Looking for something to do this weekend? The Santa Monica Mirror has you covered with local events, live music, theater, and art gallery listings.

LAST CHANCE

James Gray Gallery, concludes five exhibits this Sunday, March 11, which includes works from Robert Piser, John Ridings Lee, and the Parkinson Association. Daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 2525 Michigan Ave, D4 (Bergamot Station). 310.315.9502, jamesgraygallery.com

Rosamund Felsen Gallery, concludes its exhibition featuring the work of Los Angeles-based Tim Ebner, with an installation in its West Gallery by Steven Hull this Saturday, March 10. This will be Ebner’s 15th exhibition at the gallery, and Steven Hull’s eighth. Gallery hours from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. today and Saturday. 310.828.8488, rosamundfelsen.com

“Faces and Places:” Marc Trujillo/Sean Cheetham. The Santa Monica College Pete & Susan Barrett Art Gallery conclude their first show together, two contemporary Los Angeles painters, Marc Trujillo and Sean Cheetham. The show’s last day is this Saturday, March 10. Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. SMC Performing Arts Center on Santa Monica Boulevard at 11th St. 310.434.3434

South Pacific. From “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair” to “Some Enchanted Evening,” Rodgers’ & Hammerstein’s classic story of love, conflict, and prejudice contains some of musical theatre’s favorite songs. Santa Monica High School’s spring musical is an annual community event. Suggested for ages 8 and up. Tonight and Saturday, March 10 at 7 p.m. $15 ($10 students). 310.395.3204, samohitheatre.org

THIS WEEK

Friday, March 9

Brian Stokes Mitchell at The Broad Stage. With his terrific chops, stage charm, and movie-star good looks (not to mention his multiple Tonys), Brian Stokes Mitchell is one of Broadway’s legendary leading men. Bringing his big-city gifts to The Broad, Mitchell delivers Los Angeles fans a diverse program of his most loved tunes. Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 11, at 4 p.m. Tickets: $65-$135. 1310 11th St. 310.434.3200, thebroadstage.com/show_info.php?show_id=31

SMC Spring Jazz Series, will present the Jon Mayer Quartet at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Stalwart jazz pianist Mayer leads a superstar quartet that includes saxophonist Pete Christlieb and drummer Joe LaBarbera. Edye Second Space on Santa Monica Boulevard at 11th Street. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at www.smc.edu/eventsinfo or by calling 310.434.3005

“Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter: Looking Forward, Looking Back” which examines the ongoing science mission of NASA’s orbiter that has already yielded a wealth of topographical, geological, imaging and other data – setting the stage for the eventual return of humans to the Moon. The feature show at Santa Monica College’s Drescher Planetarium is at 8 p.m. and are preceded by “The Night Sky Show” at 7 p.m., which re-creates the night sky and provides the latest information on space exploration. Second floor of Drescher Hall, 1900 Pico Blvd. Tickets are $6 each or $11 for the “double bill.” 310.434.3000, smc.edu/planetarium.

The Santa Monica Amateur Astronomy Club, presents: “Venus In Transit,” a slide show and science talk by Matt Ventimiglia, world traveler and guide at the Griffith Observatory. 7:30 p.m. New Roads School, 3131 Olympic Blvd., Santa Monica. Free to the public. smaac.org

SemiPrecious 7th Birthday Party. Join the store as it celebrates its seven years on Montana Avenue. Introducing Ria Ray Art and Lifestyle from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 1028 Montana Ave. 310.899.0910

Saturday, March 10

Live entertainment at Santa Monica Place. Each Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. through March 18 will feature different performing artists. Santa Monica Place, The Plaza. 310.2608333, santamonicaplace.com/events/performers2012

Family Family Matinee at the Aero Theater: Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang. Widowed father and eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts (Dick Van Dyke) transforms a broken-down old car into a flying machine – to the delight of his children (Heather Ripley, Adrian Hall) and the envy of the tantrum-prone Vulgarian kingdom (Gert Frobe, who played Goldfinger in that 007 film), who has outlawed children in his king. The Potts family, with candy factory heiress Truly Scrumptious (Sally Ann Howes), head to the kingdom to save the day. 4 p.m. Aero Theater, 1328 Montana Ave. General admission $11. americancinemathequecalendar.com/content/chitty-chitty-bang-bang-0

