Keep It In The UP!

Six Men Dressed Like Joseph Stalin
2025-05-16 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-05-15 19:30 - 21:30 UTC | MI
Northern Michigan University Theatre and Dance will present Six Men Dressed Like Joseph Stalin by Dianne Nora, winner of the Panowski Playwriting Award. With the former USSR as its backdrop, the dark comedy revolves around two men—loosely inspired by real figures—who bear such a strong resemblance to Stalin that they are forced into dangerous service as political decoys to thwart his enemies and alleviate fears for his safety. Performances are scheduled at 7:30 pm. Thursday, May 15, through Saturday, May 17, in NMU’s Panowski Black Box Theatre.
According to her website, Nora has assisted her mentor, the playwright and actor Tracy Letts, on seven productions and workshops at Steppenwolf Theatre and on Broadway. She’s a winner of Inkwell Theater’s Lerner Fellowship and Playhouse on the Square’s New Works at the Works Playwriting Competition, and a recipient of the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council Creative Engagement grant.
Nora was a member of Goodman Theatre’s Playwrights Unit, where she was commissioned to write Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Living Document. She is also a comedy writer who contributes headlines and features at The Onion, America’s Finest News Source. Her humor writing has appeared on Funny Or Die and The Hard Times. She also co-hosts a podcast about streaming television titled Streamageddon.
In Six Men Dressed Like Joseph Stalin, Soso is a soldier left for dead on the Eastern Front. When he is pulled from the brink of death by the Kremlin, his fate takes a shocking turn. Because of his uncanny resemblance to one of the most feared men in history—Stalin—he is thrust into a dangerous game of impersonation. Enter Koba, a man who knows the mind and body of the dictator better than anyone. Tasked with transforming Soso into the perfect double, Koba trains him for the most perilous role of a lifetime.
“The play is smartly written to make it very entertaining despite the heavy subject matter,” said Kaitlyn Frotton, director of NMU’s production. “These two guys risk assassination by playing the role of Stalin’s body doubles, in the Soviet Union, where you didn’t know who you could trust and the autocratic government felt it necessary to police creative expression. I think there is a lot of relevance to the current situation. It’s presented in a way that makes you chuckle to yourself for a majority of the show, but by the end, you’re left with a lot to think about.”
The two lead actors are Copeland Diver as Soso and Liam Fisher as Koba. Understudies Don’Tae Mitchell and Logan Newcomb have been added into the script as Kremlin cops and ensemble members. Frotton said it is advantageous for actors to tackle original works that are less familiar to audiences.
“It’s beneficial because they do not have any preconceived notions going in about the way the roles should be played,” she added. “It’s a great challenge because they need to be accurate to the text, yet they are also able to use their own unique artistry to create the characters from scratch. There are fewer expectations or boundaries, and they’re able to come up with possibly a more authentic performance than if we were rehearsing something like ‘A Streetcar Named Desire,’ which has been viewed by many. It creates a more dynamic end product, as director, to explore the text with the actors as well. It feels like a more collaborative process. Our cast is phenomenal.”
Six Men Dressed Like Joseph Stalin premiered at Playhouse on the Square in Memphis, Tenn., early this year. NMU’s Playwriting Award was established in 1977 by Dr. James A. Panowski. This year’s winner is being featured during the North Coast Theatre Festival season, which also includes a Drag Cabaret May 29-30 and “Love Letters” June 26-28.
Tickets are $25 for the general public; $22 for NMU employees, seniors and military; $15 for youth; and $5 for NMU students. They are available at tickets.nmu.edu.

L'Anse - Blood Drive
2025-05-16 11:00 - 15:00 | L’Anse Methodist Church, 304 North Main Street, L'Anse, MI, 49946, United States
Blood Drive
Friday, May 16th
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
L’Anse Methodist Church
Walk-ins are welcome! Blood is badly needed to supply our Upper Peninsula hospitals!

L'Anse - Blood Drive
2025-05-16 11:00 - 15:00 | L’Anse Methodist Church, 304 North Main Street, L'Anse, MI, 49946, United States
Blood drive
Friday, May 16th
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
L’Anse Methodist Church
304 N. Main St., just up the hill from Pat’s
No appointment needed, just drop in.

