March 2013
March 2 - John C. Wells Planetarium Shows
2:30 p.m. ("One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure") and 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. ("Seven Wonders")
Miller Hall
The planetarium offers shows for the public, with seating beginning 10 minutes before show time on a first-come, first-seated basis; the first show is geared toward families with young children while the second and third shows appeal to older children and adults; each show is followed by a 25-minute "star talk" that provides visitors with updates about the night sky, including constellations, planets and any comets that might be visible; for more information, including program descriptions, check http://www.jmu.edu/planetarium/index.shtml; free.
March 4 - Spring Break
March 4-8: Spring Break. Classes do not meet.
March 5 - Bonsai Workshop
March 5, 12 and 19
noon-1 p.m.
Frances Plecker Education Center, Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Arboretum grounds manager and bonsai master Mike Hott hosts this workshop in which participants create a “wee-tree” to enjoy at home or in the office. There is the option to pay a $35 fee, which covers all materials inclusive to create a bonsai tree or a $12 fee for the final session only for “wee-tree tune-ups” for prior workshop members. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum.
March 5 - MetroDukes Port City Brewing Company
For $15.00 per person enjoy a private tour and sample of all 5 delicious
Port City Brewing beers. Best part? $8 of your registration fee will be
donated to JMU as a gift from the MetroDukes Alumni Chapter. Everyone that attends will also receive a Port City Brewing Company glass.
Space is limited to 100 guests...register today!
No refunds will be given after February 19th and registration will close on February 26th (or when sold out).
Special thanks to Port City
Brewing owner, Bill Butcher ('88), for providing a JMU discount for the
event so that the proceeds benefit JMU.
Port City Brewing Company
3950 Wheeler Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22304
March 8 - University Holiday
University closed.
March 9 - John C. Wells Planetarium Shows
2:30 p.m. ("One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure") and 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. ("Seven Wonders")
Miller Hall
The planetarium offers shows for the public, with seating beginning 10 minutes before show time on a first-come, first-seated basis; the first show is geared toward families with young children while the second and third shows appeal to older children and adults; each show is followed by a 25-minute "star talk" that provides visitors with updates about the night sky, including constellations, planets and any comets that might be visible; for more information, including program descriptions, check http://www.jmu.edu/planetarium/index.shtml; free.
March 12 - Sing Out!
March 13 - Sing Out! An a Capella Concert
Location: JMU Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, Concert Hall
Time: 8:00-10:00pm
This even is open to the public.
A cappella continues to take the world by storm! A sellout last season, this event returns for two nights of performances by JMU's amazing a cappella groups. This second annual Sing Out! also features an a cappella group from Harrisonburg High School and a visiting university.
For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 14 - Visiting Scholars Program
7 p.m.
Mainstage
Theatre, Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Tony Walton, designer and director, presents “Les Liaisons Dangereuses: Artists in Collaboration and a Life in Theatre”; sponsored by the College of Arts and Letters; for information, call (540) 568-6472; free.
March 15 - Inauguration Day Purple Out
In honor of James Madison University's new president, Jonathan Alger, it’s a Purple Out day!
Even if you can’t join us in Harrisonburg, wear purple to help us celebrate this historic JMU occasion. For more information on the inauguration, consult http://www.jmu.edu/inauguration/
March 15 - Inauguration Day Purple Out
In honor of James Madison University's new president, Jonathan Alger, it’s a Purple Out day!
Even if you can’t join us in Harrisonburg, wear purple to help us celebrate this historic JMU occasion. For more information on the inauguration, consult http://www.jmu.edu/inauguration/
March 15 - Inaugural Ceremony
Location: JMU Convocation Center
Time: Doors will open at 10:15am
This event is open to the public.
For detailed information please visit our Ceremony Information page.
March 15 - Inauguration of JMU President Jonathan Alger
Convocation Center
Join the JMU family in the inauguration of Madison's sixth president, Jonathan Alger.
