October 16, 1996

Club Life

Wednesday 16

ROCK/HIP-HOP/BLUES

JAZZ/CABARET

COUNTRY/FOLK/OPEN MIC

Thursday 17

ROCK/HIP-HOP/BLUES

JAZZ/CABARET

COUNTRY/FOLK/OPEN MIC

WORLD

DANCE CLUBS

Friday 18

ROCK/HIP-HOP/BLUES

JAZZ/CABARET

COUNTRY/FOLK/OPEN MIC

WORLD

DANCE CLUBS

Saturday 19

ROCK/HIP-HOP/BLUES

JAZZ/CABARET

COUNTRY/FOLK/OPEN MIC

WORLD

DANCE CLUBS

Sunday 20

ROCK/HIP-HOP/BLUES

JAZZ/CABARET

COUNTRY/FOLK/OPEN MIC

WORLD

DANCE CLUBS

Monday 21

ROCK/HIP-HOP/BLUES

JAZZ/CABARET

COUNTRY/FOLK/OPEN MIC

WORLD

DANCE CLUBS

Tuesday 22

ROCK/HIP-HOP/BLUES

JAZZ/CABARET

COUNTRY/FOLK/OPEN MIC

WORLD

DANCE CLUBS

Classical, opera & new music

WEDNESDAY 16

Bay Area

Devin Tau and Chan Le perform works by Weber and Brahms. 12:15p, Hertz Hall, College and Bancroft, Berk. Free. (510) 642-4864.

THURSDAY 17

San Francisco Symphony performs Shostakovich's Symphony No. 7, Opus 60, Leningrad. 8p, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness. $10-70. 864-6000.

FRIDAY 18

John Khouri performs works by Jan Ladislav Dussek, Muzio Clementi, and John Field. 7:45p, Old First Church, 1751 Sacramento. $7-9. 474-1608.

San Francisco Opera presents The Barber of Seville. 8p, Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market. $21-125. 864-3330.

San Francisco Symphony performs Shostakovich's Symphony No. 7, Opus 60, Leningrad. 8p, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness. $10-70. 864-6000.

Virgil Thomson, Marcia Gronewold, Margery Tede perform. Noon, Star Classics, 425 Hayes. Free. 552-1110.

Bay Area

Rosemary Bollin, Katia Roemer, Gennadi Badasov perform. 7:30p, G.B. Ratto, 821 Washington, Oakl. $15. (510) 832-6503.

SATURDAY 19

Chanticleer performs Lost in the Stars, a collection of pops performances. Highlights are works by Porter, Monk, and Weill/Anderson. 8p, Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness. $19-26. 392-4400.

Dancing on Strings performs a program of classical guitar and strings. 8p, New Hampton Arts, 207 Powell. $15. 986-7680.

Eric Larsen performs popular works on the piano and organ. 2p, First Congregational Chuch, Post and Mason. $5. 392-2080.

Ring perform. 2p, Borders Books and Music, 400 Post. Free. 621-1549.

San Francisco Symphony performs Shostakovich's Symphony No. 7, Opus 60, Leningrad. 8p, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness. $10-70. 864-6000.

San Francisco Symphony musicians perform works by Hindemith, Debussy-Levin, Slide Hampton, Glazunov, and Schumann. 2p, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness. $23. 864-6000.

Sonus Imaginorem and Susan Rode Morris perform works by Elaine Bearer, J.J. Hollingsworth, Joseph Mancini, Sarah Michael, and Max Simoncic. 2p, Vorpal Gallery, 393 Grove. $10-12. 731-2319.

San Francisco Opera performs The Barber of Seville. 8p, Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market. $21-125. 864-3330.

Bay Area

Theresa Cardinale performs works by Brahms, Vaughan Williams, and others. 8p, Trinity Chapel, 2320 Dana, Berk. $5-8. (510) 549-3864.

Richard Lerman and CCM perform. 8p. Mills College, 5000 Macarthur Blvd., Oakl. Free. (510) 430-2296.

Musicians of Swanne Alley perform music of the late English and Italian Renaissance. 8p, First Congregational Church, Dana and Durant, Berk. $17-20.

Yin Cheng-Zong performs works by Mozart, Schumann, and Chopin. 7:30p, Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside, Oakl. $25-35.

SUNDAY 20

Jennifer Culp, Emil Miland, Artaria Quartet, Roger Weismeyer, Charles Griffith perform. 5p, Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez. $5-10. 282-2317.

Beth Custer and Miya Masaoka perform. 8p, Cell, 2050 Bryant. $10. (510) 465-3144.

Alan Lewis performs works by Bruhns, Bach, Franck, Alain, and Gigout. 3:30p, St. Mary's Cathedral, 1111 Gough. Donation requested. 567-2020.

Vismaya Lhi and Dwight Okamura perform works by Debussy and Joaquin Nin-Culmell. 2p, Star Classics, 425 Hayes. $5. 552-1110.

Men of Grace Cathedral Choir and Dr. John Fenstermaker perform. 3:30p, Grace Cathedral, 1100 California. Free. 749-6360.

San Francisco Opera presents The Barber of Seville. 1p, Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market. $21-125. 864-3330.

Vienna Choir Boys perform works by Purcell, Tallis, Britten, Copland, Offenbach, and others. 7p, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness. $12-36. 864-6000.

Bay Area

Nolan Gasser and members of Ensemble Parnassus perform works to illustrate The Il Pastor Fido Phenomenon of the Late Renaissance. 5p, MusicSources, 1000 The Alameda, Berk. $6-18. (510) 528-1685.

Prometheus Symphony performs works by Beethoven, Prokofiev, and Schumann. 3p, St. Ambrose Church, 1145 Gilman, Berk. Free. (510) 547-8795.

Christa Rakich performs works by J.S. Bach, Bohm, Buxtehude, Distler, and Clara Schumann. 8p, St. John's Presbyterian Church, 2727 College, Berk. $10. (510) 549-5042.

MONDAY 21

San Francisco Saxophone Quartet perform. 7:30p, St. Dominic Church, 2390 Bush. $15. 392-4400.

TUESDAY 22

Sergei Selezniov, Gennadi Badasov, Svetlana Gorshevskaya perform works by Rimsky-Korsakov, Tchaikovsky, Borodin. 12:30p, Old St. Mary's Cathedral, 660 California. $3. 288-3840.

Bay Area

Oakland East Bay Symphony performs works by Chevalier de St. George, Montague Ring, and William Grant Still. 9:30a and 10:45a, Calvin Simmons Theatre, 10 Tenth St, Oakl. $2. (510) 446-1992.

Dance

FatChance BellyDance performs American tribal-style bellydance. Wed at 8:30 and 9:30p. Amira, 590 Valencia. $1. 621-6213.

Dance by Neil Greenberg performs Greenberg's Not about AIDS Dance and The Disco Project as part of the 1996 Bay Area Dance Series. Thurs at 7:30p, Fri-Sat at 8p, Sun at 7p. Cowell Theater, Fort Mason Center, Marina at Laguna. $20-23. 392-4400.

Gregangelo performs a whirling dervish dance. Sat at 9:30p. Pasha, 1516 Broadway. No cover charge; call for reservations. 885-4477.

'How to Make Dances in an Epidemic' benefit performance-discussion is moderated by David Gere and features panelists Neil Greenberg, Mehmet Sander, Jesselito Bie, and Wayne Hazzard. Proceeds benefit the Parachute Fund. Sat at 2p. ODC/Performance Gallery, 3153 17th St. $5-25 donation. 464-3565.

Lines Contemporary Ballet performs Ground and a world premiere by company founder Alonzo King. Fri-Sun at 7:30p. Center for the Arts, 701 Mission. $7-30. 978-ARTS.

San Francisco Lesbian and Gay Dance Festival Bongo Brothers, Dance Brigade, Carolyn Brandy, Sarah Crowell and Erica Smith, Fat Chance Belly Dance, Arturo Fernandez, High Risk Group, and others perform. Fri-Sat at 8:30p. Brady Street Dance Centre, 60 Brady. $13.50 (advance), $15 (door). 558-9355.

Bay Area

'Dance Kaleidoscope North' Showcase of contemorary and traditional dance featuring 12 Bay Area companies. Tues at 7:30p. Dean Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic, Walnut Creek. $16. (510) 943-SHOW.

Oakland Ballet performs Dark Elegies by Tudor and Mahler, Diversions by Thiele and Britten, and Bow Out by Caniparoli, Bedford, and Powell. Fri-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakl. $10-36. (510) 762-BASS.

Theater

OPENINGS & PREVIEWS

Carousel The national tour of Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical about the romance between a carnival barker and a local mill worker comes to San Francisco. Opens Wed at 8p; runs Wed at 8p, Thurs at 2 and 8p, Fri at 8p, Sat at 2 and 8p, Sun at 3p. Through Nov 10. Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Taylor. $34-62.50. 776-1999.

