Ross
Bird Watching
Step onto the glorious grounds of the Marin Art and Garden Center for an evening with birder and author Jack Gedney, reading from his new book, The Private Lives of Public Birds. Gedney, who was born in California and wandered around the U.S. in his younger years, studied literature and natural history at UC Berkeley. He has written a compact field guide to the trees of the San Francisco Bay Area, and co-owns a wild bird feeding and nature shop in Novato called Wild Birds Unlimited. Gedney studies birds intimately, illuminating the lives of different species, their relationships to humans and how we can deepen our relationship with them. Attendees of the evening with Gedney will gain his expert knowledge in identifying bird calls and their meanings, have a chance to get their book signed and partake in a wine reception afterwards. This event will be held on Thursday, Sept. 29 at the Marin Art and Garden Center Studio, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Ross. 5:30-7:30pm. Free. www.maringarden.org
Mill Valley
Marin Theater Company
A professional theater company since 1987, the Marin Theater Company grew out of the Mill Valley Center for the Performing Arts, founded in 1966. In short, this 56 year old venue and 35 year old company knows how to put on a show. This fall’s lineup includes Dunsinane, David Greig’s sequel to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, in partnership with Tamalpais High School’s Conservatory Theatre Ensemble, and August Wilson’s Two Trains Running, his seventh play in The American Century Cycle chronicling the African American experience in the 20th century. Both shows run through Oct. 16, with shows on Tuesday through Sunday evenings, as well as Saturday and Sunday matinees. The Marin Theater Company, 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. For tickets, showtimes and information, visit www.marintheatre.org.
Jenner
Art and Wine Tasting
This weekend, spend some time in the fresh, salty air and high blue skies of late summer at Sonoma Coast Art & Wine. This two-day event, held at Jenner by the Sea, is a gathering of local artists, including wines, to benefit the Waves of Compassion Foundation. The nonprofit was founded by Bodega Bay residents to provide food to local residents struggling with the high prices resulting from an influx of tourist traffic and homes being purchased for short-term housing. At the event, learn more about the foundation and marvel at the talent of the nine Bodega Bay artists whose work will be on display. A variety of red and white wines will be available to sample, donated by such vineyards as Kenwood, Nimble and Comstock. This event is Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11 at Jenner by the Sea, 10400 CA-1, Jenner. Art gallery open 10am to 4pm. Wine tasting noon to 4pm, including either three whites, reds or a glass for $10. www.sonomacoastart.com
Rohnert Park
Indigo Girls
The Green Music Center welcomes yet another phenomenal act—Indigo Girls! Originally released in 1989, the group’s eponymous major label debut sold over two million copies and included singles such as “Closer to Fine” and “Kid Fears,” turning the group into one of the most successful folk duos in history. Over a 35-year career that began in clubs around their hometown of Atlanta, the Grammy-winning duo has recorded 16 studio albums—seven gold, four platinum, one double platinum—sold over 15 million records, and built a dedicated, enduring following. Their sound and power have only grown, creating an inclusive and expansive act full of heartfelt reflection and energy. Indigo Girls plays at the Green Music Center, 1801 E Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park, Thursday, Sept. 8 at 7:30pm. Tickets $30-$95. www.gmc.sonoma.edu