All alumni are welcome to attend. For more information, consult http://www.jmu.edu/inauguration/
March 16 - Expanding Your Horizons Conference
9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Memorial Hall
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics invite young women in grades 7-10 and their parents and teachers to explore math and science through hands-on workshops and a keynote speech by a prominent woman scientist. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/mathstat/eyh/; advance registration required; free.
March 16 - Community Resource Campus Tour
Location: JMU Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Time: 11:00am
This event is open to the public.
Meet at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts at 11:00am to have a guided tour from students of JMU. This tour is specifically designed to highlight resources on campus that are available to the Harrisonburg and Rockingham County community.
Parking is available in the Warsaw Avenue Parking Deck.
March 16 - John C. Wells Planetarium Shows
2:30 p.m. ("One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure") and 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. ("Seven Wonders")
Miller Hall
The planetarium offers shows for the public, with seating beginning 10 minutes before show time on a first-come, first-seated basis; the first show is geared toward families with young children while the second and third shows appeal to older children and adults; each show is followed by a 25-minute "star talk" that provides visitors with updates about the night sky, including constellations, planets and any comets that might be visible; for more information, including program descriptions, check http://www.jmu.edu/planetarium/index.shtml; free.
March 16 - Marimba Orchestra and Friends
Location: JMU Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, Concert Hall
Time: 8:00pm
This event is open to the public but tickets are required.
This extraordinary event returns with performances by JMU's Marimba Orchestra, Steel Band and Madison Singers, as well as faculty guest artists. This concert features selections by Grammy Award winner Bela Fleck, plus classical and ragtime style works, including a medley of tunes from hit Broadway musicals, as well as an extended salute to the world-renowned Carlos Santana.
For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
Tickets required.
March 17 - St. Patrick¿s Day Dinner Lecture
1-3 p.m.
Frances Plecker Education Center, Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Enjoy Irish cuisine and brew and a virtual botanical tour to a new region of the globe with a guest lecturer. A per person cost covers a three-course dinner, tax, tip, beverages and a libation of choice. Advanced reservations required seven days ahead. To reserve, call (540) 568-3194. For more information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum.
March 17 - St. Patrick's Live Highland Pipes
3-4 p.m.
lawn area of the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Live performance by piper Fred Holbrook of Massanetta Springs Conference Center. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum; free.
March 18 - artWorks Gallery Exhibition
noon-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon-4 p.m. Friday
and Saturday
131 Grace St.
This exhibition features work by JMU students Jaclyn Smith, Braxon Congrove, Michael Draeger and Victoria Hall. Opening reception, March 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. For information, call (540) 568-7175; free.
March 18 - New Image Gallery Exhibition
noon-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon-4 p.m. Friday and
Saturday
131 Grace St.
“Drawing More: An International Video Project” curated by Anne Beck and Dietmar Krumrey of Lost Coast Culture Machine, Fort Bragg, Calif. Opening reception, March 18 from 5 to 7 p.m.; free.
March 19 - They're Playing Our Song
Studio Theatre
March 19–22, 2013 ♦ Tuesday–Friday @ 8 p.m.
March 23, 2013 ♦ Saturday @ 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This musical disco dances its way through the relationship of neurotic composer, Vernon, and wacky lyricist, Sonia, and is modeled after the real–life relationship between Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager. In a clear case of “opposites attract,” the two become not only songwriting partners, but also fall in love. Until they can figure out how to work together, they find themselves in some hilarious situations. Filled with catchy up–tempo disco songs and soulful, reflective ballads, the score takes you on just as crazy a ride as Sonia and Vernon! Contains adult language and themes.
