Annapolis Entertainment

Ram’s Head hosts new musical acts this week. See blues singer Kenny Wayne Sheperd on Monday and Tuesday night, May 14 and 15, at 8 p.m. He’s sold over one million albums of his blend of rock and roll and blues. See Sheperd for $60. Next up, Ram’s Head features a folk music group, Ellis Paul and Vance Gilbert. The pair plays at 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 17. Watch and listen for $15. Moving on to another genre, Vonda Shepard Trio hits the stage with their coffeehouse, smooth tunes. Swoon along on Friday, May 18 at 8 p.m. for $42.50. Jon Cleary’s Philthy Phew bring deep south blues sounds to Ram’s Head on Saturday. Enjoy the music for $25 and be there by 8:30 p.m. Justin Townes Earle (featuring Tristen) brings Americana sounds to the stage at the beloved Annapolis hang-out. Sing and sway at 8 p.m. on Sunday for $26.50 with Earle.

49 West hosts sensational jazz acts this week. First, Unified Jazz Ensemble on Tuesday is there for the release of their CD! Listen in at 8 p.m. The cover charge is $6. On Wednesday, don’t miss Starr’s Jazz Jam, a compilation of a drummer, pianist, and bassist. See them at 7 p.m. for $10. Thursday, John Jensen brings blues to 49 West at 5 p.m. Even better, this blues man requires no cover charge to see and hear! Saturday, Larry Brown Quintet plays two shows: one at 7 p.m. and the other at 9 p.m. Enjoy this seasoned jazz team complete with the piano, bass, drums, trumpet, and tenor saxophone. The cover charge is $15. Sunday welcomes Jen, Larry, and Pete at 49 West. The vocals are sultry and the instruments sound smooth. There’s no cover charge. See this trio at 4 p.m. Also on Sunday, William Kelly, a classical pianist plays to the visitors at the favored downtown cafe. The cover charge is $10 and Kelly begins at 5 p.m. 49 West brings you two more events on Sunday: jazz musicians Bob, Henning, and Mike at 7 p.m. and Jonathan Stone at 10 a.m. on the guitar. The former carries a $20 cover charge and the latter requires no admission fee. Go to www.49westcoffeehouse.com for additional info.

The classic Shakespeare play that shook the world in the 16th century and has affected students ever since, Romeo and Juliet, is on stage at Maryland Hall. In fact, this performance offers a new approach to the standard play. Annapolis Opera Company presents this show that is full of classical music. Need contextualization? There’s a pre-show lecture one hour prior to the curtain opening. For Friday, May 18, be there at 8 p.m. to see the show or 7 p.m. to hear the lecture. On Sunday, May 20, see the show at 3 p.m. and the lecture at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $85. Go to www.marylandhall.org for tickets and more info.

Annapolis History

Sunday, May 20 brings a lecture by Andrea Wulf at St. Anne’s Church in Church Circle. Wulf will discuss the founding fathers, gardening, botany and agriculture from centuries ago. The lecture is somewhat of a premiere; Wulf shares a peep into the past for the first time on Sunday. Interested in the lecture but want even more? Attend the pre-lecture reception! This private, complimentary reception is open to the guests who purchase certain tickets. Call 410-267-7619 for more information on tickets. The lecture begins at 6 p.m.

Annapolis Entertainment

Mills Fine Wine and Maryland Hall combine this Friday, May 11, for “The Art of Wine: Wine Tasting.” Held at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts on Chase Street, participants can learn about diverse wines and sample many of them. Taste and be merry from 7 to 9 p.m. at this event. There is an admission fee but the proceeds go to Maryland Hall’s community arts programs. Check with www.marylandhall.org for additional information.

The Colonial Players present Going to St. Ives again this week. If you haven’t heard about it, the play is more of a drama between two women who reluctantly become intertwined. Performances are scheduled on Sundays at 2 p.m. and Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 8 p.m. Purchase tickets on The Colonial Players’ online box office: www.thecolonialplayers.org.

Ram’s Head, as always, brings you talented acts and musical ways to have fun. This week, they offer the same greatness but with new acts. On Wednesday, Mark Doughty heads up the entertainment with true stories, music, and a question & answer section. Doughty reads true yet dark stories from his memoir, The Book of Drugs, which catalogs the depths of drug addiction and the eventual rise from its grasp. Listen to music intermingled between his reading and the Q&A with the audience. See and learn from Doughty for $23.50 at 8 p.m. Next up, Steve Tyrell doles out jazzy pop at 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 10. He plays for $39.50. Gretchen Parlato, a jazz goddess, sings on Friday, May 11 at 8 p.m. See this sultry jazz singer for $25. Saturday, Ram’s Head treats its newcomers and patrons to two shows from Dar Williams, a folky singer/songwriter. Williams performs with The Milk Carton Kids at 6 and 9 p.m. Ryan Montbleau Band joins American Babies on Sunday to bring you Americana music. See them at 8 p.m. for $15. Go to www.tickets.ramsheadonstage.com to secure tickets and find more information.

49 West Coffeehouse blends a cool vibe with laid back music. This week, let the talented musicians there lull you into the night. Ruben Dobbs plays at 7:30 p.m. on Monday. See Dobbs for $10. Tuesday, Unified Jazz Ensemble brings their instruments and talents to the stage at 8:30 p.m. The cover charge is $6. Indulge in some classical fun this week with the Pam Godfrey Duo on Wednesday at 5 p.m. What’s even better than these fun-loving flutists and violinists? There’s no cover charge! 49 West offers another jazz/classical music group on Wednesday with Frank & Amy. The cover charge is only $6. Thursday, see Rob Levit Group with Rhianna Laroque at 8 p.m. Expect a night of unforgettable jazz. The cover charge is $6. Friday, Izzi Does It, a jazz/blues/latin group, takes the stage at 49 West. See them at 8:30 p.m. for $8. Mother’s Day, May 13, Swing Brothers entertain at 3 p.m. Reward your mother or a great mom you know with rocking jazz at no charge! If your mom is more into indie/folk music, take her to Jennifer Camp’s performance at 7 p.m. See Camp for $6. There’s yet another chance to treat mom–with brunch at 49 West. Jonathan Stone will be there too, playing the piano. Go to www.49westcoffeehouse.com for more, like menus and upcoming performances.