NCT Hike
2025-05-15 10:00 - 12:00 | MI
Join us for a challenging group hike on Thursday, May 15!
Come hike with us across rock outcroppings with incredible vistas, through beautiful mixed pine forests, and up the backside of Sugarloaf Mountain. The hike begins at the original (paved) Sugarloaf parking lot and heads to Wetmore Pond by hiking across the Sugar Cube, a rugged series of rock formations similar to the top of Hogback. It then follows the North Country Trail over several small outcroppings before taking the NCT spur going up the back side of Sugarloaf and then to the top of the mountain.
Returning by popular request, Dennis Fattaleh, an experienced group hike leader, will be leading this adventure.
This loop hike will cover approximately 4.1 miles of rugged terrain and is an advanced hike. Note that it includes steep climbs and rugged sections and is not recommended for beginners or those with mobility limitations. Proper hiking boots are required. Expect a few wet spots. Plan on 3-4 hours of hiking time. Don’t forget to bring water and a snack!
We’ll meet on Thursday, May 15th at 10:00 AM at the original (paved) Sugarloaf parking lot.
This event is limited to 12 participants, and advanced registration is required. Please click here to register. Registration will remain open until Wednesday, May 14th or until we reach capacity. We hope to see you there!

Phil Lynch Songs to Bring Us Together Concert
2025-05-14 18:30 - 19:30 | MI
Phil Lynch Songs to Bring Us Together Concert
Wednesday, May 14, 2025. 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Peter White Public Library Community Room. Adults, Seniors, Family Friendly. Mental wellness meets musical wellness. Join celebrated singer/song writer/pianist Phil Lynch for an evening of life-affirming music featuring originals and covers of classics like “All You Need is Love” and “You’ve Got a Friend.” No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

Houghton - UP Wild in the Keweenaw
2025-05-11 15:00 | MI
UP Wild in the Keweenaw would like to announce its upcoming monthly event.

Wilderness Walk
Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 3:00 pm
Paavola Wetlands Nature Area – Off No. 9 Road in Paavola Location

The Wilderness Walks are opportunities to connect with God and each other in an outdoor natural setting. Each walk has a leader who will guide the walk and stop along the way for readings and reflection. The walks are appropriate for all ages including families and children. The nature area contains miles of hiking trails suitable for visitors of all accessibility. Everyone is welcome, no religious affiliation is necessary.

Negaunee - 2nd Annual Doobie Dan Memorial Pool Tournment
2025-05-10 13:00 | MI
2nd Annual Doobie Dan Memorial Pool Tournment

Pasquali’s, 100 Cliff Street, Negaunee, Doors open at 12:00pm

May 10th, start time 1:00pm

$20 Entry – $5 Green Fee included

Random Draw Doubles

Calumet - Joe Kirkish Photo Exhibit & Sale
2025-05-10 11:00 - 14:00 | Calumet Art Center, 57055 Fifth Street, Calumet, Michigan, 49913
Calumet Art Center

Joe Kirkish Photo Exhibit & Sale

Saturday, May 10 from 11am – 2pm

Bonus! Mothers Day Gifts, Fundraiser.

Get all your shopping done today.

Hancock - Copper Country League of Women Voters Annual Meeting
2025-05-10 11:00 - 14:00 | The Skyline Commons, 200 Michigan Street, Hancock, Michigan, 49930
Copper Country League of Women Voters (LWVCC) Annual Meeting ~

Saturday, May 10th
The Copper Country League of Women Voters (LWVCC) will hold their annual meeting Saturday, May 10, 11am-2pm at the The Skyline Commons, formerly known as the Jutila Center in the old hospital chapel, 200 Michigan St., in Hancock. The annual meeting will begin with a presentation titled “What Is Ranked-Choice Voting & the Michigan Rank MI Vote Ballot Proposal?” from 11:15-noon, followed by a buffet lunch and the annual business meeting.

The guest speaker will be Lisa Nelson, a Copper Country League of Women Voters member and a member of the UP Rank MI Vote team. She will explain ranked-choice voting, a system that allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference. She will also talk about a proposed statewide ballot measure to adopt ranked-choice voting for all state and federal elections.

Baraga - Community Conversations on Breastfeeding Needs
2025-05-10 11:00 - 13:00 | MI
Community Breastfeeding Collaborative to Host Listening Sessions in May Public Invited to Share Experiences and Ideas for Improving Local Breastfeeding Support

The Community Breastfeeding Collaborative invites community members to two upcoming listening sessions designed to gather input on breastfeeding experiences, challenges, and needs throughout the Western Upper Peninsula. These sessions aim to strengthen local support for breastfeeding families based on feedback directly from those with lived experience.

