ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SWINGSET SENSATION: A 10-piece group, playing 40s-era swing tunes and beyond will be providing live music for the next Second Saturday Dance, which begins with a potluck at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 10, followed by an East Coast Swing Workshop with certified instructor Sheila Phillips at 7:30 p.m. and Swingset Sensation at 8:15 p.m. All ages welcome, no partner necessary. Cost is $8 youth/$13 adults. Info: www.educatedfeet.net.

DANCE CONT.

SWINGSET SENSATION: A 10-piece group, playing 40s-era swing tunes and beyond will be providing live music for the next Second Saturday Dance, which begins with a potluck at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 10, followed by an East Coast Swing Workshop with certified instructor Sheila Phillips at 7:30 p.m. and Swingset Sensation at 8:15 p.m. All ages welcome, no partner necessary. Cost is $8 youth/$13 adults. Info: www.educatedfeet.net.

BALLROOM DANCE AT THE BREMERTON ELKS: Ballroom dance classes will be held Jan. 15, 22 and 29 with West Coast Swing workshop at 10:30 a.m. followed by Foxtrot at 11:30 a.m. led by Jan Madison at the Bremerton Elks, 4131 Pine Road in Bremerton. Public invited, seniors encouraged, afternoon dance follows. Call (360) 877-5181 to sign up.

BALLROOM DANCING: Is offered from 2-5 p.m. every Sunday at the Port Orchard Eagles, 4001 Jackson Ave. NE in Port Orchard, dancing to the live big band sounds of Eric Liebmann and Co. Cost is $3 for members, $5 for non. Info: www.foe2338.org or call (360) 876-2338.

LINE DANCERS: Kitsap Kickers Line Dance Club meets every Friday and Sunday, 9161 Washington Ave. NW, Silverdale. Fridays: beginners 6-7:30 p.m., $2; advanced 7-9:30 p.m., $4; Sundays: beginners 5-6:30 p.m., $2; advanced 6-8:30 p.m., $4. Information: (360) 697-6753.

KIDS

STORYTIME WITH GEORGE SHANNON: Eagle Harbor Book Company presents storytime for children ages 3 and older with resident children’s author and Washington State Book Award winner George Shannon at 11 a.m. Jan. 17, 157 Winslow Way on Bainbridge. Info: www.eagleharborbooks.com, www.georgeshannon.com or call (206) 842-5332.

FARMER JASON: The alter ego of Jason Ringenberg of Jason and the Scorchers fame sings songs about tadpoles, tractors, kittens and punk rock skunks for the younger folk music listener at 2 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Island Music Guild Hall, 10598 Valley Road in Rolling Bay on Bainbridge. All ages, $7 cover. Info: www.farmerjason.com, www.islandmusic.org.

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY: The Poulsbo branch of the Kitsap Regional Library presents baby storytime (ages 1-18 months) at 1 p.m. each Tuesday and toddler storytime (ages 18 months-3 years) at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. each Wednesday, 700 Iverson St. in Poulsbo. Info: www.krl.org or call (360) 779-2915.

STORYTIME: Barnes and Noble, in the Kitsap Mall, hosts a weekly storytime for kids at 11 a.m. every Saturday. Info: Call the store at (360) 698-0945.

KITSAPART SCHOOL OF THE ARTS: Offers classes ranging from cartooning to three-dimensional drawing to animal art for kids ages 8 to teens at its school, 3425 NW Byron St. in Old Town Silverdale. Info: www.kitsapart.com or call (360) 662-1542.

GALLERIES & EXHIBITIONS

BAINBRIDGE ARTIST SUSAN ARENS: And her colorful interpretations of the Northwest landscape are featured at the Bainbridge Library, 1270 Madison Ave. N this month. Info: www.krl.org, www.susanarens.com.

KINGSTON ART GALLERY: Will feature the work of Shabala Studio’s students, ranging from five years old through adults with work in various media from Jan. 7 through Feb. 8. There will be a reception for the artists at the Second Saturday Gallery Night, 5-8 p.m. Jan. 10 at the gallery off Highway 104 in downtown Kingston. Info: www.kingstonartgallery.com.

