ARTS & CRAFTS

THE JEWEL BOX THEATRE: Is offering introductory classes on how to run lights and sound from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 10 and Jan. 17 as well as workshops for props and scenery along with stage managers and stage hands this month. Participation is not a commitment to work at the Jewel Box, but they are always looking for volunteers. Call Larry at (360) 779-9688 or email jewelboxpoulsbo@hotmail.com to register. Info: www.jewelboxpoulsbo.org.

SCENE STUDY WITH DINAH MANOFF: The Tony Award-winning stage, sitcom and screen actress Dinah Manoff will be leading a course for adults in Scene Study, with classes at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 12 & 26, Feb. 2, 9 & 23 and March 2 at Bainbridge Performing Arts, 200 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Registration is now open, tuition for the six-week course is $425 through BPA. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org/Education/SecondStage.html or call (206) 842-8578.

CALL TO K-12 GRADE ARTISTS: Bainbridge Arts and Crafts Gallery is searching for artists for its upcoming annual Mixed Nuts exhibit, slated to hang Feb. 6 through March 3, 2009. It’s a special exhibit that gives kids a chance to learn how art galleries work. From 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Info: www.bacart.org or call (206) 842-3132.

BREMERTON PUTS OUT CALL TO ARTISTS: The city of Bremerton’s Arts Commission has proposed a series of seven metal sculptures along Pacific Avenue with a budget not to exceed $50,000. Artist submissions are due by 5 p.m., Dec. 31, apply by mailing 10 digital samples of work along with image list, resume, statement, proof of residency and three references to City of Bremerton Arts Commission, Attn: Pam Bykonen, clerk, 345 Sixth St., Ste. 600, Bremerton, WA 98337. More info at www.ci.bremerton.wa.us under Arts, Parks & Entertainment.

KITSAP ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL: Is moving from Port Gamble to Kingston for its 50th anniversary event next summer. Volunteers are needed. Info: Call Evy at (360) 297-2828.

CRAFTERNOONS: Kitsap Regional Library in Little Boston hosts crafternoons for crafters to get together and work on handmade projects at 2:30 every Wednesday at 31980 Little Boston Road in Kingston. Info: www.krl.org or call (360) 297-2670.

A IS FOR ARTISTS GALLERY: A not-for-profit artist owned and run gallery on Bainbridge Island is seeking artists. Info: www.AisforArtistsGallery.com or call (206) 842-2434.

CALL TO ARTISTS: The Kingston Art Gallery, a cooperative gallery, is expanding and looking for fine artists and art teachers to fill its planned classroom and gallery space. Info: Patty at (360) 297-2095 or e-mail pawsmac@mac.com.

THE VERKSTED GALLERY: A 20-year old cooperative art gallery located at 18937 Front St. in Poulsbo is now accepting applications from artists in the following mediums: baskets, fiber art, leather work, oils, acrylic, metal art, encaustic, and other unique arts and crafts. Must be able to work two days a month, participate in committee work and pay a monthly rent. To apply pick up an application from the gallery or call Lynn at (360) 297-4096. Info: www.verkstedgallery.com.

THE SOUTH KITSAP ARTISTS: Association meets from 6-8 p.m. on the fourth Monday of the month at Cedar Heights Junior High School — 2220 Pottery Ave. in Port Orchard. Doors open at 5:45 p.m., visitors, first-timers welcome. Info: Call president Loretta Anderson at (360) 876-1415.

GLASS ART JUNKIES: A group with interests in all kinds of glass art from beaded to fused and stained glass meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month at the Subway near the Silverdale Albertsons. All skill levels welcome. Info: Susan at (360) 598-4600.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: Kingston Art Gallery invites local artists to join the co-op gallery. Information and applications at the gallery, corner of SR 104 and West Kingston Road, Kingston or online at www.kingstonartgallery.com.

AUDITIONS

SING A SONG: The Puget Soundsters, a non-profit, community service, four-part chorus that sings for community events and local groups, is starting a new season and are looking for singers in all parts. The group meets at 7 p.m. Mondays at Unity Church, 1712 Trenton Ave in Bremerton. Info: Jeanie at (360) 871-3260.

