The Americas Poetry Festival
World-renowned poet Luis Ambroggio will lead a colloquium on Walt Whitman’s presence in Hispanic-American poetry, followed by a presentation of his book, We Are All Whitman. [Read about The Good, Grey Poet’s time on LI HERE] Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Rd., Huntington Station. waltwhitman.org Free. 11 a.m. Oct. 16.
Bruce Lieberman: East End
An exhibit showcasing the colorful work of Bruce Lieberman, who is fully immersed in the Long Island experience, capturing the rhythm and textures of both land and sea. His latest work takes an autobiographical, in-depth look at life on LI, revealing the relationship of Lieberman’s daily life to his paintings. His house and garden, nearby ocean, and everyday items fill the canvas. Exhibit runs through Nov. 14. Gallery North, 90 North Country Rd., Setauket. gallerynorth.org Free. 5 p.m. Oct. 17.
Hardcore Legend: An Evening With Mick Foley
Showcasing his trademark blend of wildness and warmth while combining the humor fans loved from his books and in-ring “promos” with the intensity of his most famous matches, this event is uproariously funny, simply surreal and surprisingly sensitive. It includes a Q&A as well as a meet and greet. Vail-Leavit Music Hall, 18 Peconic Ave., Riverhead. realmickfoley.com $25-$40. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17.
George Lopez
If you have not yet experienced the comical genius that is actor, talk show host and mega-funnyman George Lopez, well, you just have simply not laughed to your body’s full, can’t-control-myself-cause-I’m-laughing-too-damn-hard hysterical, knee-slapping, my-belly-hurts-way-too-much potential. Yeah, lol. He’s that funny. You’ll be sharing his jokes around the water cooler, cubicle and lunch room for weeks. Don’t miss him. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $49.50-$84.25. 8 p.m. Oct. 17.
Gilbert Gottfried
This Brooklyn-born comedian has the most distinctive voice in comedy today. To think he started at 15, when he cracked up the audiences with his idiosyncratic delivery at open-mic nights. And from there he’s played the parrot Iago in Disney’s hit film, Aladdin, Digit in the children’s cartoon/educational math-based program called Cyberchase and business manager Sidney Bernstein in Beverly Hills Cop II, which prompted the New York Daily News to write that “Gilbert Gottfried steals the picture with a single scene.” Stephen King was right when he called Gottfried “a national treasure.” The Suffolk Theater, 118 E Main St., Riverhead. suffolktheater.com $49. 8 p.m. Oct. 17.
Heather Pierson and Cathy Kreger
Pierson, a soulful singer with a gorgeous voice who is also a great pianist and songwriter, is joined by Kreger’s melodic voice and guitar skills. Our Times Coffeehouse, 38 Old Country Rd., Garden City. ourtimescoffeehouse.org $15, $6 kids under 12. 8 p.m. Oct. 17.
Destination Downton: PAC MAC Festival 2014
Get ready for more than a week of creative place-setting, scene-stealing, multi-venue entertainment encompassing music, art and cinema. Part of the ongoing mega-arts celebration Arts Alive LI, the festival starts Oct. 17 with husband-wife country duo Thomson Square playing at the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, followed by the great comedienne Paula Poundstone performing at the same venue the following day. Earlier the same day there’s a reception party in honor of the Latino artists’ collaborative exhibition, “Celebrando La Vida 2014” (“Celebrating Life”), presented by Projecting Arts and Briarcliffe College, from 5-7 p.m. A full-day “Jamfest” rocks out on Oct. 19 at 89 North St. Readings by Herstory Writers’ Workshop will take place at the Plaza Cinema and Media Arts Center on Oct. 20. Meanwhile the Plaza Cinema will be holding special screenings all week long of “Dancing in Jaffa,” “Get On Up” (the James Brown biopic), and the Beatles’ classic “A Hard Days Night.” And throughout the week at various times The Loft at the Brickhouse will be screening animation and short films. Patchogue Arts Council, 20 Terry St., Patchogue, patchougearts.org, prices vary depending on venue, check the individual event for times and dates.
The Wizard of Oz
Join Dorthy, the scarecrow, cowardly lion and tin man as they follow the yellow brick road in the magical Land of Oz in which this enduring fantasy musical is set. We’re not in Kansas anymore! NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $14.50-$18.50. 11 a.m. Oct. 18.
