CHILD’S PLAY

ARROYO GRANDE, to Nov. 20: Kidz Love Soccer, a noncompetitive soccer program for children ages 3 1/2 to 8, and Mommy or Daddy and Me Soccer, aimed at children ages 2 to 3 1/2, are offered Thursdays at Elm Street Park. Class schedules are available online. Cost: $90 per nine-class session. Info: 473-5474 or www.arroyogrande.org.

GROVER BEACH: The Grover Beach Community Library 230 North 9th St., offers a reading programfor preschool children in the Kids’ Korner, featuring treats and a special project. Info: 481-4131.

In Spanish: 10:30 to 11 a.m. the first Saturday of the month.

In English: 10:30 to 11 a.m. all other Saturdays.

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 20: Nature Babies Story-time 11:30 a.m. at the Natural History Museum, 412 S. McClelland. Each preschooler is givin a free book through the Altrus Club of the Central Coast. Info: 614-0806 or www.naturalhistorysantamaria.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO: Central Coast Gymnatics is holding their Holiday Super Camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., also half days from 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 22 and 23 and 29 to 31. Ages 4 to 12. Sign-ups must be recieved by Nov. 15. Info: 549-8408 or www.iflipforccg.com

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SANTA MARIA, Nov. 5 to Dec. 11: The Santa Maria Public Library presents, “Gigglin’ Granny Preschool Story Time,” features stories, fingerplays, and a book-on-film for preschoolers, ages 3 to 5. Story time is offered at 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays 10:30 a.m. Pre-registration is required and will begin Oct. 22. Info: To register, 925-0994, 925-4354 or 421 S. McClelland St.

ARROYO GRANDE: The Arroyo Grande Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Department offers art classes in drawing and painting. The class is for 5-to 12-year-olds. The class is ongoing from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. for 5- to 7-year-olds and 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. for 8- to 12-year-olds. Wednesdays from September to May at Peggy’s Art Studio, 809 E. Grand Ave. Cost: $42 for four lessons and includes materials. Info: 473-5474 or Peggy Valko at 489-1200

DANCE

SANTA MARIA, Nov 15: The Righetti High School Marimba Band and Ballet Folklorico and Santa Maria High School Ballet Folklorico will combine to present, “A Celebration of Mexican Culture” at 7 p.m. at the Ethel Pope Auditorium, 901 South Broadyway. Cost: $7 in advance and $8 at the door. Info: 937-2051 ext. 2502.

SANTA BARBARA Nov. 21 to 23: The Department of Theater and Dance at UCSB will hold their annual Fall dance concert, at 8 p.m. Nov. 21 and 22 and 2 p.m. Nov. 23 at the Hatlen Theatre on the UCSB campus. Cost: $17 general public. $13 students and seniors. Info: 893-7221 or www.theaterdance.ucsb.edu.

SANTA MARIA: Dance the afternoon away from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Elwin Mussell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave. All ages welcome. Cost: $5, includes refreshments. Info: Ardeth Cox at 925-3775.

First Sunday each month: Music by the Leo Juarez Combo.

Third Sunday each month: Music by Jim Enos and Charlie B.

ONSTAGE

ARROYO GRANDE: to Nov. 15: The classic broadway hit “Guys and Dolls” will show at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande, 487 Fair Oaks Ave. Nov. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. and Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 7, 8, 14, and 15 at 8 p.m. Cost: $26 to $29. Info/tickets: 489-9444 or www.clarkcenter.org.

LOMPOC, Nov. 8 and 9: The Lompoc Civic Theatre presents the children’s play, “Cinderella” at 1 and 3 p.m. Nov. 8 and 2 p.m Nov. 9. at the Lompoc Civic Auditorium, corner of W. Cypress and L. Street. Tickets available at the door.

LOS OLIVOS, Nov. 13 to 15: “The Underpant” by Carl Sternheim will show 8 p.m. at the Valley Community Theatre, 2374 Alamo Pintado Rd. The Show is recommended for mature audiences. Cost: $15. Info: Linda 688-7423

OCEANO, to Nov. 9: “Mummy Dearest,” the comical love of two Egyptian mummies, will show at the Great American Melodrama on Hwy. 1 near south of Pismo Beach, at 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 6 p.m. Sundays. Cost: $16 and $19; seniors, students and military $14 and $17; children 12 and younger, $12 and $15. Info: 489-2499.