COMEDY

NEW YEAR’S EVE SPECTACULAR: The Best of the Seattle Comedy Underground come to Bremerton for a New Year’s Spectacular starting at 9 p.m. Dec. 31 at the Admiral, 515 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. Tickets are $40 on the main floor, $25 in the loge and balcony. Info: www.admiraltheatre.org, www.comedyunderground.com.

DANCE

BALLROOM DANCING: Is offered from 2-5 p.m. every Sunday at the Port Orchard Eagles, 4001 Jackson Ave. NE in Port Orchard, dancing to the live big band sounds of Eric Liebmann and Co. Cost is $3 for members, $5 for non. Info: www.foe2338.org or call (360) 876-2338.

LINE DANCERS: Kitsap Kickers Line Dance Club meets every Friday and Sunday, 9161 Washington Ave. NW, Silverdale. Fridays: beginners 6-7:30 p.m., $2; advanced 7-9:30 p.m., $4; Sundays: beginners 5-6:30 p.m., $2; advanced 6-8:30 p.m., $4. Information: (360) 697-6753.

KIDS

A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: Kids and families are invited to sign up now for the Kids Discovery Museum’s New Year’s Eve family celebration — Night at the Museum — featuring arts and crafts, movies, exhibits, music a countdown, balloon drop and more from 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Dec. 31. Info: www.kidimu.org, (206) 855-4650.

‘ARTHUR’S WORLD:’ An exclusive installation based on Marc Brown’s books and the PBS series “Arthur’s World” will be at KiDiMu, 305 Madison Ave. on Bainbridge Island. $5 admission, free for members or kids 12 months or younger. Info: www.kidimu.org or call (206) 855-4650.

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY: The Poulsbo branch of the Kitsap Regional Library presents baby storytime (ages 1-18 months) at 1 p.m. each Tuesday and toddler storytime (ages 18 months-3 years) at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. each Wednesday, 700 Iverson St. in Poulsbo. Info: www.krl.org or call (360) 779-2915.

STORYTIME: Barnes and Noble, in the Kitsap Mall, hosts a weekly storytime for kids at 11 a.m. every Saturday. Info: Call the store at (360) 698-0945.

KITSAPART SCHOOL OF THE ARTS: Offers classes ranging from cartooning to three-dimensional drawing to animal art for kids ages 8 to teens at its school, 3425 NW Byron St. in Old Town Silverdale. Info: www.kitsapart.com or call (360) 662-1542.

GALLERIES & EXHIBITIONS

THE ANCIENT TRADITION OF GIFT GIVING: Will be explored and celebrated in a new art show, “Up-gifting,” this month at the Artists for Freedom and Unity in Bremerton. The exhibit features Kitsap artists Pat Cooper and Malia Macheel working with traditional seasonal themes, giving life to discarded objects and working with “formerly appreciated” and up-cycled apparel and materials. The exhibit hands through December at the AFU, 318 Callow Ave. in Bremerton. Free. Info: www.myspace.com/artfreeunity.

ANNUAL MINIATURE SHOW: The Roby King Galleries invited more than 30 artists to create small works for this show, which hangs throughout December at the Roby King, 176 Winslow Way on Bainbridge. Info: www.robykinggalleries.com or call (206) 842-2063.

‘ENCHANTED MIRRORS:’ An art show by local gallery owner Sally Prangley, devoted entirely to the object that reflects our outer selves, will hang in the lobby of the Bainbridge Performing Arts Playhouse, 200 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. The show will be on view during performances and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday through December. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.

NIGHT ON THE TOWN: Every first Friday of the month, from 4-8 p.m., business throughout downtown Port Gamble are open late, most featuring local artwork while the General Store hosts a special monthly dinner. Info: www.portgamble.com or call (360) 297-8074.

COLLECTIVE VISIONS GALLERY: Features “Impressions of Places — Landscapes 2008” an exhibit by pastel artist Jackie Bush-Turner in the main gallery throughout December, while Michael Kilgore’s steel and ceramic sculpture will inhabit the boardroom gallery. Both shows will hang through the month at the CVG, 331 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. Info: www.collectivevisions.com or call (360) 377-8327.

