Downtowner Online

Downtowner Online

New This Week

March 17-23, 2010

Contents

Featured Events

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day – Wednesday

Come on down and enjoy the blarney.  Green beer, corned beef and a lot of fun awaits you at establishments all over downtown.  Don’t forget to wear your favorite green outfit.  Check out the listings below highlighted in GREEN for St. Patrick’s Day events at participating locations. 

2010 NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship – Thursday and Saturday

March Madness comes to San Jose.  An estimated 18,000 sport fans will make their way to the HP Pavilion this Thursday and Saturday for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championships, first and second round.  11:30 am and 4:20 pm Thurs; 1 pm Sat.  HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St.  $249, www.sjsuspartans.com   

Cirque du Soleil Celebrates Silicon Valley businesses – through Sunday

Silicon Valley area businesses are invited to enjoy a 15% discount on select shows.  OVO by Cirque du Soleil is playing under the blue and yellow Grand Chapiteau at the Taylor Street Bridge.  To redeem this offer please visit
www.cirquedusoleil.com/SJDowntownAssociation 

Note:  we also saw a deal for the final shows on travelzoo.com.

This week’s events

Stage and Concerts

Wednesday-Sunday and Tuesday through Apr. 18 – SJ Repertory Theatre presents “Ain’t Misbehavin” – A jazzy musical full of love and laughter that takes through the ups and downs of the African American experience during the 1920s and 30s.  8 pm Wed-Fri; 3pm and 8 pm Sat; 2 pm and 7 pm Sun; 7:30 pm Tues.  101 Paseo de San Antonio. $30-$51, 367-7255 or www.sjrep.com

Wednesday-Sunday – Broadway San Jose presents “Legally Blonde the Musical” –The hit comedy musical about an underestimated blonde UCLA sorority star Elle Woods doesn't take "no" for an answer.  7:30 pm Wed-Thurs; 8 pm Fri; 2 pm and 8 pm Sat; 1 pm and 6 pm Sun.  Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd.  $20-$88, www.broadwaysanjose.com

Wednesday-Sunday – Final shows of Cirque du Soleil’s “OVO” – OVO tells the tale of a mysterious egg that magically appears before a group of insects full of life, love, energy and curiosity.  The show highlights the physical demands of human performance. 8 pm Wed; 4 pm and 8 pm Thurs-Sat; 1 pm and 5 pm Sun.  Grand Chapiteau at Taylor Street Bridge and Highway 87. $42-$125, www.cirquedusoleil.com 

Wednesday – Comedy at the Improv: SlantED Comedy St. Patrick’s Special – A night full of laughs with comedians Sammy Obeid and Kabeezy. 8 pm.  62 S.  Second St.  $15, 280-7475 or www.symfonee.com/Improv/sanjose

Thursday-Sunday through Apr. 18 – City Light Theater presents “Frank Langella's Cyrano de Bergerac” – A thrilling romance and an adaptation's of Rostand's classic tale of a man who longs to feel worthy of love. 8 pm Thurs-Sat; 7 pm Sun (Mar. 28) and 2 pm Sun (Apr. 11 and Apr. 18).  City Light Theater, 529 S. Second St.  $15-$40, 295-4200 or www.cltc.org

Thursday-Sunday through Mar. 27 – Tabard Theatre Company presents “Lady, Be Good” – A musical comedy based on the feel-good times of the early 1920s.  8 pm Thurs-Fri; 3 pm and 8 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun.  Theatre on San Pedro Square, 29 N. San Pedro St.  $10-$24, www.tabardtheatre.org

Thursday-Sunday – SJ Stage presents “Sleep to Wake... Robert Browning Remembers Elizabeth” – This is the premiere of Julian López-Morillas' one-man show, which presents poet Robert Browning as an older man recounting his career and his famous love affair with the notable Victorian poet Elizabeth Barrett. 7:30 pm Thurs; 8 pm Fri-Sat; 2 pm Sun.  490 S. First St.  $25, www.thestage.org

Thursday, Saturday-Sunday – Symphony Silicon Valley presents “Richly Russian” – The concert features Venezuelan superstar Gabriela Montero performing Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto No. 2.” Also, Prokofiev’s Symphony #5. 7:30 pm Thurs; 8 pm Sat; 2:30 Sun. California Theatre, 345 S. First St.  $39-$75, 286-2600 or www.symphonysiliconvalley.org

Thursday – Comedy at the Improv presents John Hoogasian – Hoogasian fearless on-stage comedy will keep audiences laughing as he interacts with them on a different level.  8 pm.  62 S. Second St.  $18, 280-7475 or www.symfonee.com/Improv/sanjose/home/index.aspx

Friday-Saturday – ComedySportz – See competitive improvisational teams perform. Fri, 9 pm (family friendly) and 11 pm (adult-oriented).  Sat, 7 pm and 9 pm (both family friendly). Camera 3 Theater, 288 S. Second St.  $7-$15. 985-5233 or www.national-comedy.com

