Wrestling with the winter blues? We’ve got solutions. Here are some of the top events coming up on the Seacoast this weekend.
Representing Feminism(s)
“It’s a Girl” by Shelby Head
The new exhibit in the Lamont Gallery at Phillips Exeter Academy explores different forms of feminism and their potential impacts — a timely topic in the midst of the #MeToo movement. More than 30 contemporary artists working in a range of media tackle the subject. The opening reception is Friday, Feb. 23, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. There is also a gallery talk on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 10 a.m. The show will remain on display through April 21. Learn more here.
Winter Brew Fest
Kick off Portsmouth Beer Week with the sixth annual Seacoast Winter Brew Fest at the Portsmouth Gas Light Co. on Saturday, Feb. 24. Upwards of 100 local and regional craft beers will be available for tasting, and the Gas Light will provide complimentary food. The event unfolds in two sessions, from 12-3 p.m. or 5-8 p.m. VIP tickets allow for early entrance and include special tastings. Tickets are $50 per session ($75 for VIP access). Learn more here.
Takedown Wrestling
Sometimes in February you just have to step into the ring with your mortal enemy and wrestle! Locals in outrageous costumes will attempt to physically dominate each other during the third installment of the Takedown Wrestling series at Sue’s in Rollinsford on Saturday, Feb. 24, from 8-11 p.m. Titled No Fear in the New Year, the event features contenders with names like Flex Thunderbird, Dutchess Nukem, and Melt Face. There’s a $20 suggested donation; learn more here.
Winter Blues Festival
Big Bill Morganfield — son of blues great Muddy Waters and a growing legend in his own right — headlines the annual New England Winter Blues Festival at the Blue Ocean Music Hall in Salisbury, Mass., on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 8 p.m. Morganfield will be backed by Mr. Nick and the Dirty Tricks. Also on the bill are Jason Ricci, Monster Mike Welch & Mike Ledbetter, and The Racky Thomas Band. Tickets are $34; for more information, click here.
Music and Nostalgia
Russ Grazier, executive director and co-founder of the Portsmouth Music and Arts Center (PMAC), will present the world premiere of composer David Amram’s “Greenwich Village Portraits” on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 3 p.m. Ismael Sandoval will conduct the performance, with Grazier on saxophone and members of the PMAC string faculty and other special guests accompanying him. Titled “Music and Nostalgia,” the event takes place in the Haas Family Gallery and Recital Hall at PMAC. Tickets are $15-$25, available here.
For a full calendar of local events, click here.