Many events have been canceled due to the snow storm.  This is a perfect opportunity to finish up your shopping.

Music

News : Sinful Saturdays

A special note that local dj/promoter DJ Cee Block (you know him as a MTV Spring Break DJ, Resident at 2 Boston clubs, Official tour DJ for Artist’s Cho-Sun and Dragonfly (Wu-tang/Beggaz Clan) and most recently as having a night right in down town Salem)  is starting up a new night here in Salem at the Black Lobster.   On Saturdays from 9:30 till 12:45, he will be spinning Old School Hiphop, Reggae, Top 40, Mash-ups and House. The best part is there will be no cover charge and as any Salem Insider knows you get quiet the bang for your buck at the bar.  Hopefully this night will take off during the winter because the City is pouring a ton of money into that area of Bridge Street to make it a real hot spot come this summer.

Friday December 19th

• TBA (6-9pm jazz) TBA (rock 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• One Big Mess & The Kind (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Ondrej! (house, trance 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• The Austin Torpedos (rockabilly 8pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• New Life (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Saturday December 20th

• DJ Cee Block (dance, hip-hop, mash-ups 9:30pm) @ Black Lobster
• TBA (6-9pm jazz) TBD ( rock 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Cherry S/T (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Jule Tones (acoustic, goth, blues 4pm) Birdface (8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted (classic rock 8pm) Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Lisa Love Experience (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

The Tale of Despereaux (G)
Friday at 4:30, 7:00 and 9:20
Saturday at 11:45 AM, (2:00), (4:30), 7:00 and 9:20
Sunday at 11:45 AM, 2:00, 4:30 and 7:00

Yes Man (PG13)
Friday at 5:00, 7:15 and 9:35
Saturday at 12:15, 2:40, 5:00, 7:15 and 9:35
Sunday at 12:15, 2:40, 5:00 and 7:15

Australia (PG13)
Friday at 6:30 and 9:40
Saturday at 6:30 and 9:40
Sunday at  6:30

Bolt (PG)
Friday 4:20
Saturday at 11:30 AM, 1:45 and  4:20
Sunday at 11:30 AM, 1:45 and 4:20

Wine Tasting at Salem Wine Imports
Saturday, November 8 from 4 to 8 pm
Stop by Salem Wine Imports for a tasting of over 20 wines from around the world including “Thanksgiving” wines. Free of charge!

Salem Wine Imports

Music

Friday November 7th

• TBD @ Bangkok Paradise
• Hi8us & Arimis (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Radio Scotvoid Productions (alternative, experimental, electronica 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• 1201 Blues Band (blues 8pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• New Life (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Saturday November 8th

• DARQ w/ DJ Pet (industrial / goth) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Lotus Land (Rush Tribute) @ Dodge Street
• 2nd Saturday Bluegrass Jam (2:30-5:30) Judy C (folk 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Kevin Kennedy (contemporary piano 8pm) Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• The Spinz (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

W (PG-13)
Friday at  4:50 and 7:30
Saturday and Sunday at 11:40 AM, 2:15, 4:50 and 7:30

Madagascar 2 (PG)
Friday at 5:00, 7:00 and 9:00
Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 and 9:00
Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:00, 3:00, 5:00 and 7:00

High School Musical 3: Senior Year (PG)
Friday at 4:30, 7:15 and 9:35
Saturday at 11:30 AM, 2:00, 4:30, 7:15 and 9:35
Sunday at 11:30 AM, 2:00, 4:30 and 7:15

Insider Picks

With Halloween behind us we can get back to our normal lives here in Salem.  Friday night why not kick back with the man we dubbed “the hardest working man in Salem’s music scene” Radio Scotvoid over at the Gulu.  Saturday the offer of free wine is too much to pass up so we’ll be at Salem Wine Imports looking for some new winter favorites. Afterwards a trip to the ‘kok for DARQ is in order as it’s been too packed over there last month for us to move around once we got in.

Trails & Sails - The Essex National Heritage Area is hosting a ton of things to do this weekend in Essex County (guess they didn’t plan on rain all weekend) many Salem locations are participating.

