Latest Events in Urbana(May Updated)

Think you’ve seen it all after one farm tour? Think again! Join us monthly as we dive into the seasonal highlights of the Savanna Institute Illinois Demonstration Farms. Every first Saturday of the month, MJ Oviatt or Kaitie Adams will guide you on a walking tour of Savanna Institute Demonstration Farm (Urbana) or 4-H Memorial Camp Farm (Monticello), spotlighting certain aspects of these dynamic demonstration sites. First hour: walking tour of the farm Second hour: interactive activity on the farm June Focus Elderberry & Black Currants! What is elderberry? What is black currant? Establishment and propagation techniques Best management practices Pest and disease issues Cultivars, breeding program Harvesting and processing Market opportunities Benefits to wildlife, ecosystem services June Interactive Activity: properly pick elderberries and elderflowers learn how to process elderberries and elderflowers The Savanna Institute Illinois Demonstration Farms grow on the unceded lands of the Peoria, Kaskaskia, Piankashaw, Wea, Miami, Mascoutin, Odawa, Sauk, Meskwaki, Kickapoo, Potawatomi, Ojibwe, and Chickasaw peoples. The soil we work with and the nourishment it provides are rich only because of generations of knowledge, wisdom, and care. This land continues to carry stories, fight for survival and identity, and celebrations of resilience and joy. It is our obligation as agroforesters not only to acknowledge this past, but actively support, listen to, and amplify the rights and demands of Indigenous communities, now and into the future. Information Source: Savanna Institute | eventbrite

The highly anticipated Andy Concert is coming to Champaign, Illinois. Hosted by the Iranian Music Heritage, this extraordinary event promises an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment. Taking place at the prestigious Foellinger Auditorium in Urbana, the show will begin promptly at 7:45 PM on October 28, 2023. Doors will open at 6:30 PM, allowing ample time for attendees to find their seats and soak in the grandeur of the venue. Student tickets are available for purchase, but please remember to bring your ID as it will be required for entry. Prepare to be captivated by Andy's remarkable talent as he takes the stage and delivers a performance that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to witness one of the music industry's most acclaimed artists in action. Secure your tickets now to guarantee your spot at this sensational event. Ticket prices range from $55 to $135, offering options to suit every budget. Join music enthusiasts from all around for an evening of pure bliss and immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of Andy Live in Champaign, Illinois.

Experience an unforgettable night of DRAG at the Rose Bowl Tavern in Urbana! Amy Myers Productions proudly presents Drink N Drag on Saturday, March 16th, 2024. The event offers two ticket options: $20 for Reserved Stage & Booth Seats (limited availability) and $15 for General Admission, including standing room and circle bar seating. All seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. On the day of the show, all remaining tickets will be priced at $20. Doors open at 7 pm, with the show starting at 8 pm. Prepare for a high-energy evening filled with dazzling costumes and captivating illusions. Don't miss this spectacular production celebrating the art of drag! Secure your tickets now and be part of an extraordinary entertainment experience at the Rose Bowl Tavern.

Bat Factory is pleased to present Goth Prom 2024 at The Rose Bowl Tavern in Urbana, IL. This enchanting event will take place on April 19th, 2024, transporting guests to a mysterious Dark Forest filled with fae creatures and eldritch beings. From 8:30pm to 2:00am, attendees will be immersed in a night of captivating dark dance music, featuring talented performers such as Rose Quartz, Na'amah Mars, and Magic Miss Elle. The dance floor will be energized by the sounds of Kristin Kannibal, Alexander Audiophile, and DJ Partyhats. Additionally, JunkyardBat and La Paloma Food Truck will be offering their unique wares for purchase. Tickets for this unforgettable evening are priced at $13; doors open at 8:30pm. This annual Gothic Prom serves as a vital fundraiser for Bat Factory's future productions, supporting the costs of performers, decorations, and operational expenses. Join us at Goth Prom 2024 for a night of mystique and dark delights.

Join us to celebrate the opening of More Beautiful, More Terrible: Humans of Life Rowat the University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign held at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts - 'The Spot.' Opening Day Events: Community Conversation on Art, Harm and Healing, Fri, March 28, 12 noon - 2:00PM CT Opening Reception, Fri, March 28, 5:00-7:00 PM CT -- More Beautiful, More Terrible: Humans of Life Row is a counter narrative, a sustained act of resistance, an exhibition that reveals the intimate experiences, transformative ideas, and beautiful dreams of people facing the stark realities of life and de facto life sentencing in Illinois. These sentences are commonly described as death by incarceration because they condemn people to confinement until their death. Nevertheless, as contributing artist, Reginald BoClair, states, “Though sentenced to die in prison, we are alive.” More Beautiful, More Terrible was originally created by the Prison + Neighborhood Arts/Education Project's Think Tank (at Stateville Prison) and the Beyond Prisons Initiative in 2023-2024. It was co-curated and co-organized by Alice Kim and Aaron Hughes. The U of I exhibition features select works from the original Chicago exhibition along with artistic works and programming fromProject 9161— an initiative led by Dr. Rachel McMillian in the College of Education (UIUC) that explores the world of Afrofuturism, visionary narratives, and abolition through the lenses of Black system-impacted scholars. Project 9161 is generously funded by the Chancellor’s Call to Action Research Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Through personal narratives, artistic expressions, compelling installations, and poetic verse, this exhibition shines a light on the people who inhabit 'life row.' This exhibition is brought to you by: UIUC Department of Education Krannert Center for the Performing Arts Beyond Prisons Initiative at the Center for Study, Race, Politics, & Culture Prison Neighborhood Arts+Education Project First Followers Education Justice Project Illinois Humanities Envisioning Justice Information Source: CSRPC & Beyond Prisons | eventbrite