St. John’s College keeps their Community Art Exhibit up until Mother’s Day. See sculptures, paitings, photographs and ceramics made by the community. The exhibit is on display in The Mitchell Gallery. Contact The Mitchell Gallery for on this exhibit and its hours of operation at 410-626-2556.

Annapolis History

Need an educational experience that’s still intriguing? William Paca House once again delivers history wrapped up in fun, this time, with hands-on activities and interesting things to see. On Sunday, May 13, William Paca House puts on a plant sale in the garden. Pick some of your favorite foliage from plants that garden volunteers grew. See and buy perennials, annuals, woody plants, and vines. The event is free and is open from noon to 4 p.m. Treat mom to lovely annual flowers that will remind her of you every spring. Go to www.annapolis.org and find this event to download a copy of the sale catalog.

Annapolis Entertainment

This Sunday, May 6, marks the first of many First Sunday Arts in Annapolis. What is this intriguing event? Essentially, it’s an art festival with food, drinks, entertainment, crafts, and lovely merchandise to purchase. In the past, First Sunday Arts pulled in over 45,000 to the fun. This festival of sorts runs from May to October–generally all warm months. Celebrate the prospect of summer at First Sunday Arts! Vendors are set up on Calvert and West Streets. Admission and parking (at State Parking Garage on corner of Calvert & Bladen Streets) are free! Check out www.firstsundayarts.com for more!

But wait, there’s more art to view! Maryland Federation of Arts hosts the reception for their spring show this Sunday, May 6, from 3 to 5 p.m. Observe the talented artwork on display and involve yourself in culture! The reception is held at the Main Gallery.

In the musical world, this Sunday marks the end of Bay Theatre’s The Belle of Amherst. Bring a friend who loves Emily Dickinson’s poetry or a friend who loves plays! Go to www.baytheatre.org to obtain tickets.

The Colonial Players open a new play this week! On May 4, Going to St. Ives opens at their 108 East Street location. This dramatic play catalogs two women whose lives become entangled. Watch the provocative actions and consequences unfold on stage! Buy tickets online at www.thecolonialplayers.org.

Still interested in music, but want it in a more casual setting? Try out Ram’s Head this week! Monday, the musical genius begins with Grandmothers of Invention. See this group if you’re a fan of Frank Zappa–they are the creation of Frank Zappa. They play at 8 p.m. The admission is $25. On Tuesday, Suzanne Vega hits the stage at 8 p.m. with her interpretation of folk/pop music. Vega incorporates her own poetry and music lyrics into lovely instrument music. See her for $50. Wednesday, May 2, Corky Laing & The Memory Thieves bring you edgy rock music. Be moved by these talented musicians for $25. Watch them at 8 p.m. Interested in a night of pop/rock like that of Ben Harper or John Mayer? Give Tyrone Wells, a thoughtful, sweet-sounding musician, a try on Thursday. Wells plays at 8 p.m. and it only costs $20 to see him. Friday offers a wild yet intriguing band of musicians under the name Southern Culture on the Skids. This group plays a mixture of rock and pop music at Ram’s Head at 8 p.m. See them for $35. Saturday, Ram’s Head hosts the Annapolis Comedy Festival. The 2 p.m. performances are fit for all ages, whereas the 7 and 10 p.m. ones are restricted to 21 and older. Acts from Little Miss Codependent on Theatre 99 are set to perform. The cost for the 2 p.m. performances is $10, and the cost for the other performances is $20. Sunday, May 6, the music comes back to Ram’s Head with The Left Banke. Similar to The Beach Boys or The Beatles, this group offers you songs you can easily bob your head to. See them at 8 p.m. for $35.

49 West also has musical entertainment set up this week in a relaxed atmosphere. Monday, April 30, listen and watch “The 9 Songwriter Series,” an event that combines the talent of nine musicians. The cover charge is $10. See the nine from 8 to 11 p.m. Tuesday, sing and jam along with Unified Jazz Ensemble at 8:30 p.m. for $6. Wednesday, Starrs Jazz Jam once again visits the stage at 49 West at 7 p.m. The cover charge to see various jazz acts is $10. Thursday, Rob Levit Group comes to 49 West again, bringing his guitar chords and hooks with him. See Levit at 8:30 p.m. for $6. Friday, a different act comes to the stage–Basement Band. See this compilation of musicians for $10. They play at 8 p.m. On Saturday, Tom Mitchell & Friends plays at 8 p.m. See Mitchell and his buddies for $10. Sunday, May 6, Jonathan Stone begins the fun at 49 West as usual. He sings during brunch time–10 a.m. There’s no cover charge to see him. Later on Sunday, attend Greg Martins’ show at 1 p.m. See Martins for $6. Lastly on Sunday, Gary & Leah come to the stage with roots/Americana music. There’s no cover charge and they play at 4 p.m. Look up 49 West for more information: www.49westcoffeehouse.com.

Looking to grow your musical knowledge or have a penchant for classical music? Attend Annapolis Symphony Orchestra’s “Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 4” this week, which features performances by Rachel Franklin. Need contextualization or help on understanding what is so fantastic about this performance? Head to the free pre-concert lecture at 6:45 p.m. on the same day of the concert–Friday, May 4. Listen and learn to both lecture and concert! Ticket admission depends upon the seating. Look to www.marylandhall.org for more on this event. The concert begins at 8 p.m. Don’t miss out on this experience!

