In a way, the zig-zag-printed stage at the Windup Space is symbolic of the programming that the arts venue has become known for. One night you could be there to see a local band or comedy show, and the next you could be sketching live models or screening episodes of Twin Peaks in the dark.

This week, the haven for local creatives will celebrate 11 years of offering inclusive arts showcases in Station North. But, sadly, owner Russell De Ocampo recently announced that the space won’t be around for year 12.

“We’ve had the pleasure of sharing our love for the strange and beautiful things that Baltimore has to offer with our own special blend of programming,” De Ocampo said in a statement announcing a closing date of June 1. “We hope you found the things you were looking for and discovered some new things that you will never forget.”

Discovery was a huge aspect of the Windup ethos. Whether packed in shoulder to shoulder for a show or mingling freely at a gallery exhibition, regulars appreciated the versatility of the venue (which Baltimore named a “Best Bar” in 2010), and its ability to open their eyes to obscure art forms.

“Since Russell was so willing to bring in just about anything that people could get down to, we really leaned on the space for availability,” says Derek Vaughan Brown, a local singer and actor who performs at Windup monthly with the groups like the Baltimore Rock Opera Society and psychedelic punk trio Patterson Trash. “It wasn’t necessarily about monetizing for him, but about drawing all of those people in and letting them express themselves and use their voices.”

Veteran rapper Eze Jackson says that De Ocampo has been welcoming him “with open arms” for nearly a decade. Back when his band Soul Cannon was just starting out, Jackson struggled to find performance spaces in the area.

“At that time, it was hard for us to get booked and even harder for us to put together our own bills,” he says. “Other venues had trouble understanding us being on bills with punk bands or rock bands, and Russell was one of the first people to be open to any ideas that we thought were cool.”

In the years since, Jackson has appeared in front of the iconic red curtains countless times. Among the many Windup memories that stick out in his mind is a show that he curated with J. Pope and the late Derrick “OOH” Jones of hip-hop and reggae group Brown Fish in 2010.

Jackson has also performed there with the Baltimore Boom Bap Society, whose founders Wendel Patrick and Erik Spangler first met at one of the venue’s many free improv events. The duo later established a home for their live collaborative hip-hop showcases on the Windup stage.

“We just had one on Saturday and didn’t know that it was our last one,” Patrick says. “We’ve done individual shows at many places many times, but Windup has been our home for almost eight years and we’ve been proud to call it our home. I can’t really think of a space that I’ve been sad to see close like that.”

Brown sees the closure as yet another hit to the DIY arts scene, especially after the loss of The Bell Foundry, whose tenants were evicted in 2016, and Single Carrot Theatre—which recently vacated its Remington home.

“Those experiences are starting to vanish a little bit,” he says. “Something that Russell was always keen to support was this idea that you don’t need to figure out how to make money off of a project, as long as you’re not spending money to make it. For art kids in Baltimore, that’s perfect. There is something really beautiful about a small theater performing something in an inexpensive space.”

Now faced with the impending closure at the end of the month, regulars are beginning to contemplate what the local landscape will look like without the North Avenue gathering spot.

“There will never be another Windup Space,” Jackson says. “After you’ve been on the scene for so many years, you start to realize that’s the reality. Venues come and go, but I hope whoever gets that space understands its history and at least tries to keep up what it brought to the scene.”

De Ocampo’s Station North neighbor and close friend Sarah Werner, who owns Metro Gallery around the corner, took to Facebook to share her thoughts on the void that Windup will leave behind: “I can’t really imagine Station North without Russell,” she said. “Every bit of the Windup Space was an outpouring of his love for the artists and people of Baltimore.”

Even still, artists remain hopeful that Windup has paved the way for other spaces throughout the city to welcome works of all genres.

“I’d obviously love for other places and venues to maybe try to follow suit, but I don’t think it’s really a model that one would necessarily follow—it was just Russell,” Patrick says. “He had this place that he really wanted and he’s just such a caring and thoughtful individual. It really came out in the space.”

To give the club a proper send off, the next two weeks will be jam-packed with the diverse entertainment that Windup has become known for. Specifically, the final 4 Hours of Funk will happen this Friday, the Baltimore Record Bazaar is scheduled for May 19, one last “Whose Roll Is It Anyway” performance will happen on May 26, and Brown’s band Patterson Trash will host a “Living Wake” (complete with blacklight table tennis) on May 29. Locals are making plans to stop by in the coming weeks to have one last drink and honor the community that the Windup Space has built.

“I grew up watching Cheers,” Jackson shares. “And when Windup first opened, I actually lived right around the corner on Maryland and LaFayette, so I used to joke and say that Windup was my Cheers. I was Norm, and I would be over there every night. I’m sad to see it go.”

EAT

May 12: Mother’s Day Brunches

Locations, times, and prices vary.

The last few days before Mother’s Day mark the annual scramble for last-minute bouquets, sentimental cards, and—if you’re really behind—brunch reservations at her favorite local spot. If you’re still searching for a table, we recommend snagging seats for the first-ever brunch service at popular Italian restaurant Orto, indulging in a three-course mid-morning meal at Minnow, or any of the other Sunday specials listed in our roundup of mom-worthy spots.

DRINK

May 11: Classy Trashy Birthday Bashy

Peabody Heights Brewery, 401 E. 30th St. 7-10 p.m. $35-40.

It’s been five years since Mr. Trash Wheel officially started churning trash from the Jones Falls, and we can barely remember what Baltimore was like before his googly eyes could be seen on every T-shirt, sticker, and plush toy. To celebrate the milestone birthday, Peabody Heights Brewery is throwing an all-out bash with live music, trash-themed games, and, of course, all-you-can-drink beer. Be one of the first fans to try the latest beer release in collaboration with the Healthy Harbor Initiative, Mr. Trash Wheel’s Solar Power Sour. And be sure to recycle the can!

