MOON is commissioned by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in partnership with Arizona Arts Live, University of Arizona; Cal Performances, UC Berkeley; Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; and Mark Morris Dance Group.
San Francisco Acting Workshop
This 8-week workshop offers actors a focused and experiential approach to Method-based work. Guided by Julie Dimas-Lockfeld, students train through body and voice warm-ups, individual scene work, and applied technique. Each week introduces a new layer—sensory awareness, atmosphere, objectives, actions, obstacles, and character arc—building toward a more grounded, truthful approach to performance.
Meklit
A Piece of Infinity, the latest album by Meklit, is an invitation to think, to love, and to groove. Celebrating the rich musical traditions of Ethiopia, the Addis-born, San Francisco based vocalist, songwriter, and composer molds folk tunes from a multitude of communities and cultures throughout Ethiopia into jazz-inflected fantasies imbued with warmth and reverence. At its center is Meklit’s voice, which soars and whispers, intoning strength and devotion in multiple languages. From songs of longing and love to children’s riddles and original compositions, Meklit traverses expansive sonic ground that offers just a glimpse at the infinite complexity of Ethiopian culture. Featuring guest appearances by harpist Brandee Younger and flutist Camille Thurman and recorded at San Francisco’s Women’s Audio Mission.
Parking
Center Street Garage, next door to The Freight, is currently open nightly until 1am except Sunday. More details here.
Public Transit
The Freight & Salvage is BARTable! Downtown Berkeley BART station is a half a block from the Freight. Details at bart.gov. Many AC Transit bus lines stop within a few blocks of the Freight. Details at actransit.org.
Nearby Favorites Bars/Restaurants
Revival Bar + Kitchen | 2102 Shattuck Avenue, (510) 549–9950
Comal Next Door | 2024 Shattuck Ave, (510) 422-662
Gather | 2200 Oxford Street @ Allston, (510) 809-0400
MLK Tribute Concert: Fight the Power!
Musician and visual artist Mark Montgomery French is an award-winning film composer with the group Spiky Blimp, host of the podcast “All Your Favorite Music is (Probably)…”, and Director of Audio Visual at Glide Memorial Church. In June 2025, he released his ambient protest album Thy Navel is a Goblet That Does Not Lack for Wine. He’s also a music historian noted for his talks All Your Favorite Music is (Probably) Black, Unsung Women of Music, and Black Country Before Beyoncé. He was formerly the co-leader of the ’90s progressive funk band Endangered Species.
Parking
Center Street Garage, next door to The Freight, is currently open nightly until 1am except Sunday. More details here.
Public Transit
The Freight & Salvage is BARTable! Downtown Berkeley BART station is a half a block from the Freight. Details at bart.gov. Many AC Transit bus lines stop within a few blocks of the Freight. Details at actransit.org.
Nearby Favorites Bars/Restaurants
Revival Bar + Kitchen | 2102 Shattuck Avenue, (510) 549–9950
Comal Next Door | 2024 Shattuck Ave, (510) 422-662
Gather | 2200 Oxford Street @ Allston, (510) 809-0400
Nidia Góngora
The most recognized singer from the Colombian Pacific coast, Latin Grammy-nominated Nidia Góngora is part of the 2025-26 Mid Atlantic Tours 2025-26 Roster. She recently collaborated with the Colombian reggaetón artist Feid, as well as the Costa Rican poet Shirley Campbell Barr. She released her recent work Pacífica Maravilla.
Parking
Center Street Garage, next door to The Freight, is currently open nightly until 1am except Sunday. More details here.
Public Transit
The Freight & Salvage is BARTable! Downtown Berkeley BART station is a half a block from the Freight. Details at bart.gov. Many AC Transit bus lines stop within a few blocks of the Freight. Details at actransit.org.