The Hektoen Institute of Medicine, with funding from the Illinois Department of Public Health, is excited to invite you to participate in a 3-day Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) class specifically designed for Infection Preventionists working in long-term care facilities across Illinois. As we continue to face evolving challenges in infection control, it is critical that staff remain equipped with the most current knowledge and best practices. Key Features: Comprehensive Training: The program will provide essential infection prevention strategies tailored to long-term care settings, helping you create and maintain safe environments for both residents and staff. Expert Instructors: Led by experienced healthcare professionals and infection prevention experts, this training will give you practical, actionable insights to implement in your facility. Continuing Education Credit: Participants will be eligible for nursing continuing education (CE) credits, making this not only an important learning opportunity but also a chance to fulfill your professional development requirements. Scholarships Available: We are pleased to offer a limited number of scholarships to help offset costs for facilities and individuals. These scholarships will cover the registration fee, mileage, and lodging (if necessary). We encourage you to apply early, as scholarship spots are limited. If you are interested in applying for a scholarship, please email Rachel.Simon@Hektoen.org or complete the application here . Agenda available here . Hotel Arrangements: As a courtesy, a limited number of sleeping rooms have been blocked at the venue, Wyndham Garden Urbana Champaign, until March 27th, 2025, on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please contact the hotel directly to reserve your overnight accommodations or book online using this link. Additional Training Dates and Locations The classes will be held in various cities across Illinois to ensure accessibility to long-term care Infection Preventionists in all areas. All material presented will be the same at each location so please only register for the location that is most convenient for you: October 28 th – 30 th , 2024 Chicago Metropolitan Area Holiday Inn Countryside 6201 Joliet Road Countryside, IL 60525 Registration November 6 th – 8 th , 2024 Northern Illinois NIU Rockford 8500 E State St. Rockford, IL 61108 Registration January 22 nd – 24 th , 2025 Southern Illinois John A Logan College 700 Logan College Dr. Carterville, IL 62918 Registration January 27 th – 29 th , 2025 Southwestern Illinois Holiday Inn Carbondale 2300 Reed Station Parkway Carbondale, IL 62901 Registration March 19 th – 21 st , 2025 Chicago Metropolitan Area Prairie State College Conference Center 202 South Halsted Street Chicago Heights, IL 60411 Registration March 24 th – 26 th , 2025 Chicago Metropolitan Area Moraine Business and Conference Center 9000 W College Parkway Palos Hills, IL 60465 Registration April 23 rd – 25 th , 2025 West Central Illinois Holiday Inn and Suites at Peoria Grand Prairie 7601 N. Orange Prairie Road, Peoria IL 61615 Registration April 28 th – 30 th , 2025 East Central Illinois Wyndham Garden Urbana Champaign 1001 West Killarney Street Urbana, IL 61801 Registration July 7 th – 9 th , 2025 Southwestern Illinois The Regency O'Fallon 400 Regency Park, O'Fallon, IL 62269 Registration August 6th – 8th, 2025 Chicago Metropolitan Area NIU Naperville 1120 East Diehl Road Naperville, IL 60563 Registration Information Source: Hektoen Institute and the Illinois Department of Public Health | eventbrite

The Lyric Theater @ Illinois is proud to present "Fugitive Songs" in collaboration with the Rose Bowl Tavern in Urbana. This captivating musical experience, composed by Chris Miller with lyrics by Nathan Tysen, takes the audience on a 19-song journey through America, showcasing the stories of individuals on the run. From a disillusioned Subway employee to a betrayed ex-cheerleader and a reluctant store robber, the characters in "Fugitive Songs" come to life through a fusion of folk, pop, and gospel music. Directed by Sarah Wigley, this production by award-winning songwriters Chris Miller and Nathan Tyson offers a fresh and dynamic sound for a nation in motion. Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 6th, 2024, with doors opening at 2:30 pm and the show starting at 3 pm. Tickets are priced at $10, available in advance or at the door on the day of the event. Seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with no ticket refunds. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the magic of "Fugitive Songs" at the Rose Bowl Tavern in Urbana, Illinois.

This listing is for the session of Acrylic Foundations that begins on October 1, 2024 and runs thru November 5. We meet every Tuesday from 6-8pm in the gallery at Art Coop. Perfect for people who have never painted before and for folks who want to learn some new techniques or brush up on their skills. I have had advanced painters and people who have taken the class more than once! We work on brush knowledge and control, textures, knife painting, washes, intro to acrylic mediums, and a little color theory. It's a great way to have fun, learn some skills, and reduce stress! All supplies included. No refunds. Information Source: Carol Alison Studio | eventbrite

Interested in attending the FACT workshops? Register here: FACT Registration. If you register for FACT, Variety Show tickets are only $10! Learn more about FACT here. Variety Show performers do NOT need to buy a Variety Show ticket. Doors open at 5pm. Information Source: Philippine Student Association at UIUC | eventbrite

