UPPER MANHATTAN — The temperatures may be dropping outside, but the Uptown arts scene is heating up. From gallery shows to staged readings to interactive musical performances, there are plenty of options for those seeking a creative outlet this weekend:
Friday, November 7
► Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Dominican Republic with a visit to “Back to the Carnival,” a new gallery exhibit by Dominican-born multimedia artist Juan Valoy. Valoy studied arts at the Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes in Santo Domingo, and his work has been presented at various biennials in Japan, Medellin, Colombia and Chile, among others. His latest work explores the masks and costumes of carnival-goers in different parts of his native country. The show opens Friday at the Rio II Gallery at 583 Riverside Dr. from 6 to 8 p.m.
► For a delicious homemade Greek meal, check out the annual fundraiser at St. Spyridon’s church at Wadsworth Avenue and 179th Street. The event will feature classic Greek dishes made by the Ladies Philoptochos Society. The festival runs from noon to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Stop by on Sunday afternoon for performances of Greek music and dancing.
Saturday, November 8
► Continue exploring the Uptown arts scene with a staged reading of some of Shakespeare’s most famous scenes at the Inwood Public Library. The free event will include the balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet, Lady MacBeth’s sleepwalking scene, and performances by some of the Bard’s best-known characters, including Falstaff, Hamlet, Shylock and Bottom. The curtain goes up at 3:30 p.m.
► Word Up Community Book Shop will play host to an exhibit of works by Bronx-based visual and performing artist Sole Rebel. Her paintings, which are strongly influenced by street art, will be on view through Nov. 17. Saturday night’s reception will feature live music by LEXIGLASS, a Washington Heights-based piano and drum duo, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Sunday, November 9
► Share the love of music with the whole family at a free demonstration by City Kids Music. The 10 a.m. class gives parents a preview of City Kids programs, which feature singing, dancing and instrument exploration for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. The demonstration will take place at Inwood Kids Daycare at 5000 Broadway. RSVP at info@citykidsmusic.com .
► Could you survive a night alone in the wilderness, or even Inwood Hill Park? Brush up on your survival skills with a free class taught by one of the NYC Parks Department’s Urban Rangers. Learn how to make a fire, build a shelter and gather clean drinking water at Inwood Hill Park. Participants will meet at the park’s Isham Street entrance at 1 p.m.
► Learn to paint at a free workshop in the scenic Bruce’s Garden on Park Terrace East. Instructor Bob Bahr will supply paint, brushes and canvas. The event runs from 2 to 4 p.m., and 16 slots are still available. Those interested should email babahr@gmail.com.