Nearby Favorites Bars/Restaurants
Revival Bar + Kitchen | 2102 Shattuck Avenue, (510) 549–9950
Comal Next Door | 2024 Shattuck Ave, (510) 422-662
Gather | 2200 Oxford Street @ Allston, (510) 809-0400
The Pharcyde
In the early ’90s, The Pharcyde emerged with a unique style in the gangsta rap-dominated West-Coast scene, embracing a self-deprecating and quirky approach that set them apart. Their debut, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde, flipped hip-hop conventions on their head, with hits like “Oh Shit,” “Otha Fish,” and “Passing Me By,” leading it to achieve platinum status and comparisons to De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. Their second album, Labcabincalifornia, showcased their forward-thinking vision by featuring the young J Dilla and Spike Jonze’s direction for the “Drop” video. Decades later, The Pharcyde still tours, staying true to their original charm and artistry while continuing to influence new generations in hip-hop.
Parking
Center Street Garage, next door to The Freight, is currently open nightly until 1am except Sunday. More details here.
Public Transit
The Freight & Salvage is BARTable! Downtown Berkeley BART station is a half a block from the Freight. Details at bart.gov. Many AC Transit bus lines stop within a few blocks of the Freight. Details at actransit.org.
Nearby Favorites Bars/Restaurants
Revival Bar + Kitchen | 2102 Shattuck Avenue, (510) 549–9950
Comal Next Door | 2024 Shattuck Ave, (510) 422-662
Gather | 2200 Oxford Street @ Allston, (510) 809-0400
Angel Bat Dawid & 9MAGICFOREVER1
N.G.S.R.S is an innovative Chicago-based experimental duo formed by artists Angel Bat Dawid and 9MAGICFOREVER1. Both are accomplished composers, producers, multi-instrumentalists and DJ’s; Angel specializes in clarinet, piano, electronics, and vocals, while 9MAGICFOREVER1 brings expertise in electronics, guitar, saxophone, flute, bass, piano, and drum/beatmaking. Inspired by Chicago’s rich traditions of free jazz, avant-garde music, and Sun Ra’s cosmic explorations, they craft immersive afrofuturist soundscapes that seamlessly blend improvisation, electronic beats, and striking visual elements.
Parking
Center Street Garage, next door to The Freight, is currently open nightly until 1am except Sunday. More details here.
Public Transit
The Freight & Salvage is BARTable! Downtown Berkeley BART station is a half a block from the Freight. Details at bart.gov. Many AC Transit bus lines stop within a few blocks of the Freight. Details at actransit.org.
Nearby Favorites Bars/Restaurants
Revival Bar + Kitchen | 2102 Shattuck Avenue, (510) 549–9950
Comal Next Door | 2024 Shattuck Ave, (510) 422-662
Gather | 2200 Oxford Street @ Allston, (510) 809-0400
D.K. Harrell
Guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter D.K. Harrell, one of the most formidable young stars of the current blues resurgence, sounds like no one else on the scene today. With his stinging, single-note string bending, deep soul vocals, and attention-grabbing original songs, the 27-year-old Harrell–a major draw at blues festivals around the world–is already in a league of his own.
Mistah F.A.B. with Kev Choice Ensemble
Mistah F.A.B.’s breakout album, 2005’s Son of a Pimp, established the North Oakland emcee as a rising star and a major factor in a resurgent Bay Area rap scene, which would demand national attention from hip-hop’s cultural gatekeepers. A decade later—older, wiser, and more resilient—FAB returns with Son of A Pimp 2, a no-holds-barred, 21-track extravaganza he considers the truest representation of his artistic talent to date. The list of features is sure to raise eyebrows, as is the fact that FAB more than holds his own against some of the rap world’s most celebrated artists from practically every region in the United States. Just as impressive as the tracks themselves is the fact that FAB assembled his all-star roster of talent from his friends list, leveraging the networking he’s been doing for years as a go-to guy for out-of-town artists visiting the Bay, as well as his solid rep within Oakland.
Antibalas
It’s hard to believe that more than twenty years have passed since Antibalas’s humble beginning as a neighborhood dance/protest band in the block parties and underground parties in pre-gentrified Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Over the past two decades, they have evolved into what The Guardian called “one of the world’s finest Afrobeat bands” while enjoying equal renown for their cross-genre collaborations with legends of popular music. With a heavy balance of experience and new blood, the group leaps into their new Daptone Records full-length “Fu Chronicles.”