In this class you will learn how to mix colors, what different brushes can do and techniques to get what you want out of your brush, how to make various types of backgrounds including washes and dry brush, how to use a paint knife, a few mixed media techniques including linework and mark making, how to use acrylic mediums for texture and interest, and a lot more. This class is appropriate for ages 13 and up. You could not possibly have more FUN on a Tuesday! Class dates for this session are: Dec 10, Dec17, Jan 6, 14, 21, 28. We meet from 6-8 in the Art Coop gallery. All supplies included, no refunds given. Information Source: Carol Alison Studio | eventbrite

Information Source: UIUC Asian American Association | eventbrite

On Saturday, April 19 at Spurlock Museum in the Knight Auditorium, Japan House is pleased to welcome Japanese calligrapher Seiran Chiba for a performance and keynote lecture titled, Stories of Fukushima: The Journey of Seiran Chiba. Doors to the Knight Auditorium will open at 12:45PM. Please allow plenty of time to arrive to get seated so we may start on time. Seating is first-come, first-serve and walk-ins are welcome if seating is available. Japan House thanks the Center for Advanced Study for supporting Ms. Chiba's opening program through the George A. Miller Visiting Artist Program. Following the performance, there will be the Kogei: Traditional Japanese Arts and Crafts of Fukushima reception and artist meet and greet from 2-4pm in the Charles M. and Barbara. S. Hundley Central Core Gallery. Japan House thanks Spurlock Museum for co-sponsoring this event. Japan House and Spurlock Museum acknowledge support from the Illinois Arts Council. Seiran Chiba's performance will be interactive with the audience and features musical accompaniment from Ho Etsu Taiko . The theme of the performance highlights the Japanese concept of goen (ご縁), which translates to ​“fortuitous encounters” and honors the value of community. Audience members will be able to contribute to the art piece she creates to illustrate human connection and friendship. Professor Emeritus Kimiko Gunji says about goen , “We all have some kind of relationship with the things and with people around us which, according to the Buddhist belief system, are happening due to karmic connections from our previous lives, and we exist among these connections. This belief can be explained as ‘dependent co-arising’ in English, and it can be elaborated as everything arising in dependence upon multiple causes and conditions; nothing exists as a singular, independent entity.” Chiba's journey has spanned over a decade to share the stories of Fukushima and contribute to the revitalization of the region. Her efforts have taken her across Japan and to the United States. In Japan, she taught calligraphy to adults and children living in temporary housing that remained after the 2011 tsunami. Through calligraphy, she teaches the importance of expressing one’s feelings and travels all over Japan with her calligraphy brush to share the beauty and strength of the Fukushima people despite the continued hardships that they still incur. Chiba visited Japan House in 2013 and 2018 for demonstrations and workshops with the local, university, and K​-​12 communities. She was a featured artist for Japan House’s Matsuri in 2018. In 2023, Japan House received the Education Grant from the Japan Foundation New York to support Chiba for an artist residency to teach calligraphy in Urbana-Champaign and perform at Matsuri. Chiba returned in 2024 to host workshops in Urbana-Champaign and was the featured artist for Gardens for Peace at Japan House. She continues to make visits to the United States to share her story and that of Fukushima through performances and workshops at numerous organizations. The Kogei exhibition and programming are supported by the Japan Foundation New York through the U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program. Japan House is proud to highlight the traditional arts and crafts of Fukushima and feature the stories of Fukushima. ________ FAQs What are my transport/parking options getting to the event? The location is the Knight Auditorium in the Spurlock Museum at 600 S Gregory St, Urbana, IL 61801 . Parking on the weekends at all parking spaces are free as indicated on the signs . There are bike racks near the parking lots. Various buses service the area as well. Doors to the Knight Auditorium will open at 12:45PM. Please allow plenty of time to arrive to get seated so we may start on time. Questions about accommodations or accessibility? Please email japanhouse@illinois.edu if you have any questions. Is my registration/ticket transferrable? Yes, ticket transfers are possible with a minimum of 48 hours advance notice. Please contact japanhouse@illinois.edu if you have any questions. You can also manually edit the guest name in your ticket registration. Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? You do not have to bring your ticket. We will just need your name to check in. If space is available, walk-ins are welcome. The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay? The purchaser of the ticket can go to "My Tickets" and change the name to whomever will be attending. This is a free, public event but there is limited seating in the Knight Auditorium. We ask that guests who are no longer able to attend to please cancel their tickets so others may register. Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event? The presentation is for all ages. Children are welcome as long as they can sit quietly during the event and are accompanied by a responsible, adult guardian at all times. All guests are required to abide by Spurlock Museum's Visitor Code of Conduct. What is Tomonokai? How can I support Japan House? Tomonokai are "Friends of Japan House." The Tomonokai program was established in 1998 with a goal of supporting Japan House programming and events and promoting an understanding of Japanese Arts and Culture. This tax deductible membership entitles you to special member benefits including discounts on events and merchandise, and vouchers for private tea ceremonies. Japan House is non-profit and fully relies upon the generosity and kindness of supporters to continue to provide our campus and community vibrant programming that is immersive, engaging, and most importantly, that celebrates diversity! Consider becoming Tomonokai, or Friend of Japan House, or support by clicking here . Information Source: Japan House | eventbrite

