Arts Council for Monterey County

Controlled Chaos Improv at the Indoor Forest Theatre
2025-11-07 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Indoor Forest Theatre, Carmel
Looking for a night of laughs and surprises? Come check out Controlled Chaos Improv at the Indoor Forest Theatre! Watch our improvisers create hilarious scenes on the spot based entirely on your suggestions. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of improv–every show is different and the laughter is guaranteed.

Carmel Art Walk
2025-11-08 16:00 - 19:00 | Throughout Carmel by the Sea, CA, 93921, United States
Founded and run by local artists, the Carmel Art Walk is a free and family-friendly event. Support our local artists and keep the HEART of Carmel beating strong! Carmel Art Walk is the second Saturday every month from 4pm-7pm and is open to the public. Tour artist-owned galleries and meet the artists who carry on the Carmel-by-the-Sea artist colony legacy. Follow the blue lanterns at each gallery.

Monterey Bay Poetry Consortium
2025-11-08 17:30 - 18:30 | Pacific Grove Public Library, 550 Central Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Pacific Grove Public Library hosts a monthly reading by poets from Central California and beyond, organized by the Monterey Bay Poetry Consortium. Enjoy all styles of poetry, created fresh by local poets. Sept. 13: Avery Burns and Lee Knight Jr.; Oct. 11: Chrissy Hernandez and Brandi Kary.

Saturday, Nov. 8 At the Lighthouse — “Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round” (documentary, 1:30)
2025-11-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Light House Cinema, 525 Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove, 93950
This November, stories from around the world will take center stage as the 2025 Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF) returns offering 9 compelling films to screens in Carmel, Pacific Grove, Sand City and Monterey.
Presented by Congregation Beth Israel/CBI, the festival begins with a Celebratory Opening Matinee on Sunday, Nov. 2, continues through Sunday, Nov. 16, and includes VIP receptions, community dinners, and conversations designed to spark dialogue and connection.
Tickets: $20 | VIP Receptions: $30 (select events)
About the film
In 1960, five Howard University students challenged segregation at a whites-only carousel. Local Jewish residents joined the picket lines, forging an unprecedented alliance. With archival footage and testimony, Emmy-winner Ilana Trachtman reveals how activism at Glen Echo Amusement Park (MD) ignited Freedom Riders, court battles and enduring lessons of justice.
Trailer: Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round
Website: www.aintnoback.com
Note: Includes a Post-film Discussion. Speakers are being confirmed for this screening.

"Bandstand"
2025-11-08 19:30 - 22:30, 2025-11-09 14:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-15 19:30 - 22:30, 2025-11-16 14:00 - 17:00 | The Western Stage, 411 Central Ave., Salinas, CA, 93901, United States
Music by Richard Oberacker
Book and Lyrics by Robert Taylor and Richard Oberacker
The Western Stage at Hartnell College is presenting “Bandstand,” a powerful Broadway musical that honors military veterans and explores their journey home from war through music, friendship, and healing. In recognition of Veterans Day and to honor those who have served, we’re offering special ticket promotions throughout the run of the show:
Veterans & Military Service Personnel: 1 FREE ticket with code LVRVET
Friends & Family: $15 tickets with code VETFAM
Event Details:
What: “Bandstand” – A musical about WWII veterans finding healing through music
When: November 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 2025 (Saturdays at 7:30 PM, Sundays at 2:00 PM)
Where: The Mainstage Theater, Hartnell College, 411 Central Avenue, Salinas
Tickets: westernstage.com/tickets or (831) 755-6816
The Story:
Set in 1947, “Bandstand” follows Donny Novitski, a war veteran and talented musician who dreams of winning a national swing band competition with his fellow veterans. Haunted by the horrors of war and struggling to reintegrate into civilian life, Donny and his band members find that coming home is more challenging than they ever imagined. When singer Julia Trojan, a war widow seeking answers to her own painful questions, joins the group, their music becomes a path toward healing and hope. As they compete for fame and recognition, these survivors must confront their demons, support each other through invisible wounds, and discover that the greatest battles are sometimes the ones fought after the war ends. Through soaring melodies and heart-wrenching honesty, “Bandstand” is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the redemptive power of music