Friday-Sunday – Comedy at the Improv presents Josh Blue – Blue is best known as winner of NBC’s Last Comic Standing.  His standup routine breaks down stereotypes of people with disabilities one laugh at a time.  Blue has been featured on Comedy Central’s Mind of Mencia and several talk shows.  8 pm and 10 pm Fri; 7 pm and 9 pm Sat; 7 pm Sun.  62 S. Second St.  $22, 280-7475 or www.symfonee.com/Improv/sanjose/home/index.aspx

Friday – Symphony Silicon Valley presents “Mass in Blue” – The concert will feature works sung by a 200-voice choir and the mighty California Wurlitzer organ.  8 pm.  California Theatre, 345 S. First St.  $25, www.symphonysiliconvalley.org

Saturday-Sunday through Mar. 28 – Lyric Theatre presents “Kismet” – “Kismet” is the story of Hajj, a beggar poet, who, is caught in a complex web of danger, humor, and love.  8 pm Thurs-Sat; 2 pm Sun.  Montgomery Theater, 271 S. Market St.  $10-$35, 986-1455 or www.lyrictheatre.org

Saturday – Steinway Society of the Bay Area presents Kevin Kenner – Award winning American pianist Kevin Kenner.  7:30 pm.  Le Petit Trianon, 72 N. Fifth St.  $30-$45, www.steinwaythebayarea.com

Sunday – Showtime and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) present the season two premiere of “Nurse Jackie” – Get ready for a fun, comedy-packed afternoon and evening featuring a 6-comedian Comedy Jam, Showtime giveaways, contests, and more.  Ages 21 and over.  3-9 pm.  Fahrenheit Ultralounge, 99 E San Fernando St.  www.hrc.org/sites/nursejackie/rsvp.htm

Sunday – Winchester Orchestra: Third Concert – The program includes Bach's Double Concerto for Two Violins and Orchestra; Schubert's Symphony No. 8 The Unfinished; and Tchaikovsky's Concerto No. 1 for Piano and Orchestra.  7 pm.  Trinity Cathedral, 81 N. Second St.  $7-$18, www.winchesterorchestra.com

Monday – Comedy Night at The Brit – Various local comics.  173 W. Santa Clara St.   278-1400 www.britanniaarmsdowntown.com

More Live Music 

Wednesday – Live Music: Los Gatos Pipes and Drums – A local bagpipe band will be downtown, performing at the Capital Club, Billy Berks, Maceio Brazilian Steak House, Old Wagon Saloon and Grill, and O’Flaherty’s on the night of St. Patrick’s Day (6:30-after 8:30 pm). 

Wednesday-Sunday and Tuesday – Live music at Poor House Bistro – Wed: St. Patrick’s Day event with Ron Thompson (6-9 pm).  Thurs: Pearl Alley Blues Band featuring Suzanne St. John-Crane, David Crane, Doug Mancini and Dennis Dove (6-9 pm).  Fri: Lara’s B-Day Celebration Lara Price Blues Band featuring Terry Hiatt (6-10 pm).  Sat: Alabama Mike and The 3rd Degree (6-10 pm).  Sun: Gail Dobson Jazz Trio and Student Performance (6-9 pm).  Tues: PHB Open Mic Night (6-9 pm).  91 S.  Autumn St.  Free, 292-5837 or www.poorhousebistro.com

Wednesday-Monday – Live music at Morocco’s Restaurant – Wed: Belly Dancing Showcase to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.  Thurs: Jazz night with Jason Bellenkes Duo.  Fri: World Music Night and Belly dancing.  Sat: World Music Night.  Sun: Moroccan Music Night.  Mon: Jazz piano night with Jim Farber.  5 pm.  86 N.  Market St.  Free, www.moroccosrestaurant.com

Wednesday and Friday – Music at the Blank Club – Wed: St. Patrick’s Day show with The Bang plus guests ($5).  Fri: NME, Lacerated, Rejection Trigger ($5).  9 pm.  44 S. Almaden Ave.  292-5265 or www.theblankclub.com

Wednesday – Music at Voodoo Lounge – Various artists.  8 pm.  14 S.  Second St. 286-8636 or www.voodooloungesj.com

Wednesday – Live Music at The Brit – Happy St. Patrick’s Day G Beats the Soulchild and Metropark.  173 W. Santa Clara St.   278-1400 www.britanniaarmsdowntown.com

Thursday-Saturday and Tuesday – Live music at Caffe Trieste – Thurs: Latin Acoustic Fiesta! Alejandro Chavez, Diana Gameros, Maria Machetes, Silvia Parra.   Fri: San Jose’s Lyric Theatre features an evening of light opera and musical theater (8 pm).  Sat: Troy Curtis, Tyreek, David Knight and other guests (8 pm).  Tues: Open Mic (2 for 1 Peronis). 315 S. First St.  Free, 287-0400 or www.caffetriestesj.com