Here’s another event that promotes the arts–Chesapeake Arts Center’s school show. Check out the young talent in your area with performances by CAC students. The show is scheduled for Friday, May 4 at 7 p.m. at the Chesapeake Arts Center. Go to www.chesapeakearts.org to learn more.

Annapolis presents an event for those who adore art but also want to publicly appreciate it. Red Carpet on Gallery Row is this Saturday, May 5. To accommodate the artsy attendees, there will be live music, photographers cataloging the event, and the chance to socialize with admirable artists. There will be a photo exhibit of women who served/are serving in the Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the event. The red carpet is spread out from 57 West Street to 45 West Street. Walk and see art and others from 6 to 9 pm.

Annapolis History

There are three times to revel in history this week at the William Paca House. First, Monday brings the chance to learn about the life of legendary William Paca, signer of the Declaration of Independence. Jean Russo, a historian, will contextualize the history that surrounded Paca. Head to this educational event either at noon on Monday, April 30, or at 7 p.m. that day. Both times cost $10. The next historical event planned also involves the William Paca House, but this one takes place in the garden. Not only does this event benefit participants through viewing the lovely, historic garden, but also because all proceeds go Historic Annapolis’ endeavor to maintain the Paca House’s garden. Plantasia, as this event is formally called, allows viewers to stroll the garden paths while indulging in the provided cocktails and snacks. In addition, there’s a silent auction on rare and heirloom plants. Preserve history in an entertaining, social way this week. Each person costs $100. Plantasia is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Activate the following link to learn more: www.annapolis.org.

Annapolis Entertainment

Entertainment often takes the form of art, as is the case with St. John’s College Opening Reception on Sunday. Celebrate the new collection that features the work of several artists from 3 to 5 p.m. This is a community event. Head to www.stjohnscollege.edu/events for more on this event and their upcoming ones.

The Belle of Amherst still plays this week with Bay Theatre. If you haven’t seen this play that focuses on the witty, pro-woman poet, Emily Dickinson, make time this week. The final performance is scheduled for Sunday, May 6. See the play this Thursday, Friday, or Saturday at 8 p.m., or on Sunday at 2 p.m. Contact www.baytheatre.org for more.

If warm weather is synonymous with jazz music for you, head to 49 West Coffeehouse this week. However, Monday starts out with an exotic genre–Klezmer music. See Machaya Klezmer Band on stage at 7:30 p.m. playing traditional Klezmer music mixed with an international vibe, swing, rock, and classical music. The cover charge for this exotic experience is $6. Tuesday, the jazz returns to 49 West with Unified Jazz Ensemble. See this 49 West favorite at 8:30 p.m. for $6. Wednesday, The DC Experience–Dave Crosby on guitar, Francis Thompson on drums, and James Fowler on bass–visit the beloved coffeehouse. The cover charge is $6. Get your dose of coffee and education with Cafe Scientific on Thursday. This week, NASA scientist Michael Kelly educates the crowd on views of asteroids and comets from recent NASA missions. Kelly is on stage from 6 to 8 p.m. On Friday, Federicio Tubaya Group plays at 7 p.m. The admission fee is $8. Saturday, Her, Him & I bring talented roots the to the stage at 9 p.m. See them for $8. Sunday, see Pillowbook perform acoustics at 8:30 p.m. The cover charge is $6. Also on Sunday, crowd favorite Jonathan Stone is on stage at 10:30 a.m. There’s no cover charge. Follow the link to learn more about 49 West’s performances: www.49westcoffeehouse.com.

Rock, pop, alternative, and folk marry this week at Ram’s Head. Fans of pop and rock should pay attention to the first part of the week’s activities–these are sure to please rock and pop enthusiasts. The rock/pop begins on Monday with Don Dixon and Marti Jones. These two play at 8 p.m. for $22.50. Tuesday, Jim White is on stage singing songs from his alternative-rock albums. White plays at 8 p.m. and only costs $15 to see. As a tribute to their new CD, Wishbone Ash brings a party full of hard rock music and talented musicians to the stage on Wednesday. See this group for $29.50 at 8 p.m. Thursday, David Wilcox shares the stage with Susan Werner at 8 p.m. Both Wilcox and Werner achieved success on their own, but the combination of the two at Ram’s Head is overflowing with potential. Swoon and sway to their folk tunes for $25. On Friday and Saturday, Pat McGee Band joins with Native Run for two nights of surefire folk/pop hits. Both nights, McGee plays at 8 p.m. See this group for $29.50. Sunday, Ram’s Head covers the last genre for the week–folk. Kathy Mattea, Grammy-winning folk darling, hits the stage on Sunday, April 29 at 5 and 8 p.m. Each performance costs $39.50. Prepare to let music overtake you with these marvelous performances! Head to www.ramsheadonstage.com for more information.

Annapolis History

The William Paca House once again presents Annapolis citizens with historical fun. Monday, April 23, lecturer Glenn E. Campbell will present on the four Maryland men who signed the Declaration of Independence. The presentation takes place two times on Monday; from noon to 1 p.m. and 7 to 8 p.m. The cost is $10. Go to www.annapolis.org for additional information.

Marry history and the great outdoors with Watermark tours on surrounding waters. See six miles of the Severn River while sipping beer, wine, or other drinks. Tours begin at 12:30 p.m. from the Annapolis City Dock on Saturdays and Sundays. If you’ve seen the lovely blues of the Severn River, tour the Chesapeake Bay at 2:30 p.m. Watermark Cruises also offers tours of Thomas Point Lighthouse at 4:30 p.m. Though all lighthouses are beautiful, this lighthouse is the most recognized in Maryland. Go to www.watermarkcruises.com for additional information.