SEE

May 8-12: Maryland Film Festival

Station North Arts & Entertainment District. Times vary. $8-450.

Baltimore might not be as glamorous as Hollywood, but according to film critic Richard Brody, it becomes the “center of cinematic gravity” each year during this five-day film celebration. Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or a full-blown cinephile, take advantage of this opportunity to watch more than 100 shorts, features, and documentaries, as well as attend Q&A sessions and workshops with acclaimed filmmakers at the historic Parkway Theatre in Station North. Pro tip: Make your movie-watching plan based on our reviews of eight of this year’s featured films.

HEAR

May 11: Welcome to Shakesville Saturday Morning Tunes

WTMD, 1 Olympic Place, Towson. 9-11 a.m. Free-$40.

Although the premiere of the Baltimore Rock Opera Society’s much-anticipated show Welcome to Shakesville is still two weeks away, the cast and crew will perform a sneak preview of the colorful opera for their toughest critics: local music-loving kids. With throwback nods to 1960s psychedelia, this puppet-filled performance will transport audiences of all ages to the magical world of Shakesville with tons of surf jams along the way. If dancing is not enough to tire out your little one, there will be bike rides by Race Pace Bicycles, a reading corner, and cake from Eddie’s of Roland Park to knock them out by noon.

DO

May 11: Remfest

Remington Ave. and 28th St. 12-9 p.m. Free.

Despite the smash-hit success of the first-ever RemFest, Remington-based businesses and neighbors are gunning to make this year’s festival even bigger and better. Along with more than 75 local artisan vendors, drool-worthy bites from area restaurants, and libations by Union Craft Brewing and R. Bar, the outdoor festival boasts a killer lineup of local acts that can’t be beat. Stake out a spot near the 27th Street stage to hear the likes of indie-pop stars Super City, soul sensation Brooks Long, singer-songwriter Bobbi Rush, pop-opera duo Outcalls, and be sure to stick around for an end-of-the-night Save Your Soul dance party with DJ Rob Macy.

EAT

Feb. 16: Small Foods Party

American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 7 p.m. Free-$15.

Whoever coined the term “the bigger, the better” clearly never attended a party supplied with a smorgasbord of bite-sized cupcakes, shrimp cocktails, and crab cake sandwiches. At this 14th annual bash-slash-competition, sample itty-bitty versions of your favorite foods (past standouts include mini matzo ball soup and cinnamon rolls). Or, if you’re confident in your shrunken cooking skills, enter your own petite picks to win the grand (and ironic) prize of a giant can of mini corn.

DRINK

Feb. 15-17: Max’s Belgian Beer Fest

737 South Broadway. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Free.

According to Lyft, Max’s Taphouse was the most visited bar in Baltimore during 2018—and for good reason. During this annual beer fest, belly up to the bar and sample a selection of rare European pours that will join the pub’s usual 200-plus bottles and taps for the entire weekend. If you have one dubbel or tripel too many, no worries, the Fells Point favorite will be serving up Belgian-inspired snacks to soak up the suds.

SEE

Feb. 15-April 27: The Mother of Invention/ Amy Helminiak/ Ben Piwowar

School 33 Art Center, 1477 Light St. 6-9 p.m. Free.

If you’re a bit late to the Valentine’s Day party, but still looking for a cultural date to make up for it, you’re in luck. This Friday, School 33 Arts Center will unveil three new exhibitions: The Mother of Invention, a group exhibition of experimental video shorts that combines DIY digital and analog image manipulation, Modern Language, featuring emoji-inspired collages by Baltimore-based artist Amy Helminiak that explore communication in the digital age, and soft obstacle, an installation by local artist Ben Piwowar that combines drawing, painting, and structural strategies to evoke feelings of vulnerability and flux.

HEAR

Feb. 15: The Baltimore Rock Opera Society Pitch Party VII

The Crown, 1910 N. Charles St. 7-11 p.m. Free.

From their sci-fi comedy “The Terrible Secret of Lunastus” to this year’s Halloween extravaganza “Lurid Happenings: A Night of Mischief and Devilry,” the Baltimore Rock Opera Society always keeps its devoted local fans wanting more. This Saturday, help the beloved performance group chose their next fantastical production by watching two pitch presentations and then casting your vote for your favorite contender. After the ballots have been collected, stick around for a late-night dance party to celebrate another weird and wonderful rock opera in 2021.

DO

Feb. 17: Pinewood Derby

Union Craft Brewing, 1700 W. 41st St. 12-5 p.m. Free-$10.

Who said your Cub Scout training would never come in handy? While pinewood derby racing is a few decades past its heyday, Union Craft Brewing is keeping the good ol’ fashioned tradition alive through this annual contest that invites first-timers and seasoned racers alike to make a wooden toy car and run it down their 40-foot derby track. Whether you’re competing for style, speed, or cheering on your favorite car from the sidelines, be sure to grab a specialty slice from Well Crafted Kitchen’s carnival-themed menu and wash it down with a few Duckpins and Skipjacks.

Typically, New Year’s Eve goes one of two ways. Either you keep it casual and watch the ball drop from the comfort of someone’s living room or you dress to the nines and head out for an extravagant evening on the town. But part of the beauty of being in Baltimore on December 31 is that there are plenty of opportunities to do something that falls somewhere in between.

If you want to go out without getting too fancy, you can hit up a neighborhood bar or head to a concert at an intimate venue. Or, if the goal is to do something outside of the box, there’s even a dog-themed dance party and a Divine-inspired fête.

