Looking for something to do around Chico?
Welcome to your online reference for 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
- 1078 Gallery
- Now through Sunday, Oct. 18
- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Friday through Sunday)
- Free
The annual (Mock) Cat Show has returned, showcasing artwork focused entirely on cats across all mediums and styles. All submissions were accepted, and cats from all walks of life are on display.
Proceeds from entry fees directly support the Chico Cat Coalition in rescuing and caring for abandoned felines.
Personal to Political: Celebrating the African American Artists of Paulson Fontaine Press
- Janet Turner Museum
- Now through Sunday, Oct. 17
- 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Tues. through Thur.)
- Free
The Janet Turner Museum at Chico State is highlighting the pioneering work of Berkeley’s Paulson Fontaine Press with the show “Personal to Political.” It celebrates the press’ dedication to championing African American artists.
Director of galleries and curator, Dr. Rachel Skokowski, says the exhibit showcases African American artists reshaping contemporary art. The work celebrates the Black experience and spans everything from personal family histories to political work. The exhibit is on display until October 17th.
FILM + THEATER
'I'm Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire'
- Theatre on the Ridge
- Now through Sunday, Sept. 27
- 7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m.
- $18
Theatre on the Ridge is staging this dark comedy about troubled 14 year old, Shelby Hinkley, who kidnaps Tobey Maguire at the height of his career to force him to marry her.
She decides to kidnap the star after struggling with a tumultuous home life and tragic school life, but later realizes her plan isn't going as expected. The play speaks to themes of celebrity obsession and parasocial relationships.
- Center for the Arts
- Friday, Sept. 11 through Sunday, Sept. 20
- 7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m.
- $36-$40
Staged by the California Regional Theater, “Come From Away” is based on the events in the Newfoundland town of Gander, the week after the September 11 attacks. At that time, 38 planes, carrying approximately 7,000 passengers, were ordered to land unexpectedly at Gander International Airport.
MUSIC
- The Breakbeat
- Friday, Sept. 18
- 9:30 p.m.
- $10
PYR-MID-SKM is a new experimental side-project from local favorite Blü Egyptian, featuring live-mixed beats, transcendent guitar riffs and heavy bass drops. They're performing at the Breakbeat, which offers a curated listening experience with its amazing laser projection system and cutting-edge immersive sound system.
- Rolling Hills Casino and Resort
- Sunday, Sept. 20
- 8 p.m.
- $56-$232
1990's hard rock heavy-hitters, Godsmack, bring their Rise of Rock World Tour to town with special guest, Dorothy. Prepare to hear their extensive catalog, with hits like "Voodoo" and "Whatever."
MOVE + MAKE + EXPLORE
Bonfire’s Big Night Out: Part III Dance! Dance! Dance!
- Laxson Auditorium
- Saturday, Sept. 19
- 7:30 p.m.
- $25
Bonfire Storytelling returns for its third Big Night Out. The open mic story slam returns to Chico State's Laxson Auditorium, inviting audience members to share their stories. This year’s theme is Dance! Dance! Dance!
Audience members will be invited to put their names in the hat to tell 5 minute stories of slow dances, dance-offs and dance disasters.
- Chico Park & Ride (Meeting)
- Sunday, Sept 20
- 7:30 a.m.
- Free
The Sierra Club is hosting a guided hike up Thomas Creek Gorge. It’s a strenuous 6.5 mile hike and there may be a few wet crossings, so be prepared with your footwear. The reward is a memorable view of Thomas Creek Gorge just before it opens onto the Valley.
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.