THE ISLAND GALLERY: Hosts an artist’s talk with landscape artist Alison Keogh, discussing the techniques and inspirations from the gallery’s current exhibit “Landscape — A Different View” at 2 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Island Gallery, 100 Madison Ave. on Bainbridge. Info: www.alisonkeogh.com, www.islandgallery.net.

ANNUAL STUDENT SHOW: Students from South Kitsap high school and junior high schools will be exhibiting their work through Jan. 29 at the Sidney Art Gallery, 202 Sidney Ave. in Port Orchard. A reception for the artists is slated from 1-4 p.m. Jan. 11. Info: www.sidneymuseumandarts.com, (360) 876-3693.

‘MASKS’ AT BPA: Cindy Salisbury’s masks, reflecting the common themes of the Carnival in Venice as well as her love of history, mythology and drama, will be up through January at the Birkenfeld Lobby of Bainbridge Performing Arts, 200 Madison Ave. in Bainbridge. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday as well as one hour prior to each BPA performance. Free. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org or call Steven at (2-6) 842-1163.

GETTING TO THE HEART: A rare group show at the Gallery at Grace features work from Scott Lawrence, Tom Schworer, Steve Neff, Garth Edwards, Tom Shephard, Jeff Hummel and Impert Matthee, in the media of photography, paintings and sculpture, hanging through Feb. 28 at Grace, 8595 Day Road on Bainbridge. Info: www.gracehere.org or call Ann at (206) 842-9997.

NIGHT ON THE TOWN: Every first Friday of the month, from 4-8 p.m., business throughout downtown Port Gamble are open late, most featuring local artwork while the General Store hosts a special monthly dinner. Info: www.portgamble.com or call (360) 297-8074.

THE ISLAND GALLERY: Is celebrating its sixth anniversary with two special exhibits — its fourth Annual Wearble Art Show featuring textile and jewelry artists from all over the world in addition to a collection of works by Alison Keogh in the north gallery called “Landscape – a different view.” Both shows will hang through Jan 23 at 100 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Info: www.theislandgallery.net, (206) 780-9500.

HALL BROTHERS SHIPYARD EXHIBIT: An exhibit exploring the history of wooden shipbuilding on Bainbridge Island will be opening Jan. 25 at the Bainbridge Island Historical Society Museum, 215 Erickson Ave. on Bainbridge. Open 1-4 p.m. daily, except Tuesdays. Info: www.bainbridgehistory.org, or call (206) 842-2773.

LITERARY

MEET THE AUTHOR: Lisa Wysocky, supporting author of “Front of the Class” will be meeting and greeting along with literary agent Sharlene Martin at 6 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Bainbridge library, 1270 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Free. Info: www.krl.org or call (206) 842-4162.

‘PUGETOPOLIS:’ Seattle native, veteran journalist, current editor-at-large for Seattle Magazine Knute Berger, will be reading from his new, debut book “Pugetopolis: A Mossback Takes on Growth Addicts, Weather Wimps and the Myth of Seattle Nice” at 3 p.m. Jan. 11 at Eagle Harbor Books, 157 Winslow Way on Bainbridge. Info: www.pugetopolis.blogspot.com, www.eagleharborbooks.com or call (206) 842-5332.

CELEBRATING WILLIAM STAFFORD: The seventh Annual Birthday Celebration of the beloved Northwest poet will include poetry readings and open mic and discussion, moderated by Neil Baker, from 7-9 p.m. Jan. 13 at the Bainbridge Library, 1270 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Free. Info: www.krl.org or call (206) 842-4162.

BAINBRIDGE BOOK SALE: The Bainbridge Friends of the Library will be hosting a book sale to benefit the library coffers from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Bainbridge library, 1270 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Info: www.bifriends.org.