THE ISLAND GALLERY: Is celebrating its sixth anniversary with two special exhibits — its fourth Annual Wearble Art Show featuring textile and jewelry artists from all over the world in addition to a collection of works by Alison Keogh in the north gallery called “Landscape – a different view.” Both shows will hang through Jan 23 at 100 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge. Info: www.theislandgallery.net, (206) 780-9500.

BAINBRIDGE ARTS AND CRAFTS: Will feature an exhibit titled “Function and Form: Art That Works” in December. A smorgasboard of artists will help celebrate the final exhibit of BAC’s 60th anniversary year. The exhibit will hang through December at 151 Winslow Way on Bainbridge. Info: www.bacart.org or call (206) 842-3132.

THE ARTCRAFT COALITION: At the Poulsbohemian Coffeehouse presents an exhibit titled “Kick Ass Broads” featuring images of kick-ass broads like Betsy Ross, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Joan of Arc and others rendered by coalition members. The exhibit hangs through Dec. 31 at the Poulsbohemian, 19003 Front St. in Poulsbo. Info: www.poulsbohemian.com or call (360) 779-9199.

JAK’S CAFE AND ESPRESSO: Will feature impressionist painter Judie Odell and her work in watercolor, acrylic, oil and collage throughout December at its shop, 19355 Jensen Way in Poulsbo. Info: Call (360) 394-5257.

LITERARY

‘THE HIDDEN MAN:’ Bainbridge mystery author Anthony Flacco talks about the adventures of the unusual family, which he debuted in his earlier thriller “The Last Nightingale,” against the backdrop of 1915 San Francisco when he talks about his new book “The Hidden Man” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8 at Eagle Harbor Books, 151 Winslow Way on Bainbridge. Info: www.eagleharborbooks.com, (206) 842-5332.

‘THE BIG BOOK BUY:’ A fundraiser for the South Kitsap Public School Libraries and the South Kitsap Public Education Foundation, will be hosted by the Bethel Avenue Book Store, 1037 Bethel Ave. throughout December. Twenty percent of purchases will go to the education foundation. Info: www.bethelavebook.com or call (360) 876-7500.

LIVING LIBRARY: Check out a new point of view by stopping by the library for a one-on-one conversation with a volunteer “living book” who is likely to have a lifestyle, occupation, culture or viewpoint different from your own. “Book” titles include a Muslim, U.S. Marine veteran, a young gay male, a practitioner of voluntary simplicity, former FBI agent, an anti-violence activist and an atheist. Part of One Book, One Community. Info: www.krl.org or call (206) 842-4162.

SILVERDALE WRITERS’ ROUND TABLE: Meets at 9:30 p.m. Saturdays at Austin Chase Coffee, 9621 Mickelberry Road in Silverdale for support and development in a positive atmosphere. Info: Call Bob at (360) 830-4968.

LIBERTY BAY BOOKS: Has updated its listing for its book groups. All groups meet at Liberty Bay Books — 18881-D on Front St. in Downtown Poulsbo. Revised listings are as follows:

Joy Luck: 11 a.m. First Friday monthly

Daytime: 10 a.m. Second Tuesday monthly

Non-Fiction: 10 a.m. Third Wednesday monthly

Evening: 7 p.m. Third Wednesday monthly

Books and Brew: 7 p.m. third Friday monthly, ages 21-39.

Mystery: 10 a.m. Fourth Thursday monthly

Info: www.libertybaybooks.com, (360) 779.5909 or e-mail

libertybaybooks@embarqmail.net. 

SILVERDALE BOOK SALE: Silverdale Friends of the Library used book sale every Tuesday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Silverdale Library, 3450 NE Carlton.

ADULT WRITERS CRITIQUE GROUP: Has openings for interested writers. The group meets at 10 a.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 3431 Lowell St. in Old Town Silverdale. Info: E-mail blsacre@juno.com or call (360) 598-2375 after 7 p.m.

FOR CONCISE CRITIQUING: And stimulation, join the Fiction Writer’s Workshop which meets at 7 p.m. every Monday night at the Poulsbohemian Coffeehouse — 19003 Front St. in Poulsbo. Cost is $6 per meeting, which includes a latte. Info: www.poulsbohemian.com or call Marianna (360) 779-9199 for poetry or Sue (360) 297-3713 for fiction.