OCEANO, Nov. 14 to Dec. 31: “Holiday Extravaganza,” a celebration of the redemption of Scrooge in a tale of holiday magic will play at the Great American Melodrama, 1863 Pacific Blvd. (Hwy 1). Show times are 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursdays, 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturdays, and 6 p.m. Sundays. Cost: $16 and $20, discounts for children, seniors, students and active military. Info: 489-2499 or www.americanmelodrama.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO: Nov. 13 to 22: The Theater and Dance Department of Cal Poly presents its fall production of “The Bald Sorprano” at 8 p.m. in the Spanos Theater on the Cal Poly campus. Cost: $12 and $10 for seniors and students. Info: 756-2787 or www.pacslo.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 8: “It’s Magic!” 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Lobero Theatre. An all-star magic show direct from the Las Vegas strip and the World Famous Magic Castle. Cost: $33 and $27 adults and $18 children. Info: 963-0761 or www.lobero.com.

SANTA BARBARA, to Nov. 8: Santa Barbara City College Theatre Group presents “The World Goes ’Round,” a musical revue of the music and lyrics of John Kander and Fred Ebb. Performances are at 8 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sundays. Cost: $19 to $21, previews $14. Info: 965-5935.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov 7 to 15: The “Spoon River Anthology” directed by Ed Giron will play 8 p.m. Nov. 7, 8 and 13 to 15 and 2 p.m. Nov. 9 and 15 at the Victoria Hall Theatre, 33 W. Victoria St. Cost: $22 general admission and $17 students. Info and tickets: (800) 494-8497 or www.boxoffice.com.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 7 to 15: The Department of Theater and Dance presents its dark comic drama, “Reckless” by Craig Lucas, Nov. 7 to 9 and Nov. 11 to 15 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 9 and 15 at 2 p.m. in the Performing Arts Theatre on the UCSB campus. Cost: $17 general public and $14 for students and seniors. Info: 893-7221 or www.theaterdance.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA: Nov. 16: Emmy Award-winning comedienne Paula Poundstone will perform at 7 p.m. at the UCSB Campbell Hall. Cost: $18 for UCSB students and $45 for general public. Info: 893-3535, www.paulapoundstone.com or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 8 and 9: Broadway actor, singer and dancer Gale McNeeley will appear in his new show, “Over the Rainbow,” at 2 p.m. at the Minerva Club, 127 W. Boone St. The show is a tribute to Yip Harburg. Cost: $10. Info: 925-1882. .

SANTA MARIA, to Dec. 13: The Santa Maria Civic Theatre continues its 50th Celebration season with the comedy mystery, “A Christmas Cactus,” 8 p.m. Nov. 21, 22, 28, and 29 and Dec. 5, 6, 12, and 13. The Theater is located at 1600 N. McClelland. Cost: $12. Info: 922-4442 or www.smct.org.

SANTA MARIA, to Dec. 21: Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” will play at the Marian Theatre, 800 S. College Drive. Perfomance times include: 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and 7 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and select Sundays. Cost: $16.75 to $28.25. Tickets & Info: 922-8313 or www.pcpa.org.

AUDITIONS

LOS OLIVOS, Nov. 8: The Valley Community Theatre will hold audtions for its spring production of Matthew Barber’s “Enchanted April.” Bring a prepared 1- to 2-minute monologue to perform. Auditions will be at the Santa Ynez Valley Grange Hall, 2374 Alamo Pintado Road. Auditions will be by appointment only. Info: Linda 688-7423.

FESTIVITIES

LOS ALAMOS, Nov. 21 and 28: “Gobble Gobble Death and Trouble Murder Mystery Dinner” 7 p.m. at the Union Hotel, 362 Bell St. Enjoy murder mystery dinner theater. Dinner guests are also the actors. Cost: $60. Info: 344-2744 or www.unionhotelvictmansion.com.

SANTA YNEZ, Nov. 7 to 9: The 24th annual Vaquero Show and Sale will be at the Santa Ynez Vally Historical Museum, 3596 Sagunto St. Cost: $5 per day or $7 for two days. Info: 688-7889 or www.santaynezmuseum.org.

SOLVANG, Nov. 7 to 9: Queen of Arts Show and Sale, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Elverhoj Museum. California artists and crafters will be displaying and selling their work. Guests enjoy appetizers and wine. Admission is free. Info: 686-1211 or www.elverhoj.org

FESTIVALS

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 7 to 9: The SLO Vintners Harvest Celebration ’08; enjoy local cuisine, wine tasting, live and silent acutions and a meet and greet with the people who make the wine. Info: 541-5868 or www.slowine.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 8 to Dec. 25: The Apple Farm Inn and Restaurant, 2015 Monterey St. in San Luis Obispo will hold its annual “Traditional Holidays at Apple Farm.” Events include photos with Santa, Victorian carolers, home-baked holiday treats, and a find-the-missing-elf game. Info: 544-2040.