MEET THE AUTHOR: New York Times Bestselling Author Kevin O’Brien studied journalism in school, then worked 18 years as a railroad inspector and now he writes thrillers. His latest “Final Breath” is set in Seattle about a female TV news correspondent who finds that subjects of her stories are turning up dead. Meet the author at 4 p.m. Jan. 17 at the Silverdale Barnes and Noble in the Kitsap Mall. Info: www.kevinobrienbooks.com.

JONATHAN EVISON: Bainbridge author of “All About Lulu,” will lead the next Field’s End Writers’ Roundtable at 7 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Bainbridge Library, 1270 Madison Ave. on Bainbridge, on the topic “How do you make your words sing.” Free. Open to all writers. Info: www.fieldsend.org, www.jonathanevison.com.

‘THE HAMAR OF ETHIOPIA:’ Lori Sweningson presents her story of helping an ancient tribe survive at the next session at the Bainbridge Island Travelogue series, co-sponsored by the Traveler Bookstore and Bainbridge Library, at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Bainbridge Library, 1270 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Free. Info: www.krl.org

‘THE WOMEN WHO BUILT WESTERN WASHINGTON:’ Will be the topic of the next BPL Speakers’ Forum as Linda Carlson, a Humanities Washington “Inquiring Mind” speaker, describes life 100 years ago in towns like Port Gamble, DuPont, Roche Harbor and more, at 4 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Bainbridge Library, 1270 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. $10 at the door. Info: www.krl.org or call (206) 842-4162.

BAINBRIDGE AUTHOR/ACTIVIST: Bill Cleveland will be speaking on his book “Art and Upheaval: Artists on the World’s Frontlines” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15 at Eagle Harbor Books, 157 Winslow Way on Bainbridge, followed by a question and answer session. Info: www.eagleharborbooks.com or call (206) 842-5332.

BAINBRIDGE BOOK SALE: The Bainbridge Friends of the Library will be hosting a book sale to benefit the library coffers from 1-4 p.m. Jan. 15 at the Bainbridge Library, 1270 Madison Ave. on Bainbridge. Info: www.bifriends.org, www.krl.org.

SILVERDALE WRITERS’ ROUND TABLE: Meets at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at Austin Chase Coffee, 9621 Mickelberry Road in Silverdale for support, development and critique of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and more. Info: Call Bob at (360) 830-4968.

LIBERTY BAY BOOKS: Has updated its listing for its book groups. All groups meet at Liberty Bay Books — 18881-D on Front St. in Downtown Poulsbo. Revised listings are as follows:

Joy Luck: 11 a.m. First Friday monthly

Daytime: 10 a.m. Second Tuesday monthly

Non-Fiction: 10 a.m. Third Wednesday monthly

Evening: 7 p.m. Third Wednesday monthly

Books and Brew: 7 p.m. third Friday monthly, ages 21-39.

Mystery: 10 a.m. Fourth Thursday monthly

Info: www.libertybaybooks.com, (360) 779.5909 or e-mail

libertybaybooks@embarqmail.net. 

SILVERDALE BOOK SALE: Silverdale Friends of the Library used book sale every Tuesday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Silverdale Library, 3450 NE Carlton.

ADULT WRITERS CRITIQUE GROUP: Has openings for interested writers. The group meets at 10 a.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 3431 Lowell St. in Old Town Silverdale. Info: E-mail blsacre@juno.com or call (360) 598-2375 after 7 p.m.

FOR CONCISE CRITIQUING: And stimulation, join the Fiction Writer’s Workshop which meets at 7 p.m. every Monday night at the Poulsbohemian Coffeehouse — 19003 Front St. in Poulsbo. Cost is $6 per meeting, which includes a latte. Info: www.poulsbohemian.com or call Marianna (360) 779-9199 for poetry or Sue (360) 297-3713 for fiction.

MUSIC

ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL: The nine-time Grammy-winning post-modern kings of western swing will bring their distinctly American art form to the Admiral Theatre with dinner at 6:30 p.m., show to follow at 8 p.m. Jan. 10, 515 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. All ages, tickets are $56 with dinner, $25 main floor without, $15 in the balcony. Info: www.asleepatthewheel.com, www.admiraltheatre.org or call (360) 373-6743.