Music

Friday September 26th

• Steve Wark (6-9pm jazz) Speakeasys (10pm rock)  @ Bangkok Paradise
• Jason Bennet & the Resistance, Swaggering Growlers, Have Nots (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Machine 475 (electronica, pop, rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Wildfire (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Hot Like Fire @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Saturday September 27th

• Suzanne Perel (6-9pm jazz) DARQ (10pm goth, industrial) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Beast over Boston (Iron Maiden cover band) Faith in Distortion (rock) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• Saturday Acoustic  Jam (2-5pm)  The Milling Gowns (indie, rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBD @ The Lobster Shanty
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Hangovers (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas
• Mystafine @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Eagle Eye (PG-13)
Friday at 4:30, 7:15 and 9:50
Saturday at 11:30AM, 2:00, 4:30, 7:15 and 9:50
Sunday at 11:30AM, 2:00, 4:30 and 7:15

Burn After Reading (R)
Friday at 4:30, 7:40 and 10:00
Saturday at 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:40 and 10:00
Sunday at 12:30, 2:45, 5:00 and 7:40

The Women (PG-13)
Friday at 4:00, and 9:15
Saturday at 11:15 AM, 4:00  and 9:15
Sunday at 11:15 AM and 4:00

Vicky Christina Barcelona (PG-13)
Friday at 7:00
Saturday & Sunday at 1:45 and 7:00

Theater

Salem Theatre Company
Griffen Theatre, 7 Lynde Street
Saturday, September 27 at 4 pm and Sunday, September 28 at 7 pm
Staged Reading of Robert Reich’s Political Farce, Public Exposure
$10 with a $2 discount for students and seniors.

More info about the reading and tickets are available for purchase online at www.salemtheatre.com

Insider Picks

The weather looks like a total downer this weekend but don’t let that stop you from getting out and having fun. Friday night looks like a trip to Rockafellas is in order with Wildfire burning down the house.  Since Saturday is supposed to be hosting a monsoon keeping it in doors at either the CinemaSalem or Salem Theatre Company looks to be the best bet.  Saturday night there is no question where to be.  All the insiders go to DARQ, get there early as this is turning out to be the montly event to be seen at!

Salem Literary Festival 2008 – Inspiration for writers and setting for classic and contemporary literature, celebrates its passion for all things literary in the 2008 Salem Literary Festival. The festival will start Friday night from 5-7pm at the Old Town Hall.  Get more info on their website at salemlitfest.com.

Callahan Family  Fundraiser – Two weeks ago over at the Gulu you helped raise over $11,000 for the Jocelyn Callahan fundraiser with the money slated to build a fence in the hopes a similar tragedy can be avoided.  It turns out that the city has already funded the building of a fence with construction to begin shortly.  The Callahan family is consitering putting that money to good use in the form of a scholarship.  This Sunday September 14th Dodge Street will be hosting an all day fundraiser for the family.  Swing by for some great music, stories and to put a few dollars to good work.

Callahan fundraiser at Dodge Street

Music

Friday September 12th

• Alanna Manning (6-9pm jazz) Acid Foley (10pm rock)  @ Bangkok Paradise
• Demons Alley, Two Saints, Red Invasion (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Dj Seth (indie, 80′s pop, alternative 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Dave Retros (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Search Party (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• mamadou @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Saturday September 13th

• Fran  & Bobby Tyler (6-9pm jazz) Playing with Fire (10pm rock) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Break for Moose, Guided by Wires (rock) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• 2nd Saturday Bluegrass Jam (2:30-5:30pm)  Jo Henly (country, rock, pop 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBD @ The Lobster Shanty
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Open Bar Band (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas
• dis n’ dat @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Rocky Horror Picture Show (R)
Friday 11:55PM

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Burn After Reading (R)
Friday at 5:00, 7:30 and 10:00
Saturday at 12:30, 2:45, 5:00, 7:40 and 9:50
Sunday at 12:30, 2:45, 5:00 and 7:40

The Women (PG-13)
Friday at 4:45, 7:15 and 9:45
Saturday at 11:15 AM, 1:45, 4:15, 7:00 and 9:30
Sunday at 11:15 AM, 1:45, 4:15 and 7:00

Tropic Thunder (R)
Friday at 4:10, 6:40, and 9:00
Saturday at 11:45 AM, 2:10, 4:35, 7:20 and 9:40
Sunday at 11:45 AM, 2:10, 4:35 and 7:20

Insider Picks

I say this all the time but if you haven’t checked out Rocky Horror here in Salem get your butt over there Friday night. If Rocky isn’t your thing you can’t go wrong tonight at Gulu-Gulu,  DJ Seth is always a house favorite.  Saturday in Salem is all about the rump shakin’ so it’s off to see Search Party at Rockafellas and sing cover songs at the top of our lungs.  Sunday swing by Dodge Street any time after 1PM for the Callahan Family benefit, its a worty cause.