Carmel Jewish Film Festival returns Nov. 2–16 9 Films, VIP receptions, community dinners and sponsorship campaign Carmelbethisrael.org/cjff
2025-11-09 13:00 - 17:00 | Monterey Museum of Art-La Mirada Education Center, 720 Via Mirada, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
his November, stories from around the world will take center stage as the 2025 Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF) returns offering 9 compelling films to screens in Carmel, Pacific Grove, Sand City and Monterey.
Presented by Congregation Beth Israel/CBI, the festival begins with a Celebratory Opening Matinee on Sunday, Nov. 2, continues through Sunday, Nov. 16, and includes VIP receptions, community dinners, and conversations designed to spark dialogue and connection.
Sunday, Nov. 9 Special Event at La Mirada — “The Plunderer: The Life & Times of a Nazi Art Thief” (documentary, 1:18)
1 p.m. — VIP reception & art book sale ($10/bag; $20/box)
2–4 p.m. — film screening
4–5 p.m. — post-film discussion
Tickets: $50 includes film & VIP reception; limited seating. Priority given to CJFF sponsors.
About the film
The riveting story of a Nazi art thief, looted masterpieces, and the struggle for restitution. The documentary exposes stolen heritage and the fight for justice.
Notes:
Post-film Discussion led by Corey Madden, Executive Director, MMA. Historian Jonathan Petropoulos who investigated the life of Bruno Lohse and his role in the Nazi looting operation, will join our event.

Art of Rehabilitation
2025-11-10 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-11 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-12 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-13 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-14 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-17 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-18 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-19 08:00 - 17:00 | County of Monterey Building, 168 West Alisal Street, Salinas, 93901
What if art could change lives?
A powerful new exhibit at the County of Monterey Administration building in Salinas proves it can. The installation showcases work by inmates from Soledad Correctional Training Facility—videos, audio, poetry and visual pieces that reveal the transformative potential of creativity and rehabilitation behind bars.
Created through the Life on Art’s – Rehabilitation program, these works are more than art—they’re part of a proven strategy to reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for successful reentry into society. The program complements existing education and mental health services, giving incarcerated individuals a vital tool for self-expression and healing.
Each piece tells a story. Hear directly from the artists themselves as they share the thoughts, struggles, and hopes that shaped their work. This isn’t just an art show—it’s a window into the humanity of people often unseen, and a testament to the rehabilitative power of creative expression.

PG Museum’s History on Tap Delves into Vigilantes, Vendettas, and Monterey County’s Hidden Stash of Gold
2025-11-13 17:30 - 19:30 | Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, 165 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove,, CA, 93950
Legend has it that a stash of millions of dollars’ worth of gold still awaits discovery somewhere in Monterey County, and that’s not even the most interesting part of
the true story shared at the Pacific Grove Museum’s History on Tap on November 13th. Attendees will hear the story of Jose Maria Sanchez, an early cattle rancher and one of the county’s wealthiest men, who upon his untimely death left the hoard of treasure
for his children. From there, avarice, jealousy, feuds, corruption, and all the human failings that can appear when a bounty of this magnitude is on the line took hold, leading to deaths, murders, shootouts, and ghost stories that continue to this day.
There’s far more to this tale than can be written here, but participants will be in very good hands with speakers Brian Edwards, Library & Museums Director for the City of Monterey, and Hayley Aiello, Artifacts
Specialist with the City of Monterey and Curatorial Aid with California State Parks. Together they’ll weave this tale of a Monterey from over 150 years ago and find some common ground with today’s landscapes. With a happy half-hour sponsored by Dust Bowl Brewing
Company, the night, and the story, should prove unforgettable.
History on Tap will occur on Thursday, 11/13, from 5:30-7:30pm. The night will begin with a happy half-hour, followed by the talk from 6-7 and an audience Q&A from 7-7:30. Talks like this at the Museum often sell
out, so interested parties are encouraged to buy their tickets in advance at PGMuseum.org/Events. The Museum’s Science on Tap events are sponsored by PG&E, whose sponsorship reflects PG&E’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities and connecting people
with the natural world.
Upcoming events at the Museum:
Tidepool Field Sketching Classes: 11/2 & 11/16, 1-3pm
Guided Monarch Walks with MPRPD: 11/8 & 11/9, 10-11am
History on Tap: Vigilantes, Vendettas, & the Secret Gold of Monterey: 11/13, 5:30-7:30pm
Brown Bag Talk: Winged Wonders, Biology & Conservation of Monarch Butterflies, 11/14, 12:15-12:45
Special Qigong Session: 11/15, 9-10am
Science Saturday: Monarch & Pollinator Magic, 11/29. 10am-3pm
Winter Wreathmaking Workshop: December 6, see session times online.
Sign up for all events at
www.pgmusuem.org/events
Find our outreach team at libraries all over Monterey County on Wednesday afternoons
About the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
In 1883, the Museum opened its doors among the first wave of natural history museums in America. Naturalists of this era began a national tradition of hands-on science education and nature preservation, a tradition
the Museum has continued for over 140 years. The Museum’s mission is to inspire discovery, wonder, and stewardship of our cultural and natural world. The Museum supports conservation, scientific literacy, co-curation, and deep learning towards a resilient
community and sustainable future. Their work is made possible, in part, by the following generous donors: American Water Charitable Foundation, City of Pacific Grove, Community Foundation for Monterey County, Harden Foundation, Helen Johnson Endowment Funds,
Monterey Peninsula Foundation, and Shelby Cullom Davis Charitable Fund. The Museum is open to the public Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm. For more information visit
www.pgmuseum.org.

