November 2016
Special Events
Beginning November 1. Thanksgiving Coloring Contest. Head to the Appleby Branch Library during the month of November, grab a coloring sheet and return it to the librarian once you’ve finished your masterpiece. 9 a.m. 2260 Walton Way.
November 1, 8, 15 & 29. Story Time. Stories, songs, games, short movies and crafts. Preschool Story Time at 10 a.m. is best for ages 3-5. Young Children Story Time at 10:30 a.m. or 11:55 a.m. is best for ages 0-3. Groups of six or more must pre-register by calling 706-772-2432. Diamond Lakes Branch Library, 101 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah.
November 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30. Toddler Time. Kids can interact with others and give parents time to socialize. Play equipment including balls, scooters, hula hoops and more available. 9:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. at the Odell Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Rd., Aiken.
November 5. Find Your Park Festival. Hosted by the Augsuta Camal and featuring a variety of activities for families at several locations. Go to augustacanal.com/festival for location and schedule information. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 706-823-0440 ext. 8.
November 11-13. Junior League Holiday Market. Featuring dozens of one-of-a-kind vendors to help you get a jump on holiday shopping. The Market will be held on Nov. 11 from 3-6 p.m., Nov. 12 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and Nov. 13 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Augusta Convention Center, 901 Reynolds St. Go to www.jlaugusta.org/jla-holiday-market for tickets or call 706-736-0033.
November 15. Third Thursday Tales Story Time. Stories, rhymes and songs with beloved retired librarian Kathy Crosson. 10:30 a.m. at Imagination Sttion Children’s Museum, 965 Hickman Rd. imagineaugusta.org.
November 15. 18th Annual Kicks 99 Guitar Pull. This year’s Guitar Pull line-up includes: Cole Swindell, The Band Perry, Chris Janson, Kelsea Ballerini, Trace Adkins, and Kane Brown. Tickets only on sale at the James Brown Arena Box Office. 7:30 p.m. at the James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
November 17. Sacred Heart Gift Shop Holiday Open House. Life cooking demonstration with Food Network alum Havrid Usry, a bake sale and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.
November 19. Salvation Army Turkey Trot. Grab your capes and amazingly heroic costumes and fight hunger together. Prizes will be awarded for the best-dressed runners. All ages are welcome to participate. Race proceeds benefit The Salvation Army, which provides shelter and food for needy families, serving more than 1 million hot meals last year. Email Letitia Cropps at [email protected]. http://salvationarmyaugusta.org/turkey-trot. 9 a.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St.
November 23. The Salvation Army Thanksgiving Eve Meal. This annual meal is served at the Center of Hope Soup Kitchen and Homeless Center, 1384 Greene St. The meal is free and open to anyone. 1:30-4:30 p.m. www.salvationarmy.org.
The Arts, Music and More
November 4 & 5. Peter Pan The Musical. Broadway’s timeless classic musical whisks you away to a place where dreams are born and no one ever grows up. Based on J.M. Barrie’s classic tale and featuring an unforgettable score, Peter Pan is one of the most beloved and frequently performed family favorites of all time. 8 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre, 749 Broad St. 706-722-8341 or www.imperialtheatre.com.
November 4, 5, 11, 12, 17, 18 & 19. Five Women Wearing the Same Dress. A play about an ostentatious wedding reception at a Knoxville, Tenn., estate where five reluctant, identically clad bridesmaids hide out in an upstairs bedroom, dreading the event to come. 7 p.m. at the Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre, Bldg. 32100, 3rd Ave., Fort Gordon. 706-793-8552 or www.fortgordon.com/venue/fort-gordon-dinner-theatre.