Your voice matters whether you’re a parent, caregiver, healthcare provider, or community advocate. Attendees are encouraged to share their perspectives on current barriers and opportunities to improve our region’s breastfeeding resources and support systems. Light refreshments will be served, and time will be provided after each session for informal conversation and community networking.

Listening Session Dates:
Saturday, May 3, 2025, 9:30 – 11:30 am
Keweenaw Community Foundation Office – Hancock Community Hub 3rd Floor, 417 Quincy St., Hancock
9:30 AM – Doors Open
10:00–11:00 AM – Listening Session
11:00–11:30 AM – Community Connection and Conversation

Saturday, May 10, 2025, 11:00 – 1:00 pm
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Library – 409 S. Superior Rd., Baraga
11:00 AM – Doors Open
11:30 AM–12:30 PM – Listening Session
12:30–1:00 PM – Community Connection and Conversation

Can’t attend in person? Community members can still participate by completing a brief anonymous survey. Survey: https://bit.ly/42QhF3P
These sessions are open to all and are part of the Collaborative’s mission to ensure that local families have the support they need to make informed, empowered choices about infant feeding. Refreshments will be provided. These sessions are free to attend. No registration is required.

The Community Breastfeeding Collaborative includes:
● BHK Child Development
● Copper Country Great Start Collaborative
● Copper Country ISD
● Copper Shores Community Health Foundation
● Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Health Systems
● Keweenaw Community Foundation
● Upper Great Lakes Family Health Center
● UP Health System – Portage
● Western UP Health Department

Hancock - Finnish American Folk School Open House and Fundraiser
2025-05-10 10:00 - 14:00 | The Skyline Commons, 200 Michigan Street, Hancock, Michigan, 49930
The Finnish American Folk School welcomes everyone to its first open house and fundraiser on Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Taking place in the ground floor studios at Skyline Commons at 200 Michigan Street in Hancock, the open house will feature family-friendly weaving and pottery demonstrations, Mother’s Day gifts, silent auction, along with a rummage sale offering surplus equipment and a variety of craft supplies and books.
“We’re very excited to welcome everyone into our studios to see what we do here and find out how to get involved,” said Folk School Director Clare Zuraw. “Whether you’re interested in fiber arts, ceramics, or woodworking, there’s something for everyone.”
In addition to books and craft supplies such as yarn and fabric, the fundraiser will also include surplus wood and metal working equipment. The silent auction will feature work by Folk School instructors including Lindsey Heiden, Kenyon Hansen, Phyllis Fredendall, and others. Funds raised will help to sustain folk school programming. For more information, visit www.finnishamericanfolkschool.com, call 906-370-3722 or email clare.zuraw@finlandiafoundation.org.

"Off the Wall" Artist Reception
2025-05-09 17:00 - 20:00 | MI
On the Wall: a collection of photography from the Secret Society of the Finch. Photos they love and want to be seen off the screen.
The Secret Society of the Finch is a Photography group founded by Dave Sargent and Kurt Babcock. They have been meeting monthly at Second Story Studio. There are around a dozen members in the group. Work ranges from wildlife and asto to fine art photography.
April 10 – May 31
Friday, May 9
Reception 5pm-8pm
Second Story Studio
118 W Washington St Suite B
Open 2:00pm – 6:00pm Thursday- Saturday

Marquette Poets Circle
2025-05-08 18:30 - 20:00 | MI
Marquette Poets Circle
Thursday, May 8, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Shiras Room.. Adults, Seniors, Family Friendly. Join local poets, writers, and poetry enthusiasts for an evening of poetry. Starting at 6:30 p.m.., participants gather to workshop their current work, followed by an Open Mic at 7:15 p.m. New and experienced poets are welcome for either or both events. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

The Marquette Regional History Center presents: 20th Annual Cemetery Walk: V.E. Day 80 Years
2025-05-08 18:00 - 20:00 | MI
The Marquette Regional History Center presents:
20th Annual Cemetery Walk: V.E. Day 80 Years
Thursday, May 8, two tours: 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at Park Cemetery
Victory in Europe Day happened on this day 80 years ago. Honor our local WWII heroes as we recognize several who are buried at Park Cemetery, both military and civilian. At 1:00, enjoy a self-guided tour. At 6:00, there will be guided tour groups, or a seated version (bring your lawn chair). Rain date: May 15. Meet near the main gate off Seventh Street. $5 suggested donation. For more info visit marquettehistory.org or call 906.226.3571.

