The Sun Times News

The Commercialization of Critical Care Technology
2026-02-19 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Detroit) | U-M Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, 4800 E. Huron River Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, United States
This lecture is part of a series focusing on advancements in biomedical research and technology, specifically discussing the commercialization of critical care technology.

Community Coffee Hour with State Sen. Sue Shink
2026-02-19 18:00 - 19:00 | Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine Street, Dexter, MI, United States
Sen. Sue Shink invites members of the community to join her for a coffee hour on Thursday, Feb. 19, to discuss state and local issues.
This event provides an opportunity for residents to meet and speak with the Senator about the topics that matter most to them and their community while getting a firsthand update on legislation. The event is open to the public.

Google Sheets Tips & Tricks
2026-02-19 18:30 - 20:30 | Ypsilanti District Library, N/A, Virtual, MI, United States

Defying Gravity - Wicked Tribute Concert
2026-02-19 19:00 - 20:30 | The Encore Musical Theatre, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter, M, 48130, United States
The Encore Musical Theatre Company presents DEFYING GRAVITY, a special tribute concert celebrating the soaring music of Wicked, alongside beloved selections from Stephen Schwartz’s other Broadway hits, Pippin and Godspell.
Directed by Geoff Packard and starring Chelsea Packard, who appeared in Wicked on Broadway, the concert highlights the powerful songs and storytelling that have made Schwartz’s work a cornerstone of modern musical theatre. Audiences can expect iconic anthems, heartfelt ballads, and the signature sound that has captivated theatre-goers for decades.

DEFYING GRAVITY
2026-02-19 19:00 - 20:30 | The Encore Musical Theatre, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter, M, 48130, United States
DEFYING GRAVITY takes flight at The Encore Feb. 19-22, and with only four performances, tickets won’t last. Featuring music from WICKED, PIPPIN, GODSPELL and more, this tribute to composer Stephen Schwartz stars Chelsea Packard and Geoff Packard, both former WICKED Broadway performers! They are joined by Jason Briggs, and U-M seniors Vanessa Dominguez (Elsa in Frozen), and Lleyton Allen. A live band, Broadway voices, and an intimate setting where every note hits home.

KCH Melodies & Morsels: Italy Edition – An Evening of Italy’s Music & Culinary Culture with Zingerman’s Deli and Alla Boara
2026-02-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States
Experience the flavors and sounds of Italy in an unforgettable evening at Kerrytown Concert House! KCH Melodies & Morsels: Italy Edition pairs a curated tasting of Italian foods and wines from Ann Arbor favorite Zingerman’s Deli* with the critically acclaimed Italian folk music of Alla Boara. Unearthing forgotten treasures of Italian folk music, Alla Boara reimagines centuries-old traditions through a modern lens. Critically acclaimed by NPR and All About Jazz, this ensemble transforms timeless traditions into vivid, contemporary journeys that celebrate our shared humanity, as surprising, playful, and tender as the songs themselves. Featuring Amanda Powell’s captivating vocals and percussionist Anthony Taddeo’s (Oblivion Project) wildly imaginative arrangements, the storytelling and skilled performances of this group offer audiences a captivating journey through cultural heritage and universal human emotions.
*The tasting box from Zingerman’s Deli will contain dairy and gluten. Unfortunately, due to the specialty nature of this event, they will not be able to make accommodations for allergens.

Wine + Candle-Making Workshop
2026-02-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Social Vines Vineyard & Winery, 6620 Dexter Ann Arbor Rd, Dexter, MI 48130, USA, Dexter, M, 48130, United States
About the event

An evening designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time!
Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where beautiful scents, hands-on creation, and a warm vineyard atmosphere come together. Sip wine, laugh, connect, and enjoy the process — no experience needed.
Whether you’re coming with friends or treating yourself, this workshop is all about slowing down, creating something with your hands, and leaving with a candle you’ll love (and a great memory).
✨ What’s Included

A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax

All candle-making materials provided

One handmade candle included

One complimentary glass of wine of your choice

Light snacks

A cozy, welcoming atmosphere to relax and connect

✨ What to Expect

6:00–6:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your wine, and get comfortable.

6:15–7:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle, infused with intention and your favorite scent.

7:15–7:30 – Sip, Snack & Connect: Enjoy your wine, snacks, and conversation while your candle finishes setting.

7:30–8:00 – Candle Decoration: Personalize your candle with dried florals, herbs, or crystals for an extra special touch.

✨ Why Join?