Like a Mother Bear Helen Stoltzfus performs a solo work about a woman struggling to find a way to heal from a debilitating illness and then discovers the great Bear Mother of the imagination. Previews Thurs-Fri at 8p; opens Sat at 8p; runs Thurs-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Nov 17. A Traveling Jewish Theatre, 2800 Mariposa. $12-15. 399-1809.

Mad Forest San Francisco State University's Theatre Arts Department presents the innovative play about the downfall of dictator Nicolae Ceaucescu by English playwright Caryl Churchill. Preview Thurs at 8p; opens Fri at 8p; runs Thurs-Sun at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Oct 27. Little Theatre, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway. $7-9. 338-1341.

Pieces of the Quilt World premiere of Sean San Jos Blackman's project of 17 plays by various celebrated American playwrights benefits Project Open Hand and the NAMES Project Foundation. Previews Thurs-Sat at 8:30p; opens Tues at 8:30p; runs Wed-Sat at 8:30p. Through Nov 17. Magic Theatre, Fort Mason Center, Bldg D, Marina at Laguna. $15-21. 441-8822.

Bay Area

The Birthday Party Shotgun Players present Harold Pinter's classic play. Opens Sat at 8p; runs Thurs-Sat at 8p. Through Nov 23. La Val's Subterranean, 1834 Euclid, Berk. $10. (510) 716-9082.

The Miller's Tale The ambitious presentation of the entire cycle of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales continues with "The Miller's Tale," presented with "The Reeve's Tale" and "Cook's Attempt." Opens Sun at 4p; runs Oct 25 at 8p and Oct 27 at 2:30 and 7p. Through Oct 27. Marin Center Showcase Theater, Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. $20. 472-3500.

The Most Happy Fella Frank Loesser's musical tells the touching story of a May-December romance between a Napa Valley rancher and a San Francisco waitress. Opens Fri at 8p; runs Fri-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Nov 23. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic, Walnut Creek. $17-20. (510) 943-SHOW.

Murder by the Book Wendy McGlothin Wisely directs Duncan Greenwood and Robert King's lighthearted thriller. Opens Fri at 8p; runs Fri-Sat at 8p. Through Nov 23. Contra Costa Civic Theatre, 951 Pomona, El Cerrito. $6-10. (510) 524-9132.

Other People's Money Actors Ensemble of Berkeley kicks off its 40th season with Jerry Sterner's contemporary comedy. Opens Fri at 8p; runs Fri-sat at 8p. Through Nov 16. Live Oak Theatre, 1301 Shattuck, Berk. $9. (510) 528-5620.

Our Country's Good Center for Theater Arts presents Timberlake Wertenbaker's sequence of 22 short scenes about convict life. Opens Thurs at 8p; runs Thurs-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Oct 27. Zellerbach Playhouse, UC Berkeley, Bancroft at Dana, Berk. Free. (510) 642-9988.

Racing Demon TheatreFirst presents David Hare's controversial play about crisis in the modern church. Preview Thurs at 8p; opens Fri at 8p; runs Thurs-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Nov 10. Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College, Berk. $12-16. (510) 436-5085.

Seascape Aurora Theatre Company presents Edward Albee's play about two couples, one human and middle-aged, the other lizardlike. Previews Wed at 8p; opens Thurs at 8p; runs Wed-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Nov 10. Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant, Berk. $16-20. (510) 843-4822.

ONGOING

Beauty Steven Patterson stars in this erotic odyssey inspired by the writings of Jean Genet. Fri-Sat at 8:30p, Sun at 7:30p. Through Oct 27. Theatre Rhinoceros, 2926 16th St. $10. 861-5079.

Blue Morphine Tale Spinner's Theatre presents Dan Weber's play about 1968 Portland and the back alleys of urban life. Fri-Sat at 8:30p. Through Nov 2. Red Brick Building, 2940 16th St. $7-10. 431-2221.

Closure Actor-playwright-director Peter Carlaftes can at least claim currency as an attribute. From the sterile, theory-laden title (same medical vibe as the titles of similarly pointy-headed scripts Suture and Safe) down to the bold Trainspotting-style logo that adorns the program, Closure cries out "ultramodern." And that it delivers, in the form of a 1996 reworking of Psycho, taking on the same mission of reaching at least 10 years ahead of its time through an unflinching psychoanalytic scrutiny of crazies. Closure, though, updates the model by introducing incest and awkward therapy sessions into the mix, along with an unsubtle postmodern fascination with recording devices. Once you get by the annoying, hyperstilted smarty dialogue (an ex-con rapist and murderer breaks a silence to observe numbly to his host: "Our names both have three letters"), the plot, like most stories about psychotics, is at least engaging. Rig (Carlaftes) is released from prison and heads straight to the psychologist (Kathy Georges) whose report delayed his parole. He shacks up with her patient, Mea (Carrie Worthen), and Mea's sister, Phelone (Dawn Walters), who happens to have murdered and stuffed her parents. Nothing like a bit of taxidermy to make heavy theory a bit easier to swallow. Thurs-Sat at 9p. Extended through Oct 19. Marilyn Monroe Memorial Theater, 96 Lafayette. $12. 552-3034. (Eric Stephan)

Deporting the Divas Guillermo Reyes's followup to his dynamic Men on the Verge of a His-panic Breakdown is a daring, somewhat messy potpourri of real-world conflict and fantasy fabulousness. Again, the subject is Latino-immigrant experience. Mexican-American INS officer Michael (Ruben Islas), separated from wife and kids, finds his sexual identity and work ethics challenged by San Diego slacker Sedicio (Joseph Pacecho Ponce) -- a very "out" gay man and an undocumented "alien" to boot. Themes in their conflicted romance are enlarged by several gender-blurred beauties whose spectral appearances mimic the ironic Hollywoodisms of Manuel Puig's Kiss of the Spider Woman. Witty, incisive, and bold on a scene-by-scene basis, the play's digressive organizational gambits never quite come together overall. Yet the talented author and Jorge Huerta's terrific staging provide too many zesty pleasures for cavilling. Jorge Oliver and Ney Fonesca, hilarious in crossdress roles, complete the fine cast in this Rhino/El Teatro de la Esperanza co-production. Thurs-Sat at 8p. Extended through Oct 26. Theatre Rhinoceros, 2926 16th St. $12-18. 861-5079. (Harvey)

Domino Four exiled immigrants and their second-generation children deal with each other while they await the arrival of a master domino player. Fri-Sat at 8p. Through Oct 18. Red Rocket Theater Studio, 2985 21st St. $4-8. 647-2065.

The Fever Wallace Shawn originally intended this 1991 monologue to be done "in homes and apartments, for groups of 10 or 12," which is just how S.F.'s Common Cultural Practice delivers it -- each show takes place in somebody's living room at locations throughout the Bay Area. The intimacy lends an interesting frisson to an unnamed character's rambling, digressive 90-minute spiel, in which his (or her -- there are no gender or age prerequisites) sheltered, elite, "aesthetic" moral standards unravel with the realization that a privileged life may be indefensible. What makes a "decent person"? Is the mainstream-progressive ideal of "gradual change" a useless ruse? Is complacency its own form of reactionary "fanaticism?" The answers may seem rather obvious for its intense, nervous-breakdown treatment here, as if Shawn (himself the actor-writer son of New Yorker editor William Shawn) intended primarily to shock an uptown, social A-list audience. Still, his schematic rant has provocative, universal applications. At the performance I saw, co-director (with Frances Sholly) Zack gave an impressively focused portrait of shallowness cracking from internal pressure; Dwayne Schanz performs on alternative nights. Call for times, locations, and reservations. Extended through Oct 27. $10. 563-8369. (Harvey)

Fortune and Men's Eyes NCTC presents, as the first play of its second Pride Season, John Herbert's 1967 classic about incarcerated youth. Wed-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Oct 26. New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness. $16-20. 861-8972.

Halloween: The Plays The Sick and Twisted Players present a live stage play triple-feature of the first three Halloween films. Omewenne stars as Jamie Lee Curtis. Thurs-Sat at 8p. Through Nov 2. Intersection for the Arts, 446 Valencia. $10-12. 626-ARTS.

Hong Kong Memories Castle Peak Productions presents Patrick Lee's play about a Chinese American who returns to the city of his childhood. Wed-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2p. Through Nov 3. Noh Space, 2840 Mariposa. $13-15. 621-7978.

The Jealous Husband and The Imaginary Cuckold Marisa Dalla Valle directs two short plays by Moliere. Wed at 2 (in English) and 4p (in French), Thurs at 8p (in French), Fri-Sat at 8p (in English). Through Oct 27. Next Stage Theater, 1600 Gough. $12. 646-0488.