None listed

Music

Friday September 5th

• TBD @ Bangkok Paradise
• Criticize w/ Supertonic (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Radio Scotvoid Productions (alternative, experimental, electronica 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBD (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Big Time (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• The Classmates @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Saturday September 6th

• TBD @ Bangkok Paradise
• Toolfist (rock) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• Rev. Bob & the Darkness (acoustic, gothic, blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted @ The Lobster Shanty
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Richie Rich and the 24K Funk band (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas
• Hot like Fire @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Tropic Thunder (R)
Friday at 4:50, 7:15, and 9:40
Saturday at noon, 2:25, 4:50, 7:15 and 9:40
Sunday at noon, 2:25, 4:50 and 7:15;

Pineapple Express (R)
Friday at 4:30, 6:45 and 9:30
Saturday at 11:30 AM, 2:00, 4:30, 6:45 and 9:30
Sunday at 11:30 AM, 2:00, 4:30 and 6:45

Star Wars; The Clone Wars (PG)
Friday at 4:00, 7:00 and 9:10
Saturday at 11:40 AM, 1:50, 4:00, 7:00 and 9:15
Sunday at 11:40 AM, 1:50, 4:00 and 7:00

Insider Picks

I don’t know about you but after last weekend end of summer marathon partying I’m pretty beat this weekend.  That being said I’m going to muster up what I have left in the tank and rock out over at Dodge Street with Criticize.  Saturday I’ll start winding down early with the always entertaining Rev. Bob & the Darkness over at the Gulu. Summer is now over and we have a couple weeks before we are thrust into full time tourist town mode with more parties than you can shake a broom stick at.  Enjoy your down time while you got it.

Keep up with us on Twitter!

Clean Energy Day and Living Green & Renewable Energy Fair

Music

Friday June 13th

• TBA (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) TBA ( 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Catfish Lucy w/ RSVP @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Seth (alternative, experimental, electronica 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Three Toad Sloth (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Soul Baby (R&B, Funk, Soul) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Brian Maes Band (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Groove Therapy @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Saturday June 14th

• TBA (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) TBA(  10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Nutshell w/ American Idiots (green day tribute) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• 2nd Saturday Bluegrass Jam (2:30PM – 5:30PM) The Jazz Navigators (jazz 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Santarella – Kimball Duo (soft rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Open Bar Band (dance, rock, pop, 80’s) @ Rockafellas
• TBA @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Dis n’ Dat Band @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25, 7:30 and 10:00
Sunday at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25 and 7:30

Sex and the City (R)
Friday & Saturday at 12:00noon, 3:00, 6:45 and 9:45
Sunday at 12noon, 3:00 and 6:45

Kung Fu Panda (PG)
Friday & Saturday 11:30AM, 2:15, 4:45, 7:00 and 9:15
Sunday 11:30AM, 2:15, 4:45 and 7:00

The Gathering at Salem will be showing:

Riding Giants (PG-13)
Friday 8PM

Insider Picks

Looking over the listings this weekend Friday nights winner is the unlikely paring of Catfish Lucy and Radio Scotvoid Productions. I want to find out if Dodge Streets booking agent is a genius or a dim-wit for paring a cool and wack DJ with the blues tunes of CFL.  Saturday hit it early over at Gulu-Gulu for The Jazz Navigators at 8pm then get your boom boom on late night with DJ Cee Block around the corner at O’Neills.

Salem State Alumni weekend

Music

Friday May 30th

• Suzanne Perel (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Nikki Mitchell & The Fuzzy Bunch (funk, r&b 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Sweetfist (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Alice Austin (indie,alternative, rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Dave Retro (classic rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• TBA ( 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• The Hangovers (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Chelsea City Council @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs (new venue listing)

Saturday May 31st

• Wendee Glick (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Willows ( world 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Toolfist (Tool Tribute) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• Rev. Bob & the Darkness (acoustic, gothic, blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• TBA (folk rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Razen Kane (dance, rock, pop, R&B) @ Rockafellas
• TBA @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Dis n’ Dat @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs (new venue listing)

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25, 7:15 and 9:50
Sunday & Monday Memorial Day at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25 and 7:15

Sex and the City (R)
Friday & Saturday at 12:00noon, 3:00, 7:00 and 10:00
Sunday at 12noon, 3:00 and 7:00

Prince Caspian (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11:00AM, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00

Insider Picks

Guys if you want to score points with your girl suggest she gathers her friends for cosmos then hits Sex in the City this weekend at Cinema Salem. Meanwhile, you can head over to Rockafellas Friday night for The Hangovers and to watch Kimbo Slice make his MMA network debut on the flat screens, always a good time. Saturday Reverend Bob & the Darkness bust out a fun mix of gothic blues (think Rev. Glasseye meets Lee Presson and the Nails) over at Gulu-Gulu. Its well worth the price of admission – free!

Sorry outdoor venues, the weather girl says it will be rainy all weekend.

Are you kidding me? It’s the beginning of summer.