Thursday-Saturday – Jazz at the Hedley Lounge – Thurs: Russo Alberts Trio (8-11 pm).  Fri: Hristo Vitchev (8:30 pm-12:30 am).  Sat: Brian Ho Trio (8:30-12:30 pm).  Hedley Lounge, inside Hotel De Anza, 233 W. Santa St.  Free, 286-1000 or www.hoteldeanza.com

Thursday – Live Jazz at the Loft Bar and Bistro – Various artists.  7-10 pm.  90 S. Second St.  Free, 291-0677 or www.loftbarandbistro.com

Thursday – Live music: Open Mic at Iguanas Burritozilla – Come check out local musicians perform a wide range of music while enjoying a burrito, taco, nacho fries or other Mexican favorites.  Plus, feed your appetite by taking the Burritozilla challenge. 9 pm.  330 S. Third St.  271-9772 or www.burritozilla.com

Friday-Saturday – A Perfect Finish Wine and Dessert Bar – Kirk Tamura Trio.  9 pm.  55 S. First St.  Free, 288-6000 or www.apfwinebar.com

Friday-Saturday – Live Music at Temple Bar and Lounge – Various artists.   52 S. First St. Free, templebarlounge.com

Fridays – Live Jazz Music at Hawgs Seafood Bar – Various artists.  8 pm.  150 Second St.  Free, 287-9955 or www.hawgsseafood.com

Saturday – Live music at South First Billiards – Various artists.  420 S. First St.  294-7800 or www.sofapool.com

Wednesday, Sunday and Tuesday – Music at O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub – Wed: St. Patrick’s Day event.  Traditional Irish Seisun, toe-tapping music.  5 pm.  25 N. San Pedro St.  Free, 947-8007 or www.oflahertyspub.com

Monday-Saturday – Live music at the Fairmont’s Lobby Lounge – Mon: Solo Grand Piano (8-11 pm).  Tues: Dueling Grand Pianos (8:30-11 pm).  Wed: The Girlz Band (8:30-11 pm).  Thurs: Contemporary or Latin Jazz (8:30-11:30 pm). Fri-Sat: Cocktail Hour Light Piano (5-7 pm) Weekly scheduled bands playing Jazz and Pop Dance hits (9 pm-Midnight).  Fri: Free Dance Lessons (8:30-9 pm).  The Fairmont San Jose, 170 S. Market St.  998-3909 or www.fairmont.com/sanjose

Monday – Philz Coffee “Open Mic” – 6:30 pm. 118 Paseo de San Antonio, Free, www.philzcoffee.com

Back to contents

Miscellaneous events

Daily through April 11 – The Tech Museum of Innovation presents “Star Trek...The Exhibition” – The exhibit includes an authentic replica of the bridge from the U.S.S Enterprise NCC-1701, as featured in the original Star Trek television series. It also contains the trifecta of the Star Trek universe: a tricorder; a phaser, and a communicator - all from the original series. Visitors will have a chance to ride through a Star Trek adventure in a full-motion flight simulator and to see the actual shooting model for the Borg Cube.  Exhibit Hours: 10 am-5 pm Mon-Wed; 10 am-6 pm Thurs; 10 am-8 pm Fri-Sat; 10 am-6 pm Sun. 180 Park Ave. $13-$25, www.thetech.org/StarTrek

Wednesday – Karaoke Night at the Dive Bar – Bring all your friends to enjoy drink specials and karaoke all night.  Plus, have the chance to win cash prizes.  9 pm-1 am.  78 E. Santa Clara St.  Free, 288-5252 or sjdivebar.com

Wednesdays – Learn to salsa at Agenda Lounge – Receive free salsa lessons and stay after class and practice what you learned with live music, DJ and dancing.  8 pm. 399 S. First St. Free.  287-3991 or www.agendarestaurant.com

Wednesdays – Learn how to dance Ballet Folklorico at MACLA – Los Laureles dance group teaches you the art of Folkloric dancing.  Ages 4-12: 5-7 pm; Ages 13+: 7-9 pm. 510 S. First St.  Free, 649-1968 or www.maclaarte.org

Thursdays – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. library tours – The library has more than 1.5 million items in its collections, plus nice views, California and local history collections, the Beethoven and Steinbeck centers, and more than 30 pieces of public art.  Free docent tours are available every Thursday.  Even some of the bathroom fixtures are artistic.  11:30 am.  150 E. San Fernando St. Free, 808-2181 or www.sjlibrary.org

Fridays – Learn how to salsa at Miami Beach Club – Bring your friends, family or love one and learn how to salsa.  7:30 pm.  417 S. First St.  Free, 242-9621 or www.yourmiamibeachclub.com