On Saturday, April 19 at Spurlock Museum in the Charles M. and Barbara S. Hundley Central Core Gallery, Japan House is pleased to partner with the Spurlock Museum to feature the opening of Kogei: Traditional Japanese Arts and Crafts of Fukushima, Japan . The reception and artist meet and greet will be in the Charles M. and Barbara. S. Hundley Central Core Gallery at the Spurlock Museum. Japan House thanks Spurlock Museum for co-sponsoring this event. In April 2025, Japan House will be hosting Seiran Chiba, Akie Hashimoto, and Ayako Hirai as visiting artists-in-residence for a series of workshops and programs for the University of Illinois and local community. There will be light refreshments served and we welcome visitors to mingle with the artists and view their creations. This free, public exhibit features a variety of pieces made by the Fukushima artists and craftspeople, and it will be on display from April through November 2025 on the 2nd Floor in the Asia Gallery. We express our gratitude to the Fukushima artists and craftspeople who have gifted the pieces to be displayed, to the Fukushima Prefectural Museum for providing descriptions on the history of traditional crafts in Fukushima, and to Japan House Intern Eungi Youn for translating them with edits by Diana Liao, Japan House Education and Engagement Specialist. Japan House and Spurlock Museum acknowledge support from the Illinois Arts Council. Kogei ​(工芸) ​ translates to traditional arts and crafts. ​​Arts and crafts include disciplines such as ceramics, textiles, woodworking, lacquerware, papermaking, and other means of artistic expression that involve considerable understanding of traditional methods and techniques. Artisans hone their skills to create objects that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Kogei artists and their produced objects are valued for their rich history that reflect intangible cultural heritage spanning hundreds of years, as techniques and processes are passed down from generation to generation. A category of kogei is mingei ​, (民芸), which translates to “folk crafts,” and is formed from ​ minshu ​(民衆), meaning common people, and ​ kogei ​(工芸). Art critic and philosopher Soetsu Yanagi created this term and the ​ mingei movement in the 1920/30s to distinguish the value of everyday items made for ordinary use for the common person. The Kogei exhibition and programming are supported by the Japan Foundation New York through the U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program. Japan House is proud to highlight the traditional arts and crafts of Fukushima and feature the stories of Fukushima. About the Fukushima Artists and Craftspeople Seiran Chiba is a world-renowned Japanese s hodo (calligraphy) artist from Fukushima​. Originally born in Tokyo, ​ ​she is now a Cultural Ambassador for the Fukushima Tourism Exchange. She is active as a traveling calligrapher, embarking on journeys such as the ​‘​Calligraphy Tour of All 59 Municipalities in Fukushima Prefecture’ and the ‘Japanese Calligraphy Journey.​​’ Since 2013, she has been conducting large-scale calligraphy demonstrations and workshops at overseas educational institutions. In 2020, she provided calligraphy for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic commemorative monument, and in 2024, she won the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science​,​​ ​and Technology Award at the 2024 National Open Calligraphy Exhibition. Akie Hashimoto studied the manufacturing and processing of washi ​(traditional Japanese paper) ​at the Kyoto Dento Kogei College. ​After working as a washi artisan for 6 years, she went to Australia on a working holiday for two years. After returning to Japan, s​​​he began producing Miharu Hariko at her family’s folk craft business, Hashimoto Hiroji Mingei. In 2018, she conceptualized and crafted Tsurushi-bina Hariko , hanging strands of dolls made with hariko , which she now exhibits every spring. In addition to the traditional ​ miharu hariko style, she also creates new pieces incorporating elements such as dots and pastel colors. Ayako Hirai is a lacquer craftswoman and kintsugi specialist. She was born in Fukushima, and she completed her degree in Art and Culture of Lacquer Crafting at Tohoku University of Art & Design in 2013. She worked in an antique furniture repair shop after graduation with her deep knowledge of wood. In 2016, she and her husband, Gaku Hirai, started their independent studio in Inawashiro Town. Gaku Hirai also graduated from Tohoku University of Art & Design in 2011, with a degree in Lacquer Crafting. Working together, ​Gaku uses traditional methods to extract and refine urushi from lacquer trees while Ayako chooses the material and design of their lacquerware. They value the harmony between wood and lacquer, using traditional techniques to create lacquerware that fits into modern life. FAQs What are my transport/parking options getting to the event? The location is the Charles M. and Barbara S. Hundley Central Core Gallery in the Spurlock Museum at 600 S Gregory St, Urbana, IL 61801 . Parking on the weekends at all parking spaces are free as indicated on the signs . There are bike racks near the parking lots. Various buses service the area as well. Questions about accommodations or accessibility? Please email japanhouse@illinois.edu if you have any questions. Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? You do not have to bring your ticket and walk-ins are welcome, space permitting. Visitors can drop by any time between 2-4pm. The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay? The purchaser of the ticket can go to "My Tickets" and change the name to whomever will be attending. This is a free, public event but we ask that guests who are no longer able to attend to please cancel their tickets so others may register and get an accurate count of attendees. Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event? The event is for all ages. Children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a responsible, adult guardian at all times. All guests are required to abide by Spurlock Museum's Visitor Code of Conduct. What is Tomonokai? How can I support Japan House? Tomonokai are "Friends of Japan House." The Tomonokai program was established in 1998 with a goal of supporting Japan House programming and events and promoting an understanding of Japanese Arts and Culture. This tax deductible membership entitles you to special member benefits including discounts on events and merchandise, and vouchers for private tea ceremonies. Japan House is non-profit and fully relies upon the generosity and kindness of supporters to continue to provide our campus and community vibrant programming that is immersive, engaging, and most importantly, that celebrates diversity! Consider becoming Tomonokai, or Friend of Japan House, or support by clicking here . Information Source: Japan House | eventbrite

