Community Calendar

Celebrate the vibrancy and creative spirit of contemporary watercolor at the Illinois Watercolor Society 42nd National Exhibition, on view April 29 through May 30, 2026, at The Next Picture Show in Dixon. This annual juried showcase brings outstanding work from artists across the nation to Northwest Illinois, highlighting a dazzling range of techniques, perspectives, and expressive use of water-based media—watercolor, acrylic, and gouache.

The gallery is open Wednesday-Saturday or by appointment.

Nurture is a mixed media art exhibit that focuses on artists' perspective of the concept of Nurture. Join us to experience the inspiration and expressive interpretation of Nurture though art.

Immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Oz as we embark on a journey down the yellow brick road in this striking retelling of The Wizard of Oz, produced by Rockford Dance Company.

Doors open at 5:30 PM.

Wild Re-enchantment hosts a retreat May 15-17 at the Goose Island Cabin.

For the first time in the Black Box Theatre’s history, this production will be presented in partnership with Theatre 121, an exciting collaboration of two McHenry County theatres that brings this unforgettable story to an intimate and unique performance space.

Inspired by a true story, this moving and hilarious play follows a group of women from a rural English village who defy expectations by posing nude for a charity calendar after the loss of a dear friend. What starts as a bold fundraising idea quickly becomes a phenomenon, challenging local norms and inspiring people around the world. With humor, honesty, and vulnerability, this play explores grief, female friendship, body positivity, and the courage it takes to step into the spotlight, literally and figuratively.

Calendar Girls opens on Friday, May 1 at 7 p.m. Additional performances are scheduled at 7 p.m. on May 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16 and 2 p.m. on May 2, 3, 9, 16, and 17. Tickets are $23 for all seats and general seating is available. Seats can be reserved at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/theatre-121-and-the-blackbox-at-mcc-present-calendar-girls.

Content warning: Calendar Girls includes adult themes such as cancer, grief, and brief implied nudity, and may not be suitable for younger audiences.

The Vicar of St. Mary Meade (a sleepy English village where nothing ever happens) is understandably horrified to discover a dead body in his study. Everyone in the village is scandalized and (to be truthful) thrilled. The gossip spreads like wildfire and everyone is playing detective!

Have no fear. The Vicar’s inquisitive neighbor, Miss Marple, is on the case! Don’t miss this world premiere adaptation by playwright Margaret Raether of Agatha Christie’s very first Miss Marple novel.

On Saturday, May 16 and Saturday, May 24 there will be performances at both 4 and 7:30 p.m.

Composer/bassist/bandleader Matt Ulery has established himself as an icon at the intersection of Chicago jazz and contemporary composition. His ensemble takes this craft to new heights, elegantly orchestrating a cohort of woodwinds and brass over his core trio of bass, piano, and drums. While “calm with a soulful undertow” and “a tour-de-force crash course on everything Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus” (All About Jazz), perhaps the most notable aspect of his music is the cool, confident, sheer beauty

$30 In Advance / $35 At the Door / $6 Student

An exhibition of twenty-four original paintings created by the Plein Air Painters of Rockford depicts Rockford iconic scenes and surprises. Artworks include views of Klehm, Sinnissippi Gardens, Midway Village, Indian Hill Manor and many more. The exhibit is located in the Visitor Center at Klehm Arboretum.

Focus on Photography Art Exhibit

April 1 – May 16
Awards Reception, Friday, April 10th, 6:00-8:00pm
Awards Judge - Danielle Koenig
Music by Jeff Little on the Baby Grand Piano

Sponsored by Stephen Hart Photography

The 3rd Annual Focus on Photography Exhibit presents 56 works of art by 28 artists using a variety of photographic mediums such as digital, film, mixed and unique processes.

Participating artists include Les Allen, David Bingaman, Glenn Bodish, Bob Cholke, Rick Davis, Jane Erlandson, Tyler Farino, Jeanne Garrett, Timothy Griffith, Pam Hansen, Stephen Hart, Kat Heitzman, Maggie Isaacs, Bob Kapheim, Linnea Koch, Wolf Koch, Bob Logsdon, Jeff Oesterheld, Jennifer Osborne, Joe Popp, Wayne Proeger, Kate Reed, Stephonie A Schmitz, U. A. Short, Steve Toole, Joseph Virbickis, Holden White, and Jon Wildman.

Scenic Art Loop Exhibit

Taft Gallery, April 1 – May 31

This exhibit features work by Amy Laskye, Andrew Raeside, Catherine Recker, Christina Cruz, Rebecca Jayne Hennesey, Stephonie A. Schmitz and Theresa Blitgen.

The Scenic Art Loop is a self-guided tour through the Driftless region's picturesque hills and valleys, connecting visitors with local artists and their creative spaces. Participants can explore studios and galleries, engage directly with artists, and witness the artistic process from inception to completion. The experience is enriched by opportunities to enjoy local artisan foods, wines, craft brews, and spirits, highlighting the region's cultural and culinary offerings. The initiative encourages personal interaction with unique individuals, fostering a deeper appreciation for the area's hidden talents.