Music

Friday May 23rd

• Alanna Manning (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Speakeasys (rock, punk 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Neurological Damage (alternative, metal, funk) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Machine 475 (electronica, pop, rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted (classic rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Tony Gallo (jazz, r&b, pop 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Search Party (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Close to Home @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs (new listing)

Saturday May 24th

• Sandi Bedrosian (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Terri Lee ( world 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Fair Warning (Van Halen Tribute) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• HAPPY SPRINGALLOWEEN!!(blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Santarella – Kimball Duo (folk rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Wildfire (dance, rock, pop, R&B) @ Rockafellas
• TBA @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby
• Wishful Thinking @ (8-11:30pm) Strombergs (new listing)

Sunday May 25th

• Jazz Jam! (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Big Shoes 2 Phil (Jazz) @ Dodge Street
• Gulu Sunday Morning Brunch featuring Eric Doucette (acoustic guitar 11am-2pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Traditional Irish Music (4-7pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Lisa Love Experience (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• High Tide Party @ (2-6pm) Strombergs (new listing)

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25, 7:15 and 9:50
Sunday & Monday Memorial Day at 11:10AM, 1:45, 4:25 and 7:15

Ironman (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:10 AM, 1:45, 4:35, 7:20 and 10:00
Sunday at 11:10 AM, 1:45, 4:35 and 7:20

Prince Caspian (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11:00AM, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00

Insider Picks

The cute weather girl on TV tells me its going to be a stellar weekend so lets plan on some out door fun.

Insiders know that when the weather gets good we all gather at the Shanty. You can meet all sorts of Salemites there and everybody is usually friendly. Kick off the long weekend with a true Salem fixture Grateful Ted. Cheap food, warm beer, lousy waitresses and classic rock older than you are. Saturday the HAPPY SPRINGALLOWEEN!! event is going on at Gulu-Gulu Dan Blakeslee as Dr. GASP, Orange Nichole, and our personal friend Monster Reusch (why he doesn’t live in Salem I don’t know) will all be preforming in a kooky ode to Halloween party. Newcomer to our musical offerings is Strombergs, this Sunday they will be having a High Tide Party and if it’s as good as their previous events you are in store for some fun, grab your fiends and head on over. Monday looks to be the best day yet weather wise so where better to spend your time than on the water. Since you probably wont be going to Bakers Island – do the next best thing and take a ride out to the newly opened (noon today) Rockmore. And for you slackers who want to take it easy, Salem Cinema has the new Indiana Jones flick (we saw it last night) its well worth your $6.

The streets are littered with trucks, vans and RV’s for the filming of “Bride Wars,” a movie starring Kate Hudson. East India Marine Hall is the actual location they are using to film but most parking spots in down town are filled with supporting crews, electrification personnel, best boys, key dolly gaffer grips et al.  Old Town Hall is being used as a staging area, and the hustle and bustle was going by 6am.

(c) James Devaney

If you are around town and snap any fun pictures of the filming send them along and we’ll post them up.

Spring in Salem Fashion Show
Old Town Hall
Saturday, May 17 from 12 – 3 pm $5
Benefit for Salem Main Streets and the Salem Garden Club.

Music

Friday May 16th

• Dennis James (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Hixx (rock, punk 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Someday, Rome & El Rancho (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Ondrej! (house, trance 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Three Toad Sloth (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Groove Authority (r&b, dance 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Acme Music (dance / pop / 80′s / rock) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Saturday May 17th

• Matt Dorko and Larry Kukers (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Mamadou Diop ( world 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Critizise w/ the Usual Suspects (rock) @ Dodge Street
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• The Milling Gowns (blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Grateful Ted (classic rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Leaving Eden (dance, rock, pop, R&B) @ Rockafellas
• TBA @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

What happens in Vegas (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 12:10, 2:30, 4:50, 7:05 and 9:25
Sunday at 12:10, 2:30, 4:50 and 7:05

Ironman (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:10 AM, 1:45, 4:35, 7:20 and 10:00
Sunday at 11:10 AM, 1:45, 4:35 and 7:20

Prince Caspian (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11:00AM, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00

Insider Picks

It looks like another great weekend here in Salem, but with the impending rainy weather were going to keep in all inside. Friday night Dennis James and his mellow voice will croon away the tunes early at the Bangkok, after you’ve had your fill of scorpion bowls and mai tai’s head over to Gulu-Gulu to step it up an notch into the night with DJ Ondrej! Saturday night we will be checking out DJ Zati at Fresh Taste to see if his beats are as fresh as the sushi – we’ll let you know.

Don’t forget that Big Shoes 2 Phil continues their Sunday residency at Dodge St. and be on the look out for live music to start up at The Black Lobster (Strombergs) next week.