COASTAL CAFE HOSTS: Ralph Baker at 7 p.m. Jan. 9 followed by Black Beat Blue at the same time Jan. 16 and Triple Forte with guests at the same time Jan. 23, all ages, beer and wine with ID at the Coastal Cafe, next to Soho Teriyaki in the Thriftway business park in Kingston. Info: www.coastalcafe-kingston.com.

AT THE CHARLESTON: The Extinct w/ Kamikazi Sex Pilots, Final Theory, Bear Danger and 50 Foot Radius at 7 p.m. Jan. 9, followed by Forced Elegance with Godfed Static, Tigerr’s Lair and Rage and Ruin at the same time January 10. Next week: Muppet Fetish from Bellingham with the Americommies, Gimmie Guns and Hearts Divided at the same time Jan. 15. All shows are all ages, bar w/ ID, $5 cover at the Chuck, 333 Callow Ave. in Bremerton. Info: www.myspace.com/thecharlestonmusicvenue.

AT WINTERLAND: Neutralboy first tour of 2009 kickoff with Broken Oars, Def Con Burly and the Pathogens at 9:30 p.m. Jan. 9, followed by Sandman the Rapping Cowboy and The Jesus Chords at the same time Jan. 10. Both shows are 21+, $5 cover at Winterland, 1220 Sylvan Way in Bremerton. Info: www.myspace.com/winterlandrocks.

AT THE MANETTE: Planet Groove with JBL at 9 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Manette, 2113 E. 11th St. in Bremerton. 21+, $5 cover. Info: www.myspace.com/manettesaloon.

AT TIZLYES: Local rock and blues band the Ride at 8 p.m. Jan. 9, all ages, bar w/ ID, no cover at Tizley’s Europub upstairs off Front Street in Poulsbo. Info: www.tizleys.com.

AT THE PEGASUS : Poor Judgement featuring Christpher Anderson at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 9, followed by singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Michael Guthrie at the same time Jan. 10 and an open mic for all styles from 7-9:30 p.m. Jan. 11. All shows are all ages, by donation at the Pegasus, 131 Parfitt Way on Bainbridge. Info: www.pegasuscoffeehouse.com

AT SLIP 45: Shifter at 9:30 p.m. Jan. 9, followed by Afrodisiacs at the same time Jan. 10, 21+, various covers at Slip 45, 715 Bay St. in Port Orchard. Info: www.slip45.com, www.myspace.com/slip45music.

AT THE AFU: Sour Diesl w/ The Fixt, The Americommies, The Distracted and Bad Genes at 7 p.m. Jan. 10, followed by The Extinct w/ YIA and Come Live the Riot at the same time Jan. 11. Both shows are all ages, beer and wine with ID, $5 cover at the AFU, 318 Callow Ave. in Bremerton. Info: www.myspace.com/artfreeunity.

AT MOONDOGS, TOO: Vs. the World with The Good, the Bad and The Ugly and Madmartigan at 9 p.m. Jan. 10, plus DJ Joe Frank and dancing Jan. 9 at Moondogs, Too, 714 Bay St. in Port Orchard. Info: www.moondogstoo.com, myspace.com/moondogs_too.

BPA’s CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT: “Portrait & Self-Portraits” begins with six works for piano solo by Mendelssohn, Brahms, Chopin and Gershwin as well as a freshly minted composition from college-bound Bainbridge Islander Sara Rimkus, performed by violinist Thomas Monk, cellist Barbara Deppe and pianist James Quitsland at 3 p.m. Jan. 18 at Bainbridge Performing Arts, 200 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, students, youth, military and teachers. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org or call (206) 842-8569.

LIVE AT THE CHARLESTON: The Extinct with Kamikazi Sex Pilots, Final Theory and more at 7 p.m. Jan. 9. All ages, bar w/ ID, $5 cover at the Chuck, 333 Callow Ave. in Bremerton. Info: www.myspace.com/thecharlestonmusicvenue.