November 10. I Love the ‘90s—Rescheduled. Originally scheduled for October and rescheduled due to Hurricane Matthew. Lineup includes Salt N Pepa, Vanilla Ice, Coolio, Kid N Play, Rob Base, Tone Loc and Color Me Bad. A fun-filled night out that doubles as an arena-sized dance party. 7 p.m. at the James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
November 10. Pops! Presents Hooray for Hollywood. Lights. Camera. Pops! Symphony Orchestra Augusta presents movie melodies from the biggest blockbusters: Gone with the Wine, The Wizard of Oz, James Bond and more. Your favorite music from the golden age of Hollywood. 7:30 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
November 11. An Evening with the Gaither Vocal Band. Multi-Grammy Award-winner Bill Gaither will host a spectacular evening of music, laughter and encouragement featuring the talent of the prestigious Gaither Vocal Band. The Gaither Vocal Band, with the all-star line-up of David Phelps, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles, and Bill Gaither, will share timeless gospel classics, as well as refreshing, inspiring new favorites embraced by audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Few events have the ability unite individuals from all walks of life the way Gaither concerts do. 7 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
November 11. Southern Soul and Song: The Travlin’ McCourys. Playing traditional and progressive bluegrass music, the Travlin’ McCourys have performed with everyone from the Allman Brothers Band and Phish to Warren Haynes and Del McCoury. Band members Ronnie and Rob are sons of bluegrass legend Del McCoury. For tickets, call 706-722-8341 or go to www.imperialtheatre.com. 7:30 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre.
November 22. Aiken Symphony: Dvorak and the Historic Cello of Pablo Casals. Amit Peled, cello; Mozart, Symphony No. 35 in D Major, Copland’s El Salon Mexico and Dvorak’s Cello Concerto in B Minor. 7:30 p.m. at the Etherredge Center, 471 University Parkway, Aiken. Aikensymphonyorchestra.com.
November 23. Culture Club. One of the biggest pop bands of the 80s will be performing at the Bell Auditorium as part of their North American tour. Boy George and Culture Club had nine Top 10 singles in the U.S. For tickets: Georgialinatix.com or call 877-428-4849.
November 25, 26 & 27. The Nutcracker. Presented by Colton Ballet Company of Augusta (formerly known as Dance Augusta). This classic kick-off to the holiday season has lived on with the same grandeur that Ron Colton brought to Augusta in 1971. 7 p.m. on Nov. 25, 1 and 4 p.m. on Nov. 26 and 1 and 4 p.m. on Nov. 27. The Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341 or www.imperialtheatre.com.
The Morris Museum of Art
1 Tenth Street
706-724-7501
November 3. Mommy and Me: Rambunctious Ravens. Hear a story inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart” and view the exhibition The Raven: Etchings by Larry Vinneau. Afterwards, create a handprint artwork featuring a raven. Call to register and inquire about fees. 10-11 a.m.
November 4. Films on Fridays: The Candidate (1972). With an original screenplay by Jeremy Larner (a veteran of the Eugene McCarthy campaign of 1968), this film stars Robert Redford as Peter Boyle. Afterwards, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Participants are invited to bring lunch. Free. Noon.
November 5. Artist Workshop: Native American Flutes. Create and learn how to play a traditional Native American-style river cane flute with Charleston, S.C., storyteller Hawk Hurst. Call to register and inquire about fees. Ages 10 and up. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
November 5. A Conversation: Kara and Larry Walker. Atlanta artist Larry Walker and his daughter, internationally acclaimed artist Kara Walker, discuss their art and lives. Sponsored by Cheryl Goldsleger, William S. Morris Eminent Scholar in Art, and presented in partnership with the Department of Art at Augusta University. 6 p.m. Free.
November 6. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Native American Tales and Traditions. Educator Hawk Hurst shares stories and traditions inspired by Native American culture. Afterwards, paint your own spirit animal. 2 p.m. Free.
November 18. Art at Lunch: Exploring the Land. Join Ellen Simak, chief curator emeritus of the Humber Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, Tenn., as she discusses the current exhibition Exploring the Lane: Landscapes from the Hunter Museum Collection. Paid reservation due November 16.