Azure McCall
She is heir to the vocal tradition of Sarah Vaughn, Carmen McRae, and Ella Fitzgerald.
Her warmth and sense of humor fuel every interpretation.
After releasing her first CD ‘Body and Soul’, she was asked by the great bassist, once married to Ella Fitzgerald, to be his vocalist on tour. His band consisted of Geoff Keezer, Kareem Riggins, Joe Lovano, Nicholas Peyton, and, of course, Ray Brown. She accepted, and it began an incredible jazz journey, school was in!
“Whitney!” Starring Dee Dee Simon
Dee Dee Simon is a vocal powerhouse who has captivated audiences across the nation with her dynamic stage presence and extraordinary voice. She first gained national attention as a star on America’s Got Talent, then solidified her reputation as a world-class entertainer when she won the prestigious Showtime at the Apollo. Over the years, Dee Dee has been honored as Bay Area Entertainer of the Year multiple times, a testament to her artistry, charisma, and dedication to her craft.
Ranzel Merritt
Step into the sonic universe of Ranzel Merritt, a visionary at the forefront of the new-school jazz and cultural music movement. Where vintage jazz fusion meets modern swagger, Ranzel blends hip hop, jazz, and funk into a sound both timeless and fresh, ushering in the Bay Area’s New Jazz Era.
A gifted saxophonist, composer, and smooth-as-silk vocalist, Ranzel is the embodiment of sophisticated funk. His music bridges generations, weaving old-school grooves with new-school edge, creating a vibe that’s as cerebral as it is soulful.
Pastor Rodney D. Smith: The Victory Experience Live
Pastor Rodney is a Gospel R&B artist whose music bridges the sacred and the soulful. With a sound rooted in love, healing, and truth, he invites listeners into a space where faith feels personal and authentic.
His debut mixtape, Love Is Here: A Therapy Session 1, introduced the world to his signature blend of spiritual depth and emotional honesty. Now, his latest project, The Love Experiment, continues the journey—exploring the power, pain, and purpose of love through the lens of faith. Whether preaching from the pulpit or performing on stage, Pastor Rodney’s mission remains the same: to remind the world that love still wins.
Lalah Hathaway
A sought-after collaborator to some of today’s top hitmakers, undeniable music royalty, and vocal abilities matched by few, five-time Grammy award-winning Lalah Hathaway is an artist, singer/songwriter, and producer not to be slept on. A purveyor of many genres whilst sharing Grammy-winning records with the likes of Beyoncé (the only two to have ever won in the Best Traditional R&B Performance category three times), Lalah’s seven solo albums are complemented by an illustrious track record of collaborations with the likes of Pharrell Williams, Kendrick Lamar, Dr. Dre, and Anderson. Paak, Robert Glasper, Rapsody, Snoop Dogg, Esperanza Spalding, and more.
The Seastrunk Brothers
When it comes to homegrown harmony, timeless soul, and the power of brotherly love, The Seastrunk Brothers of San Francisco deliver it all with unmatched style. Known for their dazzling attire, smooth choreography, and electrifying stage presence, these four legendary brothers have spent five decades captivating audiences with their artistry.
Celebrate the New Year in Soulful Fashion. Join us as we honor 50 incredible years of the Seastrunk Brothers’ musical journey. This milestone celebration pays tribute to the golden era of soul, featuring classics from The Four Tops, The Temptations, Stylistics, Dramatics, The O’Jays, Motown favorites, and more.
Day26
Since their breakout in 2007, DAY26 has solidified their place as one of the premier male R&B groups of the 21st century. Known for their lush harmonies, emotional storytelling, and electrifying live performances, the group continues to represent unity, authenticity, and the timeless essence of real R&B.