Carmel Jewish Film Festival returns Nov. 2–16 9 Films, VIP receptions, community dinners and sponsorship campaign Carmelbethisrael.org/cjff
2025-11-13 18:30 - 21:00 | SandBox, 440 Ortiz Ave, Sea, 93933
Thursday, Nov. 13 An Evening of Shorts 6:30 p.m. — doors open, light snacks
7-9 p.m.— film screenings
Short films program:
“Iron Ladies” (51m) — The story of “The 35s,” Jewish women supporting Soviet refuseniks during the Cold War.
Trailer: Iron Ladies
“Paddling for Life” (18m) — The Pink Lionesses, Israeli breast cancer survivors, bond through paddling.
Information: Paddling for Life
“Fiddler on the Moon: Will Judaism Survive in Space” (30m) — Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson joins astronauts and rabbis to explore Judaism’s cosmic future.
Trailer and information: Fiddler on the MoonThis November, stories from around the world will take center stage as the 2025 Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF) returns, offering 9 compelling films to screens in Carmel, Pacific Grove, Sand City, and Monterey.
Presented by Congregation Beth Israel/CBI, the festival begins with a Celebratory Opening Matinee on Sunday, Nov. 2, continues through Sunday, Nov. 16, and includes VIP receptions, community dinners, and conversations designed to spark dialogue and connection.
Tickets: $20 | VIP Receptions: $30 (select events)

RADIUM GIRLS by D.W. Gregory
2025-11-14 19:00 - 22:00, 2025-11-15 19:00 - 22:00, 2025-11-16 14:00 - 17:00 | Monterey High Welch Theatre, 101 Herrmann Drive, Monterey, CA, 93940
The MHS Players proudly present RADIUM GIRLS by D.W. Gregory
Based on true events, RADIUM GIRLS tells the powerful story of the young women who worked at the Radium Dial Factory, painting luminous watch faces to support the World War I effort. Unknowingly exposed to deadly radiation, these brave workers faced devastating illness and an even greater struggle for justice.
Their fight against corporate greed and denial sparked a movement that changed labor rights forever, paving the way for OSHA and modern workplace safety laws.
Join us for this gripping historical drama about courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of truth.