March 20 - Opera Spotlight, Songs and Scenes from the World's Greatest Operas
8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday
Concert Hall, Forbes
Center for the Performing Arts
Songs and scenes from the world's greatest operas come alive in an enchanting evening that will dazzle audiences. Graduate students from the JMU Opera Theater are poised to launch their careers, and this event is your opportunity to see this amazingly talented core of future stars perform. For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 20 - They're Playing Our Song
Studio Theatre
March 19–22, 2013 ♦ Tuesday–Friday @ 8 p.m.
March 23, 2013 ♦ Saturday @ 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This musical disco dances its way through the relationship of neurotic composer, Vernon, and wacky lyricist, Sonia, and is modeled after the real–life relationship between Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager. In a clear case of “opposites attract,” the two become not only songwriting partners, but also fall in love. Until they can figure out how to work together, they find themselves in some hilarious situations. Filled with catchy up–tempo disco songs and soulful, reflective ballads, the score takes you on just as crazy a ride as Sonia and Vernon! Contains adult language and themes.
March 21 - Visiting Scholars Program
3:45 p.m.
Room 31,
Burruss Hall
Morris “Bud” Jacobs, president of the Public Diplomacy Council, presents “Public Diplomacy: Tools, Aims and Goals”; sponsored by the College of Arts and Letters; for information, call (540) 568-6472; free.
March 21 - Guest Speaker Robert Lawson
4 p.m.
Room 1302, Health and Human Services Building
The Gilliam Center for Free Enterprise and Ethical Leadership presents Robert Lawson from Southern Methodist University discussing “Economic Freedom and Well-Being.” For information, call (540) 568-3083; free.
March 21 - New Voices in Dance, Featuring JMU's Contemporary Dance Ensemble
March 21-24
8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday
Mainstage
Theatre, Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Featuring the best works developed by students during the year, this concert is a catalyst for launching future careers in dance. Come support these breakthrough artists perform jazz, ballet and modern works, as well as a work by guest choreographer Julio Agustin Matos Jr. inspired by the late director-choreographer Bob Fosse.
For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 21 - Opera Spotlight, Songs and Scenes from the World's Greatest Operas
8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday
Concert Hall, Forbes
Center for the Performing Arts
Songs and scenes from the world's greatest operas come alive in an enchanting evening that will dazzle audiences. Graduate students from the JMU Opera Theater are poised to launch their careers, and this event is your opportunity to see this amazingly talented core of future stars perform. For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 21 - They're Playing Our Song
Studio Theatre
March 19–22, 2013 ♦ Tuesday–Friday @ 8 p.m.
March 23, 2013 ♦ Saturday @ 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This musical disco dances its way through the relationship of neurotic composer, Vernon, and wacky lyricist, Sonia, and is modeled after the real–life relationship between Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager. In a clear case of “opposites attract,” the two become not only songwriting partners, but also fall in love. Until they can figure out how to work together, they find themselves in some hilarious situations. Filled with catchy up–tempo disco songs and soulful, reflective ballads, the score takes you on just as crazy a ride as Sonia and Vernon! Contains adult language and themes.
March 22 - New Voices in Dance, Featuring JMU's Contemporary Dance Ensemble
March 21-24
8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday
Mainstage
Theatre, Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Featuring the best works developed by students during the year, this concert is a catalyst for launching future careers in dance. Come support these breakthrough artists perform jazz, ballet and modern works, as well as a work by guest choreographer Julio Agustin Matos Jr. inspired by the late director-choreographer Bob Fosse.
For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 22 - They're Playing Our Song
Studio Theatre
March 19–22, 2013 ♦ Tuesday–Friday @ 8 p.m.
March 23, 2013 ♦ Saturday @ 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This musical disco dances its way through the relationship of neurotic composer, Vernon, and wacky lyricist, Sonia, and is modeled after the real–life relationship between Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager. In a clear case of “opposites attract,” the two become not only songwriting partners, but also fall in love. Until they can figure out how to work together, they find themselves in some hilarious situations. Filled with catchy up–tempo disco songs and soulful, reflective ballads, the score takes you on just as crazy a ride as Sonia and Vernon! Contains adult language and themes.