Jungle Red This "all girl" musical comedy about marriage, divorce, men, shopping, and the latest fashion color for nails takes place in the rarefied atmosphere of 1930s New York's upper crust. Wed-Sat at 8p. Through Oct 26. Artfull Circle Theatre, 620 Sutter. $15. 621-5455.

The Maids Shotgun Players present their version of Jean Genet's play about two sisters obsessed with their employer. Thurs-Sat at 8p. Through Oct 19. Venue Nine, 252 Ninth St. $10. 641-8800.

Medea, the Musical Writer-director John Fisher lifts musical-comedy camp to a new plateau of dizzy intellectual delight. Paul Tena plays the actor whose starring role in a gay production of Medea prompts major realignment of intellectual and sexual politics, particularly when he falls in love with his straight female costar (Elsa Wolfthausen). The production numbers reference everything from Gershwin to Manilow; the jokes come so fast and furious you feel multiple viewings are in order. You'd be right. Wed-Sat at 8p, Sun at 3p. Extended through Nov 10. Stage Door Theatre, 420 Mason. $25-29. 433-9500. (Harvey)

The Night Boat 42nd St. Moon presents Jerome Kern's 1920s musical hit. Preview Wed at 8p; opens Thurs at 8p; runs Thurs-Fri at 8p, Sat at 6p, Sun at 2p. Through Oct 20. New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness. $18. 861-8972.

Nourish the Beast New Fillmore Community Theater presents this performance of Steve Tesich's play. Fri-Sat at 8p. Through Nov 16. J. Eugene McAteer High School, 555 Portola. $12. 435-8698.

Party David Dillon's comedy about seven men who gather for a party and play an elaborate version of truth-or-dare. Wed-Fri at 8p, Sat at 7 and 10p, Sun at 3 and 7p. Through Nov 3. Cable Car Theatre, 430 Mason. $20-25. 956-8497.

Phantom of the Opera Andrew Lloyd Webber wrote the score for this remarkably artless spin on a classic story. His melodies must make an impression somewhere; they sound like wallpaper to us. However, Harold Prince's staging is spectacular. Enjoy if you must. We're still puzzling over just what the hype is about. Tues-Sat at 8p, with matinees Wed and Sat at 2p, Sun at 3p. Open-ended. Curran Theatre, 445 Geary. $15-65. (510) 762-BASS. (Harvey)

Picasso at the Lapin Agile Screen comic Steve Martin's first full-length play imagines a Parisian saloon meeting between Einstein (the sly, near-Chaplinesque Mark Nelson) and Pablo Picasso (Paul Provenza) in 1904, when both are in their 20s and are on the verge of extraordinary breakthroughs. The writer attempts absurdist arabesques here that are sometimes sweet, sometimes forced. Director Randall Arney is not his best ally, delivering a production that underlines every obvious (and not-so-obvious) joke with anvil-dropping crudity. Supporting performances follow suit. While Martin's admiration of genius seems sincere, his language clunks when it should soar and the humor ranges from moderately witty to inane. These 90 intermissionless minutes seemed plenty long to me. Be advised, however, that an opening-night audience was kept convulsively amused. Tues-Thurs at 8p, Fri at 8:30p, Sat at 6 and 9p, Sun at 3 and 7p . Extended through Jan 5. Theatre on the Square, 450 Post. $25-38. 433-9500. (Harvey)

Rage to Rent "Ian Shoales" plays himself, Merle Kessler, in this look at white male anger. Thurs-Sat at 8:30p. Through Nov 2. The Marsh, 1062 Valencia. $8-12. 826-5750.

Religious Experience Not for the atheists among us (or perhaps especially for them), Nancy Wright Cooper's solo show turns the theater into a church and a play into a sermon. If the work is, as it seems to be, based on her life, Cooper has reason enough to be entranced with religion. By the time she was 17 she had bounced among six demanding faiths (among them Mormon, born-again Christian, and Buddhist). In the same space of time her family underwent its own transformations, including the breakup of her parents' marriage and the death of her sister. Cooper is a powerful, intelligent performer who manages to create a sense of the sacred in Bindlestiff's tiny space, but at times she veers into sermons that have less to do with elucidating her story than conveying her own beliefs. The play comes to San Francisco from its sold-out run in Santa Fe, and while perhaps in that city feminists still cry "objectification!" at seeing a naked woman on stage, here nudity is the norm and Cooper's anti-feminist remarks (as well as a few others) seem slightly behind the curve. Even still, worship in the Immaculate Heart of Nancy, as Cooper calls her church, is an experience -- whether a religious one or not depends on you. Thurs-Sun at 8p. Through Oct 27. Bindlestiff Studio, 185 Sixth St. $6-12. 974-1167. (Jodi Levin)

Seasons of the Veil Introducing his politicized multimedia-and-robotics performance, San Francisco-based guru of "Social Surrealism" (and 1993 Goldie winner) Frank Garvey announces that Roman chronicler Petronius, on whose texts on decadence the show is based, was a guy who "did what we are trying to do now." Fair enough, but was it Petronius' method to throw three or more divergent forms into his text and let them incoherently wail away, never integrating them or linking them to the current "decadent" regime? If so, Nero had nothing to worry about. Seasons consists of alternating stints of kaleidoscopic, rave-y video; two emoting, slightly New Age-y vocalists; and some very state-of-the-art robots that spout angry monologues, career around the stage, and eerily wave servo-driven appendages laden with scissors and megaphones. Whether or not expressionism can be used as a vehicle for the specific politics that Theater Concrte promotes in the dense tracts in its lobby is one question. But this show, though often cool to watch, doesn't provide much literal, as opposed to visceral, oomph. Thurs-Sat at 8:30p. Through Oct 27. Theatre Concrte, 550 Natoma. $8-14. 621-4068. (Stephan)

The Shadow of a Gunman Sean O'Casey's farcical comedy is set in 1920s Dublin during the War of Independence. Fri-Sat at 8p, Sun at 3p. Through Nov 10. New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness. $15. 861-8972.

Six Degrees of Separation University of San Francisco College Players perform John Guare's comedy. Wed-Sat at 8p. Through Oct 19. Gill Theatre, 2130 Fulton. $5-10. 422-6133.

The Sorcerer Lamplighters Music Theatre presents Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera. Fri at 8p, Sat-Sun at 2p. Through Oct 27. Lindland Theatre, 175 Phelan. $12-23. 227-0331.

SubUrbia Monologuist Eric Bogosian's second multicharacter play following Talk Radio explores his usual symptom-of-a-sick-society alienation as several twentysomething "friends" drink beer, shoot shit, and backstab one another behind the local Quickie Mart. They await the return of former pal-turned-rockstar Pony (Kevin Stark) with grudging excitement; when he arrives, resentments gush forth as if from a leaky Coors keg. The script is problematic, wavering between striking passages and contrivance. But Catherine Castellanos's staging keeps the tension nicely stoked; among her often very good actors, Frank Potter's alarmingly volatile Tim and Stephen Montagne's hormonally overcharged Buff are outstanding. Thurs-Sat at 8p, Sun at 7p. Extended through Oct 26. Actors' Theatre, 533 Sutter. $16-18. 296-9179. (Harvey)

Super Bad, Super Freaky Avant-Garde Art Mama! Peformance art work-in-progress written and performed by Dee Dee Russell. Sat at 9p. Through Nov 16. Arena Interplay, 701 Oak. $5. 436-0944.

The Wild Party Shadowlight Productions brings to shadowy life Joseph March's classic poem that influenced William S. Burroughs. Original jazz score composed by Bruce Forman. Fri-Sat at 8p. Through Oct 27. SOMAR Cultural Center, 934 Brannan. $10. 552-2131.

Bay Area

Becket Marin Theatre Company launches its 30th anniversary with Jean Anouilh's ironic tale of the coarse, womanizing King Henry II and his introspective best friend Thomas A'Becket. Tues-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2 and 7p. Through Oct 20. Marin Theatre Company, 397 Miller, Mill Valley. $22-32. 388-5208.

Heartbreak House George Bernard Shaw wrote this mammoth parlor-comedy-cum-debate-cum-allegory some 30 years before his death, yet it feels career-summational. Not-so-naf young Ellie Dunn's (Francesca Faridany) visit to the seaside home of blowsy Captain Shotover (Ken Ruta), his grown daughters and their "pet" male companions spurs much intrigue -- as well as lengthy debates about capitalism, gender relations, war, et al. Stretched over three and a half hours, the play is at once brilliant, bloated, exhaustive, and exhilarating. But there's nothing to cavil about in Sharon Ott's extraordinary Berkeley Rep production, which negotiates this elephantine work's challenges with spot-on control. The design contributions are superb, while the large cast gifts us with a master class in technique and nuance. Not to be missed. Tues-Wed at 8p, Thurs at 2 and 8p, Fri-Sat at 8p, Sun at 2 and 7p. Through Oct 25. Berkeley Repertory Theatre, 2025 Addison, Berk. $25-39. (510) 845-4700. (Harvey)

Inhaling Frank Wortham's one-man show is about a boy and his guitar learning a whole new way to breathe. Mon at 8p. Through Oct 21. Berkeley Store Gallery, 2230 Shattuck, Berk. $5-10. (510) 528-8440.

