For those culturally inclined, musical entertainment abounds in Kitsap. The Admiral Theatre located in Bremerton offers a full schedule of musical plays/performances and is also wheelchair accessible. Just as an example, Glen Campbell is scheduled to perform on March 2. Contact the Theatre at (360) 373-6743 for more information on their event schedule and ticket information.

Other venues for satisfying your musical desires include the Bremerton Symphony whose season runs from October through May. They offer a program series rich in classical pieces composed of by the likes of Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Dvorak, and Brahms to name but a few of their wonderfully enriching composers. Tickets are available not only for multiple performances, but also for individual performances. Contact them at (360) 373-1722 for prices and event schedule.

And, finally, the Bremerton Community Theatre is another venue which offers a wonderfully diverse entertainment schedule of musicals, comedies, and plays. Their season begins with the Feb. 8 performance of Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’. They offer special handicapped seating and with senior tickets ranging from $9-11 per performance, it is a deal that cannot be beat. Plus, the Theatre has a pipe organ and uses it during some performances. That alone is worth checking out this venue. Reach the office at (360) 373-5152 to talk with someone and also sign up for the newsletter.

If the idea of playing and/or learning a musical instrument is more to your entertainment liking, classes are offered throughout the county either in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation or through individual instructors. Network with others and you may be surprised about the hidden musical talent in our area.

Throughout the spring and summer, free concerts are held along the Bremerton waterfront on the Boardwalk. It is a pleasant way to enjoy some time upon disembarking from the ferries, or to simply take your lawn chair and relax for a bit. Although this is an advance notice, contact the Main Street Association for a schedule at (360) 377-3041, if desired. Also, the Concerts in the Park series, held at Evergreen Park, can be reached at (360) 478-5305.

Another great way to experience music concerts is to attend various high school concerts. In addition to viewing young musicians in the making, it gives one a chance to witness the results of dedication and practice at an early age. Plus, the cost is usually free.

Traveling is another popular form of entertainment and various packages and events are scheduled through both senior centers and county-wide Parks and Recreations. With trips ranging from day outings of a combination of dinner and theatre and/or musical events, to nature outings — there is sure something to satisfy you. Many packages include transportation, event ticket, and tour cost.

Elderhostels are a great way for seniors to travel in groups and experience both the world and local venues. Hostels have a reputation of being the budget travelers way of experiencing the world first-hand. Elderhostel is known as the largest educational and travel organization in the world for individuals 55 and over.

They offer over 10,000 programs a year in over 100 countries worldwide at an exceptional value. Providing both online courses in arts/architecture, history/cultural, and science/technology plus real world experiences such as venturing to the Taj Mahal the program costs are all-inclusive with meals, lectures, field trips, cultural excursions, gratuities, and medical or insurance coverage included.

Reach them through their website at http://www.elderhostel.org (877) 426-8056.

For one who views learning as entertainment, there are multiple avenues to choose from. Many online courses are available, as shown by AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) Online. With courses mainly presented by Columbia University ranging from professional development, writing, folk art to astrobiology — there is probably a course to one’s liking. Visit http://www.aarp.org for more information or call (800) 424-3410. The local chapter is located in Bremerton, call for more info.

For on-site classes, Harrison Hospital offers many seminars/classes available to all age groups at various times and can be reached at (360) 792-6765 through their Community Programs and Education Department. Olympic College is another source for both adult education and continuing education classes. Reach them at (360) 792-6050.

Givens Community Center, offering classes from guitar lessons to cooking can be reached at (360) 337-5743. Another site for classes is North Kitsap Parks and Recreation at (360) 779-9898. (Side note: I am offering healthy cooking classes in the winter semester at both Givens and Poulsbo...come enjoy and learn!)

Creatively speaking, Jo Ann Fabrics offers a wide range of classes in subjects ranging from flower arranging, sewing, to scrapbooking. With over 300 classes, there ought to be something of interest to the individual wanting to participate. Contact them at (360) 692-7243.

There are many more educational classes offered throughout our community. Check the Bremerton Sun for a listing, ask when at your favorite store, or simply network. Entertainment options for all ages, including seniors, are a fun way to become both more acquainted with yourself and what the community has to offer. Enjoy!

(Editor’s Note: Marie Buckner is a freelance writer. Contact her at 360-613-1085.).