Saturdays through Apr. 24 – Spring Walking Series – Join the Friends of Guadalupe River Park and Gardens as they embark on an 8-week walking series and learn about proper stretches, walking techniques, toning exercises and receive wellness tips.  Pre-registration is required. 8:30 am- 9:30 am. 438 Coleman Ave.  $40-$50, 298-7657 or www.grpg.org

Saturday –South Asian Heart Center Annual Gala “Scarlet Night” – “Scarlet Night” is a fundraising gala for a nonprofit organization devoted to combating the epidemic of heart disease in South Asian Communities.  6 pm.  McEnery Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St.  $125, www.regonline.com

Saturday – Happy Hollow Grand Re-Opening – Happy Hollow celebrates its grand re-opening after two years of renovations.  9:30 am.  1300 Senter Rd.  $12, www.hhpz.org

Sundays – Japantown Farmer’s Market – A year-round market of produce and hand-made goods.  8:30 am-noon.  Jackson St. between Sixth and Seventh Streets. Free, 298-4303

Tuesday-Friday – Tour Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph – Learn from docents about California’s oldest parish, downtown centerpiece and national historic landmark.  One-hour tours occur from 1-3 pm.  Market and San Fernando Streets. Free, 283-8100

Tuesdays – Learn the art of Aztec dancing at MACLA – This class will teach you the art of Aztec dancing, indigenous culture and at the same time provide you with a great workout.  All ages welcomed.  7-9 pm.  510 S.  First St.  Free, 649-1968 or www.maclaarte.org

Tuesdays – SoFA Sharks Pool School – Enjoy a free one-hour lesson on a Simmons Professional felt 9 ft. Olhausen pool table by Edgar "El Matador."  7 pm.  South First Billiards, 420 S. First St. Free, www.sofapool.com

Film

Friday-Sunday – 27th San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival– Several programs will be featured from groundbreaking American Indies to acclaimed features from Asia.  Various Times. Camera 12 Cinemas, 201 S. Second St.  $12-$25, 998-3300 or www.cameracinemas.com or www.asianamericanmedia.org

At Camera 12  

“A Prophet (Un Prophete),” “Ajami,” “Alice in Wonderland (in 2D and 3-D),” “An Education,” “The Art of the Steal,” “Brooklyn’s Finest,” “Cop Out,” “The Crazies,” “Crazy Heart,” “The Ghost Writer,” “Green Zone,” “North Face (Nordwand),” “Our Family Wedding,” “Remember Me,” “She’s Out of My League,” and “Shutter Island.”   

At Camera 3

“Ajami” and “The Art of The Steal.”

Camera 12 is at Paseo de San Antonio and South Second Street. Camera 3 is at 288 S. Second St. Admission:  $10 general, $7.50 students with current ID, $7 matinees, and $6.75 seniors 63+ and children 12 and under (10 movies for $60 discount card also available).  For show times: www.cameracinemas.com

At the IMAX at The Tech Museum of Innovation:  

Now Playing: “Arabia,” “Space Station,” “Star Trek” and “Under the Sea.”  The IMAX Theatre is located inside the Tech Museum at 201 S. Market St.  $10, tickets include admission to the museum. Go to www.thetech.org for complete show times and ticket prices.

Kids

Wednesday-Friday and Tuesday – Drop-in Theatre Workshops – Wed and Fri: Move to the Music.  Thurs and Tues: Let’s Improvise. 11 am.  Children’s Discovery Museum, 180 Woz Way.  Free with admission, 298-5437 or www.cdm.org

Wednesday, Friday and Tuesday – Joyce Ellington Library Story Time –  Bring the family to a fun and interactive story time and listen to classic stories as well as new ones in Spanish and English.  5:30 pm Wed; 10:30 am Fri; 5 pm Tues.   491 E. Empire St.  Free, 808-3043 or www.sjlibrary.org

Wednesday – Symphony Silicon Valley presents "Construction Zone: Musicians at Work" – Students will learn how to listen to music in a fun way as they are taught about musical forms and patterns, and then hear the Symphony bring them to life followed by a visit to The Tech Museum to explore the connections between science, music and math.  Students grades 4-6.  10 am and 11:30 am.  California Theater, 345 S. First St.  www.symphonysiliconvalley.org

Thursdays – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library presents “Studio 150” – Join the King Library Children's Room for exciting art activities every Thursday. Children, teens and their families are welcome.   4-5 pm.  150 E. San Fernando St. Children's Room, First Floor.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Friday – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library presents Friday Fun – Join the King Library every Friday for fun activities for children and their families.  4-5 pm.  150 E. San Fernando St., Exploration Room, Mezzanine.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Sunday – Trinity Children’s Choir – Come and sing, laugh, learn new songs, and make new friends.  Ages 5 and up.  After the service.  Trinity Cathedral, 81 N. Second St. Free, 293-7953 or www.trinitysj.com

Tuesdays – Joyce Ellington Library: Chess Class – Learn Chess strategies and tactics on how to play Chess and then challenge others.  Ages 5 and up.  6 pm.   491 E. Empire St.  Free, 808-3043 or www.sjlibrary.org

