Looking for something to do around Chico?
Welcome to Listen Up — NSPR’s curated list of arts, culture, and community happenings in the Chico area. From gallery shows to concerts, talks, and local gatherings, we’re highlighting what’s happening around town each week and how you can be part of it.
Email events@mynspr.org to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!
ART
Lecture: Art as Language - Deaf and DeafDisabled Perspectives
- MONCA
- Friday, Sept. 26
- 6:30 p.m.
- $10
Chico artist and ASL teacher Valerie Rose explores how Deaf and DeafDisabled artists utilize art as a powerful language in a lecture.
NSPR caught up with Rose ahead of the lecture to talk about how Deaf artists use their work to communicate. Read the story.
FILM + THEATER
- The Pageant
- Thursday, Sept. 25 through Sunday, Sept. 28
- 7 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 1 p.m., & 4 p.m.
- $8.50
Directed by Paul Greengrass, "The Lost Bus" retells a Paradise story from the Camp Fire — when a bus driver and teacher helped 22 children escape the deadliest wildfire in California history. It stars Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera.
NSPR spoke with the bus driver depicted in the film, along with survivors in the audience of the film's premiere. Read the full story.
MUSIC
- Argus Bar + Patio
- Thursday, Sept. 25
- 7 p.m.
- $10
You can experience spoken word set to music with Chico writer and musician Jason Cassidy as he celebrates the release of "Modern Poetry." The album features modern and contemporary poems by acclaimed poets like Walt Whitman and Maya Angelou, all set to music.
The tracks are performed by J.T. Woodhouse & The Leaves of Grass — a 17-member, all-acoustic, all-star band from Chico. The evening opens with a performance by Scout the Wise, who also has a new album out.
NSPR spoke recently with Scout about his new album — check out that conversation.
- Paradise Brew Werks
- Friday, Sept. 26 & Saturday, Sept. 27
- 5 p.m.
- $60
Paradise Brew Werks is set to host "Rocktoberfest," a two-night celebration of craft beer, live music and community spirit. This festival promises an electrifying atmosphere, blending the thrill of rock music with exceptional brews.
In your grave, Manzanita Death March, JuNim, Sun Collider
- Naked Lounge
- Sunday, Sept. 28
- 7 p.m.
- $10
In Your Grave headlines an all-star lineup! This metalcore powerhouse is set to unleash its blistering riffs in town with Sacramento’s Manzanita Death March.
Representing the vibrant Chico local scene will be JuNim, and Reno's Sun Collider will close the bill.
MOVE + MAKE + EXPLORE
Into The Swamp: A Shrektacular Variety Show
- Lost On Main
- Thursday, Sept. 25 & Friday
- 7 p.m.
- $10
Step into Shrek's murky yet magical swamp for "Into the Swamp: A Shrektacular Variety Show," a crazy and one-of-a-kind evening. Your favorite fairy tale misfits take center stage in this original variety show, featuring unforgettable performances with a twist.
- MONCA
- Saturday, Sept. 26
- 7 p.m.
- $10
MONCA is hosting a Teen Open Mic Night, featuring local musician and artist Madde Gruber.
Each performer is given 7 minutes to present their piece, which could be anything from original music to poetry readings, choreography, and everything in between.
We spoke with Gruber about her own music and what inspires her. Read the full story.
Have a great weekend!
Got an event? A hot tip? A brilliant idea? Email us at events@mynspr.org.
Listen Up also brings the area’s best events to your radio — listen to NSPR Thursdays during All Things Considered.