MUSIC

LIVE AT THE PEGAUS: Multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire Thaddeus Spae performs at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 26, followed by Fort Worth, Texas, singer/songwriter Lori Dreier at the same time Dec. 27, Sunday, Dec. 28 will be on open mic for all styles. All shows are all ages, by donation at the Pegasus, 131 Parfitt Way on Bainbridge. Info: www.pegasuscoffeehouse.com or call (206) 842-6725.

WINTERLAND HOSTS: “Escape the Family Night” with the Bad Landers at 9:30 p.m. Dec. 25, followed by the second annual Round-Robin-Rock-A-Thon, a benefit for Gwen Moritz at 8 p.m. Dec. 26 and Christmas with Hells Belles at 9:30 p.m. Dec. 27. All shows are 21+, $5 cover for the Rock-A-Thon and the Bad Landers, $12 tickets for Hells Belles at Winterland, 1220 Sylvan Way in Bremerton. Info: www.myspace.com/winterlandrocks or call (360 479-5686.

THE MANETTE FEATURES: DJ O.B.1, spinnin’ at 9 p.m. Dec. 26, followed by Seattle band Quiet By Ten at the same time Dec. 27. Both shows are 21+, $5 cover at the Manette, 2113 E. 11th St. in Bremerton. Info: www.myspace.com/themanettesaloon or call (360) 297-0801.

THE CHARLESTON HOSTS: Big Fat Alice with Headcase, Avatar Among Us, Clash of the Titans, Roseway and Janison Penn at 7 p.m. Dec. 26, followed by Mos Generator with Madmartigan, Life Long War, Fatal Frequency and The Pete Moss Band at the same time Dec. 27 and Cowards plus guests at the same time Dec. 30. All shows are all ages, bar w/ ID, $5 cover at the Chuck, 333 Callow Ave. in Bremerton. Info: www.myspace.com/thecharlestonmusicvenue.

Z-REXX AND THE NINJAS: Will jam at 9 p.m. Dec. 27 and again Dec. 31 at the Beachside Grill and Bar, across from the High Tide Tavern on Bay Street in Port Orchard. 21+. Info: http://zrexxandtheninjas.com.

ARTISTS FOR FREEDOM AND UNITY HOST: Dogs of Ire with 47 and 976-Murder, starting at 6 p.m. Dec. 30 at the AFU Hall, 318 Callow Ave. in Bremerton. All ages, $5 cover. Info: www.myspace.com/artfreeunity.

TIZLEYS EUROPUB FEATURES: Solo bassist Kimberly Lynn at 8 p.m. Dec. 27, all ages, bar w/ ID, no cover at Tizleys on Front Street in Poulsbo. Info: www.tizleys.com, myspace.com/tizleyseuropub or call (360) 394-0080.

DECADE OF DECADENCE: An 80s tribute band, will rock the Shipwreck Lounge at Slip 45, 9 p.m. Dec. 27, 715 Bay St. in Port Orchard. 21+, $5 cover. Info: www.myspace.com/slip45music.

CLEARWATER CASINO FEATURES: The Afrodisiacs, playing ‘70s hits, at 9 p.m. Dec. 26, followed by Magic Bus, playing classic rock at the same time Dec. 29. Both shows are 21+, no cover at the Clearwater, located on the peninsula side of the Agate Pass Bridge in Suquamish. Info: www.clearwatercasino.com.

FIRST SUNDAYS AT THE COMMONS: Presents the Seattle-based Karin Kajita Jazz Quintet at 4 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Bainbridge Commons, 402 Brien Dr. near Waterfront Park on Bainbridge. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students at the door. Info: www.firstsundaysconcerts.org, www.karinkajita.com.

JOHNNY STRANGER: A Boston-based band featuring former Kitsap resident Peter Ewen, son of Western Washington Center for the Arts artistic director Jan Ewen and musical director Bruce Ewen, will be performing at 8 p.m. Jan. 1 at WWCA, 521 Bay St. in Port Orchard. The evening of acoustic music is also slated to feature guest performers from WWCA. All ages, tickets are $10. Info: www.wwca.us or call (360) 769-7469.

THE COMMUNITY SINGERS: Are a group of regular people who sing at local nursing homes, hospitals, shelters and other community gatherings. They are always looking for more singers. No auditions, no singing experience necessary. Just heart, they say. Info: www.communitysingers.org or call (206) 842-5485.