From dinners and dance parties to open-bar bashes and big she-bangs, here are our picks for the best ways to ring in 2019.

PUB PARTIES

One Star Country Club

This Federal Hill favorite is known to get rowdy after an Orioles or Ravens win, and we can only imagine the energy will be exactly the same when the clock strikes twelve. One Star is inviting revelers to pregame for the big moment with a premium open bar from 9-10 p.m. for $10. Afterwords, enjoy a complimentary champagne toast at midnight and cash bar until 2 a.m. 38 E. Cross St. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $5-15

Sir Duke Bar & Liquor Store

The drinks will be flowing at this artsy Fells Point hangout, which is opening all three bars for a two-floor dance party with DJs spinning all night. Attendees who buy tickets early will be able to roll up and skip the line when they arrive. 701 S. Bond St. 9 p.m.-4 a.m. $10

The Chasseur

Head up to the third-floor skybar at this Canton corner spot to ring in 2019 with friends and neighbors. Admission to The Chassuer’s annual party includes passed hors d’oeuvres, party favors (who doesn’t love a shiny headband?), and plenty of bubbly at midnight. 3328 Foster Ave. 10 p.m.-1 a.m. $40

Hair of the Dog

South Baltimore watering hole Hair of the Dog is pulling an all-nighter with festivities running until 8 a.m. on New Year’s Day. The main event begins at 9 p.m. with $40 open-bar access that includes live music spun by DJ Eden, and a full-blown buffet by chef Kenya Butler. The spot will open to the public at 1 a.m., and keep the party going until sunrise. 1649 S. Hanover St. 9 p.m.-8 a.m. $40

Alexander’s Tavern

Alexander’s in Fells Point is going all out with bottomless eats and drinks from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Line your stomach with buffet fare like crab dip, soft pretzels, gourmet pizzas, signature tots, and mac and cheese while indulging in open bar access all night. 710 S. Broadway. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. $65

MIDNIGHT MUSIC

Big Vibe NYE 2018 at The Crown
Mr. 14th, D.K. the Punisher, and other surprise guest performers will be providing the soundtrack for this New Year’s Eve rager. Take advantage of the positive energy and start your year on a high note at The Crown, which is offering pay-what-you-want tickets until the night of the event. The Crown. 1910 N. Charles St. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. $5-10 at the door.

New Queer’s Eve at the Windup Space
Say goodbye to 2018 at this all-night show spotlighting bands from the local LGBTQ community. The lineup features favorites like experimental rockers Joseph & The Beasts, Manners Manners, Sybling, and Dreambush. The Windup Space. 12 W. North Ave. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. $10

A Mobtown New Year’s Eve
The annual soiree at Mobtown Ballroom in Pigtown will begin with cocktails and live jazz before guests make their way to the dance floor for Sarah Sullivan and the Honey Guzzlers. Other live entertainment throughout the evening will include burlesque performances and post-midnight DJ music. 861 Washington Blvd. 7 p.m. $50

2 K9 TEEN: BROS New Year’s Eve Bash
A group of Baltimore greats—including Outcalls, DJ Pancakes, and Joe Keyes and the Late Bloomer Band—are set to take the stage at this dog-themed dance party hosted by the Baltimore Rock Opera Society (BROS). In between the tail-wagging sets, BROS members will be performing their best tricks for (human) treats. Ottobar. 2549 N. Howard St. 9 p.m. $20

NYE Soul Train ’69 at the Creative Alliance
It might be 2019 at midnight, but the Creative Alliance is hosting this funk-fueled bash for anyone who wants to travel back in time 50 years. Get down to Motown jams by DJ Landis Expandis, DJ Rob Macy, and The Jonathan Gilmore Experience, who will be covering James Brown, The Supremes, and everything in between. Creative Alliance. 3134 Eastern Ave. 8:30 p.m.-3 a.m. $30-35

Better Off Dead New Year’s Eve Bash

Rock out to familiar Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia anthems with local tribute band Better Off Dead at The 8 x 10. An opening set by progressive funk collective Squaring the Circle will get the party started off right. The 8 x 10. 10 E. Cross St. 8 p.m.-1:30 a.m. $30

FIREWORKS FESTIVITIES

Baltimore’s New Year’s Eve Spectacular
Gather around the Inner Harbor Amphitheater for live music and dance performances before the annual fireworks display at midnight. The nearby Pandora Ice Rink will be open until 12:30 a.m. for those hoping to catch the show while practicing their triple axel tricks. Inner Harbor. 9 p.m.- 12:30 a.m. Free

Wit & Wisdom

It’s going to be a bittersweet evening at this seven-year-old staple inside the Four Seasons Baltimore in Harbor East. New Year’s Eve marks the restaurant’s final night of service as it prepares to transition into a new concept, but it’s going out with a bang. Enjoy light bites and a ringside seat to the fireworks show while toasting Wit’s run. 200 International Drive. 8:30 p.m. $250

Minnow
Not only is this Riverside seafood spot offering a Mediterranean-inspired prix-fixe menu on New Year’s Eve, but it’s also hosting a rooftop soiree for guests who have other dinner plans. The party starts with hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine in the bar at 10 p.m., followed by a trip up to the roof just before midnight to watch the fireworks light up the sky. 2 E. Wells St. 10 p.m.-12:30 a.m. $60

Vida Taco Bar

Vida is celebrating its first-ever New Year’s Eve in Harbor Point accordingly with all-you-can-eat street tacos, oysters, shrimp, ceviche, crudite, and more. There will also be an open bar (with plenty of tequila) and live music by DJ Rolo. The best part? The spot is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows with killer views of the Inner Harbor fireworks. 1401 Point St. 9 p.m.-1:30 a.m. $100-125