Bay City and Beyond. As part of its annual Santa Monica Citywide Reads program, which features Raymond Chandler’s noir classic “The Lady in the Lake,” the Santa Monica Public Library is pleased to present “Bay City and Beyond,” a special event looking back at the local history of Santa Monica and Los Angeles in the noir period. This special event will take place at 2 p.m. in the Main Library’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Auditorium, 601 Santa Monica Boulevard. 310.458.8600, smpl.org/Raymond_Chandler.aspx

Elder Care. How can we decide on and get the best care for our aging loved ones? Learn about in-home care, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, as well as hospice. The session will also discuss care costs, insurance, and local resources at 2 p.m. Free and open to the public. Montana Branch Library, 1704 Montana Ave., 310.458.8682, smpl.org

Pier JAMS: First Baptists Dallas Chapel Choir & Orchestra from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Santa Monica Pier. 310.458.8901, santamonicapier.org

Sunday, March 11

Summer Camp EXPO. Tired of hearing “I’m Bored!” the minute school is out for summer? Not this year! Visit John Adams Intermediate School in Santa Monica from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn about more than 50 day and resident camps with your child. There will also be information on classes, activities, and all kinds of fun summer opportunities for families with children in Pre-School to High School. Admission and parking are free. John Adams Intermediate School, 2425 16th St. in Santa Monica, between Ocean Park Blvd. and Pearl St. 310.544.1042, SummerCampExpos.com, WhatsUpForKids.com

Gustafer Yellowgold’s Show at McCabe’s Guitar Shop. This show at 11 a.m. is a cross between ‘Yellow Submarine’ and Dr. Seuss.” Groovy Gustafer Yellowgold is a small, yellow, cone-headed fellow, who came to Earth from the Sun and has a knack for finding himself neck-deep in absurd situations as he explores his new life in the Minnesota woods. Equal parts pop rock concert and animated storybook, Gustafer Yellowgold concerts are a truly different multimedia experience that entrances children and adults alike. Admission: $10 (children under two get in free). 3101 Pico Blvd. 310.828.4497, gustaferyellowgold.com

R.P.M. Jazz Quartet featuring Ernie Watts on Saxophone, will be held at 5 p.m. as part of the Jazz Vespers series at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Santa Monica. Freewill offering, free parking, and free childcare. 1343 Ocean Park Blvd. 310.452.1116, mtolivelutheranchurch.org

The Flowering of Desire Performance, is a site specific performance that focuses on desire from the plant’s point of view. It is a presentation of Donna Sternberg and Dancers and will be presented at 4 p.m. at Palisades Park in Santa Monica. Admission is free. 310.260.1198, dsdancers.com

Author Event. The Independent Writers of Southern California (IWOSC) read from their works in this annual program at 2 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 1201 Third Street Promenade. 310.260.9110, bn.com

Celebrate Purim At Beth Shir Shalom, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Purim commemorates the defeat of Haman’s plot to massacre the Jews as recorded in the book of Esther, and is the one holiday where everyone is encouraged to wear costumes, act foolish and enjoy a wonderfully fun-filled celebration. The Carnival features a Moonbounce, a Dunking Tank, Face Painting, a Bake Sale, refreshments, games booths with prizes. Tickets are 50 cents each. The price is reduced for each additional ticket that is purchased. 1827 California Ave. 310.453.3361, bethshirshalom.org

Monday, March 12

“A Walk on Raymond Chandler’s Westside” with Judith Freeman. Join the Annenberg Beach House for an illustrated lecture by Judith Freeman, author of “The Long Embrace: Raymond Chandler and the Woman He Loved” from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Chandler was not only a brilliant mystery writer and the author who put the city of Los Angeles on the literary map, but also one of the city’s finest social historians. Free, reservations required. 310.458.4904, 415 Pacific Coast Hwy. annenbergbeachhouse.com/activities/cultural-programs-events-and-tours.aspx

