music

Jazz it up

The nine-day Spenard Jazz Fest opens at 5 p.m. Friday with a party at the art studio of Margret Hugi-Lewis, 1008 W. Northern Lights Blvd. Notable events this weekend include a free concert from 1-4 p.m. Saturday in Peratrovitch Park and the "Snap Jump Jam" at 7 p.m. Saturday at Alaska Dance Theatre, 550 E. 33rd St. The latter is a showcase of local choreography and music in which local jazz players team up with dancers from the theater and Momentum Dance Collective. The Jazz Brunch will feature Melissa Bledsoe Fischer at noon Sunday at Organic Oasis, 2610 Spenard Road. Space is limited for this popular food-and-tunes event and table reservations are strongly recommended. Call 277-7882 and check out the website spenardjazzfest.org for more information.

history

Juneau chateau

Carol Sturgulewski will speak about her new book, "White House of the North," at the Alaska Professional Communicators luncheon, 11:30 a.m. June 7 at Kinley's, 3230 New Seward Highway. Sturgulewski's book details the history, biographies and legends associated with the Alaska Governor's Mansion -- and, being the oldest daughter of former Governor Frank Murkowski, she's had a unique opportunity to check all the closets for skeletons. The luncheon is $19-$25. Call 274-4723 or go to akprocom.org for more information.

theater

Two monsters, no waiting

London's National Theatre sold out its run of a new version of "Frankenstein" by Nick Dear last year. The remarkable production featured Jonny Lee Miller and Benedict Cumberbatch alternating in the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature and theater-lovers flocked to see the electrifying show twice. The two shared this year's Olivier Award -- the British version of the Tony -- for Best Actor. Both versions will be screened at Century Theatres at 7 p.m. on June 6 and 7.