Japan House's annual Spring Open House resumes on Saturday, April 26 featuring three visiting artists from Fukushima: Seiran Chiba, Akie Hashimoto, and Ayako Hirai. From 12pm-3pm , the Fukushima artists will have their art pieces on display throughout Japan House for visitors to view an enjoy. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase pieces to directly support the artists - cash or Paypal is accepted. At 12pm, the three artists will be giving a free presentation about their art, their history, and about their practices. There will be a Q&A to follow. The presentation is free, but donations are welcomed. Space is limited to the first 30 guests. Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies will be offered by the Chado Urasenke Tankokai Urbana-Champaign Association at 11am, 11:30am, 1pm, 1:30pm, 2pm, and 2:30pm. In addition to a bowl of freshly whisked matcha , a special Japanese sweet called wagashi will be served, made from recipes in Wagashi: Season by Season. Guests may select from the outdoor ryurei (table-style) tea ceremony (seated on chairs) or the indoor tea ceremony on tatami (seated cross-legged on tatami). Please dress appropriately as legs are covered traditionally in Japan. All guests will be asked to remove shoes when entering Japan House, and to wear socks if participating in a tea ceremony. Tickets per person ($16.00) are required to attend a tea ceremony; limited walk-ins where space allows to ensure a tranquil experience for guests. The tea ceremony will take approximately an hour. About the Fukushima Artists and Craftspeople Seiran Chiba is a world-renowned Japanese s hodo (calligraphy) artist from Fukushima​. Originally born in Tokyo, ​ ​she is now a Cultural Ambassador for the Fukushima Tourism Exchange. She is active as a traveling calligrapher, embarking on journeys such as the ​‘​Calligraphy Tour of All 59 Municipalities in Fukushima Prefecture’ and the ‘Japanese Calligraphy Journey.​​’ Since 2013, she has been conducting large-scale calligraphy demonstrations and workshops at overseas educational institutions. In 2020, she provided calligraphy for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic commemorative monument, and in 2024, she won the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science​,​​ ​and Technology Award at the 2024 National Open Calligraphy Exhibition. Akie Hashimoto studied the manufacturing and processing of washi ​(traditional Japanese paper) ​at the Kyoto Dento Kogei College. ​After working as a washi artisan for 6 years, she went to Australia on a working holiday for two years. After returning to Japan, s​​​he began producing Miharu Hariko at her family’s folk craft business, Hashimoto Hiroji Mingei. In 2018, she conceptualized and crafted Tsurushi-bina Hariko , hanging strands of dolls made with hariko , which she now exhibits every spring. In addition to the traditional ​ miharu hariko style, she also creates new pieces incorporating elements such as dots and pastel colors. Ayako Hirai is a lacquer craftswoman and kintsugi specialist. She was born in Fukushima, and she completed her degree in Art and Culture of Lacquer Crafting at Tohoku University of Art & Design in 2013. She worked in an antique furniture repair shop after graduation with her deep knowledge of wood. In 2016, she and her husband, Gaku Hirai, started their independent studio in Inawashiro Town. Gaku Hirai also graduated from Tohoku University of Art & Design in 2011, with a degree in Lacquer Crafting. Working together, ​Gaku uses traditional methods to extract and refine urushi from lacquer trees while Ayako chooses the material and design of their lacquerware. They value the harmony between wood and lacquer, using traditional techniques to create lacquerware that fits into modern life. Kogei ​(工芸) ​ translates to traditional arts and crafts. ​​Arts and crafts include disciplines such as ceramics, textiles, woodworking, lacquerware, papermaking, and other means of artistic expression that involve considerable understanding of traditional methods and techniques. Artisans hone their skills to create objects that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Kogei artists and their produced objects are valued for their rich history that reflect intangible cultural heritage spanning hundreds of years, as techniques and processes are passed down from generation to generation. A category of kogei is mingei ​, (民芸), which translates to “folk crafts,” and is formed from ​ minshu ​(民衆), meaning common people, and ​ kogei ​(工芸). Art critic and philosopher Soetsu Yanagi created this term and the ​ mingei movement in the 1920/30s to distinguish the value of everyday items made for ordinary use for the common person. The Kogei exhibition and programming are supported by the Japan Foundation New York through the U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program. Japan House is proud to highlight the traditional arts and crafts of Fukushima and feature the stories of Fukushima. Japan House acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council for this program. In addition, Chiba is a George A. Miller Visiting Artist supported by the Center for Advanced Study at the University of Illinois. FAQs What are my transport/parking options getting to the event? Japan House is located in the Arboretum at the University of Illinois at 2000 S. Lincoln Avenue between Kirby/Florida and Windsor Road. Parking is available in the lot to the north of Japan House (F-31 at St. Mary's Road and Lincoln) and to the south of Japan House (F-32 on Lincoln across from the Vet Med complex). Spaces are marked with a placard and must be paid with Mobile Meter (https://mobilemeter.us/) or Park Mobile (https://parkmobile.io/ ) phone apps, or by calling 217-207-3033. After 5pm and weekends all parking spaces are free. There are bike racks near both parking lots for scooters, bikes, and electronic transportation devices. The MTD Silver comes near Japan House on Lincoln Ave but buses also service PAR/FAR and you may walk from there to Japan House. The front door is located on the north side of the building. Please allow plenty of time to arrive and get to the front door so we may start on time. Questions about accommodations or accessibility? Please email japanhouse@illinois.edu if you have any questions regarding any questions about accessibility, accommodations for food allergies, or other inquiries. Is my registration/ticket transferrable? Yes, ticket transfers are possible with a minimum of 48 hours advance notice and if there is space in the new time requested. Please contact japanhouse@illinois.edu if you have any questions. Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? You do not have to bring your ticket. We will just need your name to check in. The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay? The purchaser of the ticket can go to "My Tickets" and change the name to whomever will be attending. What is the refund policy? Your registration is refundable if you contact us at japanhouse@illinois.edu at least 48 hours before the date of your reservation. Please note that EventBrite fees are non-refundable. Refunds will not be issued for lateness to the assigned ticket time so we asks that guests arrive a few minutes prior to check-in. Are there certain requirements or an age limit to enter the event? The tea ceremonies and presentation are for all ages. Children are welcome as long as they are able to sit quietly throughout the tea ceremony and accompanied by an adult guardian. A paid ticket is required for all regardless of whether they partake in the tea and sweet if they wish to participate in the tea ceremonies. Otherwise, for guests passing through to observe, please be mindful of noise levels and remain seated during the tea ceremony. We kindly ask that strollers/bikes are not brought into the tea garden to avoid damaging plants along the path. For the presentation, children are welcome as long as they are able to sit quietly throughout the presentation and are accompanied by an adult guardian at all times. What is Tomonokai? How can I support Japan House? Tomonokai are "Friends of Japan House". The Tomonokai program was established in 1998 with a goal of supporting Japan House programming and events and promoting an understanding of Japanese Arts and Culture. This tax deductible membership entitles you to special member benefits including discounts on events and merchandise, and vouchers for private tea ceremonies. Japan House is non-profit and fully relies upon the generosity and kindness of supporters to continue to provide our campus and community vibrant programming that is immersive, engaging, and most importantly, that celebrates diversity! Consider becoming Tomonokai, or Friend of Japan House, or support by clicking here . Information Source: Japan House | eventbrite