Philanthro LA Presents: Mondays With A Cause at Central SAPC. All proceeds go to BreatheLA, which promotes clean air and healthy lungs through research, education and technology. Support a healthy environment and receive some happy hour prices in return as karma. Starts at 7:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $5. 1348 14th St. breathela.org

Tuesday, March 13

Spring Sprinkles. Spring into the season and come down to the Ocean Park Library for some wonderful stories, and a special puppet show. This program will be at 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. This program is for children aged 3-7. Tickets are free, but must be picked up after noon on the day of the performance. 2601 Main St. Call the Ocean Park Library for more information at 310.458.8683.

Author Event. Child-star turned neuroscientist, Mayim Bialik, presents her funny and insightful guide to attachment parenting at 7 p.m. when she talks about her book “Beyond the Sling: A Real-Life Guide to Raising Confident, Loving Children the Attachment Parenting Way.” Meet the star of “Blossom” and “The Big Bang Theory” and hear the experiences and research that make her a great parent. Barnes & Noble, 1201 Third Street Promenade. 310.260.9110, bn.com

Distinguished Scientists Lectures, Dr. Anahid Jewett, UCLA associate professor and member of the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center Tumor Immunology Program Area, will present “Lessons Learned from the Study of Immune Cells in Cancer Cells and Stem Cells” at 11:15 a.m. She will discuss her research on finding ways to increase the potential of immune cells to eliminate cancers. The talk is free. Science Lecture Hall 140 on the main SMC campus, 1900 Pico Blvd. 310.434.4303, smc.edu/associates

Wednesday, March 14

Wednesdays with Alfred Hitchcock at Aero Theater. The Lady Vanishes will screen at 7:30 p.m. General Admission $11 (unless otherwise noted). Aero Theater, 1328 Montana Ave. americancinemathequecalendar.com/aero_theatre_events

Mystery Book Group. This month Santa Monica Public Library will be comparing and contrasting two novels (Raymond Chandler’s “The Long Goodbye” and Ross Macdonald’s “The Underground Man”) that use the mystery genre as a vehicle for social commentary. Stop by the library at 7 p.m. for the discussion, which is free and open to the public. 310.458.8682, smpl.org

Nutrition Intuition at Exhale Mind Body Spa, at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows. Visit the spa at 5 p.m. for a complimentary evening all about learning to live and eat well. The evening will kick off at 5:10 p.m. with a Detox Yoga class, followed by a wellness discussion on the Exhale Terrace. A panel of experts will give nutrition tips while you enjoy light bites, beverages, and goody galore. Visit exhalespa.com to RSVP. 101 Wilshire Blvd. 310.319.3193

Thursday, March 15

PreCognito 2012, is the Santa Monica Museum of Art’s inaugural gala and preview that will honor philanthropist and collector Eileen Harris Norton; artist Paul McCarthy; and founder of the Bergamot Station Arts Center, Wayne Blank. Attendees will be treated to an elegant dinner, musical entertainment, and an exclusive preview of the 600 works of art available for purchase at INCOGNITO. Event runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. 2525 Michigan Ave. For ticket information, call 310.586.6488 ext. 116 or visit smmoa.org

Camera, Two Kids, and a Camel at The Broad Stage. Experience the life of a National Geographic photographer — and meet a true pioneer who figured out how to balance work and family. One of the Society’s first female photographers, Annie Griffiths has worked on every continent except Antarctica, while raising two children. Starts at 7:30 p.m. The Broad Stage, 1310 11th St. 310.434.3200, thebroadstage.com/show_info.