LIVE AT THE CASINO: 80s-pop band the Spazmatics from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Jan. 9. Plus, Ladies Night with live DJs Jan. 1 and 8. All shows 21+, no cover at the Clearwater Casino Beach Rock Lounge, located off Highway 305 on the peninsula side of the Agate Pass Bridge. Info: www.clearwatercasino.com.

LIVE AT SLIP 45: Afrodisiacs at 9 p.m.time Jan. 10. All shows are 21+, various covers at the Shipwreck Lounge at Slip 45, 715 Bay St. in Port Orchard. Info: www.slip45.com, www.myspace.com/slip45music.

TWO DAYS OF PEARL DJANGO: Collective Visions Gallery extends its concerts in the gallery session this month for two nights of the Django Rinehart-loving Northwest jazz combo Pearl Django, from 7-9 p.m. Jan. 16 and 17 at the CVG, 331 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. All ages, tickets are $20 adv/$24 d.o.s. Info: www.pearldjango.com, www.collectivevisions.com or call the CVG at (360) 377-8327.

JTHE COMMUNITY SINGERS: Are a group of regular people who sing at local nursing homes, hospitals, shelters and other community gatherings. They are always looking for more singers. No auditions, no singing experience necessary. Just heart, they say. Info: www.communitysingers.org or call (206) 842-5485.

SUNSET KNIGHTS: An urban blues duo will be throwing down from 1-3 p.m. every Saturday at the Natural Grounds coffeehouse, in front of the Northwest Design Center at the intersection of Hostmark and Highway 305 in Poulsbo.

JAZZ AT THE BAYSIDE BROILER: Upstairs on the wharf, 18779 Front Street, Poulsbo, will feature the jazz trio The Lindsays from 6-8 p.m. every Friday and Don Wiens’ mellow jazz on Tenor Sax from 5:45-8:45 p.m. every Saturday. Info: www.baysidebroiler.net.

THE KITSAP CHORDSMEN: A local barbershop chorus meets and sings weekly from 7-10 p.m. Wednesdays at the Olympic Evangelical Free Church, 14861 Silverdale Way in Silverdale. New singers and visitors welcome. Info: (360) 337-7464.

ONGOING JAM SESSIONS: At the Island Music Guild — 10598 Valley Road on Bainbridge — include:

A jazz ensemble workshop: from 7-9:20 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. $5 donation requested. Info: E-mail Mike at msellman@att.com

Drum workshop: Monday evenings every week. Info: call Micah at (206) 818-5859.

Old Time Fiddle Tune Jam: Lead by Stuart Williams from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month. $5 requested. Info: call Stuart at (206) 323-8004.

Reel Time Celtic jam: Meets from 4-5:30 p.m. on second Fridays in Poulsbo Led by Jane Landstra of Country Capers. Lessons for first level fiddlers are from 4-5:30 on third Fridays in Poulsbo. Info: E-mail Jane at c_capers@yahoo.com or call (360) 697-6192.

Samspel Scandinavian Jam/less: Led by Jane Landstra from 4-5:30 p.m. on the fourth Fridays. Info: c_capers@yahoo.com or call (360) 697-6192.

SILVERDALE’S MUSICAL COFFEE SHOP: The Global Bean, located at 2021 NW Myhre, ste. 101 in Silverdale, is hosting a traditional Irish jam session at 7 p.m. on the second an fourth Wednesdays of the month. All players of Irish tunes and instruments are welcome. Info: http://theglobalbean.com or call (360) 692-9582.

CHORUS OF SWEET ADELINES: Meet at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the First Baptist Church at 1410 Ohio St. in Bremerton. Women of all ages are invited to come out and sing. Info: www.kitsappines.org or call Kathy at (360) 297-8414.

WHISKEY CREEK STEAKHOUSE: Dixieland jazz first Tuesday 5 p.m. monthly; various artists seven nights a week, 5 p.m.; Trumpet by Yvonne, 5 p.m. Wednesdays. Whiskey Creek Steakhouse, 1918 Washington St., Keyport. Info: (360) 779-3481.

