With the earthquake and snowstorm behind us, let’s look forward to some live local entertainment this weekend. Here are some highlights. (And don’t forget about the launch of the 2025 RPM Challenge!)
Live music at The Press Room
Rootsy bluegrass band High Range, a Seacoast staple since the late 1990s, plays an early show at The Press Room in Portsmouth on Friday at 6 p.m. ($20), with DJ NDB following at 10 p.m. ($10). A night later, Burlington-based “jamtronic space rock quartet” The Edd joins guest The Hot Chocheys on Saturday at 8 p.m. ($12-$15).
“As Small As Stars” at The Players’ Ring
Will Murdock’s “As Small As Stars” is a heartwarming drama with fantastical elements inspired by “Peter Pan.” It’s on stage at The Players’ Ring in Portsmouth Jan. 31-Feb. 16; show times are Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $26-$29. Learn more here.
Two concerts at The Dance Hall
Swing your way into the weekend with a performance by Boston-based jazz and blues band Annie & the Fur Trappers at The Dance Hall in Kittery on Friday from 7:30-9:30 p.m. ($10-$22). Traditional fiddle duo Clara Rose & Raphaella Hero bring their folk melodies to the stage on Saturday from 7:30-9 p.m. ($10-$22). Learn more here.
Triple-bill show at The Stone Church
Three Granite State bands will bring some extra funk to The Stone Church in Newmarket on Friday night. Presented by The Homie Collective, the jams begin at 8 p.m. with sets by hard rock duo Born Fools and psychedelic blues-rockers Tumbletoads, followed by “weird rock” group Parietal Eye. Tickets are $10-$15. Learn more here.
Stand-up shows at McCue’s Comedy Club
In these dire times, why not spend the weekend doubled over in laughter? McCue’s Comedy Club is hosting back-to-back stand-up shows in Portsmouth, beginning with headliner Jim McCue and guest Liam Hales on Friday from 8-9:30 p.m. ($25). Boston comic James Dorsey follows on Saturday from 8-9:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Seacoast Skating with the Stars
Local celebs will partner with professional skaters from Ice Dance International and perform in front of judges at Seacoast Skating with the Stars. It takes place at Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond on the grounds of Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth on Saturday from 2-3 p.m. Tickets are $10-$22. Learn more here.
Nordic Spa at The Field at Bell Farm Shops
There’s a new way to help get you through the long, cold winter. Beginning Saturday, The Field at Bell Farm Shops in York is hosting a Nordic Spa with a wood-fired sauna, cold plunge tub, hot tub, and fire pit. Groups of up to eight can reserve a 90-minute slot at 6 p.m. or 8 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets are $50-$85 per person; the price includes use of a robe, towel, and slippers, plus Scandinavian-inspired snacks and drinks. Learn more here.
“Rock the House” at The Art Center
Above: “Mr. Americana” by Tara Lewis
A new exhibition at The Art Center in Dover showcases the talents of its own studio artists and members. “Rock the House” features the work of close to 50 artists in a wide range of styles and media. An opening reception takes place Saturday from 6-9 p.m.; the show will remain on display through the end of February. Learn more here.
The Orrs headline at WSCA Radio
Three top-notch indie-rock bands will converge on the Button Factory Stage to deliver energetic live performances at WSCA Portsmouth Community Radio on Saturday from 8-10 p.m. Gritty rockers The Orrs headline, with support from up-and-coming openers The 2000s and Run Don’t Walk. Tickets are $10-$15. Learn more here.
Love Stories at The Word Barn
A half-dozen local notables will share true 10-minute tales of love at The Word Barn in Exeter on Sunday from 4-6 p.m. The “Love Stories” lineup includes Kathy Wheeler, Patrick Hayes, Paul Doncaster, Justin Corriss, Ryan VanDalinda, and Mary Weaver, with emcee Lara Bricker. Tickets are $25; proceeds support Exeter LitFest. Learn more here.
See the full calendar for more local events.