Annapolis Family Fun

Chesapeake Children’s Museum presents a book sale/poetry reading/learning experience entitled “Breath of My Ancestors” on Sunday, April 29. Ty Gray-El discusses poetry, historical events, and current facts. As stated before, there’s a book sale too, which benefits 21st Century Global School House. Bring kids–your own or ones you know–ages nine and older to the fun. Gray-El is there at 2 p.m. The only fee applicable is $4 museum admission fee. For 16 and older, Gray-El has a separate presentation at 5 p.m. and it’s free. Look to www.theccm.org for more on these events.

Annapolis Opera Company and Peabody Opera Outreach present a show for children called Ariel’s Tempest. Peabody Opera Outreach reconstructed Shakespeare’s beloved Tempest for younger children, which now includes comedy and shorter playing time. The performance begins at 10: 30 a.m. on Saturday, April 28. Tickets are $10. Go to www.marylandhall.org to procure tickets.

Maryland Hall keeps the family-centered fun going with Bee Movie, a free screening. Open and free to the public, Bee Movie focuses on the pivotal point many face: life after college. The main character (who happens to be a quick-thinking bee named Barry), decides he does not want to make honey after graduating college and instead, heads to NYC and falls in love. The movie is great for children, and due to the narrative, great for parents. Catch the film at 2 p.m. on Maryland Hall’s main stage.

Maryland Hall presents touring shows throughout the year, and this week, they show “Skippy Jon Jones” and “Wizard of Oz.” The yellow-brick fantasy from childhood is up first–on Tuesday. “Skippy Jon Jones” is scheduled for Wednesday, April 25. Purchase your tickets online at www.marylandhall.org.

To keep up with the delightfully blue views, Severn Inn has a menu that wows. I tried their lunch menu, and found it to exceed my expectations. Before ordering, I savored the warm, airy bread the server brought out in a fish-shaped basket. Butter oozed onto the slice made it even more heavenly. My lunch–grilled cilantro-lime marinated fish tacos–arrived soon. The presentation was stunning, with two meaty, full tacos separated by a dish of sour cream, guacamole, and homemade salsa. I could see bits of cilantro peeking around chunks of grilled fish. Under the fish, there was a bed of spicy black beans and avocado. On top of the fish was a jicama slaw that added nice crunch and sweetness. Even the taco shell was unique and delicious. While it was a traditional flour tortilla, it was thicker, much like naan or another type of flatbread. The portion size allowed me to enjoy a taco for lunch and save one for later. The price was just a great as the meal: $14.

I went to Severn Inn with a classy friend; a home cook, but a very talented one. She had been to Severn Inn a few times before and raved about the food and views. Needless to say, I was very much anticipating our lunch date.

My friend ordered farm raised tilapia with olives. The dish came on a large white plate, which only brightened the colorful olives and sauce displayed there.The tilapia came in a healthy portion, and was succulent to the taste buds and juicy to the touch. A Mediterranean sauce adorned the fish and oversized olives strewn over the dish. The meal was reasonable, too: $16.

While Severn Inn does carry a delicious repertoire of very affordable food, you can certainly indulge yourself there too. For instance, the no-filler jumbo lump crab cakes cost a pretty penny. However, the dish comes with lemon-herb tartar sauce, fried green tomatoes, cole slaw, spicy ketchup, and French-fried potatoes. This taste of Maryland costs you $40. If you’re looking for a culinary tour of the best of the sea, order Lupe’s Salvadorian seafood stew–$36. Ordering this unforgettable delight gets you shrimp, crab, clams, mussels, lobster, tomatoes, cilantro, garlic, and steamed rice all in a bowl. Are dishes derived from land more your to your liking? Try out the filet mignon for $38. This traditional dish is served with a classy twist at Severn Inn. Their filet mignon features cabernet reduction sauce, yukon gold potatoes, and sauteed wild mushrooms atop an eight ounce 21-day aged black angus piece of meat. It’s a mouthful to say and a mouthful to eat, but oh so decadent.

Severn Inn has lighter dishes, too, like heirloom tomatoes paired with goat cheese and balsamic vinaigrette. Plenty of salads like Severn Inn Wedge Salad, and soups, like Chilled Roasted Tomato Gazpacho populate the menu as well.

What’s so enticing about Severn Inn’s menu is that it offers much of what you would expect to see, but the quality and preparation make the dishes so much more. It is perfect for picky eaters, carnivores, veggie eaters, and impressionable eaters. Plus, the views automatically elevate the dining experience. Choose wine from the pages offered to enhance your experience even further. To see the website, follow this link: www.severinn.com .

Severn Inn is open year round, but changes its hours during the winter months. Look to their website for hours of operation and contact information.

Indulge and enjoy at Severn Inn!

Annapolis Performances

Looking for some kid-friendly fun? Children’s Theatre of Annapolis continues their take on the classic Disney film Alice in Wonderland. The play ends this weekend, but performances are scheduled for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There is music to be heard, dancing to be seen, and other fun planned. Go to www.childrenstheatreofannapolis.org to acquire tickets.

Bay Theatre’s The Belle of Amherst is on this weekend as well, with performances scheduled for Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. All performances begin at 8 p.m. with the exception of Sunday’s performance, which begins at 2 p.m. If you haven’t seen this play yet, take the time to pay tribute in a fun way to Emily Dickinson, one of the literary field’s most talented writers. The play catalogs her bold demeanor that translated to her work. Go to www.baytheatre.org for more information and to obtain tickets.