Art Workshop: Joys of Color
2025-11-15 09:00 - 15:00 | Oldemeyer Center, 986 Hilby Ave., Seaside, CA, 93955, United States
The Central Coast Art Association presents an art workshop with renowned artist, Maggie Hellmann, at the Oldemeyer Center in Seaside on November 15th. Come learn to use the power of color to convey your ideas. Learn its secrets. Learn its language. Color Scales. Color Contrasts. Color Power. Color Joy!
We will learn about, discuss and practice using different color ideas in this day-long workshop. We’ll discuss and share various color possibilities. We’ll think outside the box. We’ll explore different methods for using color to highlight your idea. And you will choose your own path forward with renewed courage and color knowledge.
$90 for CCAA members and $125 for non-members.
Learn more and sign up here: https://centralcoastartassociation.com/event/maggie-hellmann-workshop/

Pathways for Arts Educators – Salinas Community Session
2025-11-15 10:00 - 12:00 | United Way Monterey County, 232 Monterey St. Ste. 200, Salinas, 93901
Artists, educators, and community members — your voice can help shape the future of arts education!
Join us in Salinas on Saturday, November 15, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at United Way Monterey County (232 Monterey St) for a Pathways for Arts Educators Community Session, hosted by Arts4MC, the San Benito County Arts Council, and the Arts Council of Santa Cruz County.
This regional initiative is building pathways for visual and performing arts teachers so that every student can benefit from the new Prop 28 arts education funding.
Other sessions are happening in Hollister on November 13 and Watsonville on November 14.
Come share your ideas, connect with fellow creatives, and help strengthen the arts teacher pipeline in our region!

Pathways for Arts Educators – Salinas Community Session
2025-11-15 10:00 - 12:00 | CA

Artist Workshop: (Not Your Average) Paint and Sip With Big Sur Artworks Collective
2025-11-15 13:30 - 16:30 | 559 Pacific St, Monterey, CA, United States, California
In this ‘Big Sur Artworks’ Acrylic Paint Experience, explore basic paint techniques and demystify the painting process. Working from photo reference, breathtaking views, and imagination, participants will create and develop their own acrylic landscape on canvas. Workshop leaders will gently guide each artist into their own creative space and encourage their dialogue with their art.

Open to all experience levels!

Carmel Jewish Film Festival returns Nov. 2–16 9 Films, VIP receptions, community dinners and sponsorship campaign Carmelbethisrael.org/cjff
2025-11-15 18:30 - 21:00 | Center for Spiritual Awakening, 522 Central Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
This November, stories from around the world will take center stage as the 2025 Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF) returns offering 9 compelling films to screens in Carmel, Pacific Grove, Sand City and Monterey.
Presented by Congregation Beth Israel/CBI, the festival begins with a Celebratory Opening Matinee on Sunday, Nov. 2, continues through Sunday, Nov. 16, and includes VIP receptions, community dinners, and conversations designed to spark dialogue and connection.
Tickets: $20 | VIP Receptions: $30 (select events)
Saturday, November 15 Feature Documentary — “Sabbath Queen” (1:45)
6:30 p.m. — light snacks
7 p.m. — film screening
8:45 p.m. — post-film discussion
About the film
Filmed over 21 years, “Sabbath Queen” follows Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie, heir to 38 rabbinic generations, who reinvents Jewish ritual as a drag queen, queer father, and founder of Lab/Shul. The film challenges tradition while redefining spirituality and inclusion for a new century.
Trailer and website: Sabbath Queen
Note: Speakers are being arranged to join this program.