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 9: Coastal Voices Harvest festival 2 to 4 p.m. at Ambrosia Restaurant, 122 E. Boone. Listen to live music, taste local wines and hot and cold hors d’oeuvres. Cost: $20. Info: 937-3416 or 934-4880 or coastalvoices@aol.com.

IN CONCERT

ARROYO GRANDE, Nov. 21: Bella Sorella, the award-winning operatic pop ensemble will perform 8 p.m. at the Clark Center for the Performing Arts, 487 Fair Oaks Ave. Cost: $30 to $42. Info: 489-9444 or www.clarkcenter.org.

GROVER BEACH, Nov. 14: Dana and Susan Robinson, Dafni, and Each Passing Day will team up to perform a concert of original songs at 7 p.m. at Shepherd’s Table, 151 N. 7th Street. Cost: $10 donation. Info: 204-682.1

LOMPOC, Nov. 22: Lompoc Concert Association’s “Live on Stage” presents Four Shillings Shorts, a traditional folk band 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 925 North F St. Cost: $25 adults and $10 for studnets. Info and tickets: 736-4429 or www.lompocconcert.org.

NIPOMO, Nov. 8: Legendary singer and songwriter Chris Hillman, with Herb Pedersen and Bill Bryson will perform 5 p.m. at the Edwards Barn, 1095 Pomeroy Road, Nipomo. Cost: $60 donation to benefit the Orthodox Church of the Annunciation’s Phase II Building Project in Santa Maria. Info: 265-7829 or www.odox.org.

PISMO BEACH, Nov. 23: Basin Street Regulars present, Corey Gemme and the L.A. All-Stars, Creole Syncopators, and the BSR Jammers will play in concerts, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 23 at the Pismo Beach Memorial Building, 780 Bello St. Cost: $5 and $10. Info: 841-7840 or 925-2906.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 7: Jazz singer songwriter Michelle Amador will play at 7 p.m. at the Clubhouse at This Old House, 740 W. Foothill Blvd. Cost: no cover. Info: 584-8500 or www.clubhousereport.comor www.monteleonesrock.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 7: James Hurley brings his blend of jazz, blues and pop for a solo acoustic performance at 8 p.m. at Linnaea’s, 1110 Garden St. Cost: free, though donations are accepted. Info: 541-5888.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 8: The “New World Symphony” highlights a concert at 8 p.m. at the Christopher Cohan Center, 1 Grand Ave. The San Luis Obispo Symphony will feature violinist Alyssa Park. Cost: $12.50 to $65. Info and tickets: 756-2787 or www.pacslo.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 11: John Hiatt with his band the Ageless Beauties and Ben Taylor will peform at 8 p.m. at The Graduate, 990 Industrial Way. Cost: $38.50 in advance and $45 at the door. Info: www.vallitix.com or (888) 825-5484.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 11: Cuesta Jazz will perform 8 p.m. at Linnaea’s Cafe, 1110 Garden St. All ages welcome. No cover charge. Info: 541-5888 or www.linnaeas.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 14: Good Medicine, a blues-rock band will perform 7 p.m. at The Clubhouse at This Old House, 740 W. Foothill Blvd. No cover. Info: 548-8500 or www.clubhousereport.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 14: David Gans will peform at 8 p.m. at Linneas’s Cafe, 1110 Garden St. San Luis Obispo. Cost: free. Info: www.dgans.com.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 15: More than 200 collegiate musicians will be performing 8 p.m. for the annual Bandfest in the Harman Hall in the Performing Arts Center’s Christopher Cohan center. The them for this years’ show is “Mi Alma Latina” (“My Latin Soul”). Cost: $16 and $19. Info: 756-2787 or pacslo.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 16: San Luis Obispo County Band will have their Fall Concert, 3 p.m. at the Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church 1701 Frederick St. in San Luis Obispo. Donations will benifit the San Luis Obispo Homeless Shelter. Cost: Free admission with a free-will donation to the homeless shelter. Info: 543-5691 or www.slocountyband.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 7: Thomas Ades on piano and Anthony Marwood on violin will perform the program of “Stravainsky/Dushkin Transcriptions” at 8 p.m. at the Lobero Theatre. Cost: $35 or $45. Info: 963-0761 or www.camasb.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 7 and 9: The Westmont Orchestra will perform for the first time without the “chamber” in its name. The inaugural concerts will be at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7 in the Hahn Hall at the Music Academy of the West, 1070 Fairway Road, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9 at the First Presbyterian Church at the corner of State and Constance St. Cost: $10, free for students. Info/tickets: 565-6040 or www.westmont.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 8: Middle East Ensemble will perform at 8 p.m. at the MultiCultural Center Theatre on the UCSB campus. The Middle East Ensemble will perform a variety of music reflecting the diversity of Middle Eastern Culture. Cost: $15 general public and $5 UCSB students. Info: 893-2064 or www.mcc.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 10: Linda Ronstadt and Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano will perfom “Caciones de mi Padre”/Songs of My Father at 8 p.m. at the Arlington Theatre. Cost: $30 to $55 UCSB students $19. Tickets & Info: 893-3535.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 12: Music Club Morning Concert performs songs of Beethoven at 11 a.m. at the Faulkerner Gallery, 40 E. Anapamu St. Cost: Free. Info: 683-0811.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 13: UCSB’s Center for Research in Electronic Art Technology presents a concert of new electroacoustic and mulitmedia works at 8 p.m. at the Lotte Concert Hall. Cost: $15 general, $7 for students. Tickets available at the door. Info: 893-7001 or www.music.ucsb.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 14: The MuliCultural Center presents a spoken world poetry event with artist Giles Li at 7 p.m. in the Multicultural Center Theatre on UCSB campus. Cost: free. Info: 893-8411 or www.mcc.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 15: American cellist Lynn Harrell will perform selected unaccompanied Bach Suites at 4 p.m. at the Hahn Hall. Cost: $45 general public, and $15 UCSB students. Info: 893-3535 or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 21: Vance Gilbert will perform 7 p.m. at the SOhO, 1221 State St. to celebrate the release of his new CD “Up on Rockfield.” Cost: $12. Info: 962-7776 or www.vancegilbert.com.