Sports

www.sjdowntown.com/Parks_Recreation.html#sports

Thursday and Saturday – 2010 NCAA Men’s Division Basketball Championship – Men’s basketball first and second round.  11:30 am and 4:20 pm Thurs; 1 pm Sat.  HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St.  $249, www.sjsuspartans.com   

Saturday-Sunday – Paul Pesthy Memorial Super Youth Circuit: Competitive Fencing – Western Youth Circuit for Youth Fencing is featured in this event.  8:30 am-6:30 pm.  McEnery Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St.  Free, www.gofencing.com

Monday – WWE presents Supershow – The show will feature guest host WWE Hall of Famer Pete Rose plus WWE superstars from RAW and SmackDown under one roof.  5:30 pm.  HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St.  $15-$70, www.wwe.com

Mar. 25, 27-28 – San Jose Sharks hockey – Mar. 25: Sharks host Dallas (7:30 pm).  Mar. 27: Sharks host Vancouver (7 pm).  Mar. 28: Sharks host Colorado (5 pm).  HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St. $21-$182, www.ticketmaster.com or www.sjsharks.com

Classes, conferences, meetings and workshops

Classes at the San Jose Entrepreneur Center

84 W. Santa Clara St., Suite 100.  www.acteva.com/go/ecenter

Other classes, workshops, conference

Daily:  Financial Knowledge Institute employee financial workshops – The Financial Knowledge Institute, a 501c3 non-profit organization, holds free on-site employee educational workshops on personal financial matters at downtown area businesses. Call 866-734-8465 or visit www.financialknowledgeinstitute.org

Wednesday – Sustainable Vegetable Gardening – Learn how to have a successful, environmentally responsible food garden that provides delicious vegetables and herbs every month of the year.  7-9 pm.  438 Coleman Ave.  $60-$72, 298-7657 or www.grpg.org

Wednesday – Synopsys Silicon Valley Science and Technology Championship – Over 1,000 students will compete in the annual science and technology championship.  South Hall, 435 S. Market St.  www.science-fair.org

Friday-Sunday – Spring Home Show – This event includes hundreds of exhibits with merchandise, product demonstrations and sample interior and exterior vignettes.  11 am-9 pm Fri; 10 am-8 pm Sat; 10 am-6 pm Sun.  McEnery Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St.  Free, www.acshomeshow.com

Monday – Unique Lives Series presents Cloris Leachman – Cloris Leachman is one of the most acclaimed and unpredictable actresses of our time. She has an incredible sense of humor, and recently proved on TV that she can dance up a storm.  7:30 pm.  Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd.  $35-$72, www.uniquelives.com

Back to contents 

Literature/Art

Daily – Axis Art Gallery – The gallery showcases sculptures, paintings, photography, ceramics and textiles arts by local talent.  Noon-6 pm.  Axis, 38 N. Almaden Blvd., #101.  Free, 623-9888 or www.AxisArtGallery.com 

Daily through Mar. 27 – ICA: Monotype Marathon – The annual Monotype Marathon is an exhibition and fundraising auction featuring exceptional works on paper by more than 75 Bay Area artists.  Mar. 27: Silent auction 5:30-7:30 pm. ICA, 560 S. First St. 283-8155 or www.sjica.org

Wednesday-Mar. 28 – Celebration of the Arts – This free public event celebrates the importance of classical music and young people in San Jose.  1 pm.  Le Petit Trianon, 72 N. Fifth St.  Free, www.sanjoselinksinc.com

Thursday – San Jose Museum of Art: Tech Connect– The San Jose Museum of Art invites you to enjoy an evening of live jazz, art-making, snacks, refreshments and view the museum’s latest exhibition “Wayne Thiebaud,” “Real and Hyperreal,” and “Juicy Paint.” 6-8:30 pm.  110 S. Market St.  Free, www.sjmusart.org  RSVP: techconnect@sjmusart.org

Friday – SF International Asian American Film Festival: SJ Opening Night Gala Reception – Celebrate the start of the Festival’s run with delicious hors d’oeuvres, free-flowing cocktails and three days of film in San Jose.  9 pm.  SJ Museum of Art, 110 S. Market St.  $15, http://festival.asianamericanmedia.org/2010/

Saturday-Sunday – ICA: Monotype Marathon Novice Workshops – The workshop will be taught by instructor Fanny Retsek and will include materials plus a champagne lunch.  All ability levels welcomed.  10 am-4 pm.  560 S. First St.  $250, 283-8155 or www.sjica.org

Saturday-Sunday – The Art Glass Center – Bullseye glass sale.  10 am-5 pm.  465 S. First St.  Free, 971-1530 or  www.sjgaa.org

Sunday – San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles: Gallery Time with Joan Schulze – Joan Schulze will talk about her work and to provide informal exhibition walkthroughs and to sign copies of her book. 10 am-5 pm.  520 S. First St.  Free with museum admission, 971-0323 or www.sjquiltmuseum.org

Museums and galleries

Check out South First Fridays gallery crawl the first Friday of the month - Explore the SoFA district, downtown's hub of art and creativity, meet people and appreciate art in an inviting environment. Galleries along South First Street from San Carlos to Reed Street and on Market Street open their doors late to offer free exhibit receptions, readings, performances, live music and more.  Use a pedicab to get around. All events are free and start at 8 pm unless otherwise noted. 