L'Anse - BCCC Bingo
2025-05-08 18:00 | Whirl-I-Gig, 15850 Whirl-I - Gig Road, L'Anse, MI, 49946, United States
Baraga County Chamber of Commerce BINGO

Every Second Thursday of each month 6:00 pm – early bird 4:30p

Whirl-I-Gig, 15850 Whirl-I-Gig Road, L’Anse

Win Cash – Low Entry Fee

UPCM Second Thursday
2025-05-08 17:30 - 19:30 | MI
Join us for our Second Thursday Creativity Series at the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum:
“Let’s make a book!”
Thursday, May 8, 2025
5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Experience hands-on craft activities, music, and FREE Culver’s Frozen Custard. FREE to participate.

Feeding America West Michigan Mobile Food Pantry
2025-05-08 10:00 - 11:30 | MI
-Silver Creek Church and Silver Creek Thrift are partnering with Feeding America West Michigan to host a Mobile Food Pantry. Taking place on Thursday, May 8. Food distribution will begin at 10:00am and continue while supplies last or until 11:30am. Food will be available for approximately 550 families. Due to changes with Feeding America West Michigan, proxy pickup will be limited. This will be a drive-thru event with directions given by parking lot attendants. Guests are asked to remain in their cars and have adequate space prepared in their trunk or back seat in advance to allow the distribution team to place food boxes directly in the vehicle. Silver Creek Church and Silver Creek Thrift are located at 219 Silver Creek Road in Harvey. Businesses or organizations that are interested in supporting these monthly mobile food pantries are encouraged to call 906.249.1715 for more information.

Baraga - Bay Ambulance accepting Applications for Camp 911
2025-05-08 00:00 - 2025-06-03 23:59 | MI
Bay Ambulance is currently accepting applications for Camp 911.
June 17th & 18th
5th and 6th graders from Baraga County schools are eligible.
For additional information contact Bay Ambulance
at 906-353-6196 between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Deadline for applications is June 3.
Info can also be found on Facebook @ Bay Ambulance Inc of Baraga Michigan

Hancock - Is It Really Recycled? Presentation
2025-05-07 19:00 | Orpheum Theater, 426 Quincy Street, Hancock, Michigan, 49930
Is It Really Recycled?

Hosted by: Copper Country Recycling Initiative (CCRI)
Date & Time: May 7th | Doors open at 6:30 PM | Presentation begins at 7:00 PM
Location: Orpheum Theater – 426 Quincy St Hancock, MI 49930
Event Description:
Have you ever wondered what actually happens to your recyclables after they leave the curb? Join Copper Country Recycling Initiative (CCRI) for an eye-opening community presentation.
The evening will kick off with CCRI Executive Director Jonathon Nagel, who will provide a brief overview of the current state of recycling in the Copper Country.
Our featured speaker, Josh Wales, Materials Management Supervisor at the materials recovery facility (MRF) in Marquette, will dive into what really happens to the materials we toss into the recycling bin. From sorting to selling to market, Josh will answer the big question: Is it really recycled?
Following the presentation, an open Q&A session will be held, so please bring your questions and curiosity.
This is a free public event; all are welcome to attend.

Houghton - Copper Country Beekeeping Club Meeting
2025-05-06 18:30 | Carnegie Museum, 105 Huron Street, Houghton, MI, 49931, United States
The Copper Country Beekeeping Club will meet on Tuesday, May 6 at 6:30 pm at the Carnegie Museum in Houghton. Please use the lower level entrance.

This month, we’ll be discussing beekeeping 101 and installing new bees! Buzz on by!

Young Authors: Adam Rex Presentation and Book Signing
2025-05-06 17:30 - 18:30 | MI
Young Authors: Adam Rex Presentation and Book Signing
Tuesday May 6, 2025. 5:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. Peter White Public Library Community Room. Young Authors presents Adam Rex! Members of the public are invited to this free event to meet author Adam Rex. There will be a presentation followed by a book signing. Want to read some of his books ahead of time? Use your library card to check one (or 2) out from the library! Snowbound Books will be on site selling Adam’s books for anyone interested in purchasing books for Adam to sign. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit www.pwpl.info.

PWPL Director Chat
2025-05-06 11:00 - 12:00 | MI
Director Chat
Wednesday, May 6, 2025. 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Circulation Lobby. Stop by the Library to chat with Library Director Andrea Ingmire. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4303 or visit www.pwpl.info.