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 8: 95.7 The Beat presents “Da West Fest” at 7 p.m. at the Santa Maria Fair Park Convention Center. Live performances by Too $hort, Mack 10, Paper Boy, 2nd II None, The Majors, Abrina and Jodi V, Keak da’ Sneak and San Quin. Cost: $30 pre-sale. Info: www.957thebeatfm.com.

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 22: The Santa Maria Philharmonic Orchestra presents its second concert of the 2008-2009 season, 7:30 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church, College Drive and McCoy Lane. Cost: $27 general, $22 seniors and $12 students. Info: 925-0412 or www.santamariaphillharmonic.org.

SANTA YNEZ, Nov. 13: Daryl Hall and John Oates will perfom 8 p.m. at the Chumash Casino, 3400 E. Hwy 246. Cost: $45 to $105. Info: (800)585-3737 or www.chumashcasino.com.

SANTA YNEZ, Nov. 20: Live in concert Anita Baker 8 p.m. at the Chumash Casino, 3400 E. Hwy 246. Cost: $65 to $145. Info: (800)585-3737 or www.chumashcasino.com.

MAKE MUSIC

ARROYO GRANDE: The Gran Cortina Singers welcome anyone age 55 and older to join them. They practice 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays at Cortina D’Arroyo Grande, 241 N. Courtland. Info: 473-2770.

ORCUTT: The Coastal Voices is seeking singers of all vocal ranges. Rehearsals are 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 3945 S. Bradley Road. Info: 934-2494.

ORCUTT: The Central City Chordsmen invite all men and boys who would like to sing a four-part harmony to practice at the Luthern Church of Our Savior, corner of Bradley and Patterson, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Info: 937-4919.

SANTA MARIA: The Saturday Organ Society meets at 1:30 p.m. the fourth Saturday of the month at a member’s home. They have been a couples and singles club since 1990. Info: Cliff at 934-0025 in the evenings.

SANTA MARIA: The Silvertones invites the community to join in their nostalgic sing-along of songs from 1890 to 1955. Get a blast from the past, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Santa Maria Terrace, 1405 E. Main St. Info: 937-7972.

SANTA MARIA: The Tri-City Sound Chorus of Sweet Adelines invites women of all ages to sing and perform with them. Practice is 6:45 to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays in Stahnke Hall at Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 4725 S. Bradley Road. Info: 736-7572.