Constellation Deck Party

Climb aboard the Inner Harbor’s USS Constellation for unlimited gourmet eats, picture-perfect views of the fireworks, and, of course, plenty of bubbly to go around at midnight. Pier 1, E. Pratt St. $25-85

BAR-HOPPING BASHES

Barcocina and Bond Street Social
Hop back and forth between these sister spots overlooking the water in Fells Point. A $40 ticket includes admission to both bars, passed bites, noisemakers, and a champagne toast at midnight. 1629 Thames St. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $40

NYE: Charles Street Block Party
South Charles Street neighbors Bandito’s, Wayward, and 101 Baltimore are hosting this joint celebration in Federal Hill. Dance your way into the New Year at all three bars, which will offer three-hour open bar access and plenty of light fare to keep you going well past midnight. “Fast Pass” ticket options are available for those who want to jump the lines. 1117-1118 S. Charles St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. $79

New Year’s Eve at Tagliata, The Elk Room, and Italian Disco
The cluster of Atlas Restaurant Group concepts on Fleet Street in Harbor East are coming together to throw one massive party. Wander around to enjoy piano music at Tagliata, a full jazz band at The Elk Room, and live DJ entertainment at Italian Disco—which will also air the Times Square ball drop on its big screens. All of the eateries will offer bottomless eats and drinks. 1012 Fleet St. 7 p.m.-3 a.m. $175

NYE: Live 2019
Make your way around 10 different bars inside Power Plant Live to take advantage of all-inclusive eats and drinks with live music at each venue. The downtown nightlife district is also hosting an epic countdown with lasers, confetti, and tons of balloons. 34 Market Place. 9 p.m. $95

FANCY FOOD

A Divine Pretty in Pink New Year’s Eve at Encantada
The whimsical restaurant inside the American Visionary Art Museum is dedicating its New Year’s bash to the legendary Divine with pops of pink, a themed buffet, and open bar access. There will also be a live DJ, photo booth, and Divine impersonator to make it a New Year’s Eve for the books. 800 Key Highway. 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m. $130

Charleston

Treat yourself to an elegant, prix-fixe meal prepared by chef Cindy Wolf at this waterfront destination in Harbor East. The restaurant is offering two seatings, both including four savory courses and dessert. 1000 Lancaster St. 5:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. $149-319

La Cuchara

Chef Ben Lefenfeld is whipping up a four-course, Basque-inspired meal with dishes such as bluefin tuna crudo, duck magret with huckleberry jus, rockfish with heirloom carrots, and banana rum cake with coconut buttercream. 3600 Clipper Mill Rd, Ste. 125. 5 p.m.-12 a.m. $99

Cosima
Before those New Year’s resolutions go into effect, spend your final meal of 2018 eating Italian comfort foods at this Woodberry restaurant. Chef Donna Crivello’s special menu highlights roasted butternut squash bisque with duck confit, stuffed branzino with lobster couscous, porcini-crusted tenderloin, and a chocolate chestnut cake with sweet mascarpone. 3000 Falls Rd. $100-135

Chez Hugo
A seven-course menu of innovative French fare is in store for diners at this downtown bistro. The meal will begin with crab cakes and sunchoke hummus before chef Steve Monnier moves on to serve carrot tartare with radishes and sorrel, halibut in gremolata butter, and duck breast with persimmon jam. 206 E. Redwood St. 5-11 p.m. $85

Gertrude’s Chesapeake Kitchen
Chef John Shields’ 20-year-old favorite at the Baltimore Museum of Art is taking on a supper club vibe for the big night, offering two seatings at 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Both will include vegan and vegetarian options, and live jazz and guitar music. Dishes to look out for include lobster bisque, baked wild oysters, rockfish imperial, seafood linguine, and chocolate toffee crunch pie. 10 Art Museum Drive, 5 p.m.-12 a.m. $49-95

Rye Street Tavern
Foodies will flock to this Port Covington party featuring buffet fare around every corner. Spend the final hours of 2018 indulging in endless passed canapes, fried chicken, carved meats, and raw bar favorites. Rye Street is even devoting an entire room to desserts. Other highlights will include live music and a champagne toast overlooking the water at midnight. 13 Rye St. 7 p.m.-1:30 p.m. $140

BIG BLOWOUTS

New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at the Sagamore Pendry

Throw on a vintage mask and head to the luxury hotel on Broadway Pier in Fells Point for a Venetian-themed evening. Sip unlimited drinks, snack on light bites, and dance in the historic ballroom before watching the fireworks blast over the water. 1715 Thames St. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $139

New Year’s Eve Party and 90th Birthday Bash at the Lord Baltimore
To celebrate its 90th birthday, the Lord Baltimore Hotel is paying homage to its roots with a live swing band in the historic Calvert Ballroom. The combined birthday and New Year’s Eve celebration will also feature a spread of oysters and hors d’oeuvres, as well as holiday cocktails and French sparkling wine at midnight. A portion of all ticket proceeds will benefit the Baltimore National Heritage Area. 20 W. Baltimore St. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $75

The Bygone Ball
There’s nothing quite like the panoramic views from the 29th floor of the Four Seasons Baltimore. Bygone will be celebrating in style with a black-tie ball offering premium open bar service, and a standing buffet with caviar, raw bar staples, and a meat-carving station. 400 International Drive, 29th floor. 7 p.m.-3 a.m. $375

Charm City Countdown: Midnight in Hollywood
Pose for cameras on the red carpet before entering this massive affair at the Hilton Baltimore in Linthicum. Equipped with 12 different party areas—including its own silent disco—the Los Angeles-inspired blowout will feature unlimited eats and drinks, five regional DJs, and a festive balloon drop at midnight. A portion of proceeds will benefit local charities CityFam and Caring Communities. Hilton Baltimore BWI. 1739 W. Nursery Rd. Linthicum Heights. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $109

EAT

Oct. 26: Salt Tavern Pop-Up

Salt Tavern, 2127 E. Pratt St. 5-10 p.m. Free.