SUNSET KNIGHTS: An urban blues duo will be throwing down from 1-3 p.m. every Saturday at the Natural Grounds coffeehouse, in front of the Northwest Design Center at the intersection of Hostmark and Highway 305 in Poulsbo.

JAZZ AT THE BAYSIDE BROILER: Upstairs on the wharf, 18779 Front Street, Poulsbo, will feature the jazz trio The Lindsays from 6-8 p.m. every Friday and Don Wiens’ mellow jazz on Tenor Sax from 5:45-8:45 p.m. every Saturday. Info: www.baysidebroiler.net.

THE KITSAP CHORDSMEN: A local barbershop chorus meets and sings weekly from 7-10 p.m. Wednesdays at the Olympic Evangelical Free Church, 14861 Silverdale Way in Silverdale. New singers and visitors welcome. Info: (360) 337-7464.

THE TREEHOUSE LOUNGE: Located above the Magnolia Cafe on Front Street in downtown Poulsbo hosts an open mic session at 8 p.m. every Thursday. 21+. Info: (360) 697-1447.

ONGOING JAM SESSIONS: At the Island Music Guild — 10598 Valley Road on Bainbridge — include:

A jazz ensemble workshop: from 7-9:20 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. $5 donation requested. Info: E-mail Mike at msellman@att.com

Drum workshop: Monday evenings every week. Info: call Micah at (206) 818-5859.

Old Time Fiddle Tune Jam: Lead by Stuart Williams from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month. $5 requested. Info: call Stuart at (206) 323-8004.

Reel Time Celtic jam: Meets from 4-5:30 p.m. on second Fridays in Poulsbo Led by Jane Landstra of Country Capers. Lessons for first level fiddlers are from 4-5:30 on third Fridays in Poulsbo. Info: E-mail Jane at c_capers@yahoo.com or call (360) 697-6192.

Samspel Scandinavian Jam/less: Led by Jane Landstra from 4-5:30 p.m. on the fourth Fridays. Info: c_capers@yahoo.com or call (360) 697-6192.

SILVERDALE’S NEWEST MUSICAL COFFEE SHOP: The Global Bean, located at 2021 NW Myhre, ste. 101 in Silverdale, is hosting a traditional Irish jam session at 7 p.m. on the second an fourth Wednesdays of the month. All players of Irish tunes and instruments are welcome. Info: http://theglobalbean.com or call (360) 692-9582.

CHORUS OF SWEET ADELINES: Meet at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the First Baptist Church at 1410 Ohio St. in Bremerton. Women of all ages are invited to come out and sing. Info: www.kitsappines.org or call Kathy at (360) 297-8414.

WHISKEY CREEK STEAKHOUSE: Dixieland jazz first Tuesday 5 p.m. monthly; various artists seven nights a week, 5 p.m.; Trumpet by Yvonne, 5 p.m. Wednesdays. Whiskey Creek Steakhouse, 1918 Washington St., Keyport. Info: (360) 779-3481.

NATURE & OUTDOORS

TAKE A HIKE: The Kitsap Mountaineers coordinated courses will begin on Jan. 8, 2009. Info: www.kitsapmountaineers.org.

FULL MOON EVENING BEACHWALKS: Kitsap beach naturalists, through People for Puget Sound, will be guiding low-tide explorations of the creatures living on Kitsap’s beaches this winter to help educate on what we can do to protect the waters of Puget Sound at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 9 in Manchester (meet at the Manchester library), 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6 at Bainbridge’s Fort Ward State Park (meet at the north parking lot, near boat launch). All events are free and family friendly, bring a flashlight, wading boots and warm clothes. Reservations, call or email Daoud Miller at (206) 382-7007 ext. 217, dmiller@pugetsound.org. Info: Call Peg at (360) 337-7224 or email ptillery@co.kitsap.wa.us.

SUSTAINABLE GARDENING PRACTICES: The Washington State University Kitsap Extension will be giving seminars on sustainable gardening practices including topics of pest management, efficient watering systems, soil improvement and appropriate plants this winter. Classes are $35 per day, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Norm Dicks Government Center, 345 6th St. in Bremerton. For schedule, registration and more info, go to http://kitsap.wsu.edu/events/pdf/2009_Gardening_Courses.pdf or call (360) 337-7224.