Anno Domini // the second coming of art and design – Through Mar. 13: "Art of Zines 2010" featuring hundreds of zines throughout the US and abroad.  Opening Mar. 5-Apr.17: “Indoctrination” a debut solo exhibit of Dante Horoiwa.  Open noon-7 pm Tues-Fri; noon-5 pm Sat. 366 S. First St. 271-5155 or www.gallery AD.com

Art Object Gallery -Open 1-4 pm.  Thurs-Sat.  592 N. Fifth St. www.artobjectgallery.com

Children's Discovery Museum- On View: “Mask” an exhibition created by visually impaired or blind youth.  The museum also hosts a variety of ongoing, hands-on exhibits for kids.  Open 10 am to 5 pm Tues-Sat and noon-5 Sun. $9-$10. 180 Woz Way. 298-5437. www.cdm.org

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Library – Ongoing: Displays of original Beethoven manuscripts, first editions, a lock of the composer's hair, art and demonstrations of historical keyboards.  150 E. San Fernando St.  808-2000 or www.sjlibrary.org

History San Jose - Through May 30: “Everyday San Jose” paintings by Wayne Jiang.  History Park, 1650 Senter Road.  287-2290 or www.historysanjose.org

KALEID gallery - Stop by the gallery during "Two Buck Tuesdays" - $2 art sale and eclectic speaker series on the third Tuesday of every month.  Through February: “Transfiguration” a collection by Sandi Billingsley by Mark Damrel.  Open Noon-7 pm Tues-Fri; Noon-5 pm Sat.  88 S. Fourth St. 271-5151 or www.KALEIDgallery.com

MACLA – On view: “Cultural Disjuncture” features sculptures and works on paper and installation.  Open noon-7 pm Wed-Thurs; Noon-5 pm Fri-Sat.  Free, 510 S. First St. 998-2783 www.maclaarte.org

Natalie and James Thompson Art Gallery- Open 11 am-4 pm and 6-7:30pm, Tues and 11 am-4 pm, Wed-Fri.  Art Building, San Jose State University, 1 Washington Square. 924-4328.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum - Ongoing Egyptian historical artifacts and displays.  Open 10 am-5 pm Mon-Fri; 11 am-6 pm Sat-Sun.  $9, $7 seniors/students, $5 ages 5-10, free for ages 4 and younger. 1342 Naglee Ave. 947-3636 www.egyptianmuseum.org

San Jose City Hall - Ongoing: "San Jose: Generations of Innovations and Diversity" and "In Full View: Historic and Contemporary Panoramas."  200 E. Santa Clara St.  Free, 535-8168

San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art - Through Feb. 20: “Theodora Varnay Jones: Manifold,” the exhibition reflects the artist’s systematic exploration of repetition, form and material. Through May 15: “By a Thread,” works by artists who use thread as their primary medium.  Through Apr.3: “Ted Fullwood,” abstract and colorful sculptures made of pipe cleaners.   Opening Mar. 6-27: “Monotype Marathon,” annual print exhibition and auction.  Open 10 am-5 pm, Tues-Wed, and Fri; 10 am-8 pm, Thurs and Noon-5 pm, Sat.  560 S. First St. Free, 283-8155 or www.sjica.org

San Jose Museum of Art – Through Feb. 28: Ansel Adams “Early Works.”  Through May 30: “Juicy Paint.”  Through July 4: Wayne Thiebaud “Seventy Years of Painting.”  Through Aug.  1: “Real and HyperReal.”  Open 11 am-5 pm Tues-Sun. 110 S. Market St.  $5-$8, 271-6840 www.sjmusart.org

San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles – Through May 9: “Poetic License: The Art of Joan Schulze,” an exhibition that features artwork from Schulze during her early art quilts to the most recent fiber art collages.  Through May 4: “Navajo Weaving in the Present Tense: The Art of Lucy and Ellen Begay,” the exhibit features one-of-a-kind artworks woven over the past 20 years.  Open 10 am-5 pm Tues-Sun (open from 8-11 pm on the first Friday of every month).  520 S. First St.  $5-$6.50/ Free during South First Fridays, 971-0323  www.sjquiltmuseum.org