Nunsense Kick and a Giggle Players presents Dan Goggin's musical comedy. Fri-Sat at 8p. Through Nov 9. Larkspur Cafe Theater, 500 Magnolia, Larkspur. $25 (includes light supper). 924-6107.

Paradise Is for Angels Theater Artists of Marin opens their season with Leland Blanchard's bittersweet comedy of love and greed set in Louisiana's bayou country. Thurs-Sat at 8p. Through Nov 2. Marin Academy Theater, Fifth Avenue and Cottage, San Rafael. $10-14. 454-6056.

Performance

Auschwitz Lullaby Staged reading of James Wall's play is directed by B. Lynn Goodwin. Fri at 7:30p. Blue Bear Theatre, Fort Mason Center, Bldg D, Second floor. $5 donation. 626-4603.

Betwixt Gibbous Performance series showcases experimental music, sound, and spoken word. Sat at 8p. Jon Sims Center for the Performing Arts, 1519 Mission. $5-10 suggested donation. 554-0402.

Drinking in America Pipedream Productions presents a reading of Eric Bogosian's play. Thurs at 8p. Studio 300, Third floor, 450 Geary. $5. 255-6772.

'Hey You' Theatre performs improvised stories with a female slant, including men who play women and the women who love them. Sun at 8p. Venue Nine, 252 Ninth St. $10. 626-2169.

Mark Twain Tonight! Hal Holbrook returns as Mark Twain. Thurs at 8p. Zellerbach Auditorium, UC Berkeley, Bancroft at Telegraph, Berk. (510) 642-9988

Monday NIght Marsh Featured performers are Baumann/Eliza Perkins, Mark Kenward, Rosanne Ma, and Teresa Strasser. MOn at 8:30p. The Marsh, 1062 Valencia. $6. 826-5750.

More Noise! Performance series features Emily Ching, Susan Copich, Misha Myers, plain, and Julia Query. Wed at 7:30p. Southern Exposure, 401 Alabama. $5. 863-2141.

PlayGround This one-night festival features 10-minute plays written in six days. Mon at 8p. A Traveling Jewish Theatre, 2800 Mariposa. Free (contributions welcome). 399-1809.

12 Steps to a More Dysfunctional Family, Part III Rob Nash's one-man, six-character play spans three generations of a dysfunctional family saga. Wed-Sun at 8p. Josie's Cabaret and Juice Joint, 3583 16th St. $12. 861-7933.

Women's Work Anda Abramovici and Dancers, Samantha Blanchard, Ijeoma Thomas, and Andrea Mock perform as part of this weekly performance series of women's theater, music, poetry, and dance. Tues at 8p. Venue Nine, 252 Ninth St. $6. 626-2169.

The Yellow Wallpaper Carole Landes performs the classic thriller by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Wed at 7:30p. San Francisco Public Library, Presidio Branch, 3150 Sacramento. Free. 292-2155.

Bay Area

The Betrothal Bilingual staged reading of Aleksis Kivi's 1866 one-act comedy is presented in English and Finnish. Kivi is considered the founder of modern Finnish-language literature. Sun at 2p, Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut, Berk. $3. (510) 849-0125.

The Emperor's New Clothes Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble perform a musical adventure for all ages. Fri at 9:30, 11:30a, and 7:30p; Sat at 10a, Noon, 2, and 4p. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic, Walnut Creek. $7. (510) 943-SHOW.

A Good Lawyer -- The Volunteers Situation comedy made for theater about a wholesome young man from South Dakota who comes to work as a lawyer in San Francisco; plays monthly. Sun at 5 and 7p. Contra Costa Civic Theatre, 951 Pomona, El Cerrito. $3. (510) 528-2416.

Comedy & improv

Bayfront Theater Mon: "Bay Area Theatresports Tournament Trials," competition-style improv at 8p, $8. Fort Mason Center, Bldg B, Marina at Laguna. 824-8220.

Cable Car Theatre Tues: "Off the Track," ongoing series of San Francisco performers at 8p, $8. 430 Mason. 956-TIXS.

Cafe International Wed: Open-mic stand-up comedy at 8:30p, free. 508 Haight. 552-7390.

Cat's Alley Club Tues: "Women with Balls," stand-up comedy at 8p, $5. 1190 Folsom. 431-3332.

Cobb's Comedy Club Wed: "All-Pro Comedy Showcase," 14 comics in three-hour marathon at 8p, $5. Thurs-Sun: Pam Stone, Diane Amos, and Tony Camin at 9p (8 and 10p on Fri and Sat), $10-12. 2801 Leavenworth. 928-4320.

Exit Theatre Fri-Sat: "Start Trekkin," Eleventh Hour Productions' Star Trek parody at 8p, $8, 2 for $14. 156 Eddy. 647-4464.

Jacks Bar Tues: Open-mic comedy night at 9p, $3. 1601 Fillmore. 567-3227.

Java Source Sat: Comedy with featured guests at 9:30p, free. Clement and Fifth Avenue. 387-8025.

Josie's Cabaret and Juice Joint Fri: "Vote!" political comedy and song with Tom Ammiano, Joan Jett-Blakk, and others at 10p, $10. Sat: "Gay Comedy Night" with Dolores Trevino, Rob Nash, and Carla Carmony at 10p, $10. Mon: "Gay Comedy Open Mike" with emcee Karen Ripley at 8p, $5.

The Marsh Wed: Nervous Laughter at 8:30p, $6-10. 1026 Valencia. 641-0235.

Punch Line Wed-Sat: Marc Maron, Dwight Slade, and Karen Anderson at 9p (extra shows Fri-Sat at 11p), $8-10. Sun: "S.F. Comedy Showcase" at 9p, $5. Tues: "Punch Line Comedy All-Stars" at 9p, $8. 444 Battery. 397-7573.

San Francisco Brewing Company Tues: Nothing to Hide performs improv comedy at 8:30p, free. 155 Columbus. 434-3344.

Word

Barnes and Noble Wed: Rosario Billingsley discusses He's Not the Right One. Fri: Joseph Sharpe discusses Living Our Dying. 7p, 2550 Taylor. 292-6762.

Booksmith Wed: Carl Djerassi discusses Marx Deceased and The Bourbaki Gambit (7p). Thurs: Jonathan Lethem reads from The Wall of the Sky, the Wall of the Eye (7p). Sun: Author appearances by Joel Selvin, April Sinclair, Belle Yang, Jim Paul, Pat Murphy, Susan Daitch, Ron Hansen, Sylvia Boorstein, Maxine Chernoff, and Ginu Kumani (11a-5p). 1644 Haight. 863-8688.

Borders Tues: Susan Shumksy discusses Divine Revelation. 400 Post. 399-1690.

Cafe Francisco Thurs: Open mic hosted by George. 8p, 2161 Powell. 397-2602.

Cafe International Fri: Featured poet Charles Curtis Blackwell, followed by open mic hosted by emcee Bennie Lewis. 9p, 508 Haight. 552-7390.

Caff Sapore Wed: Book party for Kennon Webber's No Bad Angle: Poems from San Francisco. 7:30p, 790 Lombard. 474-1222.

Chameleon Mon: Poetry and prose readings with host Bucky Sinister. 8:30p, 853 Valencia. 821-1891.

A Clean, Well-Lighted Place for Books Tues: William Kotzwinkle reads from The Bear Went over the Mountain. 7:30 pm, 601 Van Ness. 441-6670.

A Different Light Bookstore Wed: Toni Mirosevich reads from The Rooms We Make Our Own (7:30p). Thurs: Howard Cruse discusses Stuck Rubber Baby (7:30p). Sat: Joseph Sharpe discusses Living Our Dying (1p). Sun: Leonard Horowitz discusses Emerging Viruses and Alan Cantwell Jr. discusses Queer Blood and AIDS and the Doctors of Death (3:30p); Sheppard Kominars discusses Accepting Ourselves and Others (7:30p). Mon: Joseph Bean reads from Leathersex Q&A (7:30p). Tues: Rye Senjen and Jane Guthrey discuss The Internet for Women (7:30p). 489 Castro. 431-0891.

First Unitarian Church Wed: Jorie Graham and Jane Miller read their poetry. 7:30p, 1187 Franklin. $5. 338-2227.