There’s yet another play in Annapolis this weekend–The Colonial Players’ The Spitfire Grill. This play covers the comeback of a woman from jail. Percy, the main character, turns her life around and takes charge of running the sole restaurant in her little town. Eventually, the town comes to let Percy into their hearts. It’s a heartwarming tale with a moral. Go to www.thecolonialplayers.org.

Ram’s Head on Stage brings you another week of famous fun. Monday, April 16, Lambchop is on stage with country rock music. Special guest Meg Baird plays with the group. The cover charge is $20 and the group plays at 8 p.m.Tuesday, winner of NBC’s The Voice, Javier Colon, is at Ram’s Head. Colon is known nationally for his stunning performances on television, doling out sweet tunes mixed with rock and pop. He plays at 8 p.m. The cover charge is $28.50. Wednesday, folk/country singer Nanci Griffith plays on stage at 8 p.m. See this “folkabilly” singer for $45. Next up, the man who brought boogie to feet all over America, Kevin Bacon, comes to the stage with his brother Thursday and Friday. The Bacon Brothers play folk, country, and pop music at Ram’s Head at 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. The cost is $49.50. Saturday, Rachelle Ferrell sings at 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Ferrell is similar to jazz musicians like Toni Braxton and Maysa. If you’re interested in her lovely vocals, see Ferrell for $49.50. Sunday, War, a funk/R&B group, plays at 5 and 8 p.m. See this eclectic band for $39.50. Head to www.tickets.ramsheadonstage.com to purchase your tickets and find additional information.

49 West hosts an overabundance of talented groups this week. First up, Marc Douglas Bercado, a musical master much like John Steinbeck and Norman Rockwell. See his performance on Monday at 7:30 for $12. Tuesday, Unified Jazz Ensemble returns at 8:30 p.m. The cover charge is $6. Wednesday, Starr’s Jazz Jam is back with laid back jazz sessions. Reminisce in the smooth sounds with a coffee drink. Be there at 7 p.m. with $10 for the cover charge. Thursday, see Rob Levit Group for free! Levit will whisk you away to happier places with his guitar and thoughtful jazz. See him at 8:30 p.m. Friday, April 20, Kings of Crownsville offer you blues, rock, and jazz music at 8 p.m. The admission is $6. The weekend brings you John Jensen, a blues man, from 5 to 7 p.m. There is no charge. Later on Saturday, attend American Roots Night with Dean Rosenthal and The Racket. The cover charge is $10. Relax to these simple tunes at 8 p.m. Sunday, 49 West supplies you with three seasoned artists. During breakfast, you’ll find Jonathan Stone, a jazz musician. Just like all other Sundays with Stone, there is no charge. He plays at 10 a.m. The Swing Brothers hop to the stage at 2 p.m., giving you jazz music. See these brothers for free. Lastly, Don Paxton plays at 49 West for $10 on Sunday. Head to www.49westcoffeehouse.com for more on these events.

Maryland Hall for Creative Arts hosts a week’s worth of art-inspired entertainment. They kick off the week with a tribute to music legend Merle Haggard at 7:30 p.m. on Monday. Haggard’s incredible success in the country music world is the topic of conversation at this event. The next exciting event at Maryland Hall is a screening of independent film, “Blast,” by Paul Devlin. This film by decorated videographer Devlin documents the discoveries of his brother, scientist Mark Devlin. The discoveries to be shown are ones of galaxies, NASA happenings, and evolution. This outer space journey begins at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, but there is a question & answer session before. On Wednesday, the content moves in a more musical direction. Erin Harpe, daughter of celebrated Annapolis musician, Neil Harpe, showcases her own bluesy skills at 7:30 p.m. Harpe plays in Music Room 308. Don’t miss this young talent! Friday and Saturday, Live Arts Maryland presents Verdi’s “Requiem,” an opera that demands its viewers’ attention. Actually, the performances differ by day. On Friday, there is a casual conversation between the singers and audience at 7:30 p.m. Mr. Green will also be at this informal event to explicate on Verdi’s masterpiece. On Saturday, attendees will hear the magnificent opera at 8 p.m. Even still, there’s a pre-concert talk with Mr. Green at 7 p.m. On Sunday, Maryland Hall offers you music, just in a more relaxed setting than the opera. Adam Ritchie, a talented musician and singer, teams up with a few other groups to raise money for the family of Greg Sears. Sears was killed before the birth of his child, and the money raised goes to his wife and child. It’s a fun yet beneficial event–participate! For more information on these events or to purchase tickets, go to www.marylandhall.org.

Annapolis History

Monday brings a great event for all you history lovers and supporters of the arts. At the William Paca House on 186 Prince George Street, there is a presentation on decorative arts of the 18th century at noon and 7 p.m. Relish in the arts at the reception too, at 6 p.m. The presentation will teach you how to identify techniques of decorative arts in the 1700s. The reception features a visit to the Paca’s newly decorated dining room. Registration is required. The cost is $10 for the public. Go to www.annapolis.org for additional information.

Annapolis Family Fun

Getting a healthy dose of fresh air is always good, but this next event allows you to help the environment too. GreenScape Day, a city-wide effort to plant trees, takes place on Saturday from 9:30 to 1:30. Make sure you pre-register. Call Chesapeake Children’s Museum at 410-990-1993 for more information.

Chesapeake Children’s Museum holds an event for seniors, kids, and parents alike this week. The event is essentially a fair with crafts, games, and food for families. Because Annapolis Senior Center actually runs the fair, the event is held there (119 South Villa Avenue). The cost is $5 per person and children under three are free! To accommodate the fun, the senior center also hosts musical guests. Contact the website for more information: www.theccm.org. This event takes place on Saturday from noon to 7 p.m.

