BETHLEHEM social calendar
ABOUT MR. IMAGINATION: Dr. Norman Girardot, an expert in outsider art and a close friend of Mr. Imagination, will delve into the extraordinary life and work of Gregory Warmack (1948-2012), known professionally as Mr. Imagination. An outsider artist, Mr. Imagination was celebrated for his unique and creative use of industrial sandstone, bottle caps and found objects in his sculptures, reflecting his vibrant originality and the spiritual influence of his ancestors. This event, particularly significant during Black History Month, offers a chance to explore the contributions of a remarkable African American artist to the local and global art scene. Dr. Girardot’s presentation promises to be a captivating journey through the life and imagination of a truly innovative artist. This special event, titled, “Imagining Mr. Imagination: Artistic Friend of Bethlehem and the Universe,” will take place Feb. 17, at 1:30 p.m.
GREAT DECISIONS SERIES: The 2023 lecture series runs 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 and March 6, 13, 20 and 27 at Kirkland Village Retirement Community, 1 Kirkland Village Circle. For topics and tickets, visit ywcabethlehem.org/homepage/what-we-do/specialevents/great-decisions-lecture-series/. Sessions are subject to change without prior notice- check the website for notifications
WATERSHED TRAINING: Penn State Extension Services is offering a webinar to provide information on Master Watershed Steward programs in Berks, Lehigh, Northampton and Schuylkill counties from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18. This event is designed for those who want to make a positive difference in their communities, have a keen interest in the environment, are willing to learn and teach, and have time to volunteer. Penn State Extension offers this workshop free of charge, however, participants must register by Jan. 17 to receive the link to access the webinar. More information is available on the Penn State Extension website at extension.psu.edu/master-watershed-steward-training-info-for-berks-lehigh-northampton-and-schuylkill-counties.
“SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL” The Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts) presents its production of “The School for Scandal” by Richard Brinsley Sheridan, Jan. 26-28. The production is directed by Alison Gilheany as part of the theatre department’s Alumni Artist-in-Residence Program and features an incredible cast. This classic satirical comedy is sure to entertain audiences. Evening performances Jan. 26 and 27 at 7. Matinee performance Jan. 28 at 2. Tickets are available for purchase online at CharterArts.org.
ROTUNDA EXHIBIT: Through Feb. 15: Devyn L. Brooks: Paintings/Ceramics /Mixed Media. Reception Jan. 21 from 2 to 4 p.m. The exhibition is sponsored by the Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission (bfac-lv.org) Bethlehem Town Hall Rotunda Gallery at 10 E. Church St., Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 18
“Snowy Steel” 16X20 canvas painting. 1 to 3 p.m. Cost. Bethlehem Township Community Center, 2900 Farmersville Road. Call 610-332-1900 or visit bethlehemtownship.org
Lehigh Valley Pops Orchestra, 9 a.m. Conductor Ron DeGrandis. 9 to 10:30 a.m. 1633 W. Elm St., Allentown. Information: call 610-437-3700 or visit lvactivelife.org/
Current Events Informal Discussion Group: Moderator: David M. Bell. World, national, state and local topics. Free. 2 p.m. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W. Elm St., Allentown. Information: call 610-437-3700 or visit lvactivelife.org/
Friday, Jan. 19
Elm Street Jazz Workshop rehearsals, 9 a.m. Director: Allan Meyerson. 1633 W. Elm St., Allentown. Information: call 610-437-3700 or visit lvactivelife.org/
Socrates Café. Moderator Saul Coplan. Begins with a question chosen by the group and ends with even more questions. Free to members. 10 a.m. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W. Elm St., Allentown. Call 610-437-3700 for information.
Saturday, January 20
Everything Must Go – music and dance. A celebration of letting go. Cost. 7:30 p.m. Visit icehousetonight.org/events
Saturday Night Dance. 7 to 10 p.m. “Chas Band.” Cost per person includes light refreshments. Singles and couples welcome. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W Elm St. Allentown. Call 610-437-3700.
Sunday, Jan. 21
National Museum of Industrial History. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free museum admission for children 12 and under when accompanied by an adult. Metal Melting for Kids activity. S.T.E.A.M. adventures: Styrofoam printmaking; drop-in style family program. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 602 E. Second St. Visitnmih.org/event/steamadventures0124/
Reception for Devyn L. Brooks: Origins. Paintings/Ceramics /Mixed Media. 2 to 4 p.m. Sponsored by the Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission. Visit bfac-lv.org. Bethlehem Town Hall Rotunda Gallery, 10 E. Church St.
Tuesday, Jan. 23
Good Vibrations Chorus led by Nancy Shumaker. All singers welcome. 9:30 a.m. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W. Elm St.
Wednesday, Jan. 24
Wednesday Dance. 1 to 3 p.m. Johnny K and friends. Cost per person includes light refreshments. Singles and couples welcome. Lehigh Valley Active Life, 1633 W Elm St. Allentown. Call 610-437-3700.