Try something new and creative — no experience needed

Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours

Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company

Slow down, laugh, and be present for a couple of hours

Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memory

✨ Meet the Host
Renata – Candle Maker & Wellness Facilitator @the.universe.stuff
Renata is the heart and hands behind The Universe Stuff, a holistic wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and intention. She handcrafts soy candles and other wellness products designed to support balance and self-care, and she hosts workshops that invite people to slow down, connect, and create. Based in the Ann Arbor area, Renata loves bringing people together through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

Saline Area Players presents 12 Angry Jurors
2026-02-20 19:00 - 20:30 | The Well Church, 211 Willis Rd, Saline, M, 48176, United States
12 Angry Jurors, directed by Veronica Long, runs February 20th-March 1st at The Well Church in Saline. 12 Angry Jurors was adapted by Sherman L. Sergel, based on the teleplay Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose.

◈ SYNOPSIS ◈ Following the closing arguments in a murder trial, the twelve members of the jury must deliberate, with a guilty verdict meaning death for the accused, an inner-city teen. As the dozen jurors try to reach a unanimous decision while sequestered in a room, one juror casts considerable doubt on elements of the case. Personal issues soon rise to the surface, and conflict threatens to derail the delicate process that will decide one boy’s fate.
Performances are Feb 20 & 21 at 7 pm, Feb 22 at 2 pm, Feb 27 & 28 at 7 pm and March 1 at 2 pm.

Comedy Night
2026-02-20 19:00 - 21:00 | The 109 Cultural Exchange, 109 W Michigan Avenue, SALINE, MI, 48176, United States
Get ready for a night of sharp wit, big laughs, and wildly relatable comedy at The 109 Cultural Exchange. This adults-only (18+) stand-up showcase brings together four powerhouse comedians from Michigan’s best comedy scenes for one unforgettable night.
WHEN: 7 pm on Friday, February 20 (Doors open at 6:15 pm)
WHERE: The 109 Cultural Exchange, 109 W Michigan Ave, Saline
COST: $20 per person
THE FOOD & DRINK SITUATION: Social District drinks and food from local eateries are welcome! Popcorn and a small selection of non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase at The 109.
Adults only, please (18+).
Come early, grab dinner nearby, and settle in for a night of comedy done right.
More about your entertainers:
Yesterday night, a UFO beamed up a cow and left Emily Clarkbehind in an open field. She’s gotten very good at pretending she’s been here on Earth this whole time. Guitar in hand and microphone in stand, this intense, self-aware sweetheart demands answers to questions you didn’t kow you had, challenges core truths, and gets you invested in whimsical little lies. Emily has performed at venues all over Michigan, including the Ann Arbor Comedy Showase, the Blind Pig, Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, the Detroit House of Comedy, One Night Stan’s, and the Independent Comedy Club.
Detroit is now Amber Maeda’s home where she is highly involved with her local scene as a producer at The Independent Comedy Club, an actress at Planet Ant Theatre as well as writing a web series with the PA film team. Her stories of her Asian family upbringing and witty one-liners make her a relatable crowd-favorite. Her dark humor is juxtaposed with her happy-go-lucky delivery, warming the hearts of audiences all over!
And your HEADLINER, Nicole Melnyk, is a Midwest based comedian. She opened for Kristin Key at the City Opera House in Traverse City. She’s opened for Hannah Berner at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, The Royal Oak Music Hall and the Saginaw Temple Theatre. She opened for Kyle Kinane at Mark Ridleys Comedy Castle. She opened for Juno Birch and Esther Povitski at the Majestic Theatre. Nicole has featured at Funny Bones, Heliums and Hilarities in St. Louis, Kansas City, Indianapolis and Ohio.
And, finally, your host, Shelly Smith, who has been producing comedy and music events in Michigan for two decades and almost a year at The 109! She is the host and MC of the long running Ebirds and Friends Holiday Show and 50 First Jokes (coming up on January 2nd), as well as the host and producer of the Reads and Weeds podcast.

Saline Area Players presents 12 Angry Jurors
2026-02-21 19:00 - 20:30 | The Well Church, 211 Willis Rd, Saline, M, 48176, United States
12 Angry Jurors, directed by Veronica Long, runs February 20th-March 1st at The Well Church in Saline. 12 Angry Jurors was adapted by Sherman L. Sergel, based on the teleplay Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose.