Vincent Neil Emerson: Big Wheels Tour live at the Rose Bowl Tavern with special guest Leon Macjen Tuesday, April 29th, 2025 (and it's the legend, Willie Nelson's birthday!) Doors 6pm Show 7pm $20 ADV | $25 DOS Seating is limited and available on a first come, first serve basis No refunds on tickets. Please contact the venue directly prior to purchasing any 3rd party tickets to decrease the risk of scams .....or ya know, just buy 'em through us now.. ------------------------------------ Vincent Neil Emerson has become a staple among folk and country music fans nationwide, celebrated for his honest tales of life on the road, heartbreak, and struggles of all sorts. His first LP, Fried Chicken & Evil Women, from 2019, established him as a refreshing voice in the modern country music landscape. The songs from that first album were charming and playful songs, but didn't reveal the entirety of Emerson's story. On his brilliant new album, The Golden Crystal Kingdom, Emerson transcends the role of a honky-tonk country singer and becomes a chronicler of his history. The album is a bold continuation of the story he tells on Vincent Neil Emerson, with songs like the title track exploring the feelings he was left with after his days spent playing in Texas honky-tonks and dancehalls, and the track "The Time of The Rambler," inspired by the early days of living in his car and busking on the streets. He was born and partly raised in East Texas, around his Choctaw-Apache family, and spent most of his life moving around the state. Raised by a single mother, he lost his father to suicide when he was nine. Emerson dealt with those feelings of abandonment and loss on his self-titled album, with the track "Learning to Drown" in particular. His grandmother and grandfather brought the family to Texas when Emerson's mother was a child, leaving their ancestral Choctaw-Apache homelands in Louisiana behind to try and build a better life for themselves and their children. Emerson always identified with his Native American roots, but it wasn't until 2021's self-titled album that he examined and tried to shed light on the devastating history of his tribe with the song "Ballad of the Choctaw Apache." Sonically, The Golden Crystal Kingdom finds Emerson expanding his scope into rock and roll territory, tapping into the storied sounds of folk music gone electric, and following in the footsteps of artists like Bob Dylan and Neil Young. On the album, Emerson retains his diamond-sharp storytelling while imbuing the work with a freewheeling rock and roll aesthetic, creating an album as fun as his live shows and as cathartic as his previous work. With production from Shooter Jennings, Emerson wanted to establish some sounds as touchstones but emphasized following his own intuition for the aesthetics of his record. "I didn't really want to model this record after anybody else's music, but I've been heavily influenced by a lot of old rock and roll music from the sixties and seventies singer-songwriter music," Emerson explains. The album wasn't necessarily created as an opposing force to the country and folk sounds his fans have come to expect, but he did want to make a record that showcased another side of himself as a writer. He also leaned on friends and collaborators like Jennings, Steve Earle, and Rodney Crowell to help him flesh out this album. Emerson has been able to call these one-time heroes friends and mentors, and it is these relationships that have helped the songwriter find his confidence in writing about his personal history and standing up for the causes he believes in. Emerson wrote "Man From Uvalde" after the horrific and tragic mass shooting in the city of Uvalde, Texas, and he was initially hesitant to include the track on The Golden Crystal Kingdom. "It's a daunting thing to try to dive into social issues in songwriting because I wasn't sure how people would really take it," Emerson says. "I recorded a rough demo version of the song, and I sent it to Steve [Earle]. I just wanted to get his thoughts on it and see if it was worth anything. He got back to me, and he said he really liked the song and thought it was great. He gave me a few ideas and ways to look at the subject differently, and it really helped me finish the song. That encouragement gave me the confidence to include it on the album." The Golden Crystal Kingdom also pays tribute to some of the peers Emerson cut his teeth with in the music scene. He covers the Charley Crockett song, "Time of the Cottonwood Trees," and is quick to pay tribute to his labelmate and dear friend Colter Wall. "Those two had my back since day one. They've been some of my biggest supporters, and they've always inspired me to write better songs and encouraged me to pursue this," Emerson reflects. "Especially at a time when I was starting out and I didn't really have a lot of encouragement or even self-confidence to do this, they were always there for me." As a kid who grew up in a trailer with a single mother, went through bouts of homelessness as a young man, and grinded through countless shows to get where he's at, Vincent Neil Emerson is never quick to praise his own work ethic. He always refers to the friends, family members, and collaborators who have shown their faith in his vision. But humility doesn't mean Emerson isn't one of the hardest working, most talented songwriters to emerge from the alt-country underground in years. His style is one of a kind, and his ability to blend tales of the everyman with tributes to his past, present, and future make him a peerless songwriter. On The Golden Crystal Kingdom, Vincent Neil Emerson carries on the torch of his singer-songwriter forebears while infusing the legacy with his unique and thrilling point of view. Information Source: Rose Bowl Tavern | eventbrite