None listed

Music

Friday May 9th

• Steve Wark (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Rock City Band (rock, blues, soul 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Cherry S/T (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Seth ( indie / 80′s / pop / alternative 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Dave Retro (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• The Austin Torpedoes (good ol’ American music 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• New Life (dance / pop / 80′s / rock) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Saturday May 10th

• Janine Graham (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Playing with Fire ( Folk Rock / Bluegrass / Country 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Chimpanzebra w/ Pretty & Nice (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Catfish Lucy (blues / funk / r&b 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Zati (10pm) @ Fresh Taste of Asia
• Shadow Box Blues Band (blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Delvis @ The Lobster Shanty
• Marybeth Maes/Brian Maes (original rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Lisa Love Experience (dance, rock, pop, R&B) @ Rockafellas
• TBA @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Rocky Horror Picture Show
Friday 11:15PM featuring the Teseracte Players

What happens in Vegas (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 12:10, 2:30, 4:50, 7:05 and 9:25
Sunday at 12:10, 2:30, 4:50 and 7:05

Ironman (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:45, 4:35, 7:20 and 10:00
Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:45, 4:35 and 7:20

Baby Mama (PG-13)
Friday, Saturday 11:15, 2:00, 4:15, 7:30 and 9:45
Sunday 11:15, 2:00, 4:15 and 7:130

Insider Picks

We missed them when they played in Salem before but heard great things so our Friday insiders pick goes to The Austin Torpedoes over at the Lyceum. Friday is double trouble this week because Cinema Salem is having and almost midnight showing of Rocky Horror, get out and see this and keep a cult phenomenon going right here in Salem. Saturday get out of the rain and warm up to some cool jazz with Janine Graham at the Bangkok Paradise. Also as a special Sunday treat Big Shoes 2 Phil has a Sunday night residency this Month at Dodge Street, its a great way to cap off your Mothers Day.

Salem Signature Cocktail Competition
We blogged about this event last week. Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door. Complimentary shuttle service provided by Salem Trolley in case you get a little tipsy when trying all the delicious concoctions. Partial event proceeds go to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem.

Music

Friday May 2nd

• Christy Bluhm (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Sad Marvin (rock, blues, soul 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Starlight Grey (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• RSVP ( alternative/ experimental / electronica 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• 1201 Blues Band (Chicago blues 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Moonglow (dance / pop / 80′s / rock) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Saturday May 3rd

• Suzanne Perel (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Playing with Fire ( Folk Rock / Bluegrass / Country 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Cocaine Tonung (GNR Tribute) @ Dodge Street
• Catfish Lucy (blues / funk / r&b 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Big Blue Octopus (rock / psychedelic / freestyle 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Santarella – Kimball Duo (folk rock) @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Open Bar Band (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Gary Shane @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Ironman (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:15, 7:00 and 9:45
Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:15 and 7:00.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall (R)
Friday & Saturday at 11:25AM 2:00, 4:45, 7:30 and 10:00
Sunday at 11:25AM 2:00, 4:45 and 7:30

Baby Mama (PG-13)
Friday, Saturday 11:15, 1:50, 4:30, 7:15 and 9:3
Sunday 11:15, 1:50, 4:30 and 7:15

Insider Picks

With Cinco de Mayo almost here and good weather around the corner, weekends in Salem transition from a sprint to a marathon. Friday Salem regulars RSVP get their groove on over at Gulu-Gulu. Saturday shake your rump to the bass thump of DJ Cee Block at O’Neill’s. Sleep in late on Sunday becuse were taking the weekend out with a bang. Join TheSalemInsider.com crew for the Salem Signature Cocktail Competition. We’re starting at Rockafellas and making the three hour crawl to Finz. Buy your ticket early and save some green. Monday head over to Cilantro for your annual margarita, you can call in sick Tuesday!

The 16th Annual Walk for HAWC
Help Abused Women and their Children by walking around town. Registration Sunday at 11am walk starts at Noon.

Music

Friday April 25th

• Maggie Scott (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Mamadou (afro-beat / reggae / jam band 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Demon’s Alley (rock / glam / punk) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• Machine 475 (electronica / pop / rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Delvis (rock / folk / pop) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Soul Baby (r&b / funk / soul 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• The Hangovers (dance, rock, swing) @ Rockafellas
• Preacher Jack @ Spirits at 300 Derby

Saturday April 26th

• Wendy Nottonson (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Terri Lee ( Rock / Pop / Country 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Autumn Above (acoustic / progressive / indy) @ Dodge Street
• Astro Al (experimental / psychedelic 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• TBA @ The Lobster Shanty
• Santarella – Kimball Duo @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ TBA (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Lisa Love Experience (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirits at 300 Derby

