Thank goodness we have another three-day holiday to usher us into the new year. But let’s celebrate along the way with some discussions about current and historical things, other celebrations, and more. 

Thursday, Jan. 15

Sonesta

“Making History Fun Again Speaker Series” at the legendary Redwood Room presents Joseph Amster, founder of Emperor Norton’s Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine, appropriately appearing as Emperor Norton, the eccentric and beloved historical figure. The monthly program is designed to bring the city’s colorful history to life, “while connecting generations through storytelling, culture, and spirited conversation.” Themed specialty cocktails will also be available for purchase, including Pisco Punch, martinis, and others. 6 p.m. at the Clift Hotel. Free with RSVP here.

Courtesy Manny’s

Tonight is part 2 of Manny’s Venezuela discussions: What Does Maduro’s Removal Mean for Venezuela? Join Venezuela experts, Dr. Dorothy Kronick from U.C. Berkeley and Venezuelan Simon Olavarria from Instawork. Tickets: $5 and change.

SF Sketchfest: The San Francisco Comedy Festival opens today, presenting multiple nonstop live sketch, improv, stand-up, podcasts, film and television events, tributes, and more each day. Through Feb. 1. Ticket prices vary by performance.

Friday, Jan. 16

Saturday, Jan. 17

Sunday, Jan. 18

I never saw Claude move, even on the Claude Cam, but knowing there isn’t an opportunity for that now brings a tear and a pout. For all us sentimental saps, Cal Academy is hosting a commemoration celebration for the white guy, who sadly died of cancer last month. …

Monday, Jan. 19

Here are my picks for  MLK Day (for more visit the NorcalMLKFoundation)

Courtesy Glide Memorial Church

Glide Memorial Church is planning a march on Fourth and King streets near the CalTrain station at 9 a.m. to Yerba Buena Park, where there will be speakers, with the Gilde Ensemble performing at 2 p.m. at the Museum of African Diaspora. Free. 

Courtesy Norcal Foundation

I’ve always been a fan of St. Mary’s Noontime Concerts, and today’s concert, Beyond the Dream will honor the legacy of Dr. King. Free.

Tuesday, Jan. 20

Courtesy

Generally, I prefer not repeating venues in a week, but this is worthwhile: the award-winning Will and Willie. That would be San Francisco’s funny man/political satirist/Voice contributor, Will Durst, and our former mayor/man about town/political guy, Willie Brown. 6 p.m. at Manny’s. Tickets $18 and change.

Wednesday, Jan. 21

Courtesy ACT

ACT’s preview tonight of Tennessee Williams’s Streetcar Named Desire, is sold out as are the next few days, so if you’d like to see the story of a romantic triangle set in 1940’s New Orleans with themes of family, trauma, and destruction with no props or a set, and the entire unabridged text of Williams’s play, get to it. At the Toni Reme Theater, tickets are available for $25. 

So as always, enjoy your week and holiday, and be nice to each other. 

Related