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park
1858 Lock and Dam Road
706-828-2109
phinizycenter.org
November 8. Puddle Ducks: Kids & Caregivers Club. For children through age 5. Stories, crafts and hands-on fun in nature. 10 a.m. Limited space, registration required. Call 706-396-1424 or email [email protected]. phinizycenter.org.
November 12. Children’s Hike With Story Time. A nature hike for children with a story before exploring and experiencing nature. Limited space, registration required by calling 706-396-1424 or emailing [email protected]. 9:30 a.m.
November 18. Full Moon Hike. From the serenade of tree frogs to the soothing calls of Barred Owls, the sounds of the Swamp come alive at night. 9 p.m.
November 19. 4H Family Yoga in the Park. Family Yoga is for youth and their parents. Fun, relaxing yoga class for all experience levels. The class will meet at the Visitor Center. Call 706-821-2349 for more information. www.phinizycenter.org/events.
November 19. Swamp Treks. Bring life to nature for children in grades 3-8. Focused on making the outdoors exciting, Swamp Treks make it fun to gain respect for the environment and enjoy wildlife. Split into two age groups, grades 3-5 and 6-8. Enjoy a hike, hands-on nature based activities and more. Regular participation is not required, but is welcome. 10 a.m. Registeronline at phinizycenter.org/events or by calling 706-396-1426.
December 2016
Special Events
Beginning December 1. Holiday Coloring Contest. Come during the month of December, grab a coloring sheet and return it to the librarian once you’ve finished your masterpiece. Appleby Branch Library, 2260 Walton Way.
December 1. A Very Electric Christmas Lightwire Theatre. When a young bird gets separated from his parents, while flying south for the winter, his holiday adventure begins as he attempts to be reunited with his parents and make it home to celebrate Christmas. Performed in complete darkness, this creative storyline features Nutcracker soldiers with candy-canes, naughty Rats, an electric Christmas tree surrounded by presents, glow worms, dancing flowers and other creatures that light up the stage.“A Very Electric Christmas” is a wonderful opportunity to bring families together and start a new holiday tradition. 3:30 p.m. at the Jabez Hardin Performing Arts Center (inside the Evans Branch Library), 7022 Town Center Blvd. Go to www.augustaamusements.com for tickets.
December 3. Christmas Craft Show. This 46th annual show features crafters, food vendors and more. Opens at 9 a.m. at the Odell Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Rd., Aiken. Cityofaikensc.gov.
December 3. Elf on Shelf Party. Bring your Elf (with special permission from Santa) and join us for a welcome back party featuring Santa, elf games, contest and snacks.10 a.m.-3 p.m. at CommuniGraphics, 1400 Georgia Ave, North Augusta. 803-278-7217
December 3. Gingerbread House Workshop. Kids of all ages and their parents are invited to attend this free workshop and decorate a gingerbread house. RSVP with child’s first name and ate to 706-650-5760 or [email protected]. 10 a.m. at Hire Grounds Café, 3779 Washington Rd., Martinez.
December 7. Children’s Play: Christmas, the Measles and Me. When Santa Claus comes down with the measles just days before Christmas, Holly the Elf jumps in to save the day. Produced by Porkchop Productions. 10 a.m. at the Augusta University Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre, 2500 Walton Way. 706-737-1625 or www.augusta.edu/education.
December 7, 14 & 21. Toddler Time. Kids can interact with others and give parents time to socialize. Play equipment including balls, scooters, hula hoops and more available. 9:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. at the Odell Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Rd., Aiken.
December 10. Family Holiday Movie. Enjoy a family friendly movie, rated G or PG, on the library’s almost-big screen. Groups of six or more need to preregister. Bring your own snacks. 10:30 a.m. at the Appleby Branch Library, 2260 Walton Way. www.arcpls.org.