NATURE & OUTDOORS

POULSBO GARDEN CLUB: Will be meeting at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 10 in the lower level conference room of the Poulsbo Library, 700 Iverson St. in Poulsbo. John Conn of the Evergreen Bonsai Club will be speaking on the history, cultivation and care of bonsai. Info: Call (360) 697-1172 or (360) 779-5030.

TAKE A HIKE: The Kitsap Mountaineers coordinated courses are under way. Info: www.kitsapmountaineers.org.

FULL MOON EVENING BEACHWALKS: Kitsap beach naturalists, through People for Puget Sound, will be guiding low-tide explorations of the creatures living on Kitsap’s beaches this winter to help educate on what we can do to protect the waters of Puget Sound at 7:30 p.m. today in Manchester (meet at the Manchester library), 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6 at Bainbridge’s Fort Ward State Park (meet at the north parking lot, near boat launch). All events are free and family friendly, bring a flashlight, wading boots and warm clothes. Reservations, call or email Daoud Miller at (206) 382-7007 ext. 217, dmiller@pugetsound.org. Info: Call Peg at (360) 337-7224 or email ptillery@co.kitsap.wa.us.

SUSTAINABLE GARDENING PRACTICES: The Washington State University Kitsap Extension will be giving seminars on sustainable gardening practices including topics of pest management, efficient watering systems, soil improvement and appropriate plants this winter. Classes are $35 per day, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Norm Dicks Government Center, 345 6th St. in Bremerton. For schedule, registration and more info, go to http://kitsap.wsu.edu/events/pdf/2009_Gardening_Courses.pdf or call (360) 337-7224.

KITSAP MOUNTAINEERS: Meet on the second Thursday of each month for social time and interesting program at the Kitsap Cabin, 3000 Seabeck Highway in Bremerton. Meetings are for members and anyone interested in learning more about the program. Info: www.kitsapmountaineers.org.

WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT: West Sound Wildlife Shelter on Bainbridge Island seeking volunteers for variety of duties ranging from hands-on work with wildlife to office work. Information (206) 780-8508 or www.westsoundwildlife.org.

PENINSULA WILDERNESS CLUB: Variety of outdoor activities. Meets 7 p.m. second Monday monthly, Kitsap Unitarian Bldg., 4418 Perry Ave., East Bremerton Visitors welcome. Information: www.pwckitsap.org

FILM

THE ORCHARD THEATER PRESENTS: “The Reader” a story of a Post-WWII-era loca affair starring Ralph Fiennes and Kate Winslet, along with “Doubt,” about a nun who confronts a priest after suspecting him of abusing a black student, with Meryl Streep and Phillp Seymour Hoffman, this week Jan.9-15, 822 Bay St. in Port Orchard. For ticket and show time info, go to www.orchardtheater.com.

THE LYNWOOD THEATRE HOLDS OVER: “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” an odd, epic tale of a man who ages backwards, from the author of Forrest Gump, based on a 1922 short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, this week Jan. 9-15, 4569 Lynwood Center Road on Bainbridge. For ticket and show time information, go to www.lynwoodtheatre.com.

‘THE COLOR PURPLE:’ The Island Film Group will be watching and discussing the 1985 Steven Speilberg picture based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize Winning Story at 7 p.m. Jan. 14 at the Bainbridge Library, 1270 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Free. The group meets every second Wednesday of the month for films and discussion. Info: www.krl.org or call (206) 842-4162.

ENVIRONMENTAL FILM SERIES: “Yes We Must!” an environmental film and discussion series looking at the promises and challenges of green buildings, water infrastructure, moral and environmental impacts of food choices, the climate change media game and more will take place on Friday evenings Jan. 16 through March 27 at the Eagle Harbor Congregational Church Fellowship Hall, 105 Winslow Way on Bainbridge. Doors open at 6:45 p.m., film to follow at 7 p.m., then followed by discussion. Free, but donations will be accepted. Info: www.tinyurl.com/Yes-We-Must.