Formed on MTV’s hit series Making the Band 4 under Sean “Diddy” Combs- members Brian, Willie, Robert, Mike, and Qwanell quickly became household names, captivating millions with their chemistry, raw talent, and brotherhood
Day26 Pre Show Vip Experience (Show Ticket Not Included)
Since their breakout in 2007, DAY26 has solidified their place as one of the premier male R&B groups of the 21st century. Known for their lush harmonies, emotional storytelling, and electrifying live performances, the group continues to represent unity, authenticity, and the timeless essence of real R&B.
Formed on MTV’s hit series Making the Band 4 under Sean “Diddy” Combs- members Brian, Willie, Robert, Mike, and Qwanell quickly became household names, captivating millions with their chemistry, raw talent, and brotherhood
Pacific Mambo Orchestra
Recognized as a global phenomenon, Grammy® Award-Winning Latin Big Band Pacific Mambo Orchestra’s (PMO) original and ingenious repertoire is spiked with infectious energy and superb musicianship. PMO effortlessly blends genre-bending originals and covers as diverse as Stevie Wonder’s ‘Overjoyed’, Dizzy Gillespie’s ‘Night in Tunisia’, and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s 2nd Piano Concerto into the easily recognizable PMO sound!
Alameda County Fair
Save BIG on Fair thrills during the Advance Savings Sale. Save with reduced prices through June 18, 2026, midnight. Offer applies to Fair admission, carnival wristbands, concerts and the annual Wine Fest or save more with a Season Pass and pay less than $3 a day for admission.
An Evening with Karyn White
The stunning “Superwoman” herself, Karyn White, takes theOrinda Theatre stage for a soulful night of timeless hits. With elegance,power, and passion, she delivers an unforgettable evening of music andmemories. A rare chance to experience a living legend up close!
A USS Hornet New Years Eve Big Band Gala
Headlining the evening is 3 O’Clock Jump, a 16-piece classic Big Band that plays songs made famous by Count Basie, Glenn Miller, and Harry James. They play such favorites as In the Mood, Moonlight Serenade, Route 66, Tuxedo Junction, Pennsylvania 6-500, 1 O’clock Jump, 2 O’clock Jump plus many more. Get ready to Rhumba, Cha Cha, Waltz and Swing the night away.
Virtual | International Conference on Cancer Science & Therapy
We are pleased to invite you to the INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ONCANCER SCIENCE & THERAPY, taking place on July 20, 21, 2026, in Paris, France Theme: “Innovating Cancer Care: Bridging Research, Precision, and Patient-Centered Therapy” Join over 300 international professionals, Oncologists, educators, and researchers for keynote sessions, presentations, panel discussions, and global networking opportunities focused on Innovating Cancer Care: Bridging Research, Precision, and Patient-Centered Therapy.
Discordia Gameshow
Discordia Gameshow is an immersive, interactive, and chaotic live performance that blurs the line between game show, church, and surreal ritual. Hosted by the eccentric Reverend Doctor AL d’Fraud — a televangelist game-show host devoted to the goddess Eris Discordia, deity of chaos — the show leads audiences on a wild, participatory quest to “find the goddess” through laughter, chance, and confusion.
Sunset Yoga
A slow, nature-inspired flow to ground and renew.
As the sun melts into the horizon, this soulful slow flow invites you to move with the rhythm of the fading light. Through gentle, intentional sequences, you’ll explore mindful movement, fluid transitions, and deep, grounding breath to ease tension and restore balance after the week.
Each class weaves together somatic awareness, soft stretches, and guided meditation—allowing your body to unwind and your mind to settle into stillness. You’ll leave feeling centered, nourished, and open-hearted, ready to welcome the new week ahead.
Virtual | 11th International Congress on Cancer Science and Radiology 2026
Greetings from Inovine Scientific Meetings. Inovine Scientific Meetings, the world class open access publisher & scientific event’s organizer is delighted to welcome you for the prestigious “11th International Congress on Cancer Science Radiology” during July 22-23, 2026, at Tokyo, Japan.
Virtual | 2nd International Conference on Nursing and Healthcare
The 1st International Conference on Nursing and Healthcare set a strong foundation for advancing knowledge, practice, and collaboration in global healthcare. Building on this success, we are delighted to announce the 2nd International Conference on Nursing and Healthcare, scheduled to be held on November 16-17, 2026, in Dubai, UAE. This prestigious event will once again bring together nurses, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders from around the world to explore the latest innovations, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of nursing and healthcare.
