The upcoming week has celebrations of Black History Month and Chinese New Year, music, films, dance, and more, including Brian Copeland to help us through difficult times.
Thursday, Feb. 19
The Noise Pop Festival begins today, featuring over 150 music acts and other special events. The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, an American indie pop band from New York City, plays tonight at the Rickshaw. Festival through March 1.
The Waiting Period provides a look at the life of award-winning playwright and actor Brian Copeland and his struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. 7 p.m. at The Marsh. Free admission (donations help others see the show for free).
Friday, Feb. 20
Bluff City Chinese follows the intertwined journeys of two Chinese American storytellers from different generations and explores migration, survival, and belonging of Chinese communities in Memphis, Tenn., through archival research, oral histories, and contemporary storytelling. 12:30 p.m. at City College of San Francisco Chinatown campus, Room 201. Free admission.
Nikhil Bagga
Nikhil Bagga, a 16-year-old guitar prodigy, will headline tonight for three shows at Biscuits & Blues, and will perform with others as part of the venue’s 31 anniversary celebration. Tickets: $28 and change (Friday) and $44 and change (Saturday).
Saturday, Feb. 21
I’m a big fan of the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, which will perform a family matinee in celebration of Black History Month. From Negro spirituals to upbeat contemporary gospel, Artistic Director Terrance Kelly offers historical context for each piece. 11 a.m. at S.F. Jazz. Tickets from $10.
Black Choreographers Festival: Here & Now celebrates African and African American dance and culture and features award-winning Bay Area choreographers and dance companies. 7:30 p.m. at Dance Mission Theater through Sunday and Feb. 28 and March 1. Tickets from $20.
Brewski lovers unite — today is the kick-off of San Francisco Beer Week. Enjoy unlimited tastings, limited edition brews and special releases, live entertainment, and more. 1:30 p.m. at Salesforce Park. Tickets: $75. Events continue through March 1 at multiple Bay Area venues.
Jazz trumpeter Dave Rocha, who has played with the likes of Lionel Hampton and others, will perform with his trio (electric guitarist Luke Schwartz and acoustic bassist Heath Proskin) in Jazz Amongst the Magnolias. 1–2 p.m. on the Library Terrace, San Francisco Botanical Garden. Free admission (rain cancels).
Sunday, Feb. 22
This double-feature mini documentary festival, 836M Fest, sounds like a nice way to spend what will probably be a rainy afternoon. On screen will be Porcelain War, about three Ukrainian artists who continue to find inspiration and beauty amid the destruction of their country; and Prime Minister, which follows Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand’s unexpected prime minister, her compassionate approach to critical issues, and her surprising resignation. Noon and 2:30 p.m. at the Roxie. Tickets from $14.
Notable next week
Monday, Feb. 23
The Presidio is the kickoff location on the 11-city national tour of I Am An American: The Nisei Soldier Experience. Through firsthand accounts, photos, and artifacts, the exhibition tells the story of American soldiers of Japanese heritage who served in World War 11 and the racial tension after Japan’s Pearl Harbor attack. Through July 31 at the Military Intelligence Service Historic Learning Center. Tickets: $15.
Tuesday, Feb. 24
Enjoy drum processions, dance, poetry, and more at the 4th annual Drumbeats, Heartbeats: Community as One Celebrating Lunar New Year and Black History Month. 4:45 p.m. procession starts at the Larkin Street entrance of the San Francisco Public Library. Through 8 p.m. Free admission.
Enjoy, be safe, dry, and nice to each other whatever you decide to do while out and abouting.