Think your kid is destined to be an world-famous archaeologist? If so, Dinosaur Day through Chesapeake Children’s Museum is for you (and your kid)! At this event, attendees can meet Dr. Peter Krantz, a paleontologist and founder of Dinosaur Park in Laurel, MD. Let the imagination of your child run wild with hands-on activities. Watching Barney on TV is out, learning by touch is in! The event takes place on Sunday from 2 to 2:30 p.m.

Annapolis Entertainment

This week, the Queen of Hearts, Alice, and the White Rabbit visit you, Annapolis! Children’s Theatre of Annapolis brings the magic of this Disney classic to the stage on April 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22. The musical is based on the 1951 Disney version and Lewis Carroll’s original in print. “Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr.” is sure to please children and adults alike. Call 410-757-2281 for play times and location.

The Belle of Amherst, the Bay Theatre Company’s play about Emily Dickinson’s rise to literary stardom, remains for audiences this week. Go to www.baytheatre.org for tickets and more.

Another play, The Colonial Players’ The Spitfire Grill, is still on stage this week. The performance centers on the comeback of a motivated woman with a less than desirable past. This musical is only available to see until April 21, so take time to attend before it’s gone! Head to www.thecolonialplayers.org for contact information and how to purchase tickets.

Ballet Theatre of Maryland presents a celebration of Grace Clark’s 100th Birthday. Don’t know the wonderful Grace Clark? She’s the lady who brought dance to this bustling city. Join directors and other performance folk as they reminisce about Clark with stories and reflections. On Sunday, there’s a birthday party for Clark after the show. Tickets are $45 for adults, $36 for seniors, $25 for students, and $19 for children 10 and below. Commemorate this liberal art-minded lady on Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 7 p.m., or Sunday at 2 p.m. The birthday celebration on Sunday consists of toasting Clark, announcing BTM’s new season, and socializing with others. There is a cash bar too! Head to www.tickets.marylandhall.org for tickets.

Ram’s Head features a wide variety of musical genres this week. First, Alice Smith, an eccentric singer with a four octave range, lulls the crowd with a mix of indie and R&B. Smith plays on Tuesday at 8 p.m. and costs $23.50 to see. On Wednesday, Amy Ray offers alternative rock much like the group she co-founded, Indigo Girls. Ray plays with Kaia Wilson at 8 p.m. and charges $20. Sugar Blue, harmonica-playing-electric-blues-extraordinaire, brings you lively entertainment at 8 p.m. on Thursday. Pay $15 to see Blue. Friday, see a tribute to Rod Stewart at 8 p.m. See this group, Bandhouse Gigs, for $25. Saturday night at Ram’s Head is certainly adults-only. Burlesque-a-Pades, burlesque mixed with live jazz, comes to the stage at 8:30 p.m. See this unforgettable show for $22.50. Sunday, Ram’s Head packs in more over the top fun with Almost Elton John & The Rocket Band at 8 p.m. No contextualization is needed here. See the show for $45. Buy tickets online at www.tickets.ramsheadonstage.com.

49 West Coffeehouse presents Annapolis with jazz and acoustic music this week. On Tuesday, Unified Jazz Ensemble is back with acoustic jazz that inspires crowd interaction. See this energetic group at 8:30 p.m. for only $6. Next, on Wednesday, 49 West-goers will find Pam & Paula, an instrumental duo. These ladies begin to play at 5 p.m. There is no cover charge. Also on Wednesday, Frank & Amy play with percussion, a saxophone, keyboard, and more! The cover charge is $6 and the group begins playing at 8 p.m. Thursday, Rob Levit Group entertains from 8:30 to midnight. Levit, a talented composer and educator, wows the audience with acoustic jazz. See Levit for $6. Friday, Susan Jones Trio hits the stage with violins, drums, and guitars. With an eclectic musical background, Jones and her bandmates will keep you entertained until they leave at 11 p.m. The trio begins at 8 p.m. and costs $6 to see. Saturday night, the mood becomes intimate at 49 West. Stef Scaggiari on piano and Sue Matthews on the microphone create an intimate jazz setting with their sweet sounds. Go to the show and see why they’ve been called “Annapolis Jazz Sweethearts.” The performance begins at 8 p.m. and costs $20. Sunday, Annapolis residents and visitors have an abundance of musical acts from which to choose. One of these is Jenn, Larry & Pete, a sing-along kind of group. There’s no cover charge. This trio begins at 4 p.m. At dinnertime, British musicians known as Veronneau are on stage at 7 p.m. Though from the United Kingdom, this group does not play favorites and only play English tunes; Veronneau presents international music. The cover charge is $20. During the breakfast hour, Jonathan Stone, a jazzy Brazilian import, gives jazz music to listeners. Stone plays for free at 10 a.m. Go to www.49westcoffeehouse.com for menus, music events, and more.

Annapolis History

The William Paca House hosts a painting event this Saturday, April 14. Participants can bask in the spring weather and paint the lovely gardens at the Paca House. A skilled landscape and garden painter will be there to guide shaky hands. The workshop/painting event occurs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and costs $75. Register online at www.annapolis.org.

Annapolis Family Fun

Chesapeake Children’s Museum holds “Daisy Day” on Saturday and Sunday, where Girl Scouts can earn petals and work with others. The event costs $7 for the girls and $3 for parents and younger siblings. The fun takes place from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Here’s another event through the CCM: Earth Day Celebration at Quiet Waters Park on April 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are hands-on activities and plenty of green trees and colorful plants to enjoy. The celebration incurs free parking and park admission. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Visit www.theccm.org for more info.

Annapolis Restaurants & Specials

Easter Sunday brings more than a furry bunny with sugary treats. This Sunday, restaurants in Annapolis offer discounts for your dining pleasure. First up, Luna Blu, a classy Italian restaurant, hosts dinner specials from 2 to 9 p.m. Enjoy pastas, risottos, and soups all day! Look at Luna Blu’s website, www.lunabluofannapolis.com, for a full dinner menu.