Good Vibrations Wed: Sybil Holiday and William Henkin discuss Consensual Sadomasochism. 8p, 1210 Valencia. 974-8980.

Intersection for the Arts Tues: Elizabeth Block and Kathy Lou Schultz read experimental fiction and poetry. 8p, 446 Valencia. $3-5. 626-2787.

Istituto Italiano di Cultura Thurs: Anna Maria de Nicolais Napolitano reads her poetry, accompanied by the viola music of Mimi Dye. 6:30p, 425 Bush, Third floor. 788-7142, ext. 12.

Java on Ocean Sat: "The Entertainment Zone," open mic for all talent. 7:30p, 1700 Ocean. 587-3126.

Java Source Tues: "Open Shout," open poetry and prose readings with host Lori Chapman. 9:30p, Clement and Fifth Avenue. 387-8025.

Java Supreme Tues: Featured reader with acoustic music. 8p, 703 Guerrero. 206-1832.

Luggage Store Tues: "509 Open Mic," open poetry and prose readings. 8p, sign-up at 7:30p, 1007 Market. $1-3. 255-5971.

Modern Times Thurs: Jayne Cortez reads from Somewhere in Advance of Nowhere, and Sesshu Foster reads from City Terrace Field Manual. Fri: "Zine but Not Heard" series continues with the contributors to Fat Girl. 7:30p, 888 Valencia. 282-9246.

New College Theatre Thurs: Ron Johnson reads his poetry. Fri: Erin Mour and Lisa Robertson read their poetry, $5. Tues: Barbara Guest reads her poetry. 7:30p, 777 Valencia. 437-3478.

One World Cafe Sun: "Free(k) Speak Salon," spoken word with Elsa. 5p, 1799 McAllister. 776-9358.

Paradise Lounge Sun: "Poetry above Paradise" with Cara Stimpson and Miles Orkin, followed by open mic. 8p, 1501 Folsom. 621-1911.

Polk Street Beans and Cafe Thurs: "Expression Session," open-mic reading. 8p, 1733 Polk. 928-8904.

The Roast Wed: Open mic with hosts Elizabeth and Dave. 7p, sign-up at 6:30p, 2890 Bryant. 285-5584.

San Francisco Art Institute Sun: Philip Whalen and Michael McClure read their poetry. 1p, 800 Chestnut. $6. 749-4545.

Somar Gallery Wed: "Re/Beat Festival," featured reader Richard Hack, followed by open mic. Thurs: "Third Mind Talks," round-table discussion on "Real Beats: Bukowski, Kerouac, and Bob Kaufman, spirit of Re/Beat." 8p, 934 Brannan. $3. 776-6602.

Yakety Yak Coffee House Fri: Featured readers J.R. Brady and Jan Green, followed by open mic. 7p, sign-up at 6:30p, 679 Sutter. 885-6908.

Bay Area

Barnes and Noble, Oakland Wed: Laurie Jacobson discusses Hollywood Haunts. 98 Broadway, Oakl. (510) 272-0120.

Berkeley Art Museum Thurs: Featured poet Dale Jensen, followed by open mic. 7p, 2621 Durant, Berk. (510) 549-3345.

Black Oak Books Wed: Susan Trott reads from Tainted Million. Thurs: Carol Anshaw reads from Seven Moves. Sun: John Edgar Wideman reads from The Cattle Killing. Mon: Alberto Manguel discusses A History of Reading. Tues: Red Pine reads from Lao-tzu's Taoteching. 7:30p, 1491 Shattuck, Berk. (510) 486-0698.

Cody's Wed: Robin Caton and Rusanne Morrison read their poetry, $2. Thurs: William Kotzwinkle reads from The Bear Went over the Mountain. Fri: Jane Miller and Gabrielle Glancy read to benefit Poetry Flash, $2. Sun: Contributors Gary Soto, Rosemary Catacolos, and Thomas Avena read from Best American Poetry 1996, $2. Mon: Carl Djerassi discusses Marx Deceased. Tues: Conor Cruise O'Brien discusses The Long Affair: Thomas Jefferson and the French Revolution. 7:30p, 2454 Telegraph, Berk. $2. (510) 525-5476.

Dark Carnival Thurs: Anne Rice reads from Servant of the Bones. 5p, 3086 Claremont, Berk. (510) 654-READ.

Gaia Bookstore Wed: Jean Shinoda Bolen discusses Close to the Bone (7:30p). Thurs: William Patrick Patterson discusses Struggle of the Magicians (7:30p). Fri: Faith D'Aluisio and Peter Menzel discuss Women in the Material World (7:30p). Sat: Jonathan Lethem discusses The Wall of the Sky, the Wall of the Eye (2p). Sun: Donovan performs from Sutras (7p). Mon: Kelly Bulkeley discusses Among All These Dreamers (7:30p). Tues: David Harris discusses Our War: What We Did in Vietnam (7:30p). 1400 Shattuck, Berk. $3. (510) 548-4172.

La Pea Cultural Center Wed: Poetry workshop hosted by Nina Serrano and Diane Wang, $2 (7p). Thurs: Queer poetry with Janice Gould, Craig Womack, and Crystos to benefit National Native American AIDS Prevention Center, $5-10 (8p). 3105 Shattuck, Berk. $2. (510) 849-2568.

Marcus Books Fri: Jewelle Taylor Gibbs discusses Race and Justice (7p). Sat: John Edgar Wideman reads from The Cattle Killing (7p). Sun: B.B. King discusses Blues All around Me (1p). 3900 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. (510) 652-2344.

Victor's Cafe Wed and Fri: "Afrometropolitan Poetry Series," followed by open mic, 7p. Tues: "Afrocentric Gay Men's Writers Group," all welcome, regardless of writing experience, 7p. 1428 Alice, Oakl. (510) 893-0659.

Events

WEDNESDAY 16

Films of Japan Informative short documentaries about Japan. This week's screenings: "Taking Blessings Door to Door" and "A Village Reborn." Noon, Japan Information Center, 50 Fremont, Suite 2200. Free. 777-3533, ext. 464.

Anne Rice The novelist speaks with her biographer, Michael Riley. 8p, Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness. $16. 392-4400.

Royal Society Jazz Orchestra Dance to hot swing and jazz from the 1920s and '30s with this authentic period big band. 6p, Press Club, 555 Post. $20. 485-5500.

SF Games Play card and board games such as Hearts, Spades, Scrabble, etc. Open to all. Every Wed at 7:30p, Muddy's Coffeehouse, 1304 Valencia. Free. 679-3680.

Speakers Podium Weekly speakers' forum hosted by Frank Kidder. Speakers followed by open forum. 8p, Polk Street Beans and Cafe, 1733 Polk. $2 donation. 775-2227.

'Surviving Indonesia's Gulag' Carmel Budiardjo lectures and shows recent video footage from Indonesia. 7:30p, New College Cultural Center, 766 Valencia. $5-10. 255-7296.

Bay Area

'Baby Bounce and Toddler Tales' Multicultural songs, rhymes, simple picture books, and fingerplays take place every Wednesday through Nov 13. 7p, Berkeley Public Library, West Branch, 1125 University, Berk. (510) 644-6870.2

Irish Cultural Night Traditional Irish song, music, and dance. 7:30p, La Pea Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck, Berk. $5-10. (510) 849-2568.

THURSDAY 17

Gay and Lesbian World Travel Expo The Marketing Department sponsors this expo for gay and lesbian travel opportunities. 5-8p, SF Marriott, 55 Fourth St. $5. 552-5140.

North Beach Architectural Walking Tour Architecture Foundation of San Francisco organizes a walk through North Beach design studios and businesses. 5:30p, Fior D'Italia, 601 Union. $12 in advance; $15 at the door. 362-7397.

'Rudolf Steiner's Approach to Learning and Transformation' Robert McDermott lectures. 7p, Unitarian Center, 1187 Franklin. $10. 674-5500, ext. 241.

Rodrigo Toscano The author teaches a workshop on various literary genres for eight Thursday evenings Oct 17-Dec 12. 7p, New College Art Room, 741 Valencia. $40 for 8 weeks. 437-3454.

The 'Two Jewish?/Jewish Enough?' Forum In conjunction with the Jewish Museum's exhibit, Too Jewish?, this forum features Michael Krasny, Sandi DuBowski, Norman Kleeblatt, Elaine Reichek, and Tony Kushner (to be confirmed). 8p, Center for the Arts, Yerba Buena Gardens, 701 Mission. $15. 543-8880, ext. 220.

Universal Design Symposium San Francisco State University hosts an environmental design symposium with panel discussions and workshops. Keynote speaker is Ralf Hotchkiss. Discussions run through Oct 20. 7p, Knuth Hall, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway. Free. 338-2229.