SANTA YNEZ: The Valley Wind Ensemble invites newcomers who can read music and have their own instrument to join this community band of brass, woodwind and percussion players. Rehearsals are at 7 p.m. Thursdays in the Music Room of Santa Ynez High School. Info: 686-4489 or e-mail e.larrabee@verizon.net.

SPEAKERS

SANTA BARBARA: The Architectural Foundation is holding walking tours of Santa Barbara focusing on historic adobes as well as modern interpretations of the Spanish Mediterranean style. Saturday tours begin at the City Hall steps in de la Guerra Plaza, 10 a.m. Sunday tours begin at the entrance of the library (near Anapamu and Anacapa streets), 10 a.m. Cost: $10. Info: 965-6307 or www.afsb.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 11: From Shore to Sea Lecture Series, “Sea Otters Expand to Santa Barbara” given by Greg Sanders 7 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 13: CNN legal analyst and New Yorker staff writer Jeffery Toobin to speak on the current issues facing the courts at 7:30 p.m. at the UCSB Campbell Hall. Cost: $15 General public and $10 UCSB students. Info: 893-3535 or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 15: Dr. Craig Stanford will speak on the brains of dolphins and great apes, at 3 p.m. Fe Bland Forum, Santa Barbara City College West Campus, 975 Cliff Drive. Cost: $5 general public and $2 students. Info: 965-3739 or www.sbhumanists.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 19: New York Times op-ed columnist and author of the books “Are Men Necessary” and “Bushworld,” Maureen Dowd to speak at 7:30 p.m. on politics and writing at UCSB Campbell Hall. Cost: $15 General public and $10 UCSB students. Info: 893-3535 or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 8 : The Santa Maria Valley Historical Society will host speaker Harrell Fletcher, land use consultant and former member of the Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors, at 10 a.m. at the Santa Maria Inn, 801 S. Broadway, as part of the society’s free lecture series, “The Valley Speaks” on the second Saturday of each month. Reservations should be made to ensure seating. Info: Shirley at 934-3514 or shirley2@impulse.net.

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 18: The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Development Commitee will be hosting Kady Fleckenstein noon at the Santa Maria Fair Park: Satellite Wagering Facility, 937 S. Thornburg. Fleckenstein will be discussing the economic impact of the wine industry in California and in the Santa Barbara County. Cost: $12, reservations must be made by Nov. 14. Info: 925-2403 or info@santamariavalleywinecountry.com.

SHELL BEACH, Nov. 7: International Yoga teacher, Emma Balnaves offers a lecture on developing inner power for women at 6 p.m. at Yoga Shala, 205 Windward Ave. Cost: $15. Info: 556-0413 or www.yogashalaslo.com.

ON SCREEN

LOS OLIVOS, Nov. 7: The Wilding Art Museum will present “A Seal’s Life: The Story of the Northern Elephan Seal” at 7:30 p.m. at the Santa Ynez Valley Grange, 2374 Alamo Pintado Ave. Cost: free. Info: 688-1082 or www.wildingmuseums.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 15: The San Luis Obispo Art Center’s monthly Movie Night series will be a screening “View From a Grain of Sand” at 7 p.m. The movie features stories of survival from Afghanistan. Cost: $7 for nonmembers and $5 for Art Center memebers. Info: 543-8562 or www.sloartcenter.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 12: Award-winning documentary, “Black./Womyn.: Conversations” will be showing at 6 p.m. at the Multicultural Center Theater on the UCSB campus. The film explores the lives and views of lesbians of African decent living in the United States. Cost: free. Info: 893-8411 or www.mcc.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 12: “The World According to Monsanto” a documentary of a company with a track record of environmental crimes and health scandals will play at 7 p.m. at the Faulkner Gallery inside the Santa Barbara Public Library on Anapamu. Cost: $5. Info: 369-0203 or info@hopedance.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 12: UCSB Arts & Lectures presents the Sundance Film Festival award-winning documentary, “Roman Polanski - Wanted and Desired” at 7:30 p.m. in UCSB Campbell Hall. Cost: $6 for general public and $5 for UCSB students with a valid ID. Info: 893-3535 or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 19: “This is the Life” a documentary of emcees and the alternative music movement they developed, and their worldwide influence on the art form will show 6 p.m. at the Multicultural Center on the UCSB campus. Info: 893-8411 or www.mcc.ucsb.edu.