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Baby Mama (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:45 AM, 2:00, 4:30, 7:15 and 9:30
Sunday at 11:45 AM, 2:00, 4:30 and 7:15

21 (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:40, 4:20, 7:00 and 9:40
Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:40, 4:20 and 7:00

Forbidden Kingdom (PG-13)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 12:00, 2:20, 4:45 and 8:00;

Spoken Word

Witch City Poetry Series -Wraps up this Sunday from 5-8pm @ Gulu-Gulu

Insider Picks

Looks like we have another if-then situation going on this weekend. If the weather is cooperative, Friday nights Insider Pick is to head over to the Shanty and see Delvis out side. If the weather sucks then you can’t go wrong with Preacher Jack at Spirits. Saturday the adventurous set will trip on down to Gulu-Gulu and drop out with Astro Al. Sunday don’t forget to walk your hangover off with HAWC it’s for a good cause and a fine way to end the weekends activities.

The 1st Annual (?) Salem Save Our Schools/ Birthday Bash staring DJ Ondrej!
Tickets are available at the door for $10. All proceeds benefit the Salem Education Fund. The 1st 100 people will get their very own birthday cupcake! The 1st 25 people get a FREE t-shirt! Raffle prizes have been donated from some Salem businesses! Come dance with the world famous DJ Ondrej! The wild and crazy guy from Czech Republic returns to cruise and swing successfully in his tight slacks!

Music

Friday April 18th

• Steve Wark(jazz 6:30-9:30pm) The Speakeasys (rock, blues, soul 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Brake for Moose (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Los Sugar Kings (mambo-salsa dance party 9:30pm) @ Edgewater Cafe
• DJ Ondrej! ( Techno / Minimalist / Electro 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Grateful Ted (rock 8pm) @ The Lobster Shanty
• Brian Maes Band (rock 9pm) @ Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Love Dogs (dance, rock, swing) @ Rockafellas
• Matt Tentindo (singer / guitar) @ Spirit’s

Saturday April 19th

• Matt Dorko and Larry Kukers (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) The River Rock ( Folk Rock / Bluegrass / Country 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• 3 Ply (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Centripitalforce (Electronica / Drum & Bass / Breakbeat 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Jackknife Valentines @ The Lobster Shanty
• Brian Maes @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Big Time (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Preacher Jack @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby (formerly Roosevelt’s)

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

The Forbidden Kingdom (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:20, 7:00 and 9:30
Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:35, 4:20 and 7:00.

Leatherheads (PG-13)
Friday & Saturday at 7:15 and 9:40
Sunday at 7:15

Horton Hears a Who (G)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 12:15, 2:30, 4:45

Nim’s Island (PG)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 12Noon, 2:10, 4:30, 7:30

Spoken Word

Witch City Poetry Series – Continues all month long Sunday from 5-8pm @ Gulu-Gulu

Insider Picks

Friday night offers up some interesting choices. Salem’s New Business of the Year Gulu-Gulu Cafeis hosting a birthday bash / Salem schools fund raiser. I’d love to support G2C on their first birthday but cant bring myself to throw more money at the education fund debaucle. Good thing our friends The Love Dogs are playing over at Rockafellas, they always deliver a good time. Saturday with the good weather supposedly hitting us a trip to the Shanty for cheap beers and Jackknife Valentines is in order. Outside under the stars with friends, thats how Salem insiders spend Saturday night.

Special Events / Festivals

13th Annual Wine Tasting & Auction to benefit the North Shore Arc at the Lyceum Friday 7pm

Music

Friday March 28th

• Sandy Bedrosian (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) Mamadou (West African 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Nate Wilson Group (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Machine 475 (electronic music/art collaboration 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Lost Daze (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Moonglow (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Unknown @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby (formerly Roosevelt’s)

Saturday March 29th

• Christy Bluhm (jazz 6:30-9:30pm) The River Rocks ( Folk Rock / Bluegrass / Country 10pm) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Demon’s Alley (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Elm Street Jazz (jazz 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu
• No listing @ The Lyceum
• Traditional Irish Music (6-9pm) DJ Cee Block (dance, pop, hip-hop 10pm) @ O’Neill’s
• Open Bar Band (dance, rock, pop, 80′s) @ Rockafellas
• Preacher Jack @ Spirit’s at 300 Derby (formerly Roosevelt’s)

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Salem Film Fest Audience Award Winner
Buddha’s Lost Children
Friday & Saturday at noon, 2:15, 4:45, 7:30, 9:30
Sunday at noon, 2:15, 4:45, 7:30;

Horton Hears a Who (G)
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11:30am, 1:45, 4:10 and 7:00

The Other Boleyn Girl (PG-13)
Friday and Saturday: 11:15 AM, 2:00, 4:30, 7:15, 9:40
Sunday: 11:15 AM, 2:00, 4:30 and 7:15

Theatre

Salem Theatre Co. presents Seneca’s “Oedipus” Friday & Saturday 8pm @ The Griffen Theatre

Art

Body Politics — Visions in blood and ink: the return of Maori tattoo @ PEM
This exhibit is a joy for photography fans and those interested in an insight to other cultures. Remember Salem residents get in for FREE.

