Doctor Faustus

Merced Shakespearefest Presents a Staged Reading of Christopher Marlowe's Doctor Faustus, directed by Katie Brokaw

February 22 and 23
Tickets: $10 general, $5 students

The Story

Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus" explores the enduring theme of the Faustian bargain—the pact with the devil that has captivated audiences from the play itself to contemporary expressions such as the country music hit "The Devil Went Down to Georgia." This theme invites us to reflect on our own lives, envisioning ourselves as Faustus, relinquishing our personhood and future in pursuit of what we deem valuable: convenience, knowledge, wealth, or power. In his hubris, Faustus believes he has ample time, convinced that judgment will not come for him anytime soon. As Shakespeare's contemporary, Marlowe delves into the depths of human ambition and the dire consequences that can follow.

Purchase Tickets Now

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

Doctor Faustus

Merced Shakespearefest Presents a Staged Reading of Christopher Marlowe's Doctor Faustus, directed by Katie Brokaw

February 22 and 23
Tickets: $10 general, $5 students

The Story

Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus" explores the enduring theme of the Faustian bargain—the pact with the devil that has captivated audiences from the play itself to contemporary expressions such as the country music hit "The Devil Went Down to Georgia." This theme invites us to reflect on our own lives, envisioning ourselves as Faustus, relinquishing our personhood and future in pursuit of what we deem valuable: convenience, knowledge, wealth, or power. In his hubris, Faustus believes he has ample time, convinced that judgment will not come for him anytime soon. As Shakespeare's contemporary, Marlowe delves into the depths of human ambition and the dire consequences that can follow.

Purchase Tickets Now

Deborah Taffa
(Kwatsaán/Laguna Pueblo)
Reading and Q&A

Join us for an engaging evening featuring Deborah Jackson Taffa (Kwatsaán/LagunaPueblo), as she reads from her memoir WHISKEY TENDER (HarperCollins), followed by a Q&A led by UC Merced’s Native and Indigenous Student Coalition.

Tuesday, February 18th, 6:00pm -7:00pm

Free and open to the public.

More

Presented by the Native and Indigenous Student Coalition • Global Arts, Media & Writing Studies Department • Merritt Writing Program • The Division of Equity, Justice, & Inclusive Excellence at UC Merced

Taffa directs the MFA in Creative Writing at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

A 2024 National Book Award Finalist and NEA Fellow in Prose, Taffa’s work has received widespread acclaim, with recognition from Oprah Daily, The Washington Post, Elle, Esquire, The New Yorker, and more.

Her memoir, WHISKEY TENDER, is an Amazon Editor’s Best Choice Book.

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

2/16 *Mass Battle!! Polearms Onstage!?* Master Spear and Shield for large-scale battle scenes Instructor: Rick Silver

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

The Poetry of Community

WHEN: Saturday, February 15 at 1:00pm

WHERE: The MAC Black Box Theater | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHAT: A poetry reading with California Poet Laureate Lee Herrick and local playwright Kim McMillon. For more information email Kim McMillon at kimmac@pacbell.net.

FREE

Dragaret: Moulin Rouge

Get ready to celebrate love and passion like never before… Dragaret returns as DRAGARET: MOULIN ROUGE!

This unforgettable Valentine's Day event will transport you to the iconic world of Parisian cabaret, featuring a dazzling lineup of local drag performers, burlesque acts, singers, and dancers. Whether you're single, coupled up, or just looking for a night of fun, Dragaret: Moulin Rouge promises to captivate your senses with thrilling performances and sultry entertainment. Join us for a night of vibrant artistry, romance, and extravaganza—it's an experience you won't want to miss!

This Dragaret will feature:

Signature drinks

Best Dressed contest (Moulin Rouge theme)

VIP Tables (seats up to 4 guests) - SOLD OUT

21+ ONLY. Valid ID required for admission.

February 14, 2025

Doors open 7pm | Show starts 8pm

Merced Multicultural Arts Center - the MAC

Ticket are $45 and may be purchased online at https://www.accessibleartsmerced.org/dragaret

POTUS

Or, behind every great dumbass are seven women trying to keep him alive.

by Selina Fillinger
February 6, 7, 8, 9

The Story

Get ready to laugh until it hurts! Phoenix Creative Collective proudly brings the wildly hilarious stage play POTUS to the MAC.

One four-letter word is about to rock 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. When the President unwittingly spins a PR nightmare into a global crisis, the seven brilliant and beleaguered women he relies upon most risk life, liberty, and the pursuit of sanity to keep the commander-in-chief out of trouble. Packed with quick-witted dialogue, outrageous hijinks, and non-stop comedy, POTUS promises a night of sharp satire and unforgettable fun.

Purchase Tickets Now

Kids and Family Day

WHEN: Due to unforeseen circumstances, this event has been cancelled.

WHERE: The MAC Main Gallery | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHO: Kids and families!

WHAT: This time we’ll be creating Valentines For Vets!

These classes are free and open to the public, on Sunday afternoons in the Main Gallery of the MAC. No need to book a spot - just drop by anytime between 1:00 and 2:45 pm and enjoy the project! Free for the whole family!

Kids & Family Day is a free event sponsored by the Merced County Arts Council through ARTREE.

COST: FREE

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

2/9 Lord of the Rings: Fantasy in Stage Combat* The Lhang: Fantasy combat techniques. Instructor : Rick Silver

2/16 *Mass Battle!! Polearms Onstage!?* Master Spear and Shield for large-scale battle scenes Instructor: Rick Silver

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

POTUS

Or, behind every great dumbass are seven women trying to keep him alive.

by Selina Fillinger
February 6, 7, 8, 9

The Story

Get ready to laugh until it hurts! Phoenix Creative Collective proudly brings the wildly hilarious stage play POTUS to the MAC.

One four-letter word is about to rock 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. When the President unwittingly spins a PR nightmare into a global crisis, the seven brilliant and beleaguered women he relies upon most risk life, liberty, and the pursuit of sanity to keep the commander-in-chief out of trouble. Packed with quick-witted dialogue, outrageous hijinks, and non-stop comedy, POTUS promises a night of sharp satire and unforgettable fun.

Purchase Tickets Now

POTUS

Or, behind every great dumbass are seven women trying to keep him alive.

by Selina Fillinger
February 6, 7, 8, 9

The Story

Get ready to laugh until it hurts! Phoenix Creative Collective proudly brings the wildly hilarious stage play POTUS to the MAC.

One four-letter word is about to rock 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. When the President unwittingly spins a PR nightmare into a global crisis, the seven brilliant and beleaguered women he relies upon most risk life, liberty, and the pursuit of sanity to keep the commander-in-chief out of trouble. Packed with quick-witted dialogue, outrageous hijinks, and non-stop comedy, POTUS promises a night of sharp satire and unforgettable fun.

Purchase Tickets Now

POTUS

Or, behind every great dumbass are seven women trying to keep him alive.

by Selina Fillinger
February 6, 7, 8, 9

The Story

Get ready to laugh until it hurts! Phoenix Creative Collective proudly brings the wildly hilarious stage play POTUS to the MAC.

One four-letter word is about to rock 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. When the President unwittingly spins a PR nightmare into a global crisis, the seven brilliant and beleaguered women he relies upon most risk life, liberty, and the pursuit of sanity to keep the commander-in-chief out of trouble. Packed with quick-witted dialogue, outrageous hijinks, and non-stop comedy, POTUS promises a night of sharp satire and unforgettable fun.

Purchase Tickets Now

POTUS

Or, behind every great dumbass are seven women trying to keep him alive.

by Selina Fillinger
February 6, 7, 8, 9

The Story

Get ready to laugh until it hurts! Phoenix Creative Collective proudly brings the wildly hilarious stage play POTUS to the MAC.

One four-letter word is about to rock 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. When the President unwittingly spins a PR nightmare into a global crisis, the seven brilliant and beleaguered women he relies upon most risk life, liberty, and the pursuit of sanity to keep the commander-in-chief out of trouble. Packed with quick-witted dialogue, outrageous hijinks, and non-stop comedy, POTUS promises a night of sharp satire and unforgettable fun.

Purchase Tickets Now

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

2/2 Historical African Martial Arts Workshop* Explore Khopesh and Shield techniques. Instructor: Henry Hill

2/9 Lord of the Rings: Fantasy in Stage Combat* The Lhang: Fantasy combat techniques. Instructor : Rick Silver

2/16 *Mass Battle!! Polearms Onstage!?* Master Spear and Shield for large-scale battle scenes Instructor: Rick Silver

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

Li Ching World 1989-2024

WHEN: Friday, January 31, from 5:30pm - 7:30pm

WHERE: The MAC | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHAT: Join us for this free artist reception for artist Li Ching Accurso’s “Li Ching World 1989-2024”.

SCHEDULE:
Reception: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Artist Talk: 6:30 pm

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

1/26 *Bring on the Blades: Arming Sword* Basic one handed sword techniques. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

2/2 Historical African Martial Arts Workshop* Explore Khopesh and Shield techniques. Instructor: Henry Hill

2/9 Lord of the Rings: Fantasy in Stage Combat* The Lhang: Fantasy combat techniques. Instructor : Rick Silver

2/16 *Mass Battle!! Polearms Onstage!?* Master Spear and Shield for large-scale battle scenes Instructor: Rick Silver

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

Kids and Family Day

WHEN: Sunday, January 19 from 1pm - 3pm

WHERE: The MAC Main Gallery | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHO: Kids and families!

WHAT: This time we’ll take a trip to Sweden and Denmark to make Paper Sun Ornaments and Woven Hearts!

These classes are free and open to the public, on Sunday afternoons in the Main Gallery of the MAC. No need to book a spot - just drop by anytime between 1:00 and 2:45 pm and enjoy the project! Free for the whole family!

Kids & Family Day is a free event sponsored by the Merced County Arts Council through ARTREE.

COST: FREE

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

1/19 Storytelling the Fight* How the narrative changes choreography. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

1/26 *Bring on the Blades: Arming Sword* Basic one handed sword techniques. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

2/2 Historical African Martial Arts Workshop* Explore Khopesh and Shield techniques. Instructor: Henry Hill

2/9 Lord of the Rings: Fantasy in Stage Combat* The Lhang: Fantasy combat techniques. Instructor : Rick Silver

2/16 *Mass Battle!! Polearms Onstage!?* Master Spear and Shield for large-scale battle scenes Instructor: Rick Silver

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

1/12 Put Em’ Up!* Learn Unarmed Basic Hand-to-Hand Techniques. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

1/19 Storytelling the Fight* How the narrative changes choreography. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

1/26 *Bring on the Blades: Arming Sword* Basic one handed sword techniques. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

2/2 Historical African Martial Arts Workshop* Explore Khopesh and Shield techniques. Instructor: Henry Hill

2/9 Lord of the Rings: Fantasy in Stage Combat* The Lhang: Fantasy combat techniques. Instructor : Rick Silver

2/16 *Mass Battle!! Polearms Onstage!?* Master Spear and Shield for large-scale battle scenes Instructor: Rick Silver

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

STAGE COMBAT AT THE MAC

Unleash Your Inner Warrior! Join Our Stage Combat Class!

Ready for an action-packed adventure? Sign up for our 8-week Stage Combat Class starting January 5th!

Every Sunday, 12 PM - 2 PM

Advance Price per class, $50, $25 for students(must have ID), or grab the full class set for only $350! Drop in, $60 at the door. Discover the art of staged fighting, build confidence, and learn valuable skills from experienced instructors. Perfect for actors, performers, or anyone looking to add excitement to their repertoire!

**Spaces are limited!**

Reserve your spot today and step into the spotlight! Reserve online here: EventBrite

Upcoming Stage Combat at The MAC Workshops Schedule!!

1/5/25 *Who Is the Most Important Person?* Master the fundamentals of Pushes, Falls, Footwork, and Safety Instructor: Ambrose Mac

1/12 Put Em’ Up!* Learn Unarmed Basic Hand-to-Hand Techniques. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

1/19 Storytelling the Fight* How the narrative changes choreography. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

1/26 *Bring on the Blades: Arming Sword* Basic one handed sword techniques. Instructor: Ambrose Mac

2/2 Historical African Martial Arts Workshop* Explore Khopesh and Shield techniques. Instructor: Henry Hill

2/9 Lord of the Rings: Fantasy in Stage Combat* The Lhang: Fantasy combat techniques. Instructor : Rick Silver

2/16 *Mass Battle!! Polearms Onstage!?* Master Spear and Shield for large-scale battle scenes Instructor: Rick Silver

2/23 *Historical European Martial Arts on Stage* Discover the art of the Longsword. Instructor: Steaphen Fick

ART & SPIRITS

WHAT: Family-friendly paint-along events

WHO: Anyone

WHEN: December 20, 2024 | 5:30-8:30 PM

WHERE: The MAC

COST: $35 per person

All supplies furnished. Complimentary refreshments. Reservations required.

ONLINE RESERVATION: Here

A Winter Wonderland: A Night of Holiday Celebration in Song

This Thursday, December 19 at 6:30pm.

Presented by Alyssa McCabe and hosted at the MAC.

Tickets are $5 and may be purchased online, https://givebutter.com/macwinterwonderland, or at the door.

A Holiday Vendor Fair

WHEN: Sunday, December 15 from 10:00am to 4:00pm

WHERE: 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHAT: Accessible Arts Merced is thrilled to collaborate with the Multicultural Arts Center for this festive Holiday Vendor Fair, featuring a variety of local vendors, gift wrapping and crafts stations, an open mic stage, and free pastries! There is no admission charge for the fair, and it will take place indoors. Sign-ups for open mic will be announced soon. Any questions? You can message Accessible Arts Merced at accessibleartsmerced.org/contact.

New Beginnings Annual Holiday Bake Sale

WHEN: Saturday, December 14 from 10:00am to 3:00pm

WHERE: 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHAT: New Beginnings Annual Holiday Bake Sale! All proceeds go to the animals!

For more information, please contact Marie at 209-777-2190.

In Search of Half Dome Reception

WHEN: Thursday, December 12, from 5:30pm - 7:30pm

WHERE: The MAC | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHAT: Join us for this free artist reception for photographer Christopher Viney’s “In Search of Half Dome” exhibition in the Second Floor Galleries.

SCHEDULE:
Reception: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Artist Talk: 6:30 pm

Drama Island

WHEN: Sundays (November 10 - December 8) at 6:30 pm

WHERE: The MAC Black Box Theater | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHAT: Get ready for an unforgettable journey as 15 fearless contestants battle it out on Drama Island over five intense weeks, starting November 10th! Each Sunday, these brave competitors will face off in epic challenges designed to test their wits, stamina, and creativity. But there's more than just glory on the line—each contestant is fighting for a cause close to their heart.

Every contestant on Drama Island is proudly representing a local arts organization, and they need your help to make a difference! As they compete, they are also raising critical funds to support the vibrant arts community in our region. Whether it’s theater, dance, music, or visual arts, your donations will have a direct impact on the future of these nonprofits.

ONLINE SEASON PASS/DONATION: https://givebutter.com/dramaisland

This Year's Organizations:

Merced Shakespearefest

Playhouse Merced

Merced Symphony

Golden Valley Theater Club

Merced County Arts Council Education Fund

How It Works:

50% of the funds raised between now and November 10th will go directly to the nonprofit each contestant is representing.

The nonprofit of the contestant who wins Drama Island will receive additional funding, making every challenge matter even more!

Now is your chance to support your favorite contestant and their arts organization! Every dollar raised fuels their journey on Drama Island and helps keep the arts alive in our community. Which contestant will rise to the top? Who will outwit, outlast, and out-fundraise their competitors?

mAC Theater Camp: The Magic of Music Showcase

WHEN: Saturday, December 7 at 6:00pm

WHERE: The MAC Black Box Theater | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHO: Anyone

WHAT: The students/performers will present a showcase from what they have learned from this one-of-a-kind musical theater workshop!

For more information and to purchase tickets visit: MAC Theater Camp

Arbor Gallery’s “The Really BIG and Really SMALL Show and Sale”

WHEN: Friday, December 6 from 5:00pm to 7:30pm

WHERE: 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHAT: Experience Bold Masterpieces and collect coveted small-scale works! Our celebration of art BIG and SMALL promises to be the art event of the season with an evening of fun, great food, and great art!

Join us for an unforgettable evening supporting Arbor Gallery arts programs!

• Tickets are available for a suggested $20 donation

• Includes hearty appetizers, desserts, beer, wine

• Early access to the 6×6 art sale, available for $20 each

• HUGE raffle for extra, fantastic prizes

Get your tickets in advance from an Arbor Gallery artist, at the door or online here: Tickets

All proceeds support Arbor Gallery’s arts programs and is a meaningful way to give back to the community.

Visit our website for more information and a sneak peek at over 100 mini art treasures at arborgalleryfineart.com! Select your 6"x6" now and purchase your ticket for early access!

mAC Theater Camp: The Magic of Music

WHEN: Mondays, Sept. 9 - Dec. 2 at 4:00pm - 6:00pm

WHERE: The MAC | 645 W. Main Street, Merced

WHO: 10-18

WHAT: Kids will take their musical theatre skills to the next level with this one-of-a-kind workshop designed to bring out the best in every aspiring performer, no matter their previous experience. Within a supportive Master Class setting, each student will be challenged to dive deeper into their song material; exploring character development, vocal technique, and more. The workshop will culminate with a student showcase as they prepare to take center stage with confidence.

For more information visit: MAC Theater Camp