SLG Art Boutiki & Gallery – “Escape from Dullsville” by Andy Ristaino.  “The Signs of Christmas”, a six piece look at the holidays by Scott Saavedra, Andy Ristaino, Pascal Campion and James Turner.  Open 10 am-5 pm Mon-Fri; Noon-4 pm Sat.  577 S. Market St.  Free, 971-8929 or www.artboutiki.com

Tech Museum of Innovation – Through Apr. 11: “Star Trek… The Exhibition,” the exhibit includes an authentic replica of the bridge from the U.S.S Enterprise NCC-1701, as featured in the original Star Trek television series. It also contains the trifecta of the Star Trek universe: a tricorder; a phaser, and a communicator - all from the original series.  New permanent exhibit: “Technology Benefiting Humanity,” a 3,000 square foot interactive exhibition and the only exhibition on the West Coast that links social responsibility with technology.  Open daily 9 am-9 pm.  201 S Market St.  Pricing for regular galleries and one IMAX film is $10 all ages.  Add an additional IMAX film for only $5.  294-8324 or www.thetech.org

Works/San Jose - Open noon-4 pm Tues-Sat (to 7 pm Thurs), 451 S. First St. 295-8378 or www.workssanjose.org

Dancing Downtown

Agenda – 399 S. First St. 287-3991. agendalounge.com.

The Blank Club – . 971-8511. theblankclub.com.

Britannia Arms – 173 W. Santa Clara St. Free. 278-1400. britanniaarms.com.

Brix Nightclub - 349 S. First St.  947-1975 or brixnightclub.com

Capers Loft Bar and Bistro – 90 S. Second St.  loftbarandbistro.com

Dive bar – This bar includes a full bar, lounge, music and billiards. Open 7 days a week from noon to 2 a.m. 78 E. Santa Clara 288-5252 sjdivebar.com.

Elixir Ultra Lounge – Inside South First Billiards. No cover. 420 S. First St. 408-294-7800 sofapool.com.

Fahrenheit Ultralounge – 99 E San Fernando St.998-9998. fultralounge.com

Freddie J's –  97 E. Santa Clara St. No cover. 292-4058. www.freddiejs.com

Habana Club Restaurant – 238 Race St. 998-CUBA (2822) 998cuba.com

Island Grill – 1355 N. Fourth St. Free. 392-2468. theislandgrill.com. 

LidoNightclub -30 S. First St.  298-4318 or lidoclub.net 

MiamiBeach Club - 417 S. First St.  242-9621 or www.yourmiamibeachclub.com

MotifRestaurant and Club - 389 S. First St.  279-1888 or motiflounge.com

Pearl Nightclub – Doors open at 9 pm. Dress code strictly enforced. 21+.  8 S. First St. 279-4444 www.pearlsj.com

SaborTapas Bar and Lounge - 72 N. Almaden Ave.  287-1737

San Jose Bar and Grill – Sunday night DJ dancing. 85 S. Second St. 286-2397.

Temple Bar and Lounge – 52 S. First St. 288-8518.

Toon’s – 52 E. Santa Clara St. 292-7464. toonsnightclub.com 

Vault Ultra Lounge– 81 W. Santa Clara St. 298-1112  

Voodoo Lounge – 14 S. Second St. 286-8636. voodooloungesj.com 

Back to top

Downtown Dining and Business promotions

Discover Downtown Card: Use your card to receive great deals at participating venues downtown.  www.sjdowntown.com/Discover_Downtown_Card.html

Daily - Discounted movies at Camera Cinemas - Get 10 movies for $60 with a Camera Cinemas Discount Card.  Good for any film, any day of the week (except Sat. after 6pm) for up to two people per visit.  Available at www.cameracinemas.com or at any Camera Cinemas box office location. Camera 12 is at the corner of Paseo de San Antonio  and S. Second St.  Camera 3 is at 288 S. Second St.

Wednesday – Specials at Koji Sake Lounge – “Explore the Art of Sake” and get half-off the special sake of the night.  7 pm.  48 S. First St.  287-7199 or www.kojisakelounge.com

Wednesday – Morocco's Restaurant presents Six Green Belly Dancers Showcase Dinner on St. Patrick's Day – This special event in honor of St. Patrick's Day features Belly Dancers and a delicious five-course gourmet dinner that includes one drink, all for one price.  5 pm and 7:30 pm.  86 N. Market St.  $37, www.MoroccosRestaurant.com

Saturday – 19Market Restaurant 5-Year anniversary Celebration – Celebrate the night with a live jazz band, DJ, dancing, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, drink specials and silent auctions on all the arts and raffle drawings.  RSVP required. 8:30 pm.  19 N. Market St.  Free, 280-6111 or www.19market.com

Downtown Living

The 88 – This collection of unique high-rise residences offers unsurpassed views and immediate access to the arts, fine dining, parks, open space, and all of the everyday necessities.  88 E. San Fernando St.  279-8882 or www.the88sj.com 

Axis – Come home to arresting views, unparalleled convenience and palpable luxury— the ideal cosmopolitan lifestyle. 38 N. Almaden Blvd. 297-9888 www.axissanjose.com