Tommy Prine live at the Rose Bowl Tavern! a special solo performance with special guest Angela Autumn Sunday, May 4th, 2025 Doors 6pm | Show 7pm Tickets on sale now! $15-$25 with reserved seating options (see below) --------------------------------------- Ticketing: $25 reserved stage seating $20 booth seating $15 standing bar/GA* $30 DAY-OF SHOW PRICE (while tickets last) PLEASE READ! **GA price is for the circle bar area of the venue only. All seating around the bar is first-come first serve for these tickets and is otherwise standing room only! To sit at a table or booth, you must purchase a reserved seating ticket and must sit at the seat you reserved. Any patron without a reserved seating ticket will not be allowed to join a party seated at a table. Any patron not located in the seat they have purhcased will be asked to move** *****Unless you purchase an entire table for seated tickets, your table will be shared with other patrons/ticketholders**** PLEASE CONTACT THE ROSE BOWL TAVERN BEFORE PURCHASING TICKETS FROM 3RD PARTY SOURCES TO AVOID SCAMS. No refunds on tickets. --------------------------------------- Tommy Prine's debut album This Far South (June 2023) was not only a long-awaited introduction but a testimony to Prine's 20s and the loss, love, and growth that has defined them. Co-produced by a close friend and kindred musical spirit, Ruston Kelly, and beloved Nashville engineer and producer, Gena Johnson, the album is rich and dynamic from cathartic jams to nostalgic storytelling. Celebrating the album's first year, Tommy is releasing a deluxe version of the record on June 21, 2024 – featuring reimagined versions, a special guest and a brand new song. "Releasing my debut album changed so much in my life. The only things that stayed the same were my family, my pets, and my friends. Everything else changed drastically. I've had a few moments that felt like the point of no return, releasing the album being one of them. Not in a scary way, just in a way that there is no taking back art that you put out into the world. Once it has affected one other person, it has already begun its own life and will in turn change the creator's life." Prine is currently crisscrossing the country headlining shows with his band and appearing at festivals including Green River, Bristol Rhythm & Roots, and Bourbon & Beyond. This past year, Prine opened for Jason Isbell and Tyler Childers, was named one of Amazon Music's 2023 Breakthrough Artists to Watch and wrapped up the year by making his Grand Ole Opry debut. Tommy learned to play guitar by watching his father, mimicking the ways his fingers moved, he inadvertently developed his own singular style. Prine sonically brings together a colorful patchwork of musical influences spanning Gillian Welch, Outkast, Bon Iver, the Strokes and more. Lyrically, Tommy explores existential questions and emotional experiences in his music. Information Source: Rose Bowl Tavern | eventbrite

Mosaic Mothers Day Art at WING BAR in Urbana! Come celebrate Mother's Day by getting creative at our Mosaic Mothers Day Art event at WING BAR in Urbana! Join us for a fun-filled day of crafting beautiful mosaic art pieces with your mom or loved ones. Let your creativity flow while enjoying delicious wings and drinks at this exciting in-person event. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to bond with your mom and create lasting memories together. See you there! FIRST DRINK IS ON US- ALL SUPPLIES INCLUDED!!! Information Source: Chelsea Burchett | eventbrite

Sentho Roma è entusiasta di accogliere per la prima volta C'è Figa , il travolgente spettacolo di Stand up Comedy tutto al femminile, che porta sul palco verità scomode con la giusta dose di sarcasmo e ironia. L'appuntamento è per Giovedì 15 maggio sulla splendida terrazza di Sentho, in Via Urbana 158, dove vi aspettiamo per un aperitivo all’insegna di risate e della libertà d’espressione. Il format, ideato da Alessandra Flamini e prodotto da Kaos Teatro, vedrà protagoniste le talentuose comiche: Sara Flamment, Alessandra Flamini, Patrizia Colucci e Ilaria Giambini. Apertura bar: 18:30 Inizio show: 20:00 Una volta acquistato il biglietto non sarà più rimborsabile. In caso di pioggia l'evento verrà rimandato. Information Source: Sentho Roma | eventbrite