Diners were devastated when news broke that mother-and-son duo Jane and Jason Ambrose would be ending traditional service at this beloved Butchers Hill restaurant last August. But, despite the closure, the owners never planned to abandon the space. They are now using it for guest chef dinners, private dining events, and habitual pop-ups—one of which is happening this weekend. For all of the regulars who have been missing the signature duck-fat fries and foie gras burgers, Salt will be holding special dining room hours during this Friday’s Halloweekend event (costumes are encouraged), which will also serve as a benefit for local nonprofit Make Studio.

DRINK

Oct. 27: Third Anniversary and Costume Contest

Waverly Brewing Company, 1625 Union Ave., Suite C. 6 p.m.-12 a.m. Free.

There’s a lot to celebrate over at Waverly Brewing Company this weekend. In honor of both Halloween and the Hampden-Woodberry staple’s third year of slinging signature brews, its hosting an all-out costume party with eats by neighbors Blue Pit BBQ, an extended tap list, and a healthy dose of IPA-induced debauchery. Spend Saturday night sipping on limited-release brews like the Double Blueberry, Peach, and BluePeach Goats and the Frontside Bunny Hop’d and competing for prizes and bragging rights in the costume contest.

SEE

Oct. 28: The Great Halloween Lantern Parade and Festival

Patterson Park at Eastern & Linwood Aves. Festival: 3:30 p.m., Parade: 7 p.m. Free.

It’s not truly Halloween in Baltimore until this glow-in-the-dark spectacular takes over the hills of Patterson Park. Watch as the city green space transforms into a family-friendly festival, complete with lantern-making classes, hayrides, and local beers, followed by the sunset illuminated parade of artists, musicians, and dancers in a park-wide procession. Before you head home, stop by the Creative Alliance for its annual post-parade dance party, featuring the sounds of Chicago-based quintet Dos Santos.

HEAR

Oct. 26-38, 31: Lurid Happenings: A Night of Mischief and Devilry

The Peale Center for Baltimore History and Architecture, 225 Holliday St. 7 & 9:30 p.m. $20.

For the Baltimore Rock Opera Society, its first-ever Halloween-inspired performance has been a long time coming. In this spooky production that represents the city’s rock theater powerhouse’s take on Halloween attractions, follow the story of The Amazing Allerdyce and his oddball assistant as they return from a globe-trotting exploration of the dark arts. Stick around after the mind-bending show to hear performances by local rockers Quattracenta on Friday and Saturday, Voodoo Pharmacology on Sunday, and HexGirlfriends on Halloween.

DO

OCt. 26: Bike Party: Halloween Ride

St. Mary’s Park, 600 N. Paca St. 6:30-11:30 p.m. Free.

During Baltimore Bike Party’s spookiest and most extravagant ride of the year, join hordes of costumed riders on this 3.8-mile trek that starts at St. Mary’s Park in Seton Hill and ends with a post-workout after-party at Union Collective. After grabbing snacks and drinks from resident vendors like Union Craft, Baltimore Spirits Company, and Well Crafted Kitchen, dance the night away with beats by Charm City Djing and snap pictures of the fire breathers, buskers, and acrobats borrowed from the Charm City Fringe Festival.

Since its debut in 2009, the Baltimore Rock Opera Society (BROS) has become known for its fantastical performances that often incorporate elements of sci-fi, action, gore, and horror. So it might come as a surprise that the troupe has never put on an actual Halloween show.

“It feels like it’s been a long time coming,” says BROS artistic director Aran Keating. “There’s always been a close affiliation with BROS and Halloween. The art around Halloween just matches so well with the core of what we try to put on stage.”

It wasn’t until one of the BROS recent “pitch parties”—in which the company invites the community to submit their original rock opera ideas—that the group was inspired to explore the possibility of producing a show tied to the spooky holiday.

“This is our take on Halloween attractions,” Keating says. “It’s not a haunted house, it’s not a magic show, and it’s not a theatrical show. It’s some sort of combination of all those things. You come in and you’ll have a seated experience in this sort of creepy, old museum.”

The Peale Center for Baltimore History and Architecture downtown will be the venue for Lurid Happenings: A Night of Mischief and Devilry, which runs October 26-28 with a special performance on Halloween night. Each evening will feature an early performance at 7:30 p.m., followed by a later show at 9:45 p.m.

The story follows The Amazing Allerdyce, played by local actor Rex Anderson, and his peculiar assistant Sinifredo, played by magician Lucas Gerace, who have recently returned from a globe-trotting exploration of the dark arts. Incorporating magic and audience participation, the show promises to “test your fears, and perhaps even provide a little guidance from the spirits just beyond your vision.”

“It’s about the depths of human desire,” Keating explains, being careful not to reveal too many details. “Where does following those desires lead you? And what types of unsavory turns might you take? It explores the ways it can all go wrong when people band together and human nature takes over.”

Though the summer’s Incredibly Dead was billed as the BROS’ final performance of 2018 and they normally just host a Halloween party, Lurid Happenings felt like a nice way to expand on those festivities.

“We all wanted to do something more than just throw a party,” Keating says. “We’ve experimented with little scripted narrative performances that happen at those parties, but it never gives us full access to an audience’s attention. We really want to take you through something that grips you.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be a BROS Halloween event without dancing and drinks. Each evening will feature a party in The Peale Center’s top-floor gallery space where attendees can sip cocktails and enjoy interactive entertainment while jamming to live music from local rockers Quattracenta October 26-27, Voodoo Pharmacology on October 28, and HexGirlfriends on October 31. The reception is set to begin after the first performance of the evening, and it will be open to audiences of both shows.

