mums the word
Mr. Mum’s the Word: Comic Art and Haikus at That’s Entertainment, features an exhibit of the original comic strip art and pop-art paintings of Irving Phillips (1904-2000) in the “Red Room”, on Saturday, March 20 and Sunday March 21 from Noon to 5 p.m. Phillips was a noted American cartoonist, playwright, television scriptwriter, author, illustrator and educator, and is best remembered for his daily newspaper comic panel The Strange World of Mr. Mum. At 2 p.m. on Saturday, a group of Worcester poets will present haikus inspired by Phillips’ art. Original artwork will be offered for sale at the event. Free. 244 Park Ave., 508-755-4207, ThatsE.com.

winter walk
At the lovely Futon Company on Highland St., stop by and check out their newest exhibit, A Winter Walk In A Southern Woods with Photographs by Gregory E. Johnson (pictured), on view March 15-April 30. This Nashville, TN photographer offers images that evoke feelings of the healing nature of horses and reflect the climatic changes taking place in the US. During the opening reception on March 18 from 6-8 p.m., stop by to view, along with a live performance from Kevin James, plus some southern treats. Portion of the proceed from art sales will be donated to YWCA, Haiti. The Futon Company, 129 Highland St.

needle arts
A group of local fiber artists, under the sponsorship of the Stitchers’ Academy, have created an exiting impromptu exhibit entitled More than Clothe over at the Sprinkler Factory’s main gallery. Works include traditional quilts, as well as contemporary fiber art, and offers a wide variety within this mixed media art form. Saturday & Sunday, Noon–4 p.m. through the End of March. Free sprinklerfactory.com.

savor the flavor
The annual Savor the Flavors tasting and multiple sclerosis benefit will be held on March 18 at the EcoTarium. Stop by to sample culinary specialties from dozens of local chefs and taste wines from many different regions throughout the world. Relax as local jazz and blues musicians entertain you throughout the evening. A great time with your family, friends and colleagues, all while supporting a mission to eliminate multiple sclerosis. $75 at the door. 6-9 p.m. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way. Call 781-693-5119 or visit main.nationalmssociety.org.

broad universe
Join local members of the Broad Universe writers’ group for an introduction to some of the greatest women writers of science fiction, fantasy and horror during Broad Universe: A Presentation on Women SF Fantasy and Horror Writers on Thursday, March 18. Local writers pay tribute to their literary inspirations in a series of short presentations and rapid-fire readings from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Featuring Trisha J. Wooldridge, Phoebe Wray and Jennifer Pelland. Free. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jacob Edwards Library, Reading Room, 236 Main St., Southbridge. 508-764-5426.

new again
Opening Reception for “New Again - Exploring Found Objects” on Friday, March 19 at the Aurora Gallery features works inspired by or created from everyday found items. Reception runs from 6-8 p.m. Exhibit on view March 19 through May 1, 2010. ARTSWorcester, Aurora Gallery, 660 Main St. Call 508-755-5142.

karaoke with a twist
The name says it all. Live Band Karaoke w/ Fingercuff on Friday, March 19 features a live band combining the silly fun of karaoke with the energy of a live rock band. Come fulfill your rock and roll fantasy on stage. 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m. City Lights Bar & Restaurant, 395 Grafton St. 508-459-7879.

kitty shower
The Worcester Animal Rescue League annual Spring Kitten Shower purrs into town on Saturday, March 20. Help Central Mass’ largest no-kill shelter prepare for the upcoming kitten season by donating kitten related items, just like a baby shower. Last year, the Worcester Animal Rescue League cared for over 600 kittens and this year the shelter could use your help! A great opportunity to learn about the shelter’s foster parent program and meet the dedicated staff. Enjoy refreshments, browse our bake sale and plant sale, and try your luck at our raffle table. worcester-arl.org. Kitten related donation. noon-4 p.m. Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St. 508-853-0030. worcester-arl.org.

homespun tunes
The 2nd Annual Homemade Instrument Challenge on Sunday, March 21 is an afternoon of creative fun as you listen to songs performed on a variety of homemade instruments. You may hear some cigar box guitars and diddley bows . All ages and free. If you own a handmade instrument bring it and join in the fun. Free. 2-6 p.m. The Q, 362 Chandler St. Call 508-757-0411.

broadway bound
Enjoy the sounds of Broadway at the annual benefit concert for the Worcester Public Schools entitled Broadway Bound on Sunday, March 21. Outstanding students and teachers present a tribute to Broadway in song, dance and music. Tickets are available at all Worcester Credit Union locations. $15. 2-4 p.m. Mechanics Hall, Great Hall, 321 Main St. 508-799-3083.

harmonica hero
A Master teacher and performer will be joined on stage by some of the best musicians in the area during Hometown Harmonica Hero with Chet Williamson and friends on Tuesday, March 23. With Chromatic Blues members guitarist Pete Depasquale, bassist Glenn Ditomsasso, and drummer Pete MacGillvray, Chet will demonstrate his playing skills and styles with music from the bands repertoire. Plus guitarists Walter Crockett and Steve Cancelli, harmonica player, Red Abare, and trumpeter Jerry Sabatini. free with advance registration recommended. 7-9 p.m. Union Music, Union Music Performance Space, 142 Southbridge St. 508-753-3702 or unionmusic.com.

bag it
Don’t miss Boston’s best in classic big band swing during the Brown Bag Concert featuring The Beantown Swing Orchestra on Wednesday, March 24. Featuring American Idol finalist John Stevens, this is one of the hottest and hippest swing bands in the Northeast. With eighteen top-notch jazz musicians averaging age 23 and in the prime of their careers, the Beantown Swing Orchestra has enough energy and talent to keep everyone - kids to seniors and everyone in between - dancing for hours. Free. noon-1 p.m. Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St. 508-752-5608.