Oyster Festival
Billed as the largest annual outdoor festival and the largest waterfront fest on the East Coast with about 200,000 attendees on average, the 31st oyster fest is back. The lineup includes tall ships, pirate shows and carnival rides. Aside from oysters prepared every way imaginable, it also features the famous oyster schucking contest. Theodore Roosevelt Park, West End Avenue, Oyster Bay. theoysterfestival.org Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 18, 19.
Boobstock
All-female and female-fronted rock tribute bands star in this Breast Cancer Awareness Month fundraiser that also marks the 45th anniversary of Woodstock. All proceeds go directly to providing free in-home health and wellness services to breast cancer patients in the NY/LI area. The line-up inlcudes Amethyst Roxx, Aerochix, Lady Sabbath, The Gutter Dollz, Flight Of Fire and Wildside featuring Vixen Neil of Girls, Girls, Girls. The Emporium. 9 Railroad Ave., Patchogue. theemporiumny.com RockingTheRoadForACure.org $20, $25 DOS. 1 p.m. Oct. 18.
East End Musings
A reception for Daniel Jones, whose large-format photography allows him to use the textural and tonal richness of the medium to express an emotional response to the landscape in the tradition of photographers such as Ansel Adams. Work will also be exhibited by Jim Sabiston, an award-winning freelance photographer from Long Island whose work defies categorization, ranging from landscapes to perceptive abstracts. Exhibit through Nov. 3. The South Street Gallery and Framers. 18 South St., Greenport. thesouthstreetgallery.com 5 p.m. Oct. 18.
Bill Cosby 77
This show biz veteran deserves his own spot on Mount Rushmore, given how much he’s done to liven up the American cultural landscape since he first co-starred on the Sixties’ hit series I Spy, a breakthrough role for an African American on prime-time TV. With a string of top-selling comedy albums under his belt (from which Fat Albert sprang to life), Cosby earned his place in the pantheon of great performers with the long-running family-comedy series that needed no other name but this one: The Cosby Show. This top-rated sitcom ran from 1984 to 1992, and the funny thing was millions of blacks and whites tuned in every Thursday night to see William Henry “Bill” Cosby Jr. portray the patient patriarch, Dr. Heathcliff “Cliff” Huxtable. It helped that his TV wife, Claire, was the talented Phylicia Rashad. Comedian, actor, author, television producer, educator, musician and social activist, Cosby has been there, done that. And now he’s back on the road making people laugh so hard they cry. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $59.50-$99.50. 5:30 p.m., 8:45 p.m. Oct. 18.
Taking it to the Streets
A reception for new works by emerging and up-and-coming local and New York artists. Live music, poetry readings and an artisan market will coincide with the event. Exhibit runs through Nov. 24. Studio 5404 Art Space, 5404 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. environvisiondesigns.com $10. 4 p.m. Oct. 18.
Jackie Mason
Widely regarded as one of the greatest stand-up comics of all time, Mason combines satire, observations on the foibles of modern life and impeccable timing to create material that leaves audiences laughing until they cry and critics raving show after show. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $34.50-$62.50. 8 p.m. Oct. 18.
Blue Oyster Cult
What other Long Island band has done more for FM radio than the Blue Oyster Cult? That’s right, where would we be on the L.I.E. without “(Don’t Fear) the Reaper,” “Burnin’ for You,” and “Godzilla”? The airwaves would have been deader than a rusty doorknob on a ’56 Buick. But thanks to the creative environs of an old house near Stony Brook’s college campus, a group of talented musicians formed the core of a band that has now been going on strong for decades in ever-evolving configurations. Their current lineup features Eric Bloom on vocals, rhythm guitar and keyboards; Donald (Buck Dharma) Roeser on guitar and vocals; Richie Castellano on guitars and keyboards; Jules Radino on drums; and Kasim Sulton on bass. The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $45-$80. 8 p.m. Oct. 18.