Bay Area

Jerry Brown The former California governor hosts a teach-in on the CIA-contra crack connection with guests Dennis Bernstein and former DEA agent Michael Levine. 7p, We the People Convention Center, 200 Harrison, Oakl. $5-10. (510) 526-1454.

'Outsiders in the Golden State: Immigration and Americanization in California' Panel discussion focuses on the historical experience of California immigrant groups. 7p, International House, 2299 Piedmont, Berk. Free. (510) 652-4054.

'Serendipity Betwixt Synchronicity' WOW Art Salons! presents an art mixer with featured artist Joan Hauck. 6:30p, Cafe Arrivederci, 11 G St, San Rafael. Free. 453-6427.

Sharon Siskin The artist shows slides and discusses her work. 7p, Arts and Healing Network, 4000 Bridgeway, Suite 101, Sausalito. Free. 332-4795.

FRIDAY 18

'Is It Real or Ideal? The Meaning of Chin-gyong in Korean Painting' Hyung-min Chung lectures. 1p, Trustees' Auditorium, Asian Art Museum, Golden Gate Park. Free with museum admission. 379-8879.

'Meeting the Great Bliss Queen' Anne Klein, professor of religious studies at Rice University, lectures. 7p, California Institute of Integral Studies, 9 Peter Yorke. $10. 674-5500, ext. 241.

'Paradise World Ball' Brothers Network hosts its first annual ball, an extension of its Transgender Program. 9:30p, King Street Garage, 174 King. $8-10. 356-8140.

Whole Life Expo The fourth annual fall exposition focuses on natural health, personal growth, spirituality, and global change. Oct 18-20. 2-9p (Sat, 10a-9p; Sun, 10a-7p), Fashion Center, 699 Eighth St. $5-12. 721-2484.

Bay Area

California Indian Conference Interdisciplinary gathering focuses on California Indian dance, narrative, languages, and social issues. 9a-5p (continues Sat), International House, 2299 Piedmont, Berk. Free. (510) 652-4054.

'Guatemala on the Eve of Peace' Francisco Cal lectures. 7p, University Lutheran Chapel, 2425 College, Berk. $6-10. (510) 835-0810.

SATURDAY 19

ETVC Gender Fair Explore your gender options by meeting experts in gender expression and costume and clothing merchants. 10a-evening, Jelly's, Pier 50. $7. 664-1499.

'The Genius of Sonny Rollins' Producer Orrin Keepnews lectures as part of the San Francisco Jazz Festival. 10a, San Francisco Jazz Festival Store, 4 Embarcadero Center, Promenade level. Free. 398-5655.

The Great Halloween Art and Pumpkin Festival Fine arts and crafts, musical entertainment, and garden cafs cover the grounds of Polk between Broadway and Filbert. Through Sun. 10a-5p. Free. 346-4561.

Live Turkish Rug Weaving Demonstration Two native weavers from the DOBAG Cooperative in Turkey show their technique. 10a-5p, California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park. Free with museum admission ($4-7). 750-7145.

Bay Area

'Days of the Dead' Workshop Dr. Roberto Vargas leads a family workshop on the Latino cultural tradition of Da de los Muertos. 11:30a, Oakland Public Library, Main Branch, 125 14th St, Oakl. Free. (510) 535-5623.

Free Puppet Shows on Physical and Mental Differences The Kids on the Block perform shows with puppets who portray conditions such as cerbral palsy, blindness, and Down syndrome to educate kids on understanding physical and mental differences. 1:30 and 2:30p, Hall of Health, 2230 Shattuck, Berk. Free. (510) 549-1564.

'Los Amiguitos del La Pea' Ruth Pelham, New York singer-songwriter, performs original folk music for children. 10:30a, La Pea Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck, Berk. $2-3. (510) 849-2568.

'You Must Be Tweaked to Try These Peaks!' Greenbelt Alliance bikes from Mt. Tam to Mt. Diablo in a one-day pilgrimage to two of the most sacred peaks in the Bay Area. Come experience both or just one. Ride starts at Concord BART. Not for inexperienced cyclists. 8a-6p. Free. 255-3233.

SUNDAY 20

Pier 29 Collector's Market More than 500 indoor dealer spaces selling antiques and collectibles. Open every Sun. 9a-5p, Pier 29, the Embarcadero. $2. 956-5316.

Sacred Labyrinth Walk Sacred Sites International sponsors a site visit to the Grace Cathedral to walk its replica of the Chartres Labyrinth as part of a series dedicated to the support of personal sacred space. Preregistration is required. 1:30p, Grace Cathedral, 1100 California. $23. 898-4800.

Storytellers of the Asian Art Museum tell Hindu myth stories. 1p, Asian Art Museum, Golden Gate Park. Free with museum admission ($3-6). 379-8838.

Bay Area

'Are Men and Women Really Different Species?' Dr. Sharon Presley lectures. 7p, Resources for Independent Thinking, 5236 Claremont, Suite B, Oakl. $10. (510) 601-9450.

'Asian Concepts in Jazz' Panel discussion with Mark Izu, Anthony Brown, Jon Jang, Francis Wong, Miya Masaoka, and others. 1p, Oakland Asian Cultural Center, Pacific Renaissance Plaza, 388 Ninth St, Suite 290, Oakl. Free. 398-5655.

B.B. King The legendary blues artist engages in an onstage conversation with music critic Paul Liberatore. 7p, Marin Veterans Auditorium, Avenue of the Flags off N. San Pedro, San Rafael. $16. 392-4400.

MONDAY 21

Bay Area

Pierre Picot Berkeley City Club hosts an artists' slide talk with the Los Angeles-based artist. 7:30p, Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant, Berk. (510) 848-7800.

TUESDAY 22

'Escndalo! Club Culture' Proyecto ContraSIDA Por Vida (PCPV) hosts a topical discussion about the creators and thrills found in the club scene. Call for more information. Proyecto ContraSIDA Por Vida, 2973 16th St. Free. 864-7278.

'La Femme d' ct (The Woman next door)' French Film Club screens Truffaut's 1981 film starring Fanny Ardant and Grard Depardieu. In French with English subtitles. 7p, Alliance Franaise de San Francisco, 1345 Bush. $5. 775-7755.

'Sosia (Partner)' Screening of Bertolucci's film based on Dostoevsky's "The Double." Italian with English subtitles. 6:30p, Istituto Italiano di Cultura, 425 Bush. Free. 788-7142.

'Resting the Mind, Developing Cheerful Practice' San Francisco Dharmadhatu offers public classes on beginning Tibetan Buddhist meditation. 7:30p, Dharmadhatu, 1630 Taraval. Free. 485-1452.

'Stars in Our Eyes: New Planets in the Skies' Astronomer Geoffrey Marcy lectures. 7p, Conlan Hall, Room 101, City College of San Francisco, 50 Phelan. Free. 239-3580.

Scott Turow The novelists participates in a literary lunch. Noon, Hayes Street Grill, 324 Hayes. $35 (includes lunch). 563-2463.

Bay Area

Story Hour Stories, songs, puppets, and fingerplays entertain kids two to five years old. Every Tues at 10a through Nov 12. Berkeley Public Library South Branch, 1901 Russell, Berk. Free. (510) 644-6860.

Benefits

WEDNESDAY 16

'Pieces of the Quilt' Guest performers Sean San Jos Blackman, Peter Coyote, Danny Glover, Robin Williams, and many others read selections from the 17 plays that comprise Pieces of the Quilt. Proceeds defray Magic Theatre's production costs of the world premiere collection of plays. 6:30p, Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon. $125-500 (dinner included). 441-8001.

Screaming Divas Benefit Concert The Divas and PMS perform to benefit a fire victim. 9p, Cafe du Nord, 2170 Market. $10. 861-5016.

THURSDAY 17

'The Fragile Promise of Choice' Premiere of Dorothy Fadiman's film benefits Planned Parenthood Golden Gate. 7:30p, Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon. $25. 574-5823, ext. 283.

Oktoberfest Benefit Hofbrau-style food, beer, and polka benefit American Red Cross Bay Area. 7p, Fort Mason Center, Bldg A, Marina at Laguna. $25-30. 202-0798.

FRIDAY 18

Lion House Party Fund-raiser for the San Francisco Zoo takes place in the Lion House with big cats and VIPs. 7:30p, San Francisco Zoo, Sloat at 45th Avenue. $55. 753-7165.

'Popcorn and PJs and Movie Night' Chill out by watching Beeban Kidron's film adaptation of Jeanette Winterson's Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit with all-you-can eat popcorn. Benefits Build's Building Fund. 7:30p, Build, 483 Guerrero. $6-10. 863-3041.

Bay Area

Artists for a Cause and Marin Abused Women's Services co-sponsor an evening of jazz, pop, blues, and comedy to benefit MAWS. 8p, Angelico Hall, Domican College, 50 Acacia, San Rafael. $12.50. 457-2464.