◈ SYNOPSIS ◈Following the closing arguments in a murder trial, the twelve members of the jury must deliberate, with a guilty verdict meaning death for the accused, an inner-city teen. As the dozen jurors try to reach a unanimous decision while sequestered in a room, one juror casts considerable doubt on elements of the case. Personal issues soon rise to the surface, and conflict threatens to derail the delicate process that will decide one boy’s fate.

The OperaSOUL Experience: Mixtape Edition with Soprano Kisma Jordan
2026-02-21 19:30 - 21:30 | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States
The OperaSOUL Experience is a revolutionary live concert that breaks boundaries by blending the timeless beauty of operatic vocals with soul-pop music, a unique fusion created by opera singer and composer Kisma Jordan. The OperaSOUL Experience’s highly anticipated and successful debut in 2021 was a highlight of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Cube Summer Sessions series, setting the stage for Kisma to announce a well-crafted soundscape and a fresh take on classical music. The OperaSOUL Mixtape features original self-produced works mashed up with arias, a reimagined rendition of Gnarls Barkley’s GRAMMY® winning “Crazy” and an explosive medley of Nina Simone’s and The Beatles’ “Blackbird.”

Chelsea District Library Welcomes Piano & Song man of 5 million YT views this Sunday, February 22d @ 2pm--3pm!
2026-02-22 14:00 - 15:00 | Chelsea Distrcit Library, 221 S Main St,, Chelsea, MI 48118, 48118, United States
Chelsea District Library Welcomes
Piano & Song man of 5 million YT views this
Sunday, February 22d @ 2pm–3pm!

Details: A Free Family-Friendly Music Event!

Sunday, February 22d @ 2pm–3pm

Matthew Ball – The Boogie Woogie Kid
Piano & Song man of 5 million YT views!
Performing

From Gershwin to The Beatles, Pianist/Singer Matthew Ball brings a music smile to listeners with a fresh boogie-woogie piano twist to Classic American Songs we all know & love from yesteryear, movies, and pop culture!

Saline Area Players present 12 Angry Jurors
2026-02-22 14:00 - 15:30 | The Well Church, 211 Willis Rd, Saline, M, 48176, United States
12 Angry Jurors, directed by Veronica Long, runs February 20th-March 1st at The Well Church in Saline. 12 Angry Jurors was adapted by Sherman L. Sergel, based on the teleplay Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose.
◈ SYNOPSIS ◈ Following the closing arguments in a murder trial, the twelve members of the jury must deliberate, with a guilty verdict meaning death for the accused, an inner-city teen. As the dozen jurors try to reach a unanimous decision while sequestered in a room, one juror casts considerable doubt on elements of the case. Personal issues soon rise to the surface, and conflict threatens to derail the delicate process that will decide one boy’s fate.

The Singing Horn: Mary Beth Orr, French horn & vocalist with pianist Kathryn Goodson
2026-02-22 16:00 - 17:30 | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States
Mary Beth Orr’s The Singing Horn bridges the divide between opposites — folk and classical, raw and refined, life and loss. Some selections will flow like a song cycle, interweaving folk and classical elements, including works by Mahler, Bob Dylan, nostalgic mountain folk melodies like Wayfaring Stranger, as well as her own original songs.
The crossover of genres is both unexpected and satisfying. This program harnesses the synergy of horn and voice as vessels for storytelling and comes together as a love letter to the poignant connection of the human experience

A2Y Chamber Event: Ask The Expert SBW, Building Cyber Resiliency
2026-02-24 11:30 - 13:00 | A2Y Chamber, 339 N. Maple St., Ann Arbor, MI, United States
This session focuses on building cyber resiliency in advance of cyber incidents, covering essential steps like creating an Incident Response Plan and implementing comprehensive training.

Flexi-Flow Yoga: Improving Your Strength and Mobility (Milan Public Library)
2026-02-25 14:45 - 15:45 | Shadowlight Studio, 13 W. Main St., Milan, M, 48160, United States
Milan Public Library and Shadowlight Studio are partnering together for a flexi-flow yoga class. This beginner-friendly yoga class with instructor Deirdre Fudge, owner of Shadowlight Studio, focuses on pairing breath with movement and exploring dynamic, gentle stretches. All participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes and bring a yoga mat and a water bottle.
Call the library at (734) 439-1240 to register for this FREE class,

SheConnects: A Curated Networking Experience for Women Entrepreneurs
2026-02-26 00:00 | Michelle L Thames, Not specified, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
SheConnects is a curated networking experience designed for women entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas, and build relationships.