While Keating is looking forward to closing out the year with Lurid Happenings, he is also excited for what’s to come in 2019. Aside from planning new productions (he teases an interactive, choose-your-own-adventure rock opera as a possibility for next year), the company is preparing for a big move.

Thanks to a crowdfunding campaign that raised more than $75,000 after the society was forced out of its former headquarters inside the Bell Foundry building in 2016, the troupe is finally closing in on a new permanent home.

“There is really good news on the horizon,” Keating says. “We don’t have all the dots together yet, but we’re very much in the process of this big transformative moment where we can really put down roots.”

As with all things related to the Baltimore Rock Opera Society, they have some unconventional rules to live by.

“We have our official charter that incorporates us as a nonprofit,” says BROS executive director Aran Keating. “And then we have this unofficial charter that we made up and article one is ‘There will be beer.’”

So it almost seems like destiny that the local theater group would one day have its very own beer, brewed and packaged especially for them. The Chuggernaut, which is a collaboration with The Brewer’s Art and canned locally at Oliver Brewing, is a 4.5-percent ABV Kolsch-style ale that will be available after April 7.

“This aligned with our vision for how we want BROS to be perceived,” Keating says. “It’s not just a theater company—it’s a community, a feeling, a whole brand. Plus, beer is a big part of what it means to enjoy the hell out of a live rock show.”

The Brewer’s Art was a fitting collaborator since the bar was the setting for BROS’ very first fundraiser and has brewed one-off releases for the company’s past shows. But this is the first time they were able to can something exclusive and sell it retail.

“With changes in the packaging landscape, now you can do short runs and make 200 cases of beer,” says Brewer’s Art co-owner Tom Creegan. “The BROS’ desire matched up with the technology and it’s been great working with Oliver to make this happen.”

Chuggernaut, a name Creegan was surprised got approved by the Tax and Trade Bureau, is dry-hopped with traditional noble hops and features labels by local artists John DeCampos and Shannon Hadley.

“I wanted to do something that was imminently crushable,” Creegan says. “It just tastes like beer. It’s not fruity, not overly hoppy. We kind of went old-school with it.”

The beer will first be available at BROS’ upcoming fundraiser gala Swanktacular, on April 7 at Mt. Zion Church, and then patrons can get it at The Brewer’s Art, Remington Wine Company, and The Wine Source.

The theater company’s latest show, “Incredibly Dead,” premieres at the church on May 12, as the BROS get ready to announce its permanent home. Keating says he and his team are currently working on a space in Station North.

“The BROS and Aran have been steady patrons for a long time,” says Creegan. “We just fell in love with the energy and creativity they bring to the city. They are so Baltimore.”

Five things to eat, drink, see, hear, and do with your Charm City weekend.

 EAT

Feb. 10: Clues, Brews and BBQs

Blue Pit BBQ & Whiskey Bar, 1601 Union Ave. 5-8 p.m. Free. 443-948-5590. 

It might be the dead of winter, but nothing will warm your heart like downing a plate of Blue Pit’s coffee-rubbed brisket or bourbon-glazed ribs to support local rescue pups. This Saturday, Hampden’s dog-friendly bar will donate 10 percent of your final bill to Baltimore Bully Crew, a grassroots organization that helps rescued pit bulls. Come for the melt-in-your-mouth barbecue and local brews and stay for the themed escape game from Charm City Clue Room, where participants will solve a short series of puzzles to “save” a stuffed blue pit bull.

 DRINK

To Feb. 9: Sip & Shine

American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 6-9 p.m. $30-35. 410-244-1900.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and what’s more romantic than a night filled with wine, a scavenger hunt, and mosaic magnets? Nothing, really. The American Visionary Art Museum’s twist on a sip-and-paint night lets guests compete in an after-hours scavenger hunt through The Great Mystery Show, their current exhibit on mystical investigations and curious subjects. Grab another glass of wine or beer and dive into the museum’s treasure chest of craft supplies to make a take-home mosaic magnet for you and your valentine.

 SEE

Feb. 9-11: Constellations & Crossroads

Arena Players, 801 McCulloh St. Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 5 p.m. $20. 410-728-6500. 

In a theatrical collaboration like no other, Arena Players, Baltimore’s historic African-American community theatre, and Baltimore Rock Opera Society, the city’s rock theater powerhouse, present Constellations & Crossroads, a double-feature production filled with American history and live rock music. “Determination of Azimuth” follows the story of Katherine Johnson, a black NASA mathematician who performed calculations that made space flight possible. The second musical, “The Battle of Blue Apple Crossing,” depicts a fictionalized account of the legendary blues guitarist Robert Johnson. If you miss the first three shows, don’t worry, they’ll be back on the West Baltimore stage again next weekend.

 HEAR

Feb. 10: Roses

Showroom Café & Bar, 120 W. North Ave. 9 p.m. $8-10. 410-862-0930. 

We’ve watched them grow and rise in the local music scene over the past few years, and this weekend some of Baltimore’s up-and-coming artists are giving a little love back to their city. Micah E. Wood, Joy Postell, Al Rogers Jr., and Bobbi Rush will serenade the Saturday night crowd at Station North’s Showroom with their heartfelt energies and a performance that is sure to sweep you off your feet. Lose yourself in Wood’s trademark talk-sing, fall for Postell’s neo-soul rhythms, admire Rogers Jr.’s honest rap, and relish in Rush’s dreamy melodies. If you need a preview, follow The Big Baltimore Playlist on Spotify where we’ve featured our favorite songs by these talented artists.

