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An increasing number of women are joining the Ukrainian military, with thousands serving in front-line roles, as Russia's war on Ukraine nears its fourth year — with no peace in sight.

San Diego nonprofit uses music and services to uplift people affected by homelessness.

This weekend in the arts in San Diego: "Alex Katz: Theater and Dance" at MCASD; the San Diego Symphony takes on "Jurassic Park"; Helena Westra's "Lying Fallow” at the Athenaeum Art Center and more.

Blending folk, jazz, psychedelia, and world traditions, these three acclaimed musicians create an expansive sonic journey shaped by improvisation, connection, and rich visual storytelling. Their performances are described as immersive, boundary-dissolving experiences that draw listeners into a shared moment of presence and wonder. Julien Cantelm is a San Diego based world class drummer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter whose music and playing is as deep and welcoming as it is rhythmically adventurous. Known for his extraordinary sensitivity behind the kit, Julien listens deeply to his bandmates, the moment, and the silence between notes. His playing is often described as hypnotic, soulful, and full of quiet fire, turning rhythm and melody into an intimate conversation. Whether on a festival stage or in a quiet living room, he invites listeners to slow down, tune in, and feel the heartbeat that connects us all. Jesus Gonzalez is a renowned San Diego based singer-songwriter whose artful blend of folk, psychedelia, and electronic textures creates deeply immersive musical experiences. In a recent interview with NPR’s top shelf artists series, Jesus said “At the core of it all I think my music is simply shouting ‘Can you believe we’re all here?!’”. Jesus Gonzalez is more than a musician, he’s a sonic storyteller, inviting audiences to reconnect with a shared sense of self, wonder, and the heart of the present moment. Aaron Bowen is a San Diego based guitarist and singer-songwriter known for his warm, intimate sound and timeless songwriting. Blending jazz, folk, soul, and pop, Aaron’s music feels both classic and refreshingly personal. His soulful guitar work and evocative lyrics invite listeners into a world of quiet reflection and honest storytelling. Quartyard SD on Facebook / Instagram

The entrancing story of an innocent Japanese girl who gives her heart to a fickle American naval officer, there's a reason why this opera is one of the most performed around the world. It's a moving tale of love, loss, and longing, captured by operatic beauty at its most melodramatic. Giacomo Puccini's sweeping score features some of the most beautiful melodies ever written, with soaring vocal lines expressing every human emotion. This unique production brings the story to life in a new, magical way by incorporating ballet into this classic Italian opera. The title character gets her wings as a butterfly by dancing on her toes. Leading lady Cio-cio-san (Japanese for "butterfly") is represented by a ballerina butterfly in a dream ballet, fluttering and soaring as she tries to escape her fate of being pinned in a box. This production is presented by Cinballera Entertainment, a non-profit performing arts company based in San Diego County which is now entering its third season. This company was founded by prodigious artist sisters Tiffany and Rebekah Brannan, who both specialize in opera and ballet. Cinballera (pronounced cheen-ball-er-a) specializes in performances which blend classical opera and original ballet with retro Hollywood inspiration. In their first two seasons, they have produced over a dozen original productions throughout Southern California, bringing fresh yet tasteful creativity to timeless tales. This production will be performed in Italian with silent film-style title cards projected for translation. Cinballera Entertainment on Facebook / Instagram

Visit: https://keymartialarts.com/ Key Martial Arts on Instagram

"If you close your eyes, you might wake up inside the movie, unstuck from time yourself." — New York Times A ghostly train journey on a forgotten branch line transports a son, Jozef, visiting his dying Father in a remote Galician Sanatorium. Upon arrival, Jozef finds the Sanatorium entirely moribund and run by a dubious Doctor Gotard, who tells him that his father’s death, the death that has struck him in his country, has not yet occurred and that here they are always late by a certain interval of time of which the length cannot be defined. Jozef will come to realize that the Sanatorium is a floating world halfway between sleep and wakefulness and that time and events cannot be measured in any tangible form. A stop-motion/live-action masterpiece inspired by the works of Jewish-Polish author and artist Bruno Schulz, this personal passion project is the first feature by the Brothers Quay since "The Piano Tuner of Earthquakes" (2005) nearly 20 years ago. Digital Gym Cinema on Facebook / Instagram

Get ready to fall head over heels for "Love on the Menu"—a heartwarming original musical that serves up laughter, inspiration, and the sweet surprise of connection when you least expect it. Written, choreographed, and produced by the TERI Campus of Life Performing Arts Center, this joyful production premieres this August with a vibrant mix of music, movement, and meaning. Brought to life by the spirited TERI Players and the talented TERI Theatre & Performing Arts Pro Team, Love on the Menu tells the story of Will, a sandwich shop owner stuck in the comfort of routine, whose life is upended by Jasmine, a passionate dancer with big dreams. As their worlds collide, the ordinary becomes extraordinary—routines shift into rhythms, strangers turn into friends, and love becomes the secret ingredient to a life reimagined. With catchy original songs, energetic choreography, and a cast full of heart, Love on the Menu isn’t just a show—it’s a celebration of community, courage, and the delicious unpredictability of life. Join us for an evening of feel-good fun and toe-tapping tunes. Love on the Menu is a story you’ll savor long after the final curtain. Directed by: Emily Friesen Written by: Jenni Hurley Music by: Kyle Ramirez About the TERI Players The TERI Players are a dynamic ensemble of performers from the TERI Campus of Life, known for creating inclusive and empowering theatrical experiences. Guided by a team of professional artists and educators, they continue to redefine community-based performance, proving that creativity has no boundaries. Visit: https://events.humanitix.com/love-on-the-menu TERI Campus of Life on Instagram and Facebook

The North Park Music Fest returns Saturday, June 7, with 40+ musical acts and a free creator fair spread across 10 venues, bars and restaurants throughout North Park. Performers include John Doe, Julianna Zachariou, The Neighborhood Kids, In Mazes, Topeka Clementine, Tasha Smith Godinez and more.

This fall, Soulful artist Sarah Lightman will be joining Jimmy Pearson for a mini tour in Southern California. "The tour is focused on community, and how we empower each other through connection and meaningful interaction. This past year has carried a lot of difficult ups and downs in Southern California, and we aim to bring a bit of so-cal sunshine back to the coast. Join us for an unforgettable night of soulful live music - I’ll be bringing the band too!" Shows: October 25 @ The DoubleTree Hotel; San Diego, CA October 30 @ LaBoom; Chula Vista, CA Get Tickets: https://www.sarah-lightman.com/ **About Sarah Lightman:**
Sarah Lightman is an acclaimed singer-songwriter known for their heartfelt lyrics, soulful vocals, and captivating stage presence. With a unique blend of soul, folk, and pop influences, Sarah Lightman has quickly garnered attention for their honest storytelling and emotive performances. Her voice is most often compared to those of Amy Winehouse, Corrine Bailey Rae, Sara Bareilles, and Adele. Sarah Lightman on Facebook / Instagram