April 28
Hosted by the English department, is “Believing Shapespeare: Religion in Shakespeare’s World and in His Plays.” This lecture is by David Scott Kastan of Columbia University, and will be held in the University Events Room. Free and open to the public/ 4:15 to 6:15 p.m./ Glickman Library, Portland campus/ 780-4291
April 29
Tonight USM’s College of Arts and Sciences will honor Maine’s Poet Laureate, Betsy Sholl. In addition to being a talented poet, Betsy teaches creative writing at USM, and has released several volumes of poetry. 6 to 8 p.m./ University Events Room, Glickman Library, Portland campus/ RSVP: 780-4007
April 30
Close out National Poetry Month at the Portland Public Library with poetry readings, workshops and lectures, including a reading/signing by April Ossmann. Free/ the reading is 12 to 1 p.m./ 5 Monument Square, Portland/ 871-1700
May 1
Enjoy live jazz tonight while you dine at JJ’s Eatery Too in Old Orchard Beach, featuring solo Jazz performer Richard Marsters. JJ’s offers home-cooked food in a relaxed atmosphere, and a full bar. No cover charge/ 7 to 10 p.m./ 12B Old Orchard Street/ 934-0722
May 2
Like old things? You might just discover some hidden treasures at SPACE’s first Flea market, at the Portland Space: Alternative Arts Venue. You can bargain, eat snacks, and browse through all kinds of vintage items. Free/ 5 to 9 p.m./ 538 Congress Street, Portland/ 828-5600
May 3
The Portland Ice Arena skaters present their gala ice show to celebrate the closing of another great season. The performers range from students at the arena to local competitive skaters and guest stars – something for everyone. $8 adults, $4 children/ 7 p.m./ 225 Park Avenue Portland/ 774-8553
May 4
The Maine Jewish Film Festival’s Sixth Annual Holocaust Day will be held at Hannaford Lecture Hall. The events of the day are intended to honor the survivors and provide remembrance for the millions of Holocaust victims. Also featured will be the documentary “I Have Never Forgotten You – The Life and Legacy of Simon Wiesenthal (2007).” Free and open to the public: first-come first-serve/ 11 a.m./ Abromson Center, Portland campus/ 831-7495