Book Discussion. Santa Monica Citywide Reads: The Lady in the Lake. Join the whole city of Santa Monica as it reads Raymond Chandler’s “The Lady in the Lake.” Barnes & Noble will discuss Chandler’s work and have light refreshments at 7 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 1201 Third Street Promenade. 310.260.9110, bn.com

MUSIC

Friday, March 9

Blue Club, Inuendo, Jesse Mills Band @ Rusty’s Surf Ranch

The Goods With DJ Anthony Valadez, KG Superstar @ Zanzibar

Clarice Wright Band, Dj O-Style @ Bar Pico

The Dustbowl Revival plus special guest The California Feetwarmers @ McCabe’s

Solidbody Fridays featuring Galen, Ms. Maura & Lynz Floren, Chris Skaggs and special guests @ Trip

Soul Double Header: Orlando Napier, CJ Emmons @ Harvelle’s

Maus Haus with The Curious Mystery, Normandie Wilson, The Railflowers (early set), Jesse Kivel DJ set (Kisses and Princeton) @ Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club

Saturday, March 10

The Paul Chesne Band @ O’Brien’s Main Street

Kitsuné Club Night ft. Plastic Plates, Kevin Baird of Two Door Cinema Club (DJ Set), KCRW’s Mario Cotto, and Very Special Guest @ Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club

Shamus Twins, Down Home @ Rusty’s Surf Ranch

DJ Paul Loeb, Alyssa Broke The Organ @ Bar Pico

The Boneshakers @ Harvelle’s

The Americans @ McCabe’s

Mark Bernal with the Walk of Shame, The Leisurelies, the Lillies and more @ Trip

Quality with DJs Haul & Mason @ Zanzibar

Sunday, March 11

The Toledo Show @ Harvelle’s

John Schlocker / Larry Brown Memorial Concert @ McCabe’s

Pico Joke Show @ Bar Pico

Ghostation, Kill the Dancefloor, Orphan, American Death Truck and more @ Trip

Audiafauna with Tapwater, Sunset Cannons, Via Coma @ Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club

Monday, March 12

Run Downhill, Julia Massey & The Five Finger Discount, The Jesus Rehab, Scarlletta, and Aeb @ Trip

Tumbao Salsa Dura @ Zanzibar

Philanthro LA presents: Mondays with A Cause Benefiting BreatheLA ft. Ghost Lion @ Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club

Ultra Love @ Harvelle’s

Tuesday, March 13

Love In Da House featuring Mike Balance, divaDanielle, Loomer @ Zanzibar

The Vignatis, Open Mic @ Bar Pico

La Vie and Friends @ Harvelle’s

Y LUV Free Every Tuesday in March with Maniac, DJ Sets by Izzi Willow @ Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club

Talking Burrito Comedy Show followed by Mario Costa and Water District @ TRIP

Wednesday, March 14

Luminous Movement: Clayton Joseph Scott with DJ Drez & DJ Jedi @ Zanzibar

Special musical guest Nostatic Trio followed by Trip Tease Burlesque @ Trip

Small Animals, Mike Cimorelli @ Bar Pico

Wildcat! Wildcat! with Special Guests @ Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club

Westside Wednesdays: CJ Emmons @ Harvelle’s

Thursday, March 15

Afro Funke Thursday: DJ Mando Fever @ Zanzibar

Beau Wigington and Friends @ Bar Pico

The VS (Versus) @ Central Social Aid and Pleasure Club

Planet of the Abts (feat. Members of Gov’t Mule) @ Harvelle’s

Home, City of Blue, Abner Who?, Joie Blaney, and Brian Marquis @ TRIP

EXHIBITS

Jerry McMillan: The Artist’s Image and Dennis Hopper: The Fort Worth 400. Craig Krull Gallery presents two exhibits through March 7. The Artist’s Image will focus on one aspect of McMillan’s artistic practice, his photographic portraiture of artists. This exhibition demonstrates his inventive techniques at creating a persona rather than a mere likeness. The Fort Worth 400 consists of the original and intact collection of more than 400 6×9” photographs that were included in Hopper’s 1970 exhibition organized by Henry T. Hopkins for the Fort Worth Art Center Museum. 2525 Michigan Avenue, B3 (Bergamot Station). 310.828.6410, craigkrullgallery.com