SANTA BARBARA, Nov. 20: Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, “Trouble the Water” is a documentary of a never before seen look inside Hurricane Katrina. It will show at 7:30 p.m. at the UCSB Campbell Hall. Cost: $6 public and $5 for UCSB students. Info: 893-3494 or www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu.

THE WRITE STUFF

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 11: The SLO Nightwriters will host a suspence writing workshop at 7 p.m. in the Meeting Hall behind the Johnson Avenue Church of Christ, 3172 Johnson Avenue. Info: 710-2547 or www.slonightwriters.org.

GET SOME CLASS

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Nov. 8: Central Coast Country Dance Society will hold their monthly Contra Dance from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. with an introductory workshop at 7 p.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana Street, in San Luis Obispo. Cost: $9. Info: www.cccds.org

SANTA MARIA, Nov. 14 to 16: Santa Maria Dance Days presented by King’s Ballroom Dance Studio, 2601 Skyway Dr. Suite C. Guest instructors for ballroom, swing, and nightclub dancing. Public welcome. Info: 928-7015 or www.kingsdancestudiocom.

ORCUTT, Mondays: Improv comedy classes are from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Loading Dock, 315 S. Broadway. Cost: $5 per class. Info: 886-8355 or www.missionimprovable.org.

SANTA MARIA, Mondays and Tuesdays: The Central Coast Swing Dance Club offers dance classes at The Maverick Saloon, 510 S. Broadway. Learn salsa at 7 p.m. Monday and West Coast Swing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, followed by open dancing. No experience or partner required. Cost: $10 per class, open dancing is free. Info: 937-1574 or www.centralcoastswingdance.com.

ART SESSIONS

ARROYO GRANDE, Nov. 15: An acrylic painting workshop for adults is offering one-day workshops from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Elm Street Community Center, 1221 Ash St. Cost: $25 per class. Info: 473-5474.

LOMPOC, first Tuesday: The Lompoc Valley Art Association meets at 7:30 p.m. at the Alpha Clubhouse, 704 E. Ocean Ave. A social hour begins at 7 p.m., and the public is invited to attend. Info: 737-1129.

OCEANO, first Saturday: The California Poppy Decorative Artists meet at 10 a.m., at the Oceano Sheriff’s Sub-Station, 1681 Front St. (Highway 1). Newcomers are welcome. Info: 772-1916 or 235-4966.

ORCUTT, second Friday: Los Padres Artist Guild meets from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Luis OASIS Senior Center, 420 Soares Ave. LPAG comprises artists, crafters and appreciators of all levels of experience. Visitors welcome. Info: 937-8828.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Wednesdays: The San Luis Obispo Art Center, 1010 Broad St., offers Life Drawing 9 a.m. to noon and 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. A model is provided, but no instruction. Bring your own art supplies. Tables and some easels are available. Sculptors should attend the evening session when there will be longer poses. Cost: $10 per class, members $8. Info: 543-8562 or www.sloartcenter.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, third Saturday: The Central Coast Woodturners of California meet at 9 a.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall, 520 Dana St. New and beginner woodturners are welcome. Info: George Paes at 929-1423.

SANTA MARIA, Wednesdays: The Paint Club meets from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays to paint and socialize at the Mussell Senior Center, 510 E. Park Ave. Cost: 50 cents. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 207.

CALL FOR ARTISTS

LOMPOC: Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is calling for potters to support the Foodbank in making or glazing ceramic bowls for the “Empty Bowls” fundraising luncheon March 25 at the La Purisima Parish Hall. Potting classes will be from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at Lompoc Valley Middle School, 234 S. North St. Info: 937-3422, Ext. 106.

MORRO BAY, Nov. 1: The Morro Bay Art Association is calling for local high school and college student artists to prepare for the annual Scholarship Show. Prizes in the form of scholarships will be awarded. Entry date is Nov. 1. The show will run through Dec. 14. Info: 772-2504 or www.morrobayartassociation.org.

SANTA MARIA: The Good Neighbor Bakery, 2660 Industrial Pkwy., is looking for artwork to display in their bakery. Info: Lynda at 925-9700.

MUSEUMS

ARROYO GRANDE, Saturdays and Sundays: The Barn, 127 Short St., is the South County Historical Society’s Museum Annex and houses antique vehicles, fire equipment, printing presses and agricultural artifacts. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: www.southcountyhistory.org.

ARROYO GRANDE, Saturdays and Sundays: The Heritage House, 126 Mason St., was built in the late 1800s and houses period clothing, photographs, kitchen items and more. Docents provide information. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: www.southcountyhistory.org.