Virtual | International Conference on Advances in Surgery and Anesthesia
The inaugural International Conference on Advances in Surgery and Anesthesia set a high benchmark for advancing knowledge and collaboration in surgical practice and patient care. We are excited to announce that preparations are underway for the International Conference on Advances in Surgery and Anesthesia, which will take place in Singapore City, Singapore, on July 06-07, 2026.
Sherri Shepherd: Make It Make Sense Tour
Sherri Shepherd was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Sherri started her stand-up career in 1990 while working in Beverly Hills as a legal secretary. In 1995, she took the big plunge, stepped out on faith, and quit her secretarial job. 12 days later she booked her first series as a regular on WB’s Cleghorne. It lasted only a season; and since unemployment didn’t pay the bills but typing did, Sherri had to go back to the law firm for the next three years. She is best-known for her role as Ramona on ABC’s Less Than Perfect. Not leaving her stand-up roots, Sherri still performs regularly at the Comedy Store, the Laugh Factory and the Improv.
Becky Robinson: Members Only Tour
Originally from Portland, Oregon, Becky Robinson is an LA-based comedian, writer, actor, and voice-over star that has gone from viral sensation to a sold-out theater act.
You may also know her as the “Entitled Housewife”, the outspoken viral golf character Becky created who co-starred in the two virtual comedy variety specials she self-produced to help spread laughter during the yearlong pandemic. Becky’s explosively unique character antics and viral videos have racked up millions of views across social media and garnered fans across the country (and the country clubs!). In 2022, she released the original song ‘Mama Needs a Claw’ that can be heard on the radio or any major streaming service.
Today, the comedian is on her highly anticipated Member’s Only Tour and was included in Deadline’s “The Future Of Funny: 15 Comedians To Watch In 2025.” She continues to sell-out around the world and will be bringing her tour for the first time to Europe this June. In addition to touring internationally as a stand-up comedian, Becky was previously named a JFL Montreal New Face of Comedy where her stand-out multi-character performance landed her a sketch show development deal and a number of voiceover jobs with DreamWorks, Nickelodeon and Netflix.
Mandy Patinkin in Concert: JUKEBOX
“Mandy can turn an evening in the theater into an explosion of unbridled laughter!” —Chicago Sun-Times
“Mandy is in the business of show stopping.” —The New Yorker
Tony-winning Broadway legend, Emmy-winning TV star, renowned for creating timeless characters in movies such as The Princess Bride, Yentl, and Dick Tracy — Mandy Patinkin presents his new show, Mandy Patinkin in Concert: JUKEBOX.
With Adam Ben-David on piano, JUKEBOX features Mandy’s own hand-picked collection of classic musical numbers, expressed as only he can through a unique mastery of word and song. An unparalleled body of work from one of North America’s preeminent entertainers.
Dr. MLK Tribute | Music of Sly and the Family Stone featured at In The Name of Love
LIVING JAZZ PRESENTS
TRIBUTE TO DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
ft. THE MUSIC of SLY & THE FAMILY STONE
KEV CHOICE, MUSIC DIRECTOR
ARTISTS: Adrian Marcel ■ Ashling “Biscuit” Cole ■ August Lee Stevens ■ Awesöme Orchestra Collective ■ Black London ■ Bryan Dyer ■ Kev Choice ■ Martin Luther McCoy ■ Oaktown Jazz Workshops ■ Rustee Allen ■ RyanNicole ■ Silk E ■ Sundra Manning ■ Terrie Odabi ■ TURFinc
ARRANGERS: Brian Adam McCune ■ Kev Choice ■ Mike Blankenship ■ Vincent Rillera
Oakland’s largest civic and cultural event honoring Martin Luther King Jr., returns to the Paramount Theatre for its 22nd anniversary.
Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special
⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in San Francisco. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Valentine’s Day Special at St Ignatius Church under the gentle glow of candlelight.