Insider Picks

Friday night if you are lucky enough to score tickets to the Wine Tasting & Auction at the Lyceum then your plans are set but for everyone else head over to Gulu-Gulu and experience Machine 475. Last time the Open Bar Band played over at Rockafellas they packed the house with a line out the door so Saturday get to the Rock early. Take it easy Sunday by catching a limited showing of Buddha’s Lost Children over at Cinema Salem

Special Events / Festivals

Salem Film Fest 2008
Earlier this week we did a full write up on the Salem Film Fest which kicked off Thursday night. It’s going on all week and there are plenty of great movies to see and fun events at local establishment. We are big proponents of broadening our cultural horizons, this is a perfect opportunity to do just that.

Music

Friday February 29th

• Richie Rich and the 24 Karat Funk Band @ Rockafellas
• The Illegals w/ Dave Fisher (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Steve Marvin (jazz 6:30-9:30) Eternity (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Machine 457 (Electronica / pop / rock 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Saturday March 1st

• Pete Demon & Cocaine Tongue (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Shadowbox Blues Band (blues 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Salem Film Fest Schedule

Vantage Point (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 7:30, 9:50
Sun: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 6:00

Spiderwick (PG)
Friday and Saturday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45), 7:15 and 9:30;
Sunday – Thursday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45) and 7:15.

Art

Body Politics — Visions in blood and ink: the return of Maori tattoo @ PEM
This exhibit in its first week is a joy for photography fans and those interested in an insight to other cultures. Remember Salem residents get in for FREE.

Insider Picks

This weekend the insider picks are easy to make. With the Salem Film Fest coming around only once a year its time to head to the movies. Stand out movies this weekend look like B.I.K.E, Everything Will be OK, and Red Without Blue. There are plenty of other great movies coming up during the week. If movies aren’t your bag, dance your booty off with Richie Rich Friday night.

As always have a blast, don’t drink & drive and tell us about your weekend.

On the heals of the Oscars (yes there were Oscars this year) where American actors were shut out this year, Cinema Salem is proud to host the Salem Film Fest February 28th – March 6th.

This year, join a celebration of international film and music in Salem, Massachusetts, America’s first international city.

Enjoy outstanding features, documentaries, and short films from around the world, participate in face-to-face discussions with filmmakers, and party with world-class musicians in one of America’s most beautiful and historic cities.

This seven-day event will showcase brilliant, emerging, and controversial film from Spain, The Netherlands, Thailand, Tuva, Nigeria, Russia, China, and the US.

The films will be shown at Cinema Salem, times are posted on salemfilmfest.com (warning: it is an old frames style website and wont work properly in some browsers) . Events such as lectures, discussions with film makers, insight to the industry and parties supporting the films will be held around town. The Salem Waterfront Hotel stepped up to the plate and is the major sponsor with many other local businesses kicking in and doing their part to encourage and support this endeavor.

With 28 different films being shown you might want to see more than one. Cinema Salem has constructed multiple single and multi-day passes which allow you to save some money when seeing more than one film. Now go get your culture on.

Special Events

Runway Fashion Show
The Woman’s Friend Society is hosting their biggest fund raiser of the year, their Runway Fashion Show at the Salem Waterfront Hotel, Friday, Feb. 22. A cash bar with hot and cold hors d’oeuvres opens at 6:30 p.m., and the show on the runway begins at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are Required and cost $45.00. You may pick up reservation cards at the participating shops or you may contact: womansfriend@verizon.net for reservations.

This is a great organization that has been helping women in Salem for over one hundred years. If you have the time and the money attending this Fashion Show is a great way to help out our community.

Music

Friday February 22nd

• Moonglow @ Rockafellas
• Autumn Above (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Karen Cameron (jazz 6:30-9:30) AJ Edwards (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• CentripitalForce (Electronica / Drum & Bass / Breakbeat 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Saturday February 23rd

• Wildfire @ Rockafellas
• Demon’s Alley, Crash Midnight & Switchblade Suicide (rock) @ Dodge Street
• Matt Dorko and Larry Kukers (jazz 6:30-9:30) Mamadou (rock 10) @ Bangkok Paradise
• Bring Back Pluto (funk / jazz 8pm) @ Gulu Gulu

Movies

Cinema Salem will be showing:

Vantage Point (PG-13)
Fri & Sat: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 7:30, 9:50
Sun: (11:20 AM), (1:30), (4:00), 6:00

Spiderwick (PG)
Friday and Saturday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45), 7:15 and 9:30;
Sunday – Thursday at (12:15), (2:30), (4:45) and 7:15.

