Weekend Outlook: Cape braces for cool artistic blast

It's the opening weekend for the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri's 16th Annual Visual Arts Cooperative's two-gallery exhibition along with musical performances of all types -- and a film festival.

There's a lot, so start the planning now. In the words of Willy Wonka: "So much time and so little to do. Wait a minute. Strike that. Reverse it. Thank you."

Here is a list of just a few First Friday art-related events going on this evening. You can find the entire schedule at the Arts Council's Facebook fan page.

Art by Sherry Montgomery

Be one of the first this weekend to view new collections, paintings and seasonal work by artist Sherry Montgomery. Selah will be open today from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Be sure to check out Montgomery's latest work on her Facebook or Instagram account @selahfineart, or visit her website at selahfineart.com.

Papermaking at the Crisp Museum

For the artistically inclined, today at Crisp Museum from 4 to 8 p.m. learn how to blend colored confetti with paper pulp, strain and press it into paper. Admission is free, and supplies are provided.

Single and ready to mingle

Annie Laurie's in downtown Cape Girardeau is hosting its first-ever party for singles -- with margaritas. Single or not, you are invited.

Poetry at Cup 'n' Cork

Stop by for a poetry reading by the Southeast Missouri State University English Department faculty at 5 p.m. followed by a live performance from The Ukes of Hazzard at 6 p.m., with featured artist Malcolm McCrae.

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But First Friday-related events aren't the only happenings this weekend. Not by a long shot:

Celebrate spring with meatballs

The Kelly High School drama club will present its finale of their spring play "Million Dollar Meatballs" today at 7 p.m. It's a lighthearted, two-act story of a robbery gone bad, set in a floundering restaurant. Bring the entire family; this production is for everyone. Tickets are $4 for adults; $3 for students.

Meet me at Notre Dame

Join Notre Dame Regional High School students, alumni and faculty this weekend as they perform "Meet Me in St. Louis," the beloved tale of the struggles of life set in the early 1990s right before the World's Fair.

The story revolves around one family -- The Smiths -- a wealthy family of four daughters competing for love while they all have to deal with the fact the head of the household has accepted a new out-of-state job in New York.

"Meet Me in St. Louis" will be performed at 7 p.m. through Sunday. Tickets may be purchased by calling (573) 335-6772.

573 International Film Festival

This three-day event based in Cape Girardeau includes networking, workshops, guest speakers, financing talks, film premieres, free popcorn and a whole lot more. More information is available at 573filmfestival.com.

Riverside comedy

River City Players Community Theatre will perform their spring comedy "According to Rumour" this weekend at Port Cape Girardeau in downtown Cape Girardeau. Enjoy a dinner buffet Friday and Saturday at 6:30 p.m. with a 7:30 p.m. showtime; Sunday's dessert buffet starts at 1:30 p.m. with a 2 p.m. showtime. Please call (573) 334-0954 to make your reservation.

jhartwig@semisosurian.com

(573) 388-3632