ARROYO GRANDE, Saturdays and Sundays: The Santa Manuela Schoolhouse, 127 Short St., is a one-room schoolhouse, built in 1901. Docents provide information. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: www.southcountyhistory.org.

GUADALUPE, ongoing: The Guadalupe Cultural Arts and Education Center, 1065 Guadalupe St. (Highway 1), is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Info: 568-3990.

GUADALUPE, ongoing: The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, 1055 Guadalupe St., preserves the geology, flora and fauna of the dunes environment and its multicultural history. It features natural science exhibits and the Cecil B. DeMille Lost City exhibit of artifacts from the film location for his 1923 movie “The Ten Commandments.” Tour hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday to Sunday. Donation: $2, children 11 and younger free. Info: 343-2455 or www.dunescenter.org.

GUADALUPE, Saturdays and Sundays: Rancho de Guadalupe Historical Museum, 1005 Guadalupe St., is open 1 to 3 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 343-5901.

LOMPOC, ongoing: Fabing-McKay-Spanne House, 207 North “L” St. is a restored turn-of-the-century home featuring a carriage house, reference room and the anchor of the USS Chauncey, a destroyer wrecked off the nearby coast during the 1923 Honda Point tragedy, the Navy’s largest peace-time disaster. Hours are 8:30 to 11 a.m. Monday and Thursday, and the fourth Saturday each month. Donation. Info: 735-4626.

LOMPOC, ongoing: La Purisima Mission, 2295 Purisima Road, offers a guided tour at 1 p.m. except when special events are scheduled. Advance tour reservations required for groups larger than 10. Info: 733-3713; groups: 733-1303, or www.lapurisimamission.org.

LOS OLIVOS, to Nov. 16: The Wildling Art Museum, 2329 Jonata St., hosts “Nocturnes” as its fall exhibition. Regulars hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays through Sundays. Cost: $2. Info: 688-1082 or www.wildlingartmuseum.org.

NIPOMO, Saturdays and Sundays: The Dana Adobe, 671 S. Oakglen Ave., begun in 1839 and completed in 1851, offers tours from noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Special tours, schools and group tours are also available. Donation. Info: 929-5679 or www.danaadobe.org.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, ongoing: The Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum, 801 Grand Ave., exhibits historical maps of the United States from World War I to the present. Artifacts contributed by local residents, and photos and biographies of area veterans. Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday. Children very welcome. Free. Info: 543-1763.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, ongoing: Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa exhibits historical artifacts, including Chumash Indian vessels, religious vestments and the original mission altar. Free. Info: 546-6850.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Wednesdays through Sundays: The San Luis Obispo County Museum and History Center, 696 Monterey St., features a simulated 1880s San Luis Obispo kitchen, laundry room and parlor where women took on the full-time job of keeping house and cooking using many “modern kitchen gadgets.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. Free. Info: 543-0638.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Fridays and second Sunday: Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, at 1185 Pacific St., is open to the public two days a week. Friday hours are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and second Sunday hours are from 1 to 4 p.m. Docents are on hand to give tours on Sundays. Admission is free. Info: 543-0638.

SANTA BARBARA, ongoing: The Gladwin Planetarium, at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, invites you to experience the wonders of the night sky as never before with a fully digital star projection system. Tickets: $4 per person with paid museum admission, members free. Museum admission: $8, seniors and teens $7, children $5, ages 2 and younger, free. Info: 682-4711 or www.sbnature.org.

SANTA BARBARA, ongoing: The Karpeles Manuscript Library, 21 W. Anapamu St., houses the world’s largest private holding of original manuscripts and documents of literature, science, religion, history and art. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Free. Info: 962-5322.

SANTA BARBARA, Tuesdays through Sundays: The Santa Barbara Historical Society, 136 E. De La Guerra St., is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free. Info: 966-1279 or www.santabarbaramuseum.com.

SANTA BARBARA: The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190, houses a quarter-scale working replica of the Lougheed Brothers’ F-1 Seaplane, with its 18-foot wingspan. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission: $6, seniors, students and youth $3, children ages 1 to 5 $1. Info: 962-8404 or www.sbmm.org.

SANTA BARBARA, Tuesdays through Sundays: The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday. Now on exhibit: “Picasso on Paper: Drawing and Prints from the Permanent Collection (1899 to 1967)” until Dec. 7; and “Ten: Gifts of SBMA PhotoFutures” until Dec. 21. Cost: $9 for the general public, and $6 for seniors, students and children ages 6 to 17. Free Sundays. Info: 963-4364 or www.sbma.net.

