PVCC’s “Let There Be Light”
You are invited to an evening of light-centered artworks illuminating the outdoors as the longest night of the year approaches. Friday, December 9, from 6:00 p.m. -9:00 p.m. on the grounds surrounding PVCC’s V. Earl Dickinson Building, 501 College Drive, Charlottesville. Free admission. No tickets required. Curator: James Yates. Featuring Allison Andrews, Harriet Arthur, Fenella Belle, Tom Clarkson, Michelle Cooper, Dave Culpeper, Shelby Fischer, Jarn Heil, Bob Hirosky, Greg Antrim Kelly, Matt Lively, Jose Lopez, Will May, Lydia Moyer, Jason Robinson, Nancy Ross, Rob Tarbell, Jeremy Taylor, Allyson Mellberg Taylor and more. More info at www.pvcc.edu/performingarts.
Benefit to Aid the Bennie Dodd Family
Bennie Dodd, a long-time local favorite on the Charlottesville music scene has endured two hospital stays that have resulted in staggering medical bills. Bennie and his family are now facing foreclosure as a result.
Members of the Charlottesville music community are coming together to raise money to help Bennie and his family, just as Bennie has generously given his time and efforts to a myriad of charitable events over the years.
The event has been dubbed “The Big, Big, Bennie-Fit,” and will take place at Fry Springs Beach Club, Saturday, January 7, 6:00 pm – 1:30 am. Headlining the event will be former Statler Brother and multi-platinum singer/songwriter Jimmy Fortune. http://www.jimmyfortune.com/
Jimmy and Bennie performed together in many Central Virginia bands, including the Hartwell Woody Band, who will also be featured at the benefit, in a reunion performance featuring Bennie, Jimmy, Alan Hoffman, Eddie Hall, and Sammy Shelor of the Lonesome River Band.
Also appearing at The Big, Big, Bennie-Fit will be Shannon Branch, Jan Smith and Jeff Vogelgesang, Terri Allard, Jamal & Jamie, Sierra, The Gladstones, Duke Merrick, Soul Transit Authority, Jimmy Fortune & Friends and the Danny Bierne Trio.
There will also be a silent auction, a potluck dinner, catered food offerings and a cash bar. Tickets are $20 at the door and may also be purchased in advance at Sidetracks, Plan 9 and Fellini’s #9.
For more information or to donate, go to www.bdoddbenefit.com, and “Like” us on Facebook at The Big Big Bennie-Fit.
Studio Holiday Open House
For the first time sisters Kim Critzer and Holly Olinger will display and sell their art together at 3 Wishes Studio, 953 Venable Road, Palmyra on Saturday, December 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 11 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Shop local for seasonal gifts and decor. Incredible glass, metal and mixed media art. Furniture, Garden art, sculpture and functional art. nationally known and award winning artists selling their art, that is unavailable at any other location.
This is an outdoor event, and proper warm weather clothing and shoes are advised. Tents will be heated. More info at 3wishesstudio.com.
Handel’s “Messiah” Concert
The Charlottesville Dogwood Chorus, under the direction of Carlton M. Dickerson will present their holiday gift to the community as they perform Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, December 11. 3:00 pm, First Presbyterian Church, 500 Park Street, In addition, there will be special selections performed by a newly formed group, The Dogwood Chorale. The concert is free and open to the public. Information: 434.296.4040. cak2b2@gmail.com.
Municipal Band Holiday Concert
Join the Municipal Band for a FREE concert of seasonal music old and new on Sunday, December 11 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Center at Charlottesville High School. For more information, visit www.cvilleband.org.