Severn Inn, the lovely restaurant right off the Severn River, offers Easter specials too. The brunch is buffet style, and holds three seatings; 10-10:30, 12:15 to 12:45, and 2:45 to 3:15. For adults, the price is $29.95, a child’s meal costs $18, and a child under 5 is free of charge. Contact Severn Inn for more information at 410-349-4000.

49 West Coffeehouse also runs specials this Sunday. See more information under the next heading.

Annapolis Entertainment

William Luce’s The Belle of Amherst is still playing through this week. The play features Emily Dickinson’s transformation to a strong individual and poet. See this entertaining performance of an interesting, bold woman who changed poetry forever. Acquire tickets through www.baytheatre.org.

The Colonial Players also show off their play this week, The Spitfire Grill. See this play that centers on the comeback of a determined woman. Get your tickets online at: www.thecolonialplayers.org.

This week at Ram’s Head is packed with star-studded fun. Monday, Incognito and special musical guest Maysa Leak bring funk and jazz to the stage. There are two shows on Monday: 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. The cost for each show is $35. Tuesday and Wednesday, the man who danced with wolves comes to Ram’s Head’s stage. That’s right, none other than Kevin Costner and his country group, Modern West, will be on stage. See Costner and his group for $85 and 8 p.m. both nights. Thursday, April 5, Joan Osbourne emits pop/rock music on stage. Osbourne plays at 8 p.m. and charges $45. Friday, James Hunter and Jesse Dee play retro-soul on stage at 8 p.m. Ticket admission is $29.50. Saturday, country crooner Junior Brown brings his accomplished talent and rocking spirit to the stage. With multiple awards and a stately cowboy hat, you shouldn’t miss this performance! Brown plays at 1 p.m. for $25. Later on Saturday, catch Capitol Steps at 6 and 9 p.m. This quirky group brings satire to the stage. Enjoy the music these Senate staffers give out for $30. Check out www.tickets.ramsheadonstage.com to book your seats.

Maryland Hall and South County Concert present a delightful musical experience with an international flair on Monday, April 2. The group, Spanish Brass, is a talented compilation of two trumpets, a trombone, a French horn, and a tuba. The instruments Spanish Brass uses are as eclectic as the tunes they play. Go to the show and relish the music from Bach, Mozart, Albeniz, and Turina. This group is highly decorated, so you won’t want to miss this opportunity! The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Purchase tickets online at www.tickets.marylandhall.org.

49 West kicks off the week oldschool. Mike Lackey, Jimi Haha, Joseph Karr, and Ruben Dobbs bring bopping music from the 80s and 90s to the stage at 7:30 p.m. The cover charge is $10. Tuesday, April 3, Gary and Leah revisit the stage with roots-American music. Hear the fun a fiddle brings at no cost! Also on Tuesday, Unified Jazz Ensemble shows off their sounds with bass guitars and a marimba. See them for $6. Wednesday, head to Starr’s Jazz Jam at 7 p.m. and hear the smooth sounds of a few great artists. The cover charge is $10. Thursday, see Rob Levit Group at 8 p.m. for some jazz. The cover charge is $6. Celebrate a week’s worth of hard work with Max Jeffers from 8 to 11 p.m. The cover charge is only $10. Saturday, Chris Trapper and Nick Young dole out classic pop music. See the duo at 7 p.m. for $15. Before the show, head to 49 West’s Easter brunch from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. There are great food specials until two and musically, enjoy Jonathan Stone’s sweet jazz until 1 p.m. Jonathan Stone comes back to 49 West with Brazilian roots in hand and voice on Sunday at 10 a.m. Next up on Sunday, attend Swing Brothers’ show at 4 p.m. Lastly, Sunday gives you Jennifer Camp at 7 p.m. With her extensive repertoire of instrumental abilities–banjo, guitar, accordion, bagpipes, etc.–Camp can entertain almost any listener. To see her, bring $6 for the cover charge. Head to www.49westcoffeehouse.com for additional info.

Annapolis History

Here’s a fun activity that’s a bit out of the ordinary yet interesting. Watermark Cruises brings you a walking tour of landmark sites like the Maryland State House and the Naval Academy. The goal here is to offer participants a peek into colonial times. The tour lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes–long enough to learn, but short enough for busy people. For adults, ticket admission is $16 and $10 for children ages three to eleven. For kids two and under, the tour is free. The tours depart from a few locations: 10:30 a.m. from the Visitor’s Center now until October 28 and 1:30 p.m. from the Informational Booth now until September 30. Tours run daily. Call 410-268-7601 for more information.

Annapolis Hotels

With the many, many hotels in the greater Annapolis area, how are you supposed to decide on one? Easy; go with the ones with deals! This week, check out Holiday Inn’s manager’s special. This deal lands you a %15 discount when you book your stay early. Rates start at $89 per night. There’s plenty to do around Holiday Inn, too, like shopping at Parole and eating at Gordon Biersch or Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar. Riva Road, Holiday Inn’s location, intersects West Street and its many fun happenings there. Book a little luxury and save the stress for another day! Go to www.annapolismdhotel.com to reserve your stay and see their other deals.

If you want a fabulous getaway to a fabulous hotel located in downtown Annapolis, all you need to do is tell us why you like the Loews — or think you would like it — on the Loews Facebook page

We will give away one 2-night stay when the Loews Annapolis Facebook page gets to 750 and another when it gets to 1000.