Rock ‘N’ Roll’s Not Dead, It Just Smells Funny. Santa Monica College Photography Gallery presents this exhibit by Josh Sanseri’s that features portraits and live photographs of musicians and bands who are both established and “up-and-coming” in the indie music scene. Included are images of The Flaming Lips, Little Dragon, Deadmau5, Built to Spill, The Avett Brothers and many more. The show runs March 10-30 in the gallery, located on the second floor of Drescher Hall on the main SMC campus, 1900 Pico Blvd. The opening reception is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 10. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 310.4344289

Sharon Johnson-Tennant: DIFFUSION. Robert Berman Gallery presents this intimate collection of photographs by photographer Sharon Johnson-Tennant through March 31. In this collection of vibrant yet soothing photographs the viewer is taken to her personal visual escape of Los Angeles. This composed, yet organic series incorporates works from India, Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea, Malibu, and a large portion from Block Island, R.I. where Johnson-Tennant spent her childhood summers. Gallery hours 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 2525 Michigan Ave. (Bergamot Station) C2 Gallery. 310.315.9506, robertbermangallery.com

Felicity Nove “Poured Paintings,” is on display at The Gallery at Edgemar Center for the Arts in Santa Monica through April 30. 2437 Main St. 310.392.7327, edgemarcenter.org

Surplus, is an exhibition by young Austrian photographer Michael Krebs at dnj Gallery through April 14. “Surplus” was exhibited at the Albertina Museum in Vienna and nominated for the International Photography Award in the category “Deeper Perspective”. In “Surplus” Michael Krebs uses powerful references to iconic war photographs to visualize the modern western consumer’s struggle. Tuesday-Saturday, 11a.m. to 6 p.m. 2525 Michigan Avenue, Suite J (Bergamot Station). 310.315.3551, dnjgallery.net

California Ocean and Coastal Amateur Photography Exhibit. From gorgeous coastlines and beautiful birds to underwater sea life and happy kids, photographs from the California Ocean and Coastal Amateur Photography Contest are coming to Heal the Bay’s Santa Monica Pier Aquarium for viewing during the month of March. The California Coastal Commission, the Thank You Ocean Campaign, and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts sponsor the annual contest. The photos selected for the exhibit represent winning entries from over the years. The Aquarium is open to the public from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. The marine center is closed Mondays. 1600 Ocean Front Walk

The Groundwork Indie Garage Presents Gary Palmer – Coffee Series. Palmer’s latest pieces were painted specifically for this exhibition that runs daily through April 23, measure approximately 16” x 20” each, and are available for purchase by lovers of art… and coffee. Groundwork, 395 Santa Monica Place. themarketsmp.com/gary-palmer-coffee-series

Oceanscapes. An exhibition of paintings by Santa Monica artist Karla Klarin through March 21. Klarin’s new oils are both expressionistic and geometric at the same time. This show of “Oceanscapes” represents the past three years of her work and while they are directly related to her previous cityscapes, because they refer to water, they are distinctly different as well. 2525 Michigan Avenue, E3A (Bergamot Station). Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 310.453.5757, SchomburgGallery.com

Cultural Illusions, TAG Gallery’s new exhibit will run through March 24. The exhibit features artists Katie Crown, Ernie Marjoram, and Juan Rosenfeldt, who are all local to Los Angeles. An artist panel will be held Saturday, March 10 at 3 p.m. 2525 Michigan Avenue, D3 (Bergamot Station). 310.829.9556, taggallery.net

Beyond The Natural Figure. The Santa Monica College Emeritus College Art Gallery present “Beyond the Natural Figure,” an exhibit of extraordinary drawings by Los Angeles-based artist Lillian Molina. The show features large-scale charcoal works on paper, in which Molina uses deliberate exaggeration and experimentation to compose powerful figurative expressions. The exhibit runs through March 16 at the gallery, located on the first floor of Emeritus College, 1227 Second St. in downtown Santa Monica. Gallery hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 310.434.4306