SATURDAY 19

Bread and Roses Benefit Concert Indigo Girls, Joan Baez, Dar Williams, and Mimi Faria perform to benefit Bread and Roses's community programs on Alcatra Island. Participants board the ferry at Pier 1/2. 3p. $150. 381-0320.

Rap Celebrity Basketball Game and Concert The NIA Project hosts a basketball game and concert with JT the Bigga Figga, the Dangla, Rappin 4Tay, Mac Mall, and others to promote safe sex awareness and raise funds. Call for more information. Ella Hills Hutch Community Center, 1050 McAllister. $7. 922-6135.

Salsa Dance Benefit Los Compas Salsa Band performs to benefit Mission District groups working with at-risk youth and immigrant families. 7:30p, First Unitarian Church, 1187 Franklin. $15. 776-4580.

Bay Area

California Shakespeare Festival Garage Sale Costumes, props, and set pieces for sale benefit the festival. 10a-3p, California Shakespeare Festival Office, 701 Heinz, Berk. (510) 548-3422.

Hootenanny Musicians, singers, and political satirists perform to support candidates for Berkeley Rent Board and City Council who support affordable housing and rent control. 7:30p, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Hall, Cedar at Bonita, Berk. $10-20. (510) 527-5003.

Out on the Island Fall Dance Dance for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community benefits OOTI. 8p, Alameda School of Dance Studio, 1402 Park, Alameda. $8-10. (510) 337-1300.

SUNDAY 20

'One Warm Coat' Fashion show and vocal performances benefit Children of Shelters. Call for more information. 7p, Club V, 274 11th St. 675-0111.

The Roast's Canned Food and Clothing Drive The bakery and coffee roastery kicks off its drive at 5p with jazz performances., The Roast, 2890 Bryant. 282-3153.

Save San Francisco Bay Association's 35th Birthday Party Board Ferryboat Santa Rosa at Pier 3 for big band entertainment, food, kids activities to benefit bay restoration projects by local youth. 5p. $35 ($3.50 for kids). (510) 452-9261.

Margo St. James Benefit Erotic readings, performances by sex workers, and other fun stuff. 1p, Build, 483 Guerrero. $4-8. 863-3041.

Bay Area

Cerebral Palsy Center Benefit Theater party features highlights from Fiddler on the Roof performed by Cabaret Theatre of Alameda. 2p, Adelphian Club, Central at Walnut, Alameda. $11. (510) 523-1097.

'Gourmet Expectations' Sample gourmet food and drink, dance, and enjoy music to benefit Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice of Northern California. 4p, Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant, Berk. $60. (510) 450-8582.

'Murder on the Campaign Trail' Interactive theatrical mystery set in 1928 features performance, dinner, and beverages and benefits Measure I. 5p, Dunsmuir House and Gardens, 2960 Peralta Oaks, Oakl. $75. (510) 562-0328.

MONDAY 21

TUESDAY 22

Bay Area

'...and the earth did not swallow him' Screening of Severo Perez's film about a 12-year-old migrant worker benefits Marin Interfaith Task Force on Central America. 7p, Lark Theatre, 549 Magnolia, Larkspur. $7. 388-8445.

Museums

Asian Art Museum Through Dec 8: "Splendors of Imperial China: Treasures from the National Palace Museum, Taipei." Permanent collections include art objects representing 6,000 years of Asian history from more than 40 nations. Tues-Sun: 10a-5p (10a-8:45p every Wed). Golden Gate Park. $6.50-9.50. 379-8801.

California Historical Society Museum Through Feb 15: "The San Francisco Art Association: 1871-1906"; "Bearing Witness to Manifest Destiny: Early California through the Lens of Western Photographers." Tues-Sat: 11a-5p. 678 Mission. $1-3. 357-1848.

California Palace of the Legion of Honor Through Jan 18: "Selections from the Achenbach Foundation for Graphic Arts," 19th- and 20th-century sculptors' prints and drawings. Tues-Sun: 9:30a-5:15p (9:30a-8:45p first Sat of month). Lincoln Park, 34th Avenue and Clement. $3-6. 863-3330.

Cartoon Art Museum Through Jan 12: "Gorey World," paintings, drawings, and prints by Edward Gorey. Permanent exhibits include an interactive CD-ROM gallery, research center and library, and children's gallery. Wed-Fri: 11a-5p, Sat: 10a-5p, Sun: 1-5p. 814 Mission. $2-4. CAR-TOON.

Center for the Arts Through Nov 3: "Tim Hawkinson," eccentric kinetic sculptures by the Los Angeles-based artist. Through Nov 10: "Bright Red Mysteries," crashed-spaceship installation by art director Syd Mead (Blade Runner, Aliens); "Low Brow Gods: The Art of Boxing," art featuring boxing images; "The Squared Ring: Boxing's Greatest Titles," film and video series (see Movie Clock for show times). Tues-Sun: 11a-6p (11a-8p first Tues of month). Yerba Buena Gardens, 701 Mission. $2-4 (free 6-8p first Thurs of month). 978-ARTS.

M.H. de Young Museum Through Oct 20: "The Measure of All Things," paintings by Irving Norman. Through Nov 17: "Classical Influences in Dress," costume exhibit. Through Dec 1: "Observant Eye: Portrait Drawings by Don Bachardy." Through Dec 29: "Beat Culture and the New America: 1950-1965." Through Jan 26: "Art of the Americas: Cultural Crosscurrents," pre-Columbian to contemporary art. Ongoing: "Gallery One: An Art Exhibition for Children"; "Art of Oceania," 37 works from Pacific island regions. Wed-Sun: 9:30a-5:15p (9:30a-8:45p first Wed of month). Golden Gate Park. $3-6 (free first Wed of month). 863-3330.

Jewish Museum Through Jan 5: "Too Jewish? Challenging Traditional Identities," multimedia group exhibition exploring the resurgence of ethnic consciousness among Jewish artists. Mon-Wed: noon-6p, Thurs: noon-8p, Sun: 11a-6p. 121 Steuart. $2.50-5 (free first Monday of month). 543-8880.

Mexican Museum Through Nov 10: "Day of the Dead (El Da de Los Muertos)," altars created by Bay Area cultural groups. Through Feb 2: "Rodolfo Morales: Juegos y Evocaciones/Games and Recollections," paintings and collages. Wed-Sun: noon-5p. Fort Mason Center, Bldg D, Marina at Laguna. $2-3 (free first Wed of month, noon-7p). 441-0445.

SF Museum of Modern Art Through Dec 1: "Gnomon," site-specific installation by the Interim Office of Architecture and Tom Bonauro. Through Jan 12: "D-L Alvarez, Anne Appleby, Barry McGee: 1996 SECA Art Award." Through Jan 19: "Electronic Media: 1996 SECA Award." Through Jan 26: "Crossing the Frontier: Photographs of the Developing West, 1849 to the Present." Through Feb 4: "Commonplace Mysteries: Photographs by Peter Hujar, Andrea Modica, and Bill Owens." Ongoing: "Humane Technology: The Eames Studio and Beyond," a conference-room installation. Tues-Sun: 11a-6p, Thurs: 11a-9p. 151 Third St. $3.50-7 (free first Tues of every month, half price every Thurs, 6-9p). 357-4000.

Bay Area

Berkeley Art Museum Through Nov 24: "Hans Hofmann and the New York School." Through Dec 1: "An Eternity of Forest: Paintings by Mbuti Women." Through Dec 31: "The Gardens of le Ntre," photographs by Becky Cohen; "Scroll No. 11," 75-foot scroll by Tchai. Wed-Sun: 11a-5p, Thurs: 11a-9p. 2626 Bancroft Way, Berk. $4-6. (510) 642-0808.

Judah L. Magnes Museum Opening Oct 20: "Forging an Identity: The Art of the Yemenite Silversmith," ritual objects. Through Nov 24: "Winners of the Third International Jewish Video Contest," continuous screenings on four sets; "Published Every Friday: Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Jewish Bulletin." Permanent collection includes fine and ceremonial Jewish art and the Blumenthal Rare Books and Manuscripts Library. Sun-Thurs: 10a-4p. 2911 Russell, Berk. $3 donation. (510) 549-6950.

Mills College Art Gallery Through Nov 3: "Vital Kinships: Alice Neel Looks at Family," paintings; "Vessels of a Culture: Korean Ceramics." Tues-Sat: 11a-4p, Sun: noon-4p. Free. (510) 430-2164.

Oakland Museum of California Through Dec 1: "This Is Our Land! Teens Speak Out on Nature and Community in the City," mixed-media, bilingual Spanish and English exhibit of youth work. Through Jan 5: "Hot Rods and Customs: The Men and Machines of California's Car Culture," 30 classic icons of automobile culture. Wed-Sat: 10a-5p, Sun: noon-7p. 1000 Oak, Oakl. $3-5 (free Sun, 4-7p). (510) 238-3401.