Carmel Jewish Film Festival returns Nov. 2–16 9 Films, VIP receptions, community dinners and sponsorship campaign Carmelbethisrael.org/cjff
2025-11-16 14:00 - 16:30 | Congregation Beth Israel/CBI, 5716 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley, CA, 93923, United States
Sunday, Nov. 16 Closing Matinee Celebration — “Swedishkayt: YidLife Crisis in Stockholm” (comedy, 1:17)Sponsorship & Support for the CJFF:2 p.m. — VIP Swedish-themed lunch reception
3-4:30 p.m. film screening
Tickets: $30 VIP Lunch Reception; $20 Film Ticket
About the film
Canadian comedians Eli Batalion and Jamie Elman uncover Sweden’s Jewish culture in hilarious encounters, exploring 250 years of Jewish history and the revival of Yiddish as a protected language.
Trailer and information: Swedishkayt: YidLife Crisis in Stockholm
Sponsors enjoy premium recognition, exclusive benefits, and enhanced engagement opportunities at all CJFF screenings and VIP Receptions.
Sponsorship levels:
Festival Benefactor — $2,500
Cultural Patron — $1,000
Community Builder — $500
Friend of CBI — $200
Additional donations are welcome. https://www.carmelbethisrael.org/form/3-for-2025.html
Congregation Beth Israel is a 501(c)(3). Contributions may be tax-deductible; consult your accountant.
New in 2025: BuzzPR is recognized as a CJFF Cultural Patron Sponsor ($2,200).
About Congregation Beth Israel
CBI is an inclusive, welcoming Jewish community, embracing individuals of all ages, interfaith families, and people of all backgrounds and abilities. Your support ensures CBI can continue to provide meaningful programs, cultural experiences, and vital services throughout the year.
Join Us
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now.
For details and reservations, visit: carmelbethisrael.org/cjff

From November 15th – December 24th Monterey’s Best-Kept Secret for Holiday Shopping Gifts for a Cause — Shop Local This Season
2025-11-17 10:00 - 2025-12-24 16:00 | CA
This holiday season, shop where every purchase has purpose. Monterey State Historic Park Association invites you to discover the best-kept secret for holiday shopping at our two museum stores.
Choose from:
An extensive collection of holiday ornaments
Artisan creations and local finds
Old-fashioned toys, books, and keepsakes inspired by Monterey’s history
Your purchases help fund grade-school education programs and preserve our community’s cultural heritage.
Visit Us:
Custom House Store – 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA | Thurs–Sun, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Pacific House Store – 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA | Tues–Sun, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Don’t wait — shop early, shop local, and give gifts that give back.
CTA Button: Plan Your Visit

CALIFORNIA BLUEGRASS REUNION WITH OTTER OPRY
2025-11-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Monterey United Methodist Church, 1 Soledad Drive, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
Having brought the house down at their first three Otter Opry performances, the California Bluegrass Reunion will be back on Tuesday, November 18th at the United Methodist Church to do it again – and it just gets better every time! This star-studded band is highlighted by the awesome fiddling of Chad Manning and features an abundance of original instrumentals from mandolinist John Reischman and banjo player Bill Evans. Anchoring the rhythm section is Jim Nunally on guitar and vocals, Mike Witcher on Dobro, and Sharon Gilchrist on bass. The show will open with a four-song set by Nell & Jim, featuring Jim Nunally on vocals, guitar and banjo, with Nell Robinson on vocals and miniflute; this amazing duo delivers tight harmonies and original genre-bending music that will get the evening off to a sizzling start.
Back to California Bluegrass Reunion: Grammy Award-winning John Reischman is a foundational mandolinist, composer, bandleader and musical educator in bluegrass and North American roots and folk music. Bill Evans – winner of the 2022 Steve Martin “Excellence in Banjo” Award – occupies a unique niche in the music world, celebrated for his varied bluegrass banjo styles as well as his innovative original compositions. Jim Nunally is a musician, composer, record producer and teacher – all in addition to being one of the finest guitar players in the world. Chad Manning is a bluegrass, old-time and swing fiddler who has performed with more famous bands than you can count. Sharon Gilchrist has long made her home in the American acoustic music scene, performing on concert and festival stages all over North America. Growing up the youngest of five in a musical and artistic family in the suburbs of Los Angeles, Mike Witcher found his voice playing the Dobro at the age of 14.
These musicians have made music in various combinations for decades, but this all-star performance – billed as a “Special Tribute to California Songwriters and Tunesmiths,” with songs from Tony Rice, Herb Pedersen, Kathy Kallick, Laurie Lewis, Kate Wolf, David Grisman and more – is an incredible opportunity to see and hear them together. The event includes a delicious Salisbury steak dinner at 5:30pm ($15 before November 15th, $20 at the door). Online sales will end at 11am the day of the performance.
7pm. Monterey United Methodist Church, 1 Soledad Drive, Monterey. $35/show (CBA members $30; 15 and under free); $15-20/pre-show dinner. www.otteropry.org