Breaking in two: provocative visions of motherhood, is the first comprehensive exhibition of work by women artists who are mothers where the work itself integrates the maternal experience, the relationship to the body, the child, the family, and the society at large. Showing through April 14 from noon till 6 p.m Tuesday through Saturday. The exhibition will feature a multi-cultural group of four generations of nationally and internationally recognized artist-mothers. The exhibition includes painting, drawing, sculpture, collage and assemblage, installation, photography, film/video, poetry/writing, and performance. Santa Monica Art Studios, 3026 Airport Avenue.310 251 4299. Bruriaart@roadrunner.com

THEATER

Private Eyes. CRE Outreach’s Theatre by the Blind puts its unique spin on Steven Dietz’s “Private Eyes,” a drama with comedy about jealousy and revenge March 10 through April 8. The play will be performed by an entirely blind cast, directed by Greg Shane, at the Promenade Playhouse. Friday and Saturday 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. General admission $20. 310.902.8220, creoutreach.org

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, the hit Broadway musical based on London’s urban legend with several stage adaptations dating as far back as 1847 opens at Morgan-Wixson Theater this Saturday March 10 at 8 p.m. and runs through April 7. Regular show times Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. 23 general, $18 students and seniors. 2627 Pico Blvd. 310.828.7519, www.morgan-wixson.org

“The Lonesome West,” is written by four-time Tony Award nominee and two-time Academy Award winning playwright Martin McDonagh, has been extended by Ruskin Group Theatre through Saturday, March 31. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. An idealistic and flawed young man stumbles into the lurid world of two brothers, who are locked in an endless cycle of petty grudges. He puts his life on the line in an effort to get them to reconcile. Is there hope for the brothers…in this dark comedy of unexpected proportions Tickets $25. Reservations: 310.397.3244, ruskingrouptheatre.com

Ghosts. Mrs. Helen Alving’s struggle with the ghosts of her past is about to come to an end in this modern adaption of the classic play at the Edgemar Center for the Arts through April 8. Tomorrow, commemorating the tenth anniversary of her husband’s death, a new orphanage will be dedicated in his name. For 29 years, since her mother and two aunts arranged for her to marry the wealthy, charming Captain Alving, Helen has kept a dark secret – the reality of her late husband’s deviant excesses and his disease. Now, with her son Osvald finally home to stay after many years abroad, a triumphant new life begins. The past will be buried forever. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. Tickets $34.99. 2437 Main St. 310.392.7327, edgemarcenter.org

The Adventures of Little Red (Riding Hood, of course). Santa Monica Playhouse Musical Matinee Series presents this enchanting journey through the Bavarian Black Forest replete with romance, lots of laughs, and musical and lyrical ideas brazenly borrowed from Gilbert & Sullivan… filled with ever-surprising delights that will lift up your spirits. Saturdays at 3 p.m. and Sundays at 12:30 p.m. through May 20. General admission is $12.50; $10.50 for kids 12 and under. 1211 4th St. Reservations are necessary. Call the Playhouse Box Office at 310.394.9779 ext. 2, santamonicaplayhouse.com

“Why We Have A Body,” is Tanna Frederick’s directorial debut at the Edgemar Center for the Arts through April 8. Lili’s a private eye. Her specialty is divorce cases, investigating adulterous husbands. But Lili herself is having an affair with a married woman, Renee, who is (or was, up until this point) a heterosexual. Lili has a sister, Mary (Frederick), a career criminal who compulsively robs convenience stores at gunpoint. But Mary is trying to make an effort at having a non-criminal life. For this, she will have Lili’s assistance. Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. Admission $34.99, 310.392.7327, edgemarcenter.org

Pentagon Papers. For the first time on stage, the hidden history of the Vietnam War that destroyed more than one president is dramatized at the Santa Monica Playhouse through March 25 each Sunday at 3:30 p.m. President Richard Nixon referred to the Watergate break-in which eventually lead to his resignation as ‘silly’ and ‘incredible’ in grand jury transcripts made public in November 2011. J-Powers’s new play Pentagon Papers presents key passages from the recently declassified Pentagon Papers revealing the shocking secrets that led him to create a team of Watergate burglars and eventually to the self-destruction of his presidency. Tickets $19.50, $17 (students, teachers, seniors, members of the military), $15 (groups of eight or more). 1211 4th St. 310. 394.9779 ext. 1, santamonicaplayhouse.com