December 10. The Comedy Get Down. Numerous motion picture appearances, countless television shows, sitcoms and standup specials, a talk show, three radio shows, and three books. Cedric ‘The Entertainer,’ Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, George Lopez and Charlie Murphy have been breaking ground in the comedy business and bringing the laughs for decades. This is a once in a lifetime chance to see five members of comedy royalty come together for the comedy event of the year. 8 p.m. at the James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
December 10, 11, 15-23 & 26. Christmas in Hopelands. This enchanting walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and holiday displays. There is no admission charge. Over 100,000 twinkling lights are a must-see during the Christmas season. Shuttle pickup is at Citizens Park, 1060 Banks Mill Rd. (There is no general parking at Hopelands or Rye Patch.) Shuttle will pick-up and drop-off visitors continuously from 5:45 p.m.–9 p.m. (last shuttle to view Christmas in Hopelands leaves Citizens Park at 9 p.m.). Shuttle service is free. 6-9:30 p.m. Call 803-642-7631 with questions.
December 14. A Visit from Santa Klaus! Bring your children and cameras to meet and take pictures with Santa. 10 a.m. at the Jeff Maxwell Branch Library, 1927 Lumpkin Rd. arcpls.org.
December 15. Broadway Christmas Wonderland. One of the most delightful and enchanting Christmas shows ever. This most-loved Christmas show features glittering costumes, a dazzling cast, and the highest kicking Chorus Girls this side of the North Pole. Start Christmas in style as Santa and his merry helpers take you on an unforgettable nostalgic Christmas journey. Ideal for the whole family. 7 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. www.augusttaentertainmentcomplex.com.
December 20. Third Thursday Tales Story Time. Stories, rhymes and songs with beloved retired librarian Kathy Crosson. 10:30 a.m. at Imagination Sttion Children’s Museum, 965 Hickman Rd. imagineaugusta.org.
December 21. Holiday Craft. Ages 5 and up. Registration required by calling 706-736-6244. 10:30 a.m. at Appleby Branch Library, 2260 Walton Way. www.arcpls.org.
The Arts, Music and More
December 2. The Nutcracker. The magic of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece comes to life on the Imperial stage as the Columbia Ballet sets this Christmas classic to dance. 7 p.m. at the Imperial theatre, 749 Broad St. 706-722-8341 or www.imperialtheatre.com.
December 2. Pascal Roge. Pascal Roge exemplifies the finest in French pianism. Pascal and his wife Ami have been playing four-hands/two-pianos recitals together around the world. 7:30 p.m. at the Etherredge Center, 471 University Parkway, Aiken. etherredge.usca.edu.
December 6. A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. The Guild of Sacred heart Cultural Center presents this annual Christmas event under the direction of Keith Shafer and based on the traditional English Christmas program that originated at King’s College Chapel, Cambridge University, England. Call 706-826-4700 for tickets and information. www.sacredheartaugusta.org.
December 8. Merry Christmas Darling A Carpetners’ Christmas. Celebrating the biggest hits of one of the most successful recording acts of all time, this two-act show features a full complement of their classic Christmas repertoire. 7:30 p.m. at the Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center, 702 Evans Town Center Blvd. www.augustaamusements.com.
December 10. Augusta Choral Society: A Very Airy Yule. Music including chorus, brass, percussion and organ. Includes Gloria, A Carol Fantasy, Angels We Have Heard and Handel’s Messiah. 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 605 Reynolds St. augustaacs.org.
December 11. Aiken Symphony: Home for the Holidays. Features favorite holiday melodies and ends with a sing-along. 3 p.m. at the Etherredge Center, 471 University Pkwy., Aiken. Aikensymphonyorchestra.com.
December 10 & 11. A Christmas Carol The Musical. The Augusta Players presents this show annually. Brimming with music and dance, love and laughter, the musical version of the Charles Dickens classic gets the Broadway treatment. 8 p.m. on Dec. 10 and 3 p.m. on Dec. 11. The Imperial Theatre, 749 Broad St. 706-722-8341 or www.imperialtheatre.com.
