Don’t miss this one. Really. Organists from all over the Treasure Coast are joining to present a free concert at First Presbyterian this Friday, Oct. 25 – “Phantasies and Phugues: A Halloween Concert.” Presented by the Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, this extra-special musical evening promises to be fun and lighthearted. You might also recognize one or two familiar faces at the keys, local church music directors, performing alongside students, friends and colleagues: Jacob Craig, First Presbyterian; Marcos Daniel Flores, Christ by the Sea; Neal Campbell, Trinity Episcopal; and Brady Johnson, Christ Church. Concert-goers can expect to hear a variety of music, displaying how versatile an organ can be under the touch of such gifted musicians. There will be serious performances, of course, but in the spirit of Halloween, much of the music will be performed in parody fashion. “Phantasies and Phugues: A Halloween Concert” is a benefit for the Treasure Coast Guild’s scholarship program, which supports young organ students. Time: 7 p.m. Admission: free. A $10 donation would be lovely. 772-562-9088.
If you’re intrigued by Vero’s unique history and would like to learn a bit more, you’ll enjoy this special, dramatic presentation about one of the county’s earliest and most fascinating residents. The premier of the original, one-woman play “The Life of Miss Ruth Hallstrom” will take place next Thursday, Nov. 1, at the Vero Beach Woman’s Club. The work was written and will be performed by Indian River County Historical Society Advisory Board member Pat Kroger, who gives voice to an Indian River County pioneer who led an extraordinary life as student, teacher, world-traveler and much more. According to irchistorical.org, Ruth’s parents, Axel and Emily Hallstrom, immigrated from Sweden to the area first known as St. Lucie, then Indian River County in 1904. They planted citrus and pineapples, and eventually acquired 100 acres, high on the sand ridge in Oslo, where they began construction of their home in 1908, “tragically, the same year that Emily Hallstrom passed away from the lingering health problems that had brought them to Florida.” Ruth was only a toddler, but her father persevered and completed the beautiful home in 1918. There, father and daughter remained for the rest of their lives. Ruth left the Hallstrom Homestead to the Historical Society at her death in 1999. Historical trivia: the Hallstrom House is one of the very few in the area with a basement. After the play, Hallstrom family members will share their favorite memories of Ruth. Refreshments will include some of Ruth’s own recipes. Time: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets: $10. You are asked to register on Eventbrite.com. Seating is limited, first come-first served, so early arrival is suggested. 772-778-3435.
A pleasant evening in Vero’s vibrant art district: It’s the First Friday Gallery Stroll, Nov. 2, along 14th Avenue between 19th Street and 23rd Street, sponsored by Main Street Vero Beach. Gallery owners and artists will welcome you with refreshments and pleasant conversation. Take your time exploring the galleries: You’ll discover wonderful, diverse works from many of the area’s gifted artists. You’ll definitely want to see the beautiful work of historic map artist Lisa Middleton, the Gallery Stroll featured artist for November. A reception for Middleton will take place in the Main Street Vero Beach office, at 2036 14th Ave. And don’t miss Gallery 14’s reception for their November exhibits: “Living the Vibrant Life” by master pastel artist Lynn Morgan, and “Quilts = Art: Colorful Visions” by fiber artist Susan Rienzo. You might choose to extend this pleasant, low-key evening with a little supper, a beer or glass of wine perhaps, and maybe a bit of music in one of the nearby restaurants or pubs. Gallery Stroll hours: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 772-643-6782.
Jerome Allen Seinfeld (perhaps you know him as Jerry?), America’s virtually undisputed premier comedian, is bringing his standup to the Kravis in West Palm this coming Friday, Oct. 26. Seinfeld is best known for playing himself in the sitcom “Seinfeld,” which he created and wrote with fellow comedian Larry David and which scored a stellar, award-winning 10-year run. By its fourth season, it had become the most popular and successful sitcom on American television. He’s won a Primetime Emmy, two SAG awards, a Golden Globe and an American Comedy Award, plus numerous noms. Show times: 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tickets: start at $76. 561-832-7469.