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS/ONGOING EVENTS

Follow That Chef Series, is excited to announce a delicious lineup of Chefs and Authors for their tours of the Santa Monica Farmers Market and demonstrations at The Gourmandise School every Wednesday through March 28. These events are free to the public and require registration. Each event begins with a meet up at the corner of 3rd and Arizona at 9 a.m., followed by a tour led by the Chefs and introduction to farmers. Students will then walk down to The Gourmandise School for a demonstration and light tasting, as well as Q and A with the Chefs. Some events include a cookbook signing. Follow That Chef is brought to you by the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market and The Gourmandise School, located inside The Market at Santa Monica Place. themarketsmp.com/follow-chef-series-0

Free easy 60 minute workout. Take part in a free “Community Get in Shape” program in the park starting Sunday March 4 offered for the next 90 days. Enjoy a great out door workout for men and woman. A professional instructor trained to help you achieve results no matter where you’re with your current fitness level. They are dedicated to helping you have a healthier life style through better nutrition and exercise. Call Patricia now to reserve a space and find out which park at 310.453.2630 or email smfreeworkout@gmail.com

Santa Monica Farmers Markets. The Downtown Farmers Market is held Wednesdays on Arizona Ave (between 4th and Ocean) from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Saturdays on Arizona Ave. (between 4th and 2nd streets) from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Pico Farmers Market is held Saturdays at Virginia Park at Pico and Cloverfield from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Main Street Farmers Market is held Sundays at 2640 Main Street (in Heritage Square) from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. All of these markets are widely considered to be among the best on the west coast and feature field-fresh produce, hundreds of kinds of vegetables, brilliant cut flowers, breads, cheeses, delicious foods, live music, and more. 310.458.8712, smgov.net/portals/farmersmarket

Sixth Annual Green Prize for Sustainable Literature. The Santa Monica Public Library announces a call for entries for the sixth annual Green Prize for Sustainable Literature. It was created to encourage and commend authors, illustrators, and publishers who produce quality books that make significant contributions to, and broaden public awareness of, sustainability. Authors, illustrators and publishers are encouraged to submit titles for consideration. Books may be submitted by following the guidelines on the Santa Monica Public Library website at smpl.org/Green_Prize.aspx. The submission deadline is April 30, 2012. The winners will be announced later this year, preceding an awards program in September. 310.458.8600. smpl.org/Green_ Prize.aspx

Cirque du Soleil’s “OVO,” is a headlong rush into a colorful ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement. The insects’ home is a world of biodiversity and beauty filled with noisy action and moments of quiet emotion. When a mysterious egg appears in their midst, the insects are awestruck and intensely curious about this iconic object that represents the enigma and cycles of their lives. Tickets $45-$145. Under the Big Top at the Santa Monica Pier. Daily (except Mondays) through March 25. 800.450.1480, cirquedusoleil.com/OVO

Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy Classes for pain management without the use of drugs and their harmful side effects. Easy to learn, practical to use anywhere or anytime healing body and mind. Taught by Dr. Bonnie Hemauer, Ph.D. (Dr. B.) with 25 years specializing in self-help, relaxation/meditation therapies, and prevention of stress causing diseases. Sundays at 1:15 p.m. for one hour in Santa Monica. Cost $25. RSVP: 310.433.2382

The American Red Cross is looking for volunteers. Various positions are available. To volunteer, call Tom Viscount at 310.394.3773 ext. 112 from 1-5 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

Do You Have the Heart for Hospice? Roze Room Hospice seeks volunteers to provide support and companionship to terminally ill patients and their families. Training is free. We have patients at home and in nursing facilities throughout the Westside and Los Angeles. For more information, contact Kathleen McMahon, Volunteer Coordinator, at 323.938.1155 or volcoord@rozeroomhospice.org