December 15. Taylor BMW Broadway in Augusta: Broadway Christmas Wonderland. one of the most delightful and enchanting Christmas shows ever. This most loved Christmas show features glittering costumes, a dazzling cast, and the highest kicking Chorus Girls this side of the North Pole. 7:30 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium, 721 Telfair St. AugustaBroadway.com.
December 16. Rhonda Vincent and the Rage. Famously crowned as “The New Queen of Bluegrass” by the Wall Street Journal, and the most decorated artist in that field. Vincent’s music incorporates savvy contemporary touches while drawing deeply from the authentic traditions of classic bluegrass, with a flawless band that can execute break-neck instrumentals to heart wrenching ballads. Her latest project “Taken” features special guests ranging from Dolly Parton to Richard Marx. With over eighty awards to their name, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage are the most celebrated band in bluegrass. 7:30 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre, 749 Broad St. 706-722-8341 or www.imperialtheatre.com.
December 18. O Holy Night: Celebrating 20 Years of Christmas with John Berry. John Berry began doing a Christmas tour in 1996 and this year will mark his 20th consecutive Christmas concert series. As John has grown in his walk with Christ, his calling has been to share God’s love with his audience. Moving into a new phase in his career, John’s tenor voice remains an instrument that is able to touch all our hearts. 7 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre, 749 Broad St. 706-722-8341 or www.imperialtheatre.com.
December 20. Cinderella. Performed by the State Ballet Thetre of Russia. A full-length ballet in two acts. 7 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre, 749 Broad St. www.imperialtheatre.com.
December 24. Concerts with a Cause: Christmas Eve Concert and Lessons and Carols. This free concert accepts donations to benefit the United Methodist Children’s Home. St. John United Methodist Church, 736 Greene St. stjohnaugusta.org.
The Morris Museum of Art
1 Tenth Street
706-724-7501
December 4. Morris Holiday Open House. Enjoy seasonal crafts, at 2 p.m. concert presented by The Band Kelley and special discounts on merchandise in the store. Free.
December 9. Art Now Artist Talk: Cheryl Goldsleger. This accomplished artist and Augusta University’s William S. Morris Eminent Scholar in Art, discusses her current exhibition at the Morris.
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park
1858 Lock and Dam Road
706-828-2109
phinizycenter.org
December 3. Swamp Saturday Guided Hike. Leisurely hike through approximately 2.5 miles of nature park trails, departing from the Swam Shop & Visitors Center. See a variety of wildlife, learn about the diverse plant life and importance of urban wetland ecoloty and more. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes and bring water to drink. Strollers welcome. No dogs. 9:30 a.m.
December 10. Children’s Hike With Story Time. A nature hike for children with a story before exploring and experiencing nature. Limited space, registration required by calling 706-396-1424 or emailing [email protected]. 9:30 a.m.
December 13. Puddle Ducks: Kids & Caregivers Club. For children through age 5. Stories, crafts and hands-on fun in nature. 10 a.m. Limited space, registration required. Call 706-396-1424 or email [email protected]. phinizycenter.org.
December 17. 4H Family Yoga in the Park. Family Yoga is for youth and their parents. Fun, relaxing yoga class for all experience levels. The class will meet at the Visitor Center. Call 706-821-2349 for more information. www.phinizycenter.org/events.
December 17. Swamp Treks. Bring life to nature for children in grades 3-8. Focused on making the outdoors exciting, Swamp Treks make it fun to gain respect for the environment and enjoy wildlife. Split into two age groups, grades 3-5 and 6-8. Enjoy a hike, hands-on nature based activities and more. Regular participation is not required, but is welcome. 10 a.m. Registeronline at phinizycenter.org/events or by calling 706-396-1426.
This article appears in the November-December 2016 issue of Augusta Magazine.