Richard Marx
Singer, songwriter, musician and producer Richard Marx has made history with a string of indelible hits that include radio-ready rock tunes like “Don’t Mean Nothing” and “Should’ve Known Better,” as well as stirring romantic ballads like “Hold on to the Nights” and “Right Here Waiting.” The dark curly-haired Chicago native has sold more than 30 million albums and had more than a dozen No. 1 singles. For many fans, Marx has created the soundtrack to the most memorable moments in their lives. “I have written songs that are incredibly romantic—songs that people play at their weddings or that were playing when their kids were born,” Marx says. “They have traditionally dealt with the highest concept of forever.” On his new album, Beautiful Goodbye, Marx ventures into different territory, both sonically and lyrically. With influences that range from Sade to Brazil’s Bebel Gilberto to various EDM artists, Marx offers up a set of sensual, electronic-driven soundscapes that explore a more fleeting, carnal side of romance. Ah, the sounds of desire! The whispers of love! Just another fantastic performance that’s part of the month-long Arts Alive LI celebration! Boulton Center for the Performing Arts, 37 West Main St., Bay Shore. boultoncenter.org $60. 8 p.m. Oct. 18.
Performance PLUS! Pilobolus
Anyone who’s ever seen Pilobolus knows that this amazing dance troupe creates images with their bodies that defy the imagination. Since its founding in 1971, Pilobolus has shown the human body to be the most expressive, universal and magical of media. Its own singular style is an evolving interplay with shape-shifting, shadowplay and other explorations on stage that always leaves the audience breathless with amazement. Recognized for its developments in dance and multimedia art, Pilobolus has evolved from an avant-garde dance company into an international entertainment brand featured on the likes of Oprah, Late Night with Conan O’Brien and the Academy Awards. Pilobolus achieves all this without ever losing sight of its core mission: to make art that builds community. And what a treat not only to see the one of the most innovative dance companies in the world but also to get a chance to go behind-the-scenes and learn from the choreographers themselves, who will hold a Q&A at the Hillwood Recital Hall, featuring Pilobolus Associate Artistic Directors Renee Jaworski and Matt Kent, Pilobolus Co-Dance Captain Matt Del Rosario, and hosted by Dr. Cara Gargano, chair of the Theatre, Film, Dance and Arts Management Department at LIU Post. This amazing performance is just another part of this month’s Arts Alive LI mega-extravaganza! Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville, tillescenter.org $43-$78. 8 p.m. Oct. 17.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
A 5-mile event that will help bring a lifetime of change for people facing breast cancer and their families. It is an opportunity to unite as a community to honor breast cancer survivors, raise awareness about what we can do to reduce breast cancer risk and raise money to help the American Cancer Society fight the disease. Jones Beach State Park, Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh. makingstrideswalk.org/longisland Donations. 7 a.m. Oct. 19.
Run For Rob
A 5K Run/Walk dedicated to the memory of Dr. Robert Bernstein, a devoted husband, father and grandfather who lost his battle the brain cancer in 2010. The event is a fundraiser for Voices Against Brain Cancer, a charity dedicated to finding a cure for the deadly disease. Eisenhower Park, Field 2, Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. voicesinmotion.org/runforrob $25, $15 for kids. 9 a.m. Oct. 19.
Dancing in Jaffa
Dancing Classrooms cofounder Pierre Dulaine returns to his hometown of Jaffa to fulfill his lifelong dream of teaching dance to Jewish-Israeli and Palestinian-Israeli children in this acclaimed documentary. It follows three children, all of whom who are forced to confront issues of identity, segregation and prejudice, as they dance with their enemy. The classroom becomes a microcosm of the Middle East’s struggle to work together harmoniously while still caught in the politics of the region and race. The Plaza MAC, 20 Terry St., Patchogue. dancingclassroomsli.org $25. 11:30 a.m. Oct. 19 (visit website for additional screening dates and locations)
Barkfest
Long Island’s largest pet costume contest and parade. Eisenhower Park, Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Merrick Avenue, East Meadow. nassaucountyny.gov/parks Free. 12 p.m. Oct. 19.
The Magic Garden with Carole & Paula
Join Carole Demas and Paula Janis, the beloved stars of TV’s iconic children’s show The Magic Garden, as they celebrate their 60 years of friendship with a fun-filled concert for kids of all ages. Part of the month-long Arts Alive LI celebration extravaganza, there will be laughs, jokes, happy memories, live music, humorous harmonies, video clips from the show, plus songs and stories everybody grew to love. Featuring musical director Ian Herman at the piano, this family entertainment promises many happy memories in that whimsical garden of make believe, where the fruits of a tree were lollipops! So, kids, heed their words: “Come on in without a fuss because the Magic Garden is waiting for us!” Boulton Center, 37 West Main St., Bay Shore. boultoncenter.org adults $20, children $15. 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m. Oct. 19.