Donate blood on Monday and Wednesdays at the American Red Cross of Santa Monica, 1450 11th St.. Hours for donations vary, so call to schedule an appointment. 1.800.GIVE.LIFE or 1.888.POR.FAVOR

Free help with anxiety, depression, stress, and anger. Recovery International provides tools and practice in changing thinking habits so individuals can gain personal control over distressing emotions and improve general well-being. This worldwide non-profit organization, founded in 1937, holds weekly meetings every Saturday, 12 p.m., at Trinity Church, California and Eleventh Street, Santa Monica. Donations are requested but not required. For more information, call Randy at 310.828.9328 or go to lowselfhelpsystems.org

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a 12-step program for those struggling to control their relationship with food, has three meetings every week in Santa Monica. Tuesday, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, Youth Lounge, 1220 Second St., Santa Monica; Wednesday, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Unitarian Universalist Community Church, The Cottage, 1260 18th St., Santa Monica; and Saturday, 9 to 10:30 a.m., First United Methodist Church, Room 101, 1008 11th St.., Santa Monica. Free. Call: 800.600.6028 or see: foodaddicts.org

Homeless discussion and advocacy group, Side By Side, for homeless and non-homeless citizens every first, third, and fifth Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Ken Edwards Community Center, located at 1527 4th St., Any resident interested in listening to and talking with local homeless can come to this regular meeting. Side By Side has met continuously at Ken Edwards since 1996.

Joel S. Goldsmith Tape Group meets Mondays to listen to the taped class work of Joel S. Goldsmith on his spiritual teaching known as The Infinite Way. 7:15 p.m. (silent meditation), 7:30 p.m. (tape played), 8:30 p.m. (silent meditation). New Age Bible and Philosophy Center, 1139 Lincoln Blvd. (rear entry only off alley) in rear classroom. $5 minimum donation appreciated. 310.963.9377 or email in.stillness@yahoo.com

Meals on Wheels West needs volunteers to deliver meals to homebound people in Santa Monica. Deliveries are from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. To volunteer call 310.394.7558

Free Qigong class for cancer survivors in Clover Park, located at 2600 Ocean Park Blvd, on Mondays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. These classes are offered through the Cancer Support Community-Benjamin Center, and are taught by Michael Sieverts, an 11-year brain cancer survivor. For more information, call CSC at 310.314.2555 or go to www.cancersupportcommunitybenjamincenter.org

YWCA Winter class sessions are now under way. Sign up now for classes for adults and teens: Barre, Belly Dancing, Core Pilates, Dancing like the Stars Ballroom Dance, Gentle Exercise, Life Drawing, Step Aerobics and Step Interval, Strength Training, Strong and Stretched, Timeless Body, Women’s Basic Ballet, Yoga, Yoga for Cancer Survivors, Yoga with Bhavani, Zumba Gold. For children and youth: Afternoon Kids Club (ages 4 to 6), Ballet (ages 6 1/2 to 9), Basketball (ages 4 to 14), Broadway Stars Gymnastics (ages 6 to 10), Creative Dance and Pre-Ballet (ages 3 to 6), World Dance Fusion (ages 7 to 12), Karate for Kids (ages 5 to 10), Little Tumbling Stars (ages 3 to 5), Tiger Kick Fit (ages 3 to 5), Twinkle Toes Ballet and Tap (ages 2 to 3), Toddler Tumbling Fun (ages 2 to 3.5) For just $25/year (youth ages 17 and under), $30/year (seniors 55+) and $45/year (adults), you can become a member of the YWCA Santa Monica / Westside. To sign up for one or more of any of the above classes, visit smywca.com or call 310.452.3881

Zen meditation group led by Sensei Daishin Buksbazen, teacher at Zen Center of Los Angeles meets weekly on Wednesday evening at the Hill Street Center, 237 Hill St., Santa Monica. Meditation instruction for newcomers held from 7 to 7:30 p.m., Zazen from 7:30 to 9 p.m., Dharma talk the first Wednesday of each month. Contact Sensei Daishin at 310.315.3506