M. Butterfly
David Henry Hwang’s M. Butterfly is a captivating drama that subverts Puccini’s Madame Butterfly through the true story of a French diplomat’s 20-year affair with a Chinese opera singer. As cultural and personal identities blur, the play challenges our assumptions about love, power, and deception. With its clever twists and poignant humor, M. Butterfly is a thought-provoking exploration of desire, illusion, and the complexities of human connection.
PHOTOS | A.C.T.’s Annual Gala: Ignite the Night
Event: A.C.T.’s Annual Gala: Ignite the Night
Date: October 24, 2025
Location: St. Joseph’s Arts Society, San Francisco
Photos: Andrew Caulfield and Jessica Monroy for Drew Altizer Photography
On Friday, October 24, American Conservatory Theater hosted its Annual Gala at the St. Joseph’s Arts Society—igniting the night in celebration of theater! And what a sensational night it was—emceed by the Bay Area’s own Ryan Nicole Austin and featuring a roof-raising and soul-stirring performance by Grammy nominee Quentin Earl Darrington, star of A.C.T.’s Hippest Trip—The Soul Train Musical, with a dance party courtesy of Spellbound DJ! The event was a smashing success, raising over $620,000 to date to support all of A.C.T.’s mission-driven programming.
Notable attendees:
Ken Fulk and his husband Kurt Wootton – A.C.T. Board of Trustees member and Founder/Designer of the Saint Joseph’s Arts Society, Pam MacKinnon – A.C.T. Artistic Director, Ann & Rod Marymor – Gala Co-Chairs and Rod is also an A.C.T. Board of Trustees member, Karesha McGee – Gala Co-Chair and A.C.T. Board of Trustees member, Caroline Nassif – Gala Co-Chair and A.C.T. Board of Trustees member
View more images in Event Photo Galleries and Videos
PHOTOS | San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Business Awards
Event: Root Division’s 24th Annual Art Auction & Exhibition
Date: October 23, 2025
Location: Root Division, San Francisco
Photos: Jessica Monroy for Drew Altizer Photography
The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Excellence in Business Awards on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the historic Regency Ballroom, marking the 175th anniversary of the Chamber and its legacy of driving economic growth, innovation, and community leadership. The event, themed “Film Noir Elegance,” recognized the Bay Area’s most outstanding entrepreneurs, corporate citizens, and nonprofits who embody the spirit of innovation, inclusion, and resilience that define San Francisco’s business community. Congratulations to all Award Winners and Nominees.
Notable attendees
Rodney Fong – President & CEO, SF Chamber, Cammy Blackstone – SF Chamber Board Chair, AT&T, Papia Gambelin – SF Chamber Board Member, United Airlines
View more images in Event Photo Galleries and Videos
“Echoes” by Seiko Tachibana
Themes+Projects is pleased to announce Echoes by Japanese-American artist, Seiko Tachibana opening November 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026. Celebrating Tachibana’s fourth solo show with the gallery, Echoes features a range of new works including soft botanical mixed-media color pencil drawings on wood panels to subdued, fractal patterned acrylic paintings on canvas.
Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More
⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in San Francisco. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Vivaldi at St. Ignatius Church under the gentle glow of candlelight.
Glowfari
This wildly popular, family-friendly experience features hundreds of ALL new, larger-than-life animal lanterns throughout the Zoo. Each lantern tells the story of the ongoing journey of wildlife, the importance of every species on our planet, and Oakland Zoo’s commitment to conservation.
This year’s experience includes new themes — explore the future of Oakland, learn about coexisting with wildlife, swim through the reef to see colorful underwater creatures, go on a safari through the savanna to spot iconic African animals, meet some interesting bugs that are all around us, and end the night by taking the train through the reptile world.
Into the Woods
James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim explore the darker side of happily ever after in the timeless and ever-relevant Into the Woods. Beloved storybook characters collide as this timeless tale weaves together the stories of a childless Baker and his wife, Cinderella’s quest for love, and Jack’s journey to giant-slaying fame. With its rich blend of humor, heartache, and unforgettable melodies, Into the Woods reveals that even the most familiar stories hold unexpected twists and profound lessons.