Fools Gold (PG-13)
Friday and Saturday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00 and 9:40;
Sunday-Thursday at (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30) and 7:00.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (R)
Fri: 11:30 PM

Salem Film Fest 2008 - Although not this weekend plan some serious time at the movies from February 28th to March 6th

Art

Samuel McIntire, Carving an American Style @ PEM
This exhibit is a must-see for Salem residents (who get in for FREE) and comes to an end on February 24th, SEE IT NOW!

Insider Picks

With the snow already falling and the weatherman telling us it will last most of the weekend our picks are easy. First stop after work is off to get a snow storm beverage. Do you know what to do in Salem when there is a snow storm? Our Friday pic has to be Gulu-Gulu the sweet beats that Centripitalforce lays down is a perfect mix for the chill vibe of this urban oasis. Saturday Dodge Street is a must if you want some good old ass kickin’ rock-n-roll. Switchblade Suicide is a relatively new band but we saw them a while back in Somerville and they busted out.

As always have a blast, don’t drive and tell us about it.

That’s right! Back by popular demand, the Teseracte Players will be returning to CinemaSalem for a series of monthly screenings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Kick off the season this Friday night! See Rocky done right with a fully interactive live cast to enhance your movie viewing experience. Doors open at 11:30 PM.

Costumes encouraged! Sh*t bags available before the show for $2. They include all the props you need.

Please no booze or water guns. Bags subject to search.

If you have never had the pleasure of experiencing The Rocky Horror Picture Show complete with a full cast, the time is now to join in the fun. Audience participation is what really makes this cult classic shine. And I can think of no better place to enjoy this cinematic masterpiece than right here in the heart of Witch City.

There are so many great things to do in Salem this weekend, keep a lookout for our weekend guide.

I’m not one who goes to the movies that often, in fact until recently I can only recall 3 movies I’ve seen in the theater in the past 5 years. All that changed about a year ago when I was dragged kicking and screaming to the Salem Cinema.

Like many people I became disenchanted with the movies for a variety of reasons, there hasn’t been an original idea out of Hollywood in decades, movie lengths have shortened (80 and 90 minute movies) while prices have gone through the roof. While I love cinemas with stadium seating, big comfy chairs and troths of popcorn, I refuse to pay $12 for a ticket, $8 for a popcorn and $6 for a drink. Going on a date to the movies will run about $50. That is just crazy!

Since going to Cinema Salem my outlook has changed 180 degrees. Don’t set you expectations sky high when going to here for the first time. The theaters are old style with only a few hundred seats per screen. The seats themselves are also old skool flip down seats with no drink holders and not too much room.

Now for the upside. They have three screens showing current films. The prices are quite affordable, with admission prices being $8, kids and seniors pay only $6. That is less than a matinées price at other theaters. Popcorn, drinks and candy is also inexpensive. A couple can go to the movies get a large drink and popcorn for about $20. Thats about what you would spend for two cocktails and a tip at many of Salem’s local bars.

Cinema Salem also has a little cafe on site where you can grab a coffee and see some art by local and national artists. The employees are helpful and seem happy to be there. I have also found that the people who go there tend to be more polite than those that go to the big googleplexes. Even when seeing movies with groups of younger people (teenagers) they were not rowdy or boisterous.

Cinema Salem, going beyond your average theater

In addition to being a great option for a night out, Cinema Salem is a community friendly business. They often do “mom & baby shows” where the lights are up a bit and the sound is not at ear shattering levels. This past October they did a Horror Movie fest featuring classic films like Psycho, cult films like A Clockwork Orange and even a late night Rocky Horror Picture Show. Coming up in February and March they are hosting the Salem Film Fest 2008, a celebration of film and music.

What I find exceptional about Cinema Salem is their giving back to the community. Each month a portion of each ticket sold goes to a Salem grant totaling up to $1000.

CinemaSalem Grants are awarded monthly to deserving and innovative non-profit organizations. We’re interested in honoring and supporting groups that are making a difference in the world, and who are effective at communicating their vision and mission. If your organization is interested in applying, please pick up an application form in the theater lobby, or simply click here!

For more information about Cinema Salem grants see the community page on their website.

Like most theaters you can find show times and puchase tickets online through their website.

Seating: C
Sight and Sound: C+
Ticket Price: A
Concession Price: A
Overall: B