Phoebe Hearst Museum of Anthropology Through Feb 2: "Unfolding Passages: Methods, Meanings, and Movements in Sumbanese Cloth." Permanent exhibitions include "Approaching a Century of Anthropology: The Phoebe Hearst Museum." Wed and Fri-Sun: 10a-4:30p, Thurs: 10a-9p. UC Berkeley, 103 Kroeber Hall, Room 3712, Bancroft and College, Berk. $.50-2 (free every Thurs). (510) 643-7648.

Galleries

Ralph Ackerman "Facing Beat," various media. Oct 16-Nov 17. Reception Wed/16 at 6p. Gallery 16, 1616 16th St, Third floor. 626-8403.

'Ancient African Terracottas' Nok terracottas from northern Nigeria. Through Nov 23. James Willis/Larry Evans Gallery, 77 Geary, Second Floor. 398-7545.

'ArtBEAT' Various works related to beat culture. Through Oct 24. Music and performance Sat/19 at 6p. Artwork Gallery, 1837 Divisadero. 673-3080.

Brenda Atwood "The Journeys of Ariadne," paintings and monotypes. Extended through Nov 16. Vorpal Gallery, 393 Grove. 397-9200.

Chandra Cerrito Word sculptures. Oct 20-Nov 24. Market between Fourth Street and Steuart. 252-2590.

'The Dining Room' Installation by various artists. Through Nov 9. Terrain, 165 Jessie, Second floor. 543-0656.

Dragon "Pagan Rites," ritualistic paintings. Through Oct 19. Naked Art Gallery, 355 Bryant, Room 110. 284-0567.

'ICE Proof' Handmade print by 11 artists. Oct 18-Nov 15. ICE, 491A Guerrero. 821-2001.

'Individualism' Works by various artists as part of "America Now" exhibition series. Oct 18-Nov 16. Reception Fri/18 at 6p. The Lab, 2948 16th St. 864-8855.

John LeFlore Paintings and drawings. Through Nov 7. Suzanne's Muffins, 564 Castro. 864-4266.

Charles Lucas "Tin Man," mixed media. Oct 18-Nov 30. Reception Fri/18 at 6p. Friday the Thirteenth West, 331 Potrero. 863-2285.

MATS!? "Pop-Cult Amnesia," paintings. Oct 18-Nov 17. Reception Fri/18 at 8p. Scairy Hairy Toys, 3804 17th St. 864-6543.

Chris Natrop and Constance Maher "I Dream of Genies," paintings and sculptures. Extended through Oct 20. Place Pigalle, 520 Hayes. 552-2671.

Katsu Nishimori "New Works in 1996," mixed media. Oct 22-Nov 27. Reception Thurs/24 at 5:30p. Evolving Space, 536 Pacific. 989-2992.

Robert Ortbal "Lullaby," hybrid works. Oct 18-Nov 16. Reception Fri/18 at 7p. Four Walls Gallery, 3160-A 16th St. 626-8515.

Pierre Petitfour Paintings. Oct 19-26. Reception Sat/19 at 7p. Post Impressionist Gallery, 457 Powell. 392-3938.

'Psychedelicattesen' Contemporary psychedelic art, video, and performance by more than 20 artists around the world. Oct 18-26. Reception Fri/18 at 7p with music and ritual ($3-10). Benefit party Sat/19 at 10p ($10-20). Acme Gallery, 667 Howard. 777-ACME.

SFAI Faculty Exhibition Oct 17-Nov 17. Reception Wed/16 at 5:30p. Walter/McBean Gallery, San Francisco Art Institute, 800 Chestnut. 771-7020.

Lincoln Turner and Scott A. Moules Photographs and new genres. Oct 20-26. Reception Oct 24 at 5p. Diego Rivera Gallery, SF Art Institute, 800 Chestnut. 771-7020, ext. 410.

Barbara Vos Paintings. Oct 16-Nov 30. Reception Wed/16 at 5:30p. Brian Gross Fine Art, 49 Geary, Fifth floor. 788-1050.

Margaret Wall-Romana Paintings. Oct 18-Nov 30. Reception Fri/18 at 6p. Bucheon Gallery, 355 Hayes, Second floor. 863-2891.

Mary Hull Webster "If I said to you that I love you," image objects. Oct 17-Nov 23. Reception Thurs/17 at 6p. Meridian Gallery, 545 Sutter. 398-7229.

Tom White "Dog Sho," paintings and works on paper. Oct 16-Nov 10. Reception Wed/16 at 6p. Art at Mike, 2142 Fillmore. 567-2700.

Will Wilson Paintings. Oct 18-Nov 30. Reception Fri/18 at 6p. John Pence Gallery, 750 Post. 441-1138.

Bay Area

Amy Evans and Carole Pierce Landscapes on copper and life-size clay figures. Oct 22-Nov 30. Reception Tues/22 at 6p. Joan Roebuck Gallery, 3581 Mt. Diablo, Lafayette. (510) 283-9210.

Mitsuyo Moore Paintings and monotypes. Oct 18-Nov 15. Reception Fri/18 at 6p. Albany Arts Gallery, 1251 Solano, Albany. (510) 526-9558.

Attractions

Exploratorium Through Jan 5: "Cycles of Change," demonstrations of cyclical behavior in all kinds of systems; "Turbulent Landscapes," an exhibition of forces of nature, including whirlpools, water and air currents, clouds, sandstorms, and tornadoes. Permanent exhibits include interactive displays pertaining to all areas of science and the senses. Tues-Sun: 10a-5p (Wed: 10a-9:30p). 3601 Lyon. $2.50-9. 563-7337.

San Francisco Zoo New at the Primate Discovery Center: ring-tailed lemurs. Extended through Dec 1: Antoine LeBlanc, a New Orleans white alligator. Northern California's largest zoo, featuring the new warthog exhibit. Ongoing exhibits include Australian Walkabout, Koala Crossing, Gorilla World, the Primate Discovery Center, Feline Conservation Center, Penguin Island, Otter River, the lion house, and the children's zoo. Big cats are fed daily, 2p, except Mon. Daily: 10a-5p. Sloat at 45th Avenue. $1.50-7 (free first Wed of month). 753-7080.

Bay Area

Lawrence Hall of Science Through Jan 19: "Brain Games," playground for the mind and body for all ages. Ongoing exhibits include "Within the Human Brain," computer and video displays demonstrating the inner workings of the brain, and "Laser: The Light Fantastic," laser light demonstrations and hands-on experiments. Permanent exhibits include the Holt Planetarium and hands-on discovery labs. Daily: 10a-5p. Centennial off Grizzly Peak, UC Berkeley, Berk. $2-6. (510) 642-5132.

Marine World Africa USA Continuing attractions include Walrus Experience, featuring four young walruses from Alaska, and Walkabout! An Australian Adventure. Wed-Sun: 9:30a-5:30p. Marine World Parkway, Vallejo. $17.95-25.95. (707) 643-ORCA.

Oakland Zoo More than 300 animals from around the world on 100 acres of land. Exhibits include the Flamingo Plaza, Gibbon Island, African lion exhibit, and chimpanzee exhibit. Daily: 10a-4p (Kijana: weekdays 12-1:30p, weekends 12-2p). Knowland Park, Golf Links Road, Oakl. $3-4.50; $3 parking fee. (510) 632-9525.

Airwaves

TELEVISION PICKS

The Pick-Up Artist Though not a sequel to Pretty in Pink, Molly Ringwald plays the object of obsession (this time Robert Downey Jr. plays the role of geek). Dennis Hopper and Danny Aiello also star. Thurs at 2a. USA.

Unsolved Mysteries Among the oh-so-interesting chillers exposed tonight is the mysterious death of '60s rock star Bobby Fuller, of the Bobby Fuller Four, who hit the charts with "I Fought the Law." Was it suicide or murder or what? Fri at 8p. KRON, Ch. 4.

When Disasters Strike These ever-sensationalistic news specials always scared my college roommate. Videotaped footage of natural and man-made calamities lend creedence to meteorologists and other "experts" who say the sky is falling. Mon at 9p. KTVU, Ch. 2.

RADIO PICKS

National Press Club Eckhard Pfeiffer, CEO of Compaq Computers, gives his speech "Making Headway Toward the Vast Wonderland: The Dawn of an Interactive Age." Full of groundbreaking insight, I'm sure. Wed at 8:30p and Thur at 2a. KQED, 88.5 FM.

Rabbit Ears Radio with Meg Ryan Jodie Foster reads The Fisherman and His Wife to the musical accompaniment of Van Dyke Parks. Sun at 4:30p. KQED, 88.5 FM.

Return to top | Home