SANTA BARBARA, Thursdays through Sundays: The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation is open noon to 4 p.m. Thursday to Sunday. Admission: $3, free for Trust members. Info: www.sbthp.org.

SANTA BARBARA: The Santa Barbara Zoo, 500 Ninos Drive, has two highly endangered snow leopards on view. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cost: $9, seniors 60 and older, and children age 2 to 12 $7, under age 2 admitted free. Parking: $3. Info: 962-5339 or www.santabarbarazoo.org.

SANTA BARBARA: The Ty Warner Sea Center, 211 Stearns Wharf. Learn more about the species found in the Santa Barbara Channel and the impact humans have on sharks and their habitats. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Cost: $8, seniors and teens $7, children $5, ages 2 and younger, free. Info: 962-2526 or www.sbnature.org.

SANTA MARIA, Tuesdays and Thursdays: The historic Santa Maria City Hall, 110 E. Cook St., is open 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m., by reservation only. Info: 925-0951, Ext. 1117.

SANTA MARIA, Wednesdays to Sundays: The Santa Maria Natural History Museum, 412 S. McClelland, invites visitors to enjoy multisensory exhibits with a regional focus. “Titans of the Pacific,” features a life-size killer whale, great white shark and dolphins. There’s a beaver habitat, bat barn and “touch” table, plus the new exhibit and original video “From the Beginning, Under the Sea,” about plate tectonics and how they relate to our local area. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday; and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Donation. Info: 614-0806 or www.naturalhistorysantamaria.com.

SANTA MARIA, Fridays through Sundays: The Santa Maria Museum of Flight, 3015 Airpark Drive, features early aviation and present-day displays of aircraft and artifacts. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $5 for the general public, $4 for seniors, $3 for ages 12 to 18, $1 for children 6 to 12. Info: 922-8758.

SANTA MARIA, Mondays through Saturdays: The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, 705 S. McClelland St., has a 3,000-gallon shark tank, a paleontology dig, live rain forest friends, the creation station, a shipwreck and the Mars terrain climbing wall. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday, closed Sunday. Cost: $8; children 2 and younger free, seniors 65 and older $5. Info: 928-8414 or www.smvdiscoverymuseum.org.

SANTA MARIA, Tuesdays through Saturdays: The Santa Maria Valley Historical Museum, 616 S. Broadway, houses local ranch memorabilia, a room honoring Capt. G. Allan Hancock and artifacts of the Central Coast. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. Donation. Info: Richard Chenoweth at 922-3130.

SANTA MARIA, Saturdays and Sundays: The Santa Maria Valley Railway Historical Museum, Santa Maria Town Center Mall, second floor, preserves the railroad heritage of California, the Central Coast and Santa Maria Valley. The museum features exhibits, vintage rolling stock and a large model railroad. Hours are 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Info: 714-4927 or www.smvrhm.org.

SANTA YNEZ, Wednesdays through Sundays: The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society Museum, 3596 Sagunto St. Admission, features items of historical interest. Regular hours are noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. Regular admission: $4, ages 15 and younger admitted free. Info: 688-7889 or www.syvm.org.

SOLVANG: The Motorcycle Museum, 320 Alisal Road, displays vintage motorcycles. Cost: $5, children under 10 free with parent or guardian. Info: 686-9522.

SOLVANG: Old Mission Santa Ines, 1760 Mission Drive, features hand-painted murals by Indian artists, European art and sculptures, a garden and more. Cost: $3, free for children 12 and younger. Info: 688-4815.

SOLVANG, to Nov. 2: The Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, 1624 Elverhoy Way, will feature REAL/ABSTRACT, a collection of original works by Jim Farnum and Francis Scorzelli. Info: 686-1211 or www.elverhoj.org.

ART GALLERIES

ARROYO GRANDE: Carried Away Art, 1200 E. Grand Ave., is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Free. Info: 481-4364 or www.carriedawayart.com.

AVILA BEACH: Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, 1215 Avila Bay Drive, is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Info: 595-7302.

AVILA BEACH: Salisbury Fine Art Gallery, 1250 San Luis Bay Dr., is open noon to 5 p.m. Thursday to Saturday. Info: 878-8374.

AVILA BEACH: Visions Art Gallery, 425 First St., features works in various mediums by nationally and internationally known artists. Info: 772-5083 or 595-2230.