THE ORCHARD THEATER: Presents “Cadillac Records,” a musical biopic, exploring the musical era of the 1940s to the 1960’s along with the Swedish-made vampire flick “Let the Right One In” starting on Christmas Day, 822 Bay St. in Port Orchard. For tickets and show time information, go to www.orchardtheater.com or call (360) 850-1082.

THE LYNWOOD THEATRE: Features the Golden Globe-buzzing “Curious Case of Benjamin Button” opening Christmas Day, 4569 Lynwood Center Road on Bainbridge. For tickets and show time info, go to www.lynwoodtheatre.com or call (206) 842-3080.

THEATER

THE JEWEL BOX THEATRE: Is offering introductory classes on how to run lights and sound from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 10 and Jan. 17 as well as workshops for props and scenery along with stage managers and stage hands this month. Participation is not a commitment to work at the Jewel Box, but they are always looking for volunteers. Call Larry at (360) 779-9688 or email jewelboxpoulsbo@hotmail.com to register. Info: www.jewelboxpoulsbo.org.

SCENE STUDY WITH DINAH MANOFF: The Tony Award-winning stage, sitcom and screen actress Dinah Manoff will be leading a course for adults in Scene Study, with classes at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 12 & 26, Feb. 2, 9 & 23 and March 2 at Bainbridge Performing Arts, 200 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Registration is now open, tuition for the six-week course is $425 through BPA. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org/Education/SecondStage.html or call (206) 842-8578.

BPA WELCOMES ‘SALMONPEOPLE:’ “Salmonpeople” is said to be theater so sly its like going to dinner with Robin Williams, Garrison Keillor and Johnny Appleseed — a tapestry of insight, science, humor and cartography. It comes to Bainbridge Performing Arts for two performances at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 and again at 3 p.m. Jan. 11 at the BPA playhouse, 200 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Ages 10 and up. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 youth, college-aged and seniors. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org, www.peterdonaldson.net/Salmonpeople/index.html.

IMPROVISING INTO 2009: The EDGE Improv hails the new year with a show at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31 at the Bainbridge Performing Arts Playhouse, 200 Madison Ave. on Bainbridge. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, students, youth, military and teachers. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org, or call BPA at (206) 842-8569.

JEWEL BOX NEEDS YOU: The Jewel Box Theatre in Poulsbo is seeking front of house and behind the scenes volunteers. Info: (360) 779-9688 or jewelboxpoulsbo@hotmail.com.

WWCA SEEKS VOLUNTEERS: Western Washington Center for the Arts theater in Port Orchard seeking volunteers for house manager, concession sales, lighting and ushers. For information on applying call (360) 769-7469.

BPA VOLUNTEERS: Bainbridge Performing Arts seeking volunteers for wide variety of jobs, from stagecraft and lighting to concessions and fundraising. Contact Ruth Lentz at rlentz@theplayhouse.org.

MISC.

THE PEKING ACROBATS: Gymnasts, cyclists, tumblers and jugglers from the finest acrobat schools in China have toured the world, leaving audiences spellbound by their ancient folk art acrobatics. They come to the Admiral Theater for a show at 7 p.m. Jan. 9, 515 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. Tickets are $28 on the mainfloor, $18 in the balcony. Info: www.admiraltheatre.org or call (360) 373-6743.

SHAKE OFF THE WINTER BLAHS PARTY: Meet and mingle with Italian Chef and author Robert Russo who will be talking shop and signing copies of his cookbook “Good Ciao” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., matched with Italian coffee, food and wine specials and live music from Washington Academy of Music students from 2-4 p.m. and other local art and conversation at Monicas Waterfront Bakery, 3472 NW Byron St. in Old Town Silverdale. Info: www.waterfrontbakery.com.

MAN 1, BANK 0: Patrick Combs tells the amazing, but true, story of how he deposited at $95,000 junk-mail check marked “non-negotiable” hoping to spread a little banking cheer, and how it erupted into a staggering David vs. Goliath adventure, at 7 p.m. Jan. 15 at the Admiral Theatre, 515 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. All ages, all seats are $18. Info: www.man1bank0.com, www.admiraltheatre.org or call (360) 373-6743.