City Heights – Each home boasts a contemporary kitchen, modern bath finished, parking and much more.  175 W. St. James St.  286-2489 or www.cityheightssanjose.com

Three Sixty Residences – Soaring 23 stories over the vibrant SoFA district, Three Sixty Residences features dramatic architecture, impeccable finishes and a seamless, cosmopolitan lifestyle blend.  170 S. Market St.  297-3003 or www.360residences.com

For more information visit www.sjdowntown.com/Find_Your_Home.html

Volunteers needed  

2010 Amgen Tour of California – Volunteer and participate in the fifth-annual cycling race. Apply online for positions, including hospitality, volunteer course marshals, security, and media operations, among others. Stage 4: Wednesday, May 19.  For more information visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/Tour/volunteer

Make a difference in your park … Volunteer – Become a one day volunteer and invite others to join you.  Learn gardening skills, clean up local parks and enjoy nature all in just 2-6 hours.  For more information please e-mail ParkVolunteer@sanjose.gov or call 535-3588

Guadalupe River Park – Volunteers needed to help clean and organize the gardens/parks, as well as lead educational activities.  San Carlos St. and Woz Way.  For more information call 298-7657 or visit www.grpg.org

MACLA – Volunteers needed to work openings, office assistance and to help prepare the gallery for exhibitions.  If interested call 998-2808 or e-mail info@maclaarte.org

Back to contents

Coming Up

Mar. 24 – Jay-Z – Since his 1996, rapper Jay-Z has become one of the most successful hip-hop artists in America. In 2009, he was nominated for five Grammy’s for The Blueprint 3”.  7 pm.  HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St.  $45.50-$129.50, www.hppsj.com/hppsj/schedule/

Mar. 24 – Lincoln Law School Open House – The open house features a roundtable discussion with alumni and students, sample law class and light refreshments.  Lincoln Law School is accredited by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California.   Please rsvp to admissions@lincolnlawsj.edu.  5:30 pm.  Free, 1 N.First St. 977-7227 or www.lincolnlawsj.edu

Mar. 26-28 – SWAN Day 2010 – SWAN Day celebrates women artists in our community with workshops, art exhibits, performing art and cinema.  6-9 pm.  The Alameda Artworks, 1068 The Alameda.  www.thealamedaworks.com

HP Pavilion 

hppsj.com

Mar. 24 – Jay-Z.  7 pm.  $45.50-$129.50

Mar. 26 – John Mayer.  7:30 pm.  $21-$182

Apr. 2 – Black Eyed Peas with special guest Ludacris.  7:30 pm $49.50-$92.50

Apr. 11 – Taylor Swift: Fearless Tour 2010.  7 pm.  $26.50-$62.50

Apr. 13 – Los Tres: Alejandro Fernandez, Joan Sebastian, Marco Antonio Solis.  8 pm.  $43-$204

Apr. 24 – Harlem Globetrotters – 1 pm.  $22.50-$160.50

Apr. 30-May1 – The Eagles.  8 pm.  $55-$180

San Jose Civic

nederlanderconcerts.com/venue/venue.asp?id=64

SJSU Event Center

union.sjsu.edu/ec/Event_Center_Arena/event_center_arena.html 

Back to contents

Parking / Pedicabs/ Traffic / SJ Mineta Airport

Convenient and Affordable Downtown Parking – www.sjdowntownparking.com 

Pedicabs - Eco City Cycles – Now a fleet of 10!  Look for Eco City Cycles door-to-door pedicab service.  The service is available Wednesday-Saturday from 7 pm-2 am.  Call ahead for reservations or pick ups 771-7723.  Negotiate your price – it’s all fun.  For more information www.ecocitycycles.com

Traffic

Thursday-Saturday – Traffic congestion on Route 87 at the Santa Clara and Julian exits between 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Mineta San Jose International Airport

  • Visit www.tsa.gov for the latest information about security procedures

  • For more information on Airport changes, maps, and services, go to www.flysanjose.com

  • Starting May 13 – New Service: JetBlue Airways – JetBlue will begin a daily nonstop service between San Jose and Boston.  To book these new flights, visit www.jetblue.com or call 1-800-538-2583. Initial fares are $99 each way.

Back to contents

 

Downtowner Online is a weekly electronic newsletter for downtownresidents and employees from the San Jose Downtown Association. Wewelcome feedback, suggestions, or contributions. E-mail your thoughtsto rjensen@sjdowntown.com.

To subscribe or unsubscribe, e-mail rjensen@sjdowntown.com.

Editor: Rick Jensen
Assistants: Elizabeth Chavarin / Jenna Tenorio

 

Thursday-Saturday – Traffic congestion on Route 87 at the Santa Clara and Julian exits between 7 a.m.-6 p.m.


© 2008 San Jose Downtown Association | Privacy Policy | Site Map