March 23 - Easter Egg Hunt
11 a.m.
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
The Theta Nu chapter of Zeta Phi Beta are hosting an egg hunt for young children. The egg hunt starts in the pavilion. Cost per child information available at registration at http://www.jmu.edu/multicultural/icgc/chapters/zeta_phi_beta.shtml. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum.
March 23 - They're Playing Our Song
Studio Theatre
March 19–22, 2013 ♦ Tuesday–Friday @ 8 p.m.
March 23, 2013 ♦ Saturday @ 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This musical disco dances its way through the relationship of neurotic composer, Vernon, and wacky lyricist, Sonia, and is modeled after the real–life relationship between Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager. In a clear case of “opposites attract,” the two become not only songwriting partners, but also fall in love. Until they can figure out how to work together, they find themselves in some hilarious situations. Filled with catchy up–tempo disco songs and soulful, reflective ballads, the score takes you on just as crazy a ride as Sonia and Vernon! Contains adult language and themes.
March 23 - John C. Wells Planetarium Shows
2:30 p.m. ("One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure") and 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. ("Seven Wonders")
Miller Hall
The planetarium offers shows for the public, with seating beginning 10 minutes before show time on a first-come, first-seated basis; the first show is geared toward families with young children while the second and third shows appeal to older children and adults; each show is followed by a 25-minute "star talk" that provides visitors with updates about the night sky, including constellations, planets and any comets that might be visible; for more information, including program descriptions, check http://www.jmu.edu/planetarium/index.shtml; free.
March 23 - They're Playing Our Song
Studio Theatre
March 19–22, 2013 ♦ Tuesday–Friday @ 8 p.m.
March 23, 2013 ♦ Saturday @ 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This musical disco dances its way through the relationship of neurotic composer, Vernon, and wacky lyricist, Sonia, and is modeled after the real–life relationship between Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager. In a clear case of “opposites attract,” the two become not only songwriting partners, but also fall in love. Until they can figure out how to work together, they find themselves in some hilarious situations. Filled with catchy up–tempo disco songs and soulful, reflective ballads, the score takes you on just as crazy a ride as Sonia and Vernon! Contains adult language and themes.
March 23 - Anna Deavere Smith Speaker Series/Performance
8 p.m.
Concert Hall, Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Hailed by Newsweek as "the most exciting individual in American theater," Anna Deavere Smith is an acclaimed playwright and performer who has created countless memorable characters on television, in film and on stage. Featured on the television programs "Nurse Jackie" and "The West Wing," Smith has also starred in several films, including "The American President," "Philadelphia" and "Dave." Over the past 20 years, she has interviewed over 2,000 individuals for her series of solo theatrical works called "On The Road: A Search for American Character," which has been described as "a new form of theatre -- a blend of theatrical art, social commentary, journalism and intimate reverie." Without props, sets or costumes, she translates her interviews into performances that represent the vast diversity, race and cultural identity of both legendary and everyday people. For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 23 - New Voices in Dance, Featuring JMU's Contemporary Dance Ensemble
March 21-24
8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday
Mainstage
Theatre, Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Featuring the best works developed by students during the year, this concert is a catalyst for launching future careers in dance. Come support these breakthrough artists perform jazz, ballet and modern works, as well as a work by guest choreographer Julio Agustin Matos Jr. inspired by the late director-choreographer Bob Fosse.
For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 24 - A Latte Jive, Alzheimer's Benefit 5K Run and Concert
1-3 p.m.
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Sigma Kappa sponsors an annual 5K benefit for the Central and Western Virginia Chapter of the American Alzheimer’s Association on the arboretum grounds. “A Walk You’ll Remember!” includes live music at the end of the 5K, coffee, tea and water served free compliments of JMU Catering. Automatic rain date April 7 announcement to post on Sigma Kappa website, http://www.jmu.sigmakappa.org. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum.