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY: Will meet at 10 a.m. Jan. 16, BIGS president Claire Smith will discuss and demonstrate “Computer Programs for the Genealogist.” Open to both members and non-members, $5 suggested donations for non-members. Info: www.bigenealogy.org or call (206) 842-6059.

GREENING YOUR HOME: Eco-designer Bruce Glenn of Terra Sol Eco Homes in Port Townsend will explain how greening your new or existing home may be much easier than you think at a lecture session from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Jan. 17 at Stillwaters Environmental Center off of Barber Cutoff Road in Kingston. Cost is $20. Info: www.stillwatersenvironmentalcenter.org or call (360) 297-2876.

THE MILLENNIUM-OLD TRADITION OF MOCHI TSUKI: The ancient Japanese New Year tradition of making and eating the sweet rice treat mochi will be celebrated from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 18 at IslandWood, 4450 Blakely Ave. on Bainbridge Island. Entertainment provided by Seattle taiko drum group Kokon Taiko. Free, but limited to 175. Info: Call Clarence at (206) 855-9038 or e-mail clarence@bainbridge.net.

FAMILY CAREGIVER WORKSHOP: An American Red Cross course covering legal and financial issues as well as positioning and helping your loved one move and caring for the caregiver will be from 9 a.m. to noon Jan. 10 at 3594 NW Byron St. Ste. 204 in Silverdale. Cost is $10. Call the Red Cross at (360) 377-3761 ext. 10209 to register.

COMPASSIONATE LISTENING: Training on how to be a powerful peacemaker in your world will be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 10 and 17 at the Bainbridge Commons, 370 Brien Dr. near Waterfront Park on Bainbridge. Cost is on a sliding scale from $175-$350. Pre-registration and $100 deposit required. Info: Call the Compassionate Listening Project at (360) 297-2280 or visit www.compassionatelistening.org.

AMERICA’S GOT TALENT: The NBC TV show is coming to the Seattle area for the first time this season and looking for talented folks in Kitsap. The show is open to any act or any age, competing for a $1 million grand prize. The thing that makes the show unique, they say, is that any talent goes, no matter how zany or bizarre. To register and for more information, go to www.nbc.com/Americas_Got_Talent.

‘OPERATION SLEEPING BAG:’ Monica’s Waterfront Bakery in Old Towne Silverdale is accepting donations on behalf of the Taking It To The Streets ministry in its second annual sleeping bag drive. Sleeping bags and monetary contributions will be accepted at 3472 NW Byron St. in Silverdale through the winter. Info: www.waterfrontbakery.com or call (360) 698-2991.

‘THE BIG ONE:’ A traveling earthquake exhibit from the University of Washington’s Burke Museum will be at the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, 215 Erickson Ave., through Dec. 31. Info: www.bainbridgehistory.org or call (206) 842-2773.

FREE FIRST THURSDAYS: The board of directors at the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum are now offering free admission to the museum, located at 215 Ericksen Ave. on Bainbridge, during the first Thursday of every month. Info: www.bainbridgehistory.org or call (206) 842-2773.

VIOLINISTS TO FIDDLERS: Interested in turning your violin into a fiddle? An interest list is being compiled for an old-time fiddle workshop with Ken Waldman and and Tania Opland. Info: (206) 842-2306.

KITSAP COUNTY CHESS CLUB: Meets for games from 6-8 p.m. every Wednesday night at the downtown Bremerton library, 612 Fifth St. in Bremerton. All ages and experiences levels are welcome. Info: (360) 377-3955.

THE GREAT NORWESTERS: Toastmasters Club meets from noon to 1 p.m. every first and third Thursday of the month at The Northwest Design Center — 18850 State Highway 305 in Poulsbo. Info: http://greatnorwesters.freetoasthost.net or call Kathy (360) 301-1864.

AGATE PASSAGE FRIENDS: A Quaker silent worship group hosts a discussion of spiritual poetry at 9 a.m. the first Sunday of every month at Seabold Hall, 14454 Komedal Road on Bainbridge. Info: www.quaker.org/agate-passage.