Bruce Crossing - MI-Trale Meeting
2025-05-05 19:00 | Stannard Township Hall, 14927 State Hwy M-28 East, Bruce Crossing, Michigan, 49912
Our May Monthly Meeting will be held at 7:00pm, (Eastern Time), in person at the Stannard Township Hall on 5/05/2025. For virtual attendance, we now have ZOOM available, along with the strictly audio/phone method. If you would like to attend virtually, please email me at this address and I will get you the connection information.

If you are in the area, please stop in for the meeting! We’d love to see you there!

For next Monday, Happy early Cinco de Mayo, All! Celebrate all things Mexican by getting yourself some good Mexican food (and drink!) to party with! Enjoy!!

Hubbell - Keweenaw ATV Club Meeting
2025-05-05 19:00 | Hubbell VFW, 52218 Duncan Avenue, Hubbell, Michigan, 49934
Monthly meeting of the Keweenaw ATV Club will be held on May 5th, 2025. It will be held at the Hubbell VFW in Hubbell Mi. At 7:00 P.m. We will discuss old and new projects. We will have maintenance packets ready for those who adopt a section of trail. We need to set a date for our summer picnic. We will need volunteers to collect prizes for the picnic. We really appreciate all those volunteers who help us out. All members, old and new, welcome.

Craft Magic Series: Punch Needle Magic Magic with Lydia Taylor
2025-05-05 18:30 - 20:00 | MI
Craft Magic Series: Punch Needle Magic Magic with Lydia Taylor
Monday, May 5, 2025, 6:30 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Shiras Room. Teens, Family, Adults, Seniors. Join fiber artist Lydia Taylor for a Beginner Punch Needle Workshop. Learn basic punch needle skills and leave with your very own handmade punch needle project. Starter kits provided. Space is limited to ten participants, so register early. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

Mohawk - Keweenaw Lions Club Annual Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser
2025-05-04 11:00 - 14:00 | Mohawk School, Mohawk, Michigan
Keweenaw Lions Club will hold their annual Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser on Sunday, May 4th. Dine-in with carryout available, at the Mohawk School from 11:00 to 2:00. Same cost, $12 per meal includes spaghetti, garlic bread, cole slaw and baked goods. Limited to 300 tickets, which are available from Keweenaw Lions Club members or by calling Marty & Syd at 289-4306 or Brian at 370-1454. Any extra tickets will be available at the door. Win big money, 50/50 raffle! 100% of proceeds benefit local charities.
If you are unable to attend the dinner but would like to make a donation, please mail checks to Keweenaw Lions Club P.O. Box 298, Mohawk, MI 49950 or you may drop off at Lassila Insurance 34 Union St., Mohawk. No amount is too small. MANY THANKS!

NMU Commencement
2025-05-03 10:30 - 13:00 | MI
Northern Michigan University’s spring commencement will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 3, in the Superior Dome. About 1140 students are eligible to graduate this May. The number marching will be 1049, which includes some students who will participate in the ceremony in advance of their August graduation.

Gay - Spring Festival Craft Show
2025-05-03 10:00 - 15:00 | Gay Community Hall, 8878 Second Street, Gay, Michigan
Join the Gay VFD Auxiliary for their Spring Festival Craft Show, May 3rd from 10 AM – 3PM at the Gay Community Hall , 8878 Second Street, Gay, Michigan. We have a great line-up of crafters for this show. Items ranging from photography, glasswork, wood, leather, painting, copper, crochet, knitting and more. Bring your phone or camera for a special feature: A miniature cow named “Oppie” will be joining us for a photo opportunity for the kids. Come join in the fun and pick up a gift for Mother’s Day or any other special occasion. East Fork Pasties and a bake sale will be available during the event. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Barbara at bmaynarich@gmail.com.

NCTA Group Hike
2025-05-03 10:00 - 12:00 | MI
Come hike with us along the scenic shore of Lake Superior, through beautiful mixed pine forests, to Harlow Lake and then back along the Harlow Creek past Cabin #6. If we’re lucky, we might even spot some early spring wildflowers!
Our hike will be led by Dennis Fattaleh, an experienced group hike leader. We’re excited and grateful for Dennis’s efforts to help revive group hikes for our Marquette Area Chapter.
This loop hike will cover approximately 4.5 miles of easy terrain on a mostly snow-free trail. Expect a few wet spots, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Plan for 2-3 hours of hiking time. Don’t forget to bring water and a snack!
We’ll meet on Saturday, May 3, at 10:00 AM at the Little Presque Isle parking lot.
This event is limited to 20 participants, and advance registration is required. Please click here to register. Registration will remain open until Friday, May 2, or until we reach capacity. We hope to see you there!