Support The Imagine Center Farm - SAVE THE DATE! February 26
2026-02-26 16:00 - 22:00 | P.F. Chang’s – Briarwood Mall, 720 Briarwood Circle, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
On Thursday, February 26th, 2026 from 4 PM–close, P.F. Chang’s in Ann Arbor, MI is hosting a fundraiser for the Imagine Center Farm.
Bring your family and friends and enjoy a meal, or order out! Show this flyer attached below, and 10% of your bill will support our participants and programs at the farm.We’re so grateful for this partnership and for everyone who shows up to support our mission! Hope to see you all there.

Saline Area Players presents 12 Angry Jurors
2026-02-27 19:00 - 20:30 | The Well Church, 211 Willis Rd, Saline, M, 48176, United States

Afterall: A New Play by Cole Hunter Dzubak
2026-02-27 20:00 - 2026-03-08 22:00 | The Back Office Studio, 13 N Washington St, Ypsilanti, M, 48197, United States
February 27-March 1 and March 6-8 | Fri-Sat at 8pm and Sun at 2pm
Directed by Danielle Mclogan
Starring: Drew Dyer, Jessica Lee, Patrice Linman, Meg McNamee, Sean Sabo, Drew Tallquist, Dean VanLoo, and Mitchell Walker
Adam and Raine are gearing up for the next stage of their relationship. All plans are derailed when Adam suffers a family tragedy, causing to revert back to the only coping mechanism that worked as a kid: talking to his imaginary friends. As he navigates his inner turmoil, it’s clear that there isn’t room for everyone, and is forced to make a choice on who is really there for him; the love of his life or his imaginary friends.

Chelsea Chamber Chili Cook-Off
2026-02-28 15:00 - 21:00 | Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown district (central Main St area), Chelsea, MI, United States
Join us for the 1st Annual Chelsea Chamber Chili Cook-Off! Come by The Collins Off Main for all you can sample chili for $20, and a cash bar with beer and cocktails. The outdoor space will be decked out with fire pits and heaters, while inside you’ll find the chili, card games, 50/50, and great company! After you try all the chilis, you can vote for your favorite in the People’s Choice contest. All proceeds go to support the efforts of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce as we strive to maintain Chelsea as the premier place to live, work, and recreate.
Thank you to our 2026 Presenting Sponsor: Destination Ann Arbor
So stop by for some great chili, warm vibes, and excellent competition!

Eastern Boundary Quartet
2026-02-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States
Eastern Boundary Quartet brings its vibrant blend of American avant-garde jazz and Hungarian ethno-folk traditions to Kerrytown Concert House! Formed by acclaimed New York artists Joe Fonda (bass) and Michael Jefry Stevens (piano), together with Hungarian master musicians Balázs Bagyi (drums) and Mihály Borbély (saxophone), this ensemble creates a cultural bridge between two rich musical worlds. Their long-standing collaboration, rooted in friendship, respect, and the shared language of improvisation, infuses every performance with energy and authenticity. With powerful personalities from both the New York jazz scene and Central/Eastern Europe, the quartet’s sound is bold, imaginative, and deeply expressive.

Vocal Arts Ensemble of Ann Arbor's The Best of All Possible Concerts: A New Bernstein Revue
2026-02-28 19:30 - 21:30 | Greenhills School, 850 Greenhills Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, 850 Greenhills Dr., Ann Arbor, 48104, United States
Our February concert highlights the music of Leonard Bernstein and his various collaborators. From Chichester Psalms to Candide and West Side Story, Bernstein made a giant imprint on the American Choral and vocal landscape both on the concert stage and on Broadway. The program will include selections from Bernstein’s collaborations with Stephen Sondheim and the writing team of Comden & Green in a concert that highlights both VAE and two of our region’s first-rate musicians, John Goodell and Neil Donato. Free admission; donations accepted at the door.

Spring Flower Show
2026-03-01 10:00 - 2026-03-29 17:00 | Hidden Lake Gardens, 6214 Monroe Rd. (Hwy. M-50), Tipton, M, 49287, United States
Celebrate a century of beauty at Hidden Lake Gardens! Our Spring Flower Show returns with a spectacular tribute to 100 years of growth and inspiration. Step inside the Conservatory and experience its breathtaking transformation into a vibrant showcase of color with daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, amaryllis, and more, ushering in the season of renewal. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. Join us for a special after-hours evening on Friday, March 27 until 7:00 PM with last admission at 6:30 PM. Included with regular admission to HLG, learn more at hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu.

