The Women’s March 2018 may be the most significant event happening on the Seacoast this weekend. But when you’re not demonstrating, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music, theater, food, beer, and more. Here are some of the highlights.
Deerhoof at 3S
Since emerging out of San Francisco in the mid-1990s, Deerhoof has established itself as one of indie music’s most beloved and enduring bands. And they’re still going — their latest studio album, “Mountain Moves,” came out last September. Deerhoof returns to 3S Artspace in Portsmouth, where they played a stellar show a few years ago, on Friday, Jan. 19. Supporting acts include Palm, Olivia Neutron-John, and Lina Tullgren. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.; tickets are $17-$20, available here.
A Steady Rain
Local actors Matthew Schofield and Shawn Crapo star in a production of “A Steady Rain” at The Players’ Ring in Portsmouth from Jan. 19 to Feb. 4. Written by Keith Huff, the play follows a pair of Chicago police officers whose friendship is put to the test in the wake of a grisly killing. Todd Hunter directs. Show times are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $18; for more information, click here.
A Different Engine
Killer at Large headlines the show at the Dover Brickhouse.
A group of well-known local musicians — guitarist and singer Dave Hunter, drummer Joe Rogers, bassist Brian Charles, and keyboardist Andrew Blowen — have come together to form a new band, A Different Engine. They’ll play their first official show at the Dover Brickhouse on Friday, Jan. 19, at 8 p.m. The new group opens for two long-established Seacoast rock bands, The Screen and Killer at Large, who play their first shows of the year. Get the details here.
Polar Grill Fest
Live music, numerous food vendors, and lots of beer are on tap at the Polar Grill Fest at the Redhook Brewery in Portsmouth on Saturday, Jan. 20, from 12-5 p.m. The event also serves as the official beer release of Redhook’s new My Oh My Caramel Macchiato Milk Stout. Plus there will be an inflatable pub! There is a $5 entry fee, $5 beers, and $5 plates. Proceeds benefit Gather (formerly the Seacoast Family Food Pantry). Learn more here.
Women’s March 2018
Last year’s Women’s March brought thousands of people to Market Square in Portsmouth — and millions participated in other cities around the country and world. The second annual demonstration takes place Saturday, Jan. 20, from 1-3 p.m. The gathering (due to the expected crowd size, there will be no actual “marching”) will feature speakers and music from the Leftist Marching Band. Several organizations have banded together for the event to show solidarity in support of human rights. Learn more here.
For a full calendar of local events, click here.