 DO

Feb. 10: Frederick Douglass Day

Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. 12-4 p.m. Free. 443-263-1800.

Among the many legends born in the Baltimore region, few are more revered than Frederick Douglass. Raised on a plantation on the Eastern Shore, the freed slave turned iconic abolitionist became one of the country’s most widely-read authors and famed orators. Throughout his lifetime, he preached about universal human rights, educated other slaves, and became the first African American to receive a nominating vote for president. Celebrate his 200th birthday and honor his historic legacy at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum this Saturday with lectures by historians Dr. John Stauffer and Dr. Lawrence Jackson, readings of Douglass’s speeches by history re-enactors, and a children’s art and story hour with illustrator London Ladd.

Visual Art

Reflections: Intimate Portraits of Iconic African Americans
Photographer Terrence A. Reese’s career has led him to take portraits of such stars as Lauryn Hill and George Clinton. The artist, who goes by TAR, will exhibit a selection of his work at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum this month in the show Reflections: Intimate Portraits of Iconic African Americans. Black-and-white images will depict such luminaries as the Nicholas Brothers and Gordon Parks in their natural environments and living spaces so as to better reflect who they are, through their personal objects, style, and the context of their lives. Wednesdays through Sundays, Feb. 1 through Aug. 12, at Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St.

Artist talk with Shirin Neshat
Iranian artist Shirin Neshat explores gender, identity, and politics in her work, as well as the differences in culture between the West and Muslim countries. Because she tackles such complex themes, there is no shortage of questions and discussion surrounding her work. It also makes her a perfect candidate for MICA’s Mixed Media lecture series, which brings to Baltimore artists from across the globe. For this installment, Neshat will be in conversation with Baltimore Museum of Art Director Christopher Bedford. 7 p.m. Feb. 15 at Falvey Hall, Brown Center, 1301 W. Mount  Mount Royal Ave.

Music

Charm City Django Jazz Fest
Nothing like some live gypsy jazz to add a little heat to a cold winter’s day. Creative Alliance has got us covered with not one but three days of its annual Charm City Django Jazz Fest, which will bring in acts from across the region and world, including headliner Samson Schmiit, a legendary Manouche gypsy guitarist from France. Swing on by to see Sara L’abriola, Ultrafaux, ‘Nuff Said, and others, to experience a range of styles within the genre. Feb. 23 to 25 at the Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave.

Out of Darkness: Two Remain
A new opera looks at what you might consider atypical Holocaust survivors: one, a political prisoner, and the other a homosexual Protestant, both of whom used words to overcome the traumas of captivity during the war. World-renowned composer Jake Heggie developed the two-act opera based on the true stories of these characters who “survive through their poetry,” says Garnett Bruce, stage director of the Peabody Chamber Opera’s production of the piece. Feb. 8 through 11 at Theatre Project, 45 W. Preston St. The composer and librettist will attend opening night, with a talk following the show.

Theater

Constellations & Crossroads
Constellations & Crossroads is a theatrical double-header steeped in American history and exploding with life. Baltimore Rock Opera Society partnered with Arena Players, Baltimore’s historic African-American community theater, to present two short musicals in their entirety, backed by a live band. The Determination of Azimuth tells the story of Katherine Johnson, a black mathematician who worked for NASA and was responsible for comp[uting paths for rocket ships sent into space. Battle of Blue Apple Crossing leans more on fiction to tell the tale of blues legend Robert Johnson, said to have sold his soul to the devil in exchange for musical ability. The score follows America’s musical heritage from field spirituals to rock ’n’ roll to garage rock. 8 p.m. Feb. 9 through 18 at Arena Players’ venue at 801 McCulloh St.

All She Must Possess
The Rep Stage premiere of All She Must Possess tells the story of Baltimore’s famed Cone sisters, Claribel and Etta, extravagant world travelers and collectors of art and curios. During the early 20th century, they stored thousands of paintings—including work by Matisse and Picasso, among other greats—in their homes, amassing what would become one of the world’s largest collections of modern art (a large portion would eventually be housed at the Baltimore Museum of Art, where it is today). In the theatrical version of their lives, written by University of Maryland Baltimore County professor Susan McCully and directed by Rep Stage artistic director Joseph W. Ritsch, paintings come to life and Gertrude Stein—Etta’s lover—makes an appearance. Coinciding with the play is an exhibition of historical women’s clothing from the Cone sisters’ time, on display at Howard Community College’s Rouse Company Foundation Gallery through March 11. The play runs Feb. 8 to 25 at Rep Stage at Howard Community College.

Dance

The Community Project
Each year, The Collective pulls together dancers from the community and pairs them with a professional choreographer to develop the Community Project performance. This year, 22 dancers—ranging in age from teens to baby boomers and across all skill levels—met on several cold January weekends to rehearse under dancer Caitlin McAfee for this year’s show, which is but one component to the Baltimore Dance Invitational. Set to Indian Wells’ song “Cascades,” the group will show through movement how the mind races, gets distracted, and follows its own trails of thought. Gordon Center for Performing Arts on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Gordon Center for Performing Arts, 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave., Owings Mills. 

Beyonce vs Rihanna Dance Party: Round 2
The Ottobar event flier states it best: “Are you ‘Drunk In Love’ or ‘Drunk On Love’?!” At the Beyonce vs Rihanna Dance Party, that is precisely the question. And also, are you ready to duke it out—through dance, of course, to support your diva de jour. The dance party battle will light up with Beyonce tracks from DJ Mills and Rihanna tracks from Ottobar owner Craig Boarman. 9 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St.