We want you to share this give-away with your FB friends, and when you do, you will get additional chances to win a stay with every share! ONLY fans of the Loews Annapolis page on Facebook can win a stay. WE HAVE TO GIVE THESE PRIZES AWAY BY FRIDAY, SO MAKE SURE YOU TELL US WHY YOU LIKE THE LOEWS AND SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS! Remember, the giveaways are at 750 and 1000 fans so hurry. Only 3 days to give away 2 stays!!!

Once you tell the Loews why you like them, tell us you posted on our Annapolis page We will be giving away additional prizes from the Annapolis FB page soon so keep watching!

Who loves Annapolis, MD?

The reason we have this celebration is all thanks to some ambitious colonists. Before America was America, people were under the British. Though fish and chips are oh so enticing nowadays, many wanted independence a long time ago. Finally, after some hard work and a difficult trek across the seas, newly-arrived colonists raised a cross on St. Clement’s Island and declared their independence as a colony of Maryland. All this happened on March 25 in either 1633 or 1634. Marylanders didn’t celebrate this event until 1903, but we’ve made up for nearly 300 years of neglect with a three day celebration. What’s more, the General Assembly legalized this day as a state holiday in 1916.

To honor those brave history-makers, Maryland Day is all about stepping back into the past. Friday, participants could have attended Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s The Stanley Norman Skipjack, Chesapeake Children Museum’s recyclable lighthouses exhibits, Hammond-Harwood House’s notable women exhibits, Wiley H. Bates Legacy Center’s film screening, etc. Saturday, people learned and enjoyed with Annapolis Tapestries Inc.’s tapestry storytelling, Chase-Lloyd House’s music from colonial times, City of Annapolis Historic Preservation Commission’s artifact disoveries, etc. On the final day of the celebration, Sunday, participants learned from Back Creek Book’s colonial books exhibit, Captain Avery Museum’s display of watermen’s tools, Galesville Heritage Museum’s speech about a shipyard’s discovery, etc. To see the fun had on this three-day celebration, go to www.marylandday.org and click on “Event Program” on the right. If you missed this history extravaganza, keep posted to the website above for future events and news.

There were plenty of vendors and businesses represented at Maryland Day, and they weren’t all history museums. Among these, attendees visited Back Creek Books, Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, Mills Fine Wine and Spirits, Reynolds Tavern, and Wilmsey Cove Framing & Art. Of course, if you were looking for museums and historical organizations (which is only natural to find if you attended Maryland Day), there were handfuls of great ones. Maryland Day featured Historic London Town and Garden, Maryland State House, William Paca House, Historic Annapolis Museum, Chase-Lloyd House, Annapolis Maritime Museum, and Banneker-Douglass Museum, just to name a few.

Plenty of the fun was outside, too, like at Annapolis’ city dock. Downtown, the Stanley Norman Skipjack (to the right) was docked for visitors and residents to see on Friday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. On the skipjack, a 110 year-old vessel, attendees learned about its original function as an oyster collector. Very appropriately, visitors also learned about how the Chesapeake Bay affects boats like the skipjack. Essentially, the over-pollution of the Bay results in an inadequate habitat for sea life. That’s why it’s so important to recycle, reuse, and reduce what we can to save the Bay!

Aside from the valuable history lessons you learned, many businesses ran deals for Maryland Day. Reynolds Tavern, Rams Head Tavern, Sam’s on the Waterfront, Wild Orchid, and b.b. Bistro all offered specials on food items. Wilmsey Cove Framing & Art gave visitors 20% off Maryland maps. Annabeth’s provided wine and beer samples Saturday and Sunday. In addition to deals on wine, food, and art, “March Madness Shopping” took place through Maryland Day’s celebrations. With this event, you found great, discounted finds on the sidewalks of downtown Annapolis. Shopping and history make a great pair!

Not to be excluded from all the fun, I attended a few events. On Saturday, I went to the Historic Annapolis Museum on 99 Main Street for “The Annapolis Tapestries: 18th Century Exhibit.” Katie Williams, Community Stitching Coordinator, taught me how to stitch on canvas–a fairly simple process. Williams encouraged me to sign my name on the registry, which once compiled, will show who participated in making a canvas. Essentially, I participated in making history.

“Now that you’ve got the hang of that,” Williams told me, referring to the stitching, “You’ll really appreciate the tapestry upstairs.” Williams said the tapestry of 18th century Annapolis took eight women 3,300 hours to make. To put that into perspective, making three stitches took me a few minutes. The tapestry measures six by three feet and truly was born of love and dedication (above right).

Upstairs, the tapestry proudly hung with others of presidents, farm land, and more. There was also a postcard exhibit that dated back a few hundred years. In another room, there were display cases of archaeological finds set up–some old sewing tools, bones, etc.

The museum itself has history. Williams explained that in 1709, the building was a communal oven. “People would make their bread at home and bring it here to bake,” she says. Understandably, the building caught on fire and burnt to the ground. It was rebuilt in 1791, where it stands today as a remnant of history.

On Sunday, I went to Mills Fine Wines and Spirits for a taste of the area. They had wines from St. Michaels and nuts from Baltimore–B More Nutz–to sample. How does wine and nut sampling celebrate the history of Maryland, you ask? For starters, Mills is one of the oldest businesses in Annapolis. Also, colonists replaced water with wine and beer, deeming this event supremely historic.

Also on Sunday, families could go to the Hammond-Harwood House for a bit of dress-up. Kids dolled up in colonial attire from 1 to 4 p.m. There were bonnets, lace dresses, hats, and coats for young history enthusiasts to try on! See the fun had to the left.

If you didn’t get around to enjoying some of Maryland Day, you can still support history. Places like Historic Annapolis Museum and Four Rivers Heritage, the celebration’s sponsor, thrive on donations. Even walking around downtown is like taking steps with the colonists who preceded you. Annapolis has been around for hundreds of years, but make the time to celebrate it now.