Taste of Italy: LOUNGE 960
Lasagna, piled high and teetering to the whims our your taste buds; chicken Parmigiana to die for; stuffed eggplant rollatini that simply melts in your mouth like butter: heaps upon heaps of the very best Italian desserts and pastries you could ever imagine–this is just a small sampling of the mouthwatering delicacies and feasts just waiting for you and your family at this mega-smorgasbord of Italian culinary nirvana, featuring samples from premier LI restaurants and bakeries, including Chi Restaurant and Cardinali Bakery, among so many others. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $25. 6 p.m. Oct. 20.
Homestretch
Three homeless teenagers brave Chicago winters, the pressures of high school and life alone on the streets to build a brighter future. Against all odds, these kids defy stereotypes as they create new surprising definitions of home. Can they recover from the traumas of abandonment and homelessness and build the future they dream of? Theater Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson. portjeffdocumentaryseries.com $7. 7 p.m., Oct. 20.
A Voice Among the Silent: The Legacy of James G. McDonald
A documentary by Shuli Eshel about James G. McDonald, a U.S. diplomat who helped rescue Jewish refugees from the Nazis, will have its world premiere on Long Island. He was one of the first to warn world leaders, including President Franklin Roosevelt and the future Pope Pius XII, about Hitler’s threat to “get rid of the Jews.” The film will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Dr. Barbara McDonald Stewart (McDonald’s daughter), historian Dr. Rafael Medoff and filmmaker Shuli Eshel. Bow Tie Cinemas, 115 Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck. goldcoastfilmfestival.org $20. 7 p.m. Oct. 20.
Billy Joel: A Matter of Trust–The Bridge to Russia
This re-released expanded edition of Billy Joel’s legendary 1987 Russian concert tour documentary features never before seen footage, interviews and intimate accounts of one of the most important tours Joel has ever done as a performer. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. CinemaArtsCentre.org $20 members, $25 public. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20.
Jimmy Eat World
The Arizona-based alt-rockers blasted into the eardrums of the mainstream and most fans with their fourth album, 2001’s rocket Bleed American, armed with a slew of catchy, emotional tunes that quickly became the soundtrack of the new millennium. Expect showstopping staples “The Middle,” “Sweetness” and the absolutely gorgeous “Hear You Me,” among many others. Don’t miss this gig! With opening act Miniboses. The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $35. 8 p.m. Oct. 20.
Art in the Airport
An artist’s reception for renowned local artist Elaine Faith Thompson, whose painting will be unveiled as the winner of a juried art contest. Long Island MacArthur Airport, Atrium Lobby, 100 Arrival Ave., Ronkonkoma. IslipArts.org Free. 9:30 a.m. Oct. 21.
Fabio Viviani
This Top Chef fan favorite will speak and sign his new cookbook, Fabio’s American Home Kitchen. The Book Revue, 313 New York Ave., Huntington. bookrevue.com Price of book. 7 p.m. Oct. 21.
Harlem Street Singer
The story of Reverend Gary Davis, the great 1960s blues and gospel musician whose unique style and remarkable skills on the guitar inspired a generation of musicians. Screening followed by guest speaker Woody Mann, producer and guitarist. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. CinemaArtsCentre.org $10 members, $15 public. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 22.
Mary Chapin Carpenter
This beloved singer-songwriter has been playing guitar and making music since her childhood began in Princeton, N.J. She was barely out of her teens when she began performing her material in D.C. clubs where word of her talent spread eventually to Nashville. And that’s when her career really took off. Now, after a string of Top 20 hits, a Grammy-winning smash called “Down at the Twist and Shout,” and recognition as the Country Music Association’s “female vocalist of the year”—twice—she’s gone on to sell more than 13 million records and forged a dedicated following that spans the globe. Warming up the crowd will be Tift Merritt. The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $40-$75. 8 p.m. Oct. 22.
—Compiled by Spencer Rumsey, Timothy Bolger & Zack Tirana