A Natural Dye Pop-Up Workshop: Kitchen Dyes & Shibori
2026-03-01 12:00 - 14:00 | Agricole Farm Stop, 118 North Main Street, Chelsea, M, 48118, United States
Join NDCo. at Agricole Farm Stop for a hands-on workshop to explore the art of natural dyeing using ingredients from the kitchen. Participants will learn a shibori resist technique to create a unique design on a vintage flour sack towel that will be dyed with either yellow onion skins, red onion skins, or avocado skins–your choice!
Shibori is a resist technique that looks similar to tie-dye; however, it has been around since the 6th century. Natural dyeing dates back even further to the year 2600 BC. You will have the option to pick one dye to dye your towel–yellow onion skins for a golden yellow, red onion skins for a mossy green, or avocado skins for a pale blush coral. There will be time for Q&A and discussion on fugitive versus reliable kitchen dyes. You’ll leave with a beautiful naturally dyed textile and the knowledge to continue experimenting at home.

Dexter Community Band Creates the Soundtrack for a European Trip at its Winter Concert
2026-03-01 15:00 - 17:00 | Dexter High School Center for the Performing Arts, 2200 North Parker Road, Dexter, M, United States
Pack a suitcase, grab your phone and electrical adapter, the Dexter Community Band takes audience travelers on a whirlwind tour around Europe at its free annual Winter Concert. Highlights include a flamenco dance from Malaga on Spain’s Costa del Sol, a visit to the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre overlooking Paris with Montmartre March, and a spirited ride on a funicular railway in Italy with Funiculi-Funicula Rhapsody.
The band celebrates the traditions of English folk music with the First Suite in E-flat for Military Band by Gustav Holst, the famous British composer best known for The Planets. In a tribute to Irish music, director William W. Gourley has brought back At Kitty O’Shea’s, an Irish folk song suite the band played several times as part of its 2016 tour of the Republic of Ireland. It includes the tunes The Darling Girl from Clare; Deirin De; The Star of the County Down; Siuil a Run; The Kerry Dances and Finale: Jig & Reels, which will wear out even the sturdiest bag piper.

Celebrating Lars Bjorn: The Southeastern Michigan Jazz Association’s Ron Brooks Award Concert
2026-03-01 16:00 - 18:00 | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States
Kerrytown Concert House is proud to partner with the Southeastern Michigan Jazz Association (SEMJA) to celebrate Detroit jazz historian and author, Lars Bjorn, at this year’s Ron Brooks Award Concert. Named for SEMJA’s founder, the Ron Brooks Award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the Detroit jazz community as performers and educators.
For the last dozen years, Lars Bjorn has served as the president of SEMJA, supporting the music in many ways: as a scholar, teacher, interviewer, writer, and panelist, collaborating with the major local jazz festivals, and informally advising the Kerrytown Concert House from the very beginnings of its jazz offerings. Bjorn has been widely celebrated, together with his co-author Jim Gallert, for Before Motown, the pioneering widely praised first major history of jazz in Detroit, the culmination of years of research, including numerous in-depth musician interviews that are now archived for future use. For many years, Lars was a sociology professor at the University of Michigan, Dearborn, teaching courses on Detroit and its music. To mark the occasion, an outstanding lineup of area jazz musicians will take the stage in tribute, performing the music that Bjorn has spent a lifetime championing. Featured artists include bassist Paul Keller, pianist Adam Mosley, guitarist Ralph Tope, drummer Jesse Kramer, and more.
Join us in honoring Lars Bjorn and the music that he champions and loves. Get your tickets today!
Paul Keller, bass
Adam Mosley, piano
Ralph Tope, guitar
Jesse Kramer, drums

Michigan SBDC Business Consulting
2026-03-03 08:00 - 17:00 | Michigan SBDC, N/A, Virtual, MI, United States
Our expert team provides no-cost consulting, market research, business education, and the resources you need to succeed.

Ann Arbor DDA Office Hours
2026-03-03 12:00 - 13:00 | Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority, Larcom City Hall, 301 E. Huron, City Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
The Ann Arbor DDA Office Hours provide an opportunity for community members to engage with DDA staff, ask questions, and discuss downtown development initiatives.

Business Plan Sprint & Coaching Intensive Competition
2026-03-03 17:30 - 19:30 | Michigan SBDC in partnership with Ann Arbor SPARK’s Small Business Support Program, University of Michigan North Campus Research Complex, Building 18, South Atrium 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
A one-week, advanced-pace experience designed for Michigan-based founders who already have a draft or completed business plan and are ready to refine it with expert coaching and compete for reimbursement grant awards (up to $10,000 total).
