBOA Festivals.

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

2:00pm: Knitting Workshop - United Church of Big Rapids, Parlor

Knitters Anonymous seeks to provide fellowship and support for the art of hand knitting – crocheters and other needle artists are also welcome to attend. Please bring your own materials, i.e. yarn and needles. Four sessions will be offered on the Tuesdays of February in the United Church Parlor from 2 – 4 p.m. Participants will be asked to bring a donation for Project Starburst to each session – non-perishable food or handmade hats, mittens or scarves for the pantry. There will be door prizes. If the weekly topic doesn’t interest you, come anyway and knit or crochet with us.

What’s Your Favorite Cast on? There’s so much more than the long tail, that’s for sure. And each one has its pros and cons.

7:00pm: Big Rapids High School Choir Concert - BRHS Auditorium

Director Amy Schroeder and the Big Rapids High School Choirs present their annual winter concert, showcasing the vocal talents of BRHS students. Congratulations to all of the Big Rapids Public Schools music students, faculty, and administration for their recognition as a NAMM 2022 “Best Community for Music Education!”

Date: Friday, February 3, 2023 - Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Location: Various Venues in Big Rapids, MI

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