Artcetera

Check out these Beaufort County theater, music and art events coming up in February

By Nancy K. Wellard Special to The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette
USCB Center for the Arts is showcasing the photographs of Beaufort resident Jack Dempsey.
USCB Center for the Arts is showcasing the photographs of Beaufort resident Jack Dempsey. Submitted

In this first column of 2023, I send along my greetings and best wishes for the happiest years. I also take this opportunity to thank you for your gracious support of the cultural arts opportunities available to everyone in the Greater Lowcountry and to thank, at the same time, the phenomenal artists and performers who contribute to our enjoyment and edification.

PERFORMING ARTS

LEAN ENSEMBLE

COMING SOON: “MITCHELVILLE”

When a young man tries to save his Gullah family home, he dives into the history of his lineage, the Civil War, and the first town of Black freedmen in America. “Mitchelville” is a story about learning from the past, saving for the future and keeping a tradition going. This play is a special event for Lean Ensemble for several reasons: It was commissioned; it honors local history and culture; and its world premiere will take place in our community. Directed by Cezar Williams.

ARTS CENTER OF COASTAL CAROLINA

“GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER”

This classic is a witty and insightful reflection on two families confronted by their prejudices. With humor and insight, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” begins a conversation sure to continue at dinner tables long after the curtain comes down. Written by Todd Kreidler; directed by Patdro Harris. Best for ages 11 and up.

  • Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head
  • When: Feb 1-19
  • Info: artshhi.com or 843-842-2787

COMING SOON: “COMPANY”

On the night of his 35th birthday, Robert struggles to think of a wish as he blows out his candles. The lone New York bachelor, surrounded by married friends, is uncertain whether he should be happy with his lot in life or wish for his own romantic partner.

USCB CENTER FOR THE ARTS

“CROSS THAT RIVER”

“Cross That River” represents a significant moment in American history when Black cowboys helped settle the West. It is a story that’s never been told in this way. The unsettled West of the 1860s provides a new life and new dreams for Blue, who escapes from slavery to Texas. This compelling tale of freedom integrates fiction with historical fact, and each song presents a different page in this complicated chapter of American history.

MAIN STAGE COMMUNITY THEATRE

“THE ODD COUPLE”

One of the most celebrated American comedies of all time and considered Neil Simon’s most well-crafted and popular play, “The Odd Couple” is an hilarious take on the conflicts between two friends when they attempt to live together. Rated PG-13.

HILTON HEAD PREPARATORY THEATRE

“SHREK THE MUSICAL”

MUSIC

HILTON HEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

“WETOWN: GULLAH TRADITIONS IN THE HOLY CITY”

Guest conductor Kellen Gray curates and leads a concert of Gullah-Geechee influenced music, featuring the extraordinary story of the Jenkins Orphanage and its world-famous band. Saturday Night Live’s pianist Tuffus Zimbabwe adds his distinctive voice.

  • Where: First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head
  • When: Feb. 5 at 4 p.m.; Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Info: hhso.org or 843-842-2055

“GERSHWIN AND RAVEL”

John Morris Russell, conductor; Bella Hristova, violin

  • Where: First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head
  • When: Feb. 19 at 4 p.m.; Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Info: hhso.org or 843-842-2055

VISUAL ARTS

RED PIANO GALLERY

The compelling oil paintings of Peter Batchelder are featured this month. You will appreciate his work as you take in this vibrant landscape collection.

ART LEAGUE OF HILTON HEAD

“AVANT GARDNER: A CREATIVE EXPLORATION OF IMPERILED SPECIES”

Lisa D. Watson merges her love of art, gardens and environmental activism and raises awareness of the plight facing the natural world. In her current body of work, she explores endangered native plant species of the Southeast, highlighting their beauty and fragility in the face of increasing pressures on the natural environment. With sound art by Eric Chasalow.

  • Where: Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head
  • When: Through Feb 12
  • Info: coastaldiscovery.org

SOBA - SOCIETY OF BLUFFTON ARTISTS

STUDENT ART SHOW

Featuring the works of local high school students.

  • Where: 8 Church St., Bluffton
  • When: Feb. 6 through March 5 with opening reception Feb. 11
  • Info: sobagallery.com or 843-757-6586

PLUFF MUDD ART GALLERY

“WHERE’S THE LITTLE BLUE BOAT?”

It may have been towed away recently, but the Little Blue Boat lives on in the hearts and minds of all its local fans, as well as many Lowcountry artists. The artists at The Pluff Mudd Art Gallery in Old Town Bluffton were inspired by little “Bluey” being stuck in the pluff mud and have created some wonderful art in its memory.

  • Where: 27 Calhoun St., Bluffton
  • When: Through the month
  • Info: pluffmuddart.com or 843-757-5590

USCB CENTER FOR THE ARTS

USCB Center for the Arts is showcasing the photographs of Beaufort resident Jack Dempsey. His photographs taken in South America and the U.S. during the early 1970s show cultural differences through a wide variety of scenes and people in everyday life.

EVENTS

TASTE OF GULLAH

Native island heritage gets the star treatment at this celebration of all things Gullah. Lowcountry specialties such as barbecue ribs, shrimp and grits, conch stew, rice and beans, and okra gumbo will feed your body and soul. Enjoy storytelling, gospel music, De Aarts ob We People, hands-on crafts and more!

  • Where: Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head
  • When: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb 11
  • Info: artshhi.com or 843-842-2787

To reach Nancy K. Wellard email her at coastalartnews@gmail.com.

This story was originally published January 27, 2023 at 1:27 PM.

Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER