A SF arts newsletter for you, directly from me
The Bay Area’s weekly roundup of arts, culture, and community | January 9 to 15, 2026
We may not be the creators of the art you see on stage across the Bay Area, but that doesn’t mean we are any less committed to bringing you original, honest, and relevant content focused on that art. As technology rapidly pushes forward with systematic and impersonal content, with AI at its center, I prefer a more personal touch. Which is why I’d now like to step into the spotlight and introduce myself as the voice of this newsletter...
Hello, I’m Ciara. And while that sounds eerily similar to a certain virtual assistant on your phone, I assure you, we’re different—even if my own phone can’t distinguish between “Hey, Ciara” and “Hey, Siri.” Unlike that eager helper, I have been involved in the performing arts since childhood. First as a performer; then as a team member at Encore, where I work closely with arts organizations every day; and this past winter, as an assistant director for a community play.
I wouldn’t dare say this experience makes me a tastemaker or the final word on what is worthy art—no one can do that for you. All I’m here to provide is options. Whether your fervor lies in a lively concerto, a dance performance, or a staged comedy, everyone needs a little boost in serotonin these days. Going to see a show won’t fix all life’s problems, but it can make bearing them a bit easier.
Which is where myself and Encore come in: to help connect you with a performance that lights a spark in your soul. Thank you for subscribing to an artistic (and non-robot) led, local newsletter.
Until next week. — Ciara
On the Stage
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl with Live Orchestra
Film/Music | San Francisco Symphony
January 9 – 10 | Tickets
Klaus Badelt’s score—performed live to picture by the San Francisco Symphony—thrums with excitement and adventure.
More Events
- Chris Botti | SFJAZZ | Now – January 11
- Into the Woods | San Francisco Playhouse | Now – January 17
- The Book of Mormon | BroadwaySF | January 13 – February 1
- Swan Lake | Ukrainian National Opera and Ballet Theater | January 14
Next Line
- Toot toot, attention all! San Francisco Symphony has announced their new Principal Horn, Diego Incertis Sánchez, starting this month.
- Need a lesson plan for your students to combat the post-holiday slump? Bring opera directly into your classroom for a singing lesson, with Sing a Story—an educational program from San Francisco Opera.
Subscribe to our Beyond the Stage newsletter for the best news and events from the Bay Area’s performing arts scene, every Friday.