KITSAP MOUNTAINEERS: Meet on the second Thursday of each month for social time and interesting program at the Kitsap Cabin, 3000 Seabeck Highway in Bremerton. Meetings are for members and anyone interested in learning more about the program. Info: www.kitsapmountaineers.org.

WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT: West Sound Wildlife Shelter on Bainbridge Island seeking volunteers for variety of duties ranging from hands-on work with wildlife to office work. Information (206) 780-8508 or www.westsoundwildlife.org.

PENINSULA WILDERNESS CLUB: Variety of outdoor activities. Meets 7 p.m. second Monday monthly, Kitsap Unitarian Bldg., 4418 Perry Ave., East Bremerton Visitors welcome. Information: www.pwckitsap.org

FILM

THE ORCHARD THEATER: Presents “Cadillac Records,” a musical biopic, exploring the musical era of the 1940s to the 1960’s along with the Swedish-made vampire flick “Let the Right One In” starting on Christmas Day, 822 Bay St. in Port Orchard. For tickets and show time information, go to www.orchardtheater.com or call (360) 850-1082.

THE LYNWOOD THEATRE: Features the Golden Globe-buzzing “Curious Case of Benjamin Button” opening Christmas Day, 4569 Lynwood Center Road on Bainbridge. For tickets and show time info, go to www.lynwoodtheatre.com or call (206) 842-3080.

‘VICKY CHRISTINA BARCELONA:’ Is the next film in the Admiral Theatre’s Independent Film Series, slated for 7 p.m. Jan. 2, 515 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. It’s the award-winning story of two young Americans in Spain, a straight-laced fiancé (Rebecca Hall) and a sexually adventurous free spirit (Scarlett Johansson), who meet a flamboyant Spanish artist (Javier Bardem) and his beautiful but insane wife (Penelope Cruz). Tickets are $7. Info: www.admiraltheatre.org, vickycristina-movie.com.

THE SPYGLASS FILM APPRECIATION SOCIETY: Features “Howl’s Moving Castle” at 7 p.m., Jan. 6 at the Port Orchard branch of the Kitsap Regional Library, 87 Sidney Ave. in Port Orchard. All ages, free. The Spyglass Film Appreciation Society meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Port Orchard library. Info: www.krl.org or call (360) 876-2224.

THE LYNWOOD THEATRE: Features two separate films — one for those who like to be naughty “Choke” and one for those who’d rather be nice “Happy Go Lucky” — this week Dec. 19-24 along with the Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire flick “Holiday Inn” for Classics Night at 7:15 Dec. 21 at 4569 Lynwood Center Road on Bainbridge. For tickets and show time information, go to www.lynwoodtheatre.com or call (206) 842-3080.

THEATER

IMPROVISING INTO 2009: The EDGE Improv hails the New Year with three shows in January, starting with its regular monthly show at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 3, followed by a special late-night benefit performance for the Helpline House later that night at 9:30 p.m. and another at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31 at the Bainbridge Performing Arts Playhouse, 200 Madison Ave. on Bainbridge. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, students, youth, military and teachers, for the 7:30 p.m. Jan. 3 and 31 shows. Admission to the 9:30 p.m. show Jan. 3 is a donation to Helpline. Info: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org, www.theedgeimprov.com or call BPA at (206) 842-8569.

SEATTLE OPERA PREVIEW: Norm Hollingshead gives a preview of the Bizet opera, “The Pearl Fishers,” a romance on the island of Sri Lanka at 2 p.m. Jan. 3 at the Bainbridge branch of the Kitsap Library, 1270 Madison Ave. N on Bainbridge, and then again at 2:15 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Sylvan Way branch, 1301 Sylvan Way in Bremerton. Both are all ages, free. Info: www.krl.org, (206) 842-4162, (260) 405-9100.

‘THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF AMERICA (ABRIDGED):’ This show was so big, and the history of America so vast, that the Changing Scene Theatre Northwest is presenting an encore performance back at its main performance space off of Highway 305 in East Bremerton during the month of December. All shows will be at 8 p.m. Dec. 26 and 27 at the Changing Scene with special holiday ticket prices of $10. Info: www.changingscenenorthwest.org or call (360) 792-8601.