Emily Nenni with special guest Dylan Earl live at the Rose Bowl Tavern in downtown Urbana, IL. Thursday, May 22nd Doors 7:30pm Show 8:00pm $15 ADV | $20 DOS Tickets on sale 2/21 at 9am! All seating is on a first come, first serve basis No refunds on tickets. *Please contact venue directly prior to purchasing third party tickets to avoid scams* ---------------------------------------- Emily Nenni has a confession: she didn't always plan on being a performing artist. "I thought I was just going to be a songwriter," she admits. Clearly, life had something else in store. The singer and guitarist has emerged as one of the freshest and most electrifying voices in Nashville, with a sound rooted in classic honky-tonk and spiked with serious country, soul and rock 'n' roll fire, and sweet-and-sassy lyrics that chronicle hard living, hot nights, heartbreak and other universal truths about the human condition. Over the past several years she's enraptured audiences across Music City with sizzling sets in smoky bars and clubs, honing her command of the stage, perfecting her skills as a band leader and sharpening an already astute world view, all of which are on full display on her newest studio album, Drive & Cry . The record is a marked departure from her previous full-length, 2022's celebrated On the Ranch . Whereas that effort saw Nenni uproot herself to lend a hand — and write — while assisting at a ranch in southern Colorado, Drive & Cry drops the listener smack in the middle of her boisterous and bustling Nashville world. The album kicks off with "Get to Know Ya," a honky-tonk rave-up that celebrates the end of the work day and the beginning of a music-filled, come-what-may night. Nenni busts out her biggest hoops, jumps into the jeans she can "really only stand up in," and heads to the local bar. "Play 'til the sun'll come / when the daylight's done," she sings as the instrumental accompaniment races in step behind her. From there, Nenni leads into "Greatest Hits," a pedal-steel-inflected Dolly Parton-style number in which she tips her hat to underground honky-tonk venue Santa's Pub, a dive bar squeezed inside a double-wide trailer that has become her home-away-from-home in Nashville. "When I first came to town, I was 21 and singing at clubs with folks who were twice my age," Nenni recalls of moving to Music City from her native California. "Then a buddy of mine said, 'There's a place where people are making this music that are actually your age, and where you'd really fit in.' And that was Santa's Pub. It's where I learned that music doesn't have to be perfect — everybody is just having fun and there's no judgment. You can show up however you're feeling that night, have a good time and be surrounded by friends." A stellar cast of those friends stepped up to assist Nenni on Drive & Cry , beginning with producer John James Tourville of New West labelmates the Deslondes. "He brought in half the musicians and I brought in half," Nenni says. "And he gave me so much space to make the record that I wanted to make." It's a record that is her most personal to date. Save for an album-closing cover of Terry Allen's classic "Amarillo Highway" (a staple of her Sunday-night sets at Santa's), Nenni penned the remainder of the dozen tracks entirely on her own. "It's the first time I've done that," she says. "I had a few weeks alone at my house in Nashville, and I just sat with all my thoughts and feelings from the last couple years and put it all down. So this is an album that's truly 'me.' " The results put the full range of Nenni's singular musical voice on display, from the soaring "Changes," influenced by her love of Sixties girl groups, to the swampy, strutting empowerment anthem "I Don't Have to Like You," in which she declares "I'm a grown-ass woman and I don't trust a word you coo." There's also the Tina Turner homage "I Don't Need You" ("Got my own boots to fill and you know I will," Nenni assures), the wistful, late-night honky-tonk ode "We Sure Could Two Step," and the playful title track, in which, over a tight country-funk groove, Nenni jokes, "Don't you worry 'bout me / I'm gonna have a bawl." It's a lighthearted lyric, but one that is, like everything on the album, true to Nenni's life. "I do actually cry a fair bit, and I love to do it while I'm driving," she admits. Nenni will have plenty of opportunities for that in the near future, as she plans to take Drive & Cry on tour, far and wide. "I love to be on the road," she says. "I love to be with my buds, I love to play shows, and I love to make people happy and make people cry with my music. That's what truly makes me happy, too." Nenni laughs. "So I maybe never thought I'd be a performer, but I sure am glad that I am." Information Source: Rose Bowl Tavern | eventbrite

DATES: Saturday-Monday, May 24-26, 2025; Tuesday-Wednesday, May 27-28 (optional extension) FEES: Early Registration discount applies if PAID IN FULL by Friday, 4/25/25. Non-discounted fees: Deposit due Friday, 4/25/25; Balance Due by Friday, 5/23/25. 5 -day Seminar (Saturday - Wednesday) Discounted Fee is $530. Pay in full by Friday, 4/25/25. Non-Discounted Fee is $555. Deposit ($220) is due by Friday, 4/25/25; Balance ($335) is due by Friday, 5/23/25. 3 -day Seminar Weekend (Saturday - Monday) Discounted Fee is $330. Pay in full by Friday, 4/25/25. Non-Discounted Fee is $345. Deposit ($115) is due by Friday, 4/25/25; Balance ($230) is due by Friday, 5/23/25. 1-Day Option Fee is $125. Pay in full by Friday, 5/23/25. To secure your reservation you must register and pay in full by the dates above. After 4/25, discounts drop and payment in full is required by 5/23. NO Walk-ins / NO payments at the door. If you’re on a tight budget, let us know in advance & we can work out a payment plan. ~WORKSHOP SCHEDULE~ Saturday 9:00 – 9:45 AM Check-in* 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Class 12:30 – 2:30 Lunch Break (Time may vary) Sunday – Wednesday 9:00 – 9:50 AM Warm-up / practice on your own 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Class 12:30 – 2:30 Lunch Break Short Breaks will be built-in throughout Information Source: Master Chungliang Al Huang | eventbrite