PHOTOS | Root Division’s 24th Annual Art Auction & Exhibition
Event: Root Division’s 24th Annual Art Auction & Exhibition
Date: October 23, 2025
Location: Root Division, San Francisco
Photos: Natalie Schrik for Drew Altizer Photography
Bay Area arts supporters came together on October 23rd for Root Division’s 24th Annual Benefit Art Auction at the organization’s headquarters. The event featured Bay Area and internationally renowned artists, including Enrique Chagoya, Binh Danh, Kota Ezawa, Todd Hido, Adia Millett, Wanxin Zhang, Lava Thomas, and more than 160 talented artists. The evening also honored Root Division alum Cathy Lu, 2022 SFMOMA SECA Art Award winner.
Root Division was proud to team up with incredible gallery partners such as Anglim/Trimble, Arion Press, Jessica Silverman Gallery, Catharine Clark Gallery, Haines Gallery, Rena Bransten Gallery, and Jack Fischer Gallery. Proceeds raised at Art Auction help Root Division support SF artists and provide free art education for 800 local youth, as well as studios, fellowships, and community programming.
Notable attendees
Catharine Clark – Gallerist/gallery partner, Drusie Davis and Jim Davis – Art Collector, Sharon Tanebaum and Jonathan Carver Moore – Auction Co-Chairs, Maya Fuji – Featured Artist, Cathy Lu – Artist Honoree, Demitri Broxton – Executive Director
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Free Uber, Lyft, and Cab Rides by Wells Call Injury Lawyers
The program is simple. If you have been drinking – take an Uber, Lyft, or cab, and you’ll get a reimbursement from us! We want you home safe this holiday season.
PHOTOS | 16th Silicon Valley African Film Festival Opening Night Ceremony
Event: Silicon Valley African Film Festival Opening Night Ceremony
Date: October 9-12, 2025
Location: Historic Hoover Theater, San Jose
Photos: Andrew Caulfield and Natalie Schrik for Drew Altizer Photography
From October 10-12, filmmakers representing 30 countries from the African diaspora visited San Jose for the Silicon Valley African Film Festival to share their visions of creativity over the span of three days through screenings, dialogues, and live performances.
Over the weekend, attendees experienced a variety of themes, formats, and engagements. Filmmakers engaged in post-screening dialogues to discuss their creative processes and inspiration with audiences. Showcasing a total of 90 films, the SVAFF demonstrates the power of storytelling and building cross-cultural connections.
Founder of the SVAFF, Chike Nwoffiah, said of this year’s celebrations, “All the filmmakers and their creative teams are very gratified by the increasing interest and enormous support of the growing international audiences.” Nwoffiah, a filmmaker himself, started the program sixteen years ago to connect a growing film industry to new audiences.
Silicon Valley Chief of Protocol, Deanna Tryon, who was awarded the UBUNTU Award for her service to the community, shared, “It is in our DNA at the Silicon Valley Office of Protocol to help unite international cultures through excellent shared activities such as the highly-acclaimed Silicon Valley African Film Festival in San Jose” stated Chief of Protocol Deanna Tryon. “It is an honor and privilege to help showcase the creative talent of the African continent to a wider audience.”
The SVAFF highlights a burgeoning film industry in Africa. According to a 2022 UNESCO report, it is estimated that the sector currently accounts for US$5 billion and employs five million people. The Pan African Federation of Filmmakers estimates the sector has the potential for US$20 billion and 20 million jobs.
Notable attendees
Chike Nwoffiah – Founder, SVAFF, Deanna Tryon – Silicon Valley Chief of Protocol, Awardee, State Assemblymember Ash Kalra – 27th Assembly District, Supervisor Lisa Gauthier – San Mateo County, Councilmember Webster Lincoln – East Palo Alto
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Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA
⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in San Jose. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Queen vs. ABBA at Hammer Theatre Center under the gentle glow of candlelight.