JEWEL BOX NEEDS YOU: The Jewel Box Theatre in Poulsbo is seeking front of house and behind the scenes volunteers. Info: (360) 779-9688 or jewelboxpoulsbo@hotmail.com.

WWCA SEEKS VOLUNTEERS: Western Washington Center for the Arts theater in Port Orchard seeking volunteers for house manager, concession sales, lighting and ushers. For information on applying call (360) 769-7469.

BPA VOLUNTEERS: Bainbridge Performing Arts seeking volunteers for wide variety of jobs, from stagecraft and lighting to concessions and fundraising. Contact Ruth Lentz at rlentz@theplayhouse.org.

GIVING

$1 CHRISTMAS DINNER: The Port Orchard tavern Moondogs, Too will be hosting a $1-per-person Christmas Dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 25, 714 Bay St., with proceeds and donations collected that afternoon benefitting the South Kitsap Foodline. All ages. Info: www.moondogstoo.com or call (360) 895-2300.

GUIDE TO GIVING LOCAL, GIVING GREEN: Sustainable Bainbridge has compiled a guide to shopping local and shopping green this holiday season, including entries for local experiences, local farmers, artists and craftspeople, local non-profits and charities, one-of-a-kind gifts you can make and more available for download at www.sustainablebainbridge.net.

MISC.

DASH VENTURE: Defends the Suquamish Championship Wrestling Heavyweight title against Bolo at the next SCW event “Hatred Unleashed” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 27 at the Suquamish Tribal Center at 15838 Sandy Hook Road in Poulsbo. Doors at 6:30 p.m. All ages, tickets are $7 adults/$4 for kids. Info: www.myspace.com/SCWWashington.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON: The Admiral Theatre’s 10th annual community talent show, a fast-paced variety show of the area’s top talents is slated for 7 p.m. Dec. 27 at the Admiral, 515 Pacific Ave. in Bremerton. All ages, tickets are $12-20, main floor to the balcony. Info: www.admiraltheatre.org or call (360) 373-6743.

AMERICA’S GOT TALENT: The NBC TV show is coming to the Seattle area for the first time this season and looking for talented folks in Kitsap. The show is open to any act or any age, competing for a $1 million grand prize. The thing that makes the show unique, they say, is that any talent goes, no matter how zany or bizarre. To register and for more information, go to www.nbc.com/Americas_Got_Talent.

‘OPERATION SLEEPING BAG:’ Monica’s Waterfront Bakery in Old Towne Silverdale is accepting donations on behalf of the Taking It To The Streets ministry in its second annual sleeping bag drive. Sleeping bags and monetary contributions will be accepted at 3472 NW Byron St. in Silverdale through the winter. Info: www.waterfrontbakery.com or call (360) 698-2991.

‘THE BIG ONE:’ A traveling earthquake exhibit from the University of Washington’s Burke Museum will be at the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, 215 Erickson Ave., through Dec. 31. Info: www.bainbridgehistory.org or call (206) 842-2773.

FREE FIRST THURSDAYS: The board of directors at the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum are now offering free admission to the museum, located at 215 Ericksen Ave. on Bainbridge, during the first Thursday of every month. Info: www.bainbridgehistory.org or call (206) 842-2773.

VIOLINISTS TO FIDDLERS: Interested in turning your violin into a fiddle? An interest list is being compiled for an old-time fiddle workshop with Ken Waldman and and Tania Opland. Info: (206) 842-2306.

KITSAP COUNTY CHESS CLUB: Meets for games from 6-8 p.m. every Wednesday night at the downtown Bremerton library, 612 Fifth St. in Bremerton. All ages and experiences levels are welcome. Info: (360) 377-3955.

THE GREAT NORWESTERS: Toastmasters Club meets from noon to 1 p.m. every first and third Thursday of the month at The Northwest Design Center — 18850 State Highway 305 in Poulsbo. Info: http://greatnorwesters.freetoasthost.net or call Kathy (360) 301-1864.

AGATE PASSAGE FRIENDS: A Quaker silent worship group hosts a discussion of spiritual poetry at 9 a.m. the first Sunday of every month at Seabold Hall, 14454 Komedal Road on Bainbridge. Info: www.quaker.org/agate-passage.