Miscellanea

African-American Arts Festival
The University of Baltimore helps us to celebrate Black History Month specifically through art at its annual African-American Arts Festival. Its offerings span an array of artistic mediums: film, visual art, music, theater. Some highlights: a panel with Black Ladies Brunch Crew of D.C., an African drumming circle, readings of Langston Hughes poetry spliced with live, improvised jazz piano, and a screening of Jonathan Demme’s film of Toni Morrison’s novel Beloved. Feb. 15 to 18 at the University of Baltimore, 1420 N. Charles St.

Exhibit of Original Costumes

We may be 2,500 miles from Hollywood, but John Klisavage brings us a touch of its wonder by way of costume. At his bookstore in Havre De Grace, he’s displaying several outfits worn in major motion pictures, including Hunger Games and The Notebook. February and March at Washington Street Books & Music, 131 N. Washington St., Havre De Grace.

A culinary documentary on Basque cuisine
Parkway Theater has teamed up with a local restaurant to bring a food and film pairing, naturally. After a screening of The Txoko Experience: The Secret Culinary Space of The Basques, scriptwriter Marcela Garces and director Yuri Morejon will answer any questions the audience has, and then . . . everyone can partake in the food portion of the evening: passed pintxos from the Basque-inspired La Cuchara restaurant. Renowned Basque chefs serve as narrators of the culinary documentary, which explores Txokos, groups of people who gather to explore innovative and experimental ways of cooking. As Morejon puts it, “Txokos represent a distinctive, albeit enigmatic element of Basque gastronomy. As the private temples of traditional Basque cuisine, they captivate people with their warmth, ambiance, and great respect for fresh products.” 7 p.m. Feb. 22 Parkway Theater, 5 W. North Ave.

Baltimore Rock Opera Society (BROS) is one of the most glorious representations of what is good and special about the Baltimore arts community. It’s a group of more than 100 artists who volunteer hundreds of hours of their time to create original, weird musical productions that explode with creativity and joy.

Now playing is the only full-scale production of the BROS’ 2017 season, “The Terrible Secret of Lunastus,” a remount of its 2011 show. The sci-fi comedy is set in the near future, in outer space, and focuses on four astronauts’ quest to find a new home for the human race in the face of the impending destruction of Earth.

There are sexy, cotton-candy-haired aliens; red, dancing trees that feed on blood; Styrofoam lasers that actually work, thanks to the props department; lots of intentional plot holes; and a giant puppet operated by three actors. Written and directed by Chuck Green (whose dad is the production’s stage manager), “Lunastus” is a love letter to kitschy episodes of the original Star Trek, amplified in the epic way only BROS can.

The show runs through October 8 at the beautiful and historic Zion Lutheran Church in downtown Baltimore. Friday nights are the church’s “Brats and Bier” fundraiser, which the BROS promote before each performance. “Lunastus” is actually performed in the church’s beer hall, not in any of its sacred spaces.

When audience members enter Zion Lutheran Church, they are greeted by a clan of costumed BROS volunteers at various stations, including a bar offering drinks like the blue Day-Glo “Ginfinity and Beyond” and a merch table with show posters, T-shirts, and the original soundtrack of “Lunastus.”

There are so many delightful creative touches to the experience of seeing the show—and the original music, sung mightily by a talented cast, is a highlight. The band Magnetaur incorporates Bowie-esque rock and ’70s disco into the score to create unique songs for each scene. A standout is the funky “Nocturnal Emotions,” co-written by Green and Erica Patoka, which provides the perfect bow-chicka-bow to an alien-human sex scene that culminates in suggestive shadow puppetry.  

“Lunastus” is the only production of 2017 as a result of the shutdown of the BROS’ office and workshop in the Bell Foundry last December. The company is currently trying to reach a $75,000 fundraising goal to obtain their own workshop and performance space.

It takes eight pages of the show’s program to list everyone involved in the production—from set designers and actors to puppeteers and front-of-house co-leaders. Green and artistic director Aran Keating welcome the audience at the top of each performance and give cheers to various things to be grateful for, in which the audience gleefully responds “Hear ye!” Some chants include: “To volunteerism!” “Hear ye!” “To true rock!” “Hear ye!” “To Baltimore!” “Hear ye,” indeed. 

Once again, a sprawling, mural-festooned Station North warehouse is ringing with the wail of power drills, the belting of high notes, and the cracking of Natty Boh cans—in short, the sounds of the Baltimore Rock Opera Society (aka BROS) bringing one of its dynamic creations to life.

Five months ago, work at their rehearsal and workshop space was abruptly halted when, citing safety violations, city officials shuttered the building known as the Bell Foundry, which was also home to about a dozen people. (The closure came days after a fire destroyed an artist-run warehouse in Oakland, California.) The BROS have since brought the headquarters up to code and moved back in. 

But the abrupt displacement underscored a need for the 8-year-old organization—known for boisterous, irreverent productions that chronicle characters like superhero Stardust Lazerdong—to find a new home, complete with a performance venue and room for educational opportunities. 

The BROS—which includes hundreds of volunteers who help with sets, music composition, and performance—is considering spaces all over the city, including downtown and Station North. Executive director Aran Keating is hoping for support from the city, and fans, to make it happen. (The BROS even released a digital greatest hits compilation as a fundraiser.) 

“I want to be the thing that your friends who are visiting from out of town have to check out. It’s something that doesn’t exist anywhere else, and it’s incredibly valuable for Baltimore to say it has long-term arts organizations that are stable but also crazy, dynamic, and weird,” Keating says. “In the same way that we love to wear John Waters or the American Visionary Art Museum on our sleeves, this is what Baltimore needs and should be cultivating.”