March 24 - New Voices in Dance, Featuring JMU's Contemporary Dance Ensemble
March 21-24
8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday
Mainstage
Theatre, Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Featuring the best works developed by students during the year, this concert is a catalyst for launching future careers in dance. Come support these breakthrough artists perform jazz, ballet and modern works, as well as a work by guest choreographer Julio Agustin Matos Jr. inspired by the late director-choreographer Bob Fosse.
For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 25 - Italian Movie Festival
6:30 p.m.
Room 1101, Miller Hall
“Io non ho paura” (“I’m not scared”) in Italian with English subtitles; free.
March 25 - Visiting Scholars Program
6:30 p.m.
Room 2105,
Harrison Hall
Marcel Bonn-Miller, a research health science specialist at the National Center for PTSD & Center for Health Care Evaluation, presents “An Update on Cannabis: Characteristics, Correlates, Prevalence, Policies and Treatment”; sponsored by the College of Arts and Letters; for information, call (540) 568-6472; free.
March 26 - Wampler Distinguished Scholar Lecture Series
5 p.m.
Location TBA
Drs. Melody and Lanny Milbrant have collaborated for many years on their research devoted to understanding the importance of creativity in art and education. They will be presenting their research from their recent article, “Creativity: What Are We Talking About?” which was published by the National Art Education Association and selected for presentation at several conferences.
March 26 - Why Madison? Presidential Listening Tour Event, New York, N.Y.
6-8 p.m.
New York Stock Exchange Board Room
As James Madison University embarks on a new era, the JMU Alumni Association and the Duke Club invite you to offer President Jonathan Alger your thoughts on why Madison matters to you.
Registration required. Reply to Jessica Cutrufello, (540) 568-7787 or universityevents@jmu.edu.
Business attire.
More information about the Why Madison Listening Tour: http://www.jmu.edu/whymadison.
March 27 - Birding Workshop
noon-1:30 p.m.
Frances Plecker Education Center, Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
In partnership with Rockingham Bird Club, an avifauna notable and photographer of Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valley avian species Diane Lepkowski lectures on songbirds to raptors. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum.
March 28 - Taste of the Forbes: An Arts and Foodie Event
6:30 p.m.
Forbes Center venues/Reception in Grand Lobby, Forbes Center for the
Performing Arts
Celebrate the arts in style with this new event that features a complete evening of entertainment! This movable feast includes three distinctive presentations in three Forbes Center venues, plus a reception that will allow you to mingle with other arts enthusiasts. The event begins in the Grand Lobby with appetizers and drinks. You will then move from venue to venue to enjoy 20-minute music and theatre/dance presentations, as well as a white-glove presentation highlighting hidden treasures from the Madison Art Collection. Each presentation also includes a director/curator-led dialogue. Dessert in the Grand Lobby tops off this magical night. For tickets, check http://www.jmu.edu/jmuarts/ or call (540) 568-7000.
March 30 - John C. Wells Planetarium Shows
2:30 p.m. ("One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure") and 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. ("Seven Wonders")
Miller Hall
The planetarium offers shows for the public, with seating beginning 10 minutes before show time on a first-come, first-seated basis; the first show is geared toward families with young children while the second and third shows appeal to older children and adults; each show is followed by a 25-minute "star talk" that provides visitors with updates about the night sky, including constellations, planets and any comets that might be visible; for more information, including program descriptions, check http://www.jmu.edu/planetarium/index.shtml; free.
March 31 - Easter Sunrise Service
6 a.m.
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
JMU RISE hosts the annual inter-denominational Easter Sunrise Worship Service on the arboretum main lawn. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum; free.
March 31 - Easter Sunrise Service
6
a.m.
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
JMU RISE hosts the annual inter-denominational Easter Sunrise Worship Service on the arboretum main lawn. For information, visit http://www.jmu.edu/arboretum; free.




