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Palestinian-American poet Naomi Shihab Nye will read from various collections of her poems 8 p.m. Jan. 21 at Victoria Hall, downtown Santa Barbara. After the reading, Nye will hold a book signing (books may be purchased at the event). Nye also will speak in ������Ƶ’s chapel 10:30 a.m. Jan. 21 on “The Light that Shines on Us All: A World of Voices.”

"Both events are free and open to the public.

The next ������Ƶ Downtown Conversation, “Science and Religion: Time for Divorce or Renewal of Vows?” will explore some historical clashes between science and religion. Chemistry Professor Niva Tro will speak 5:30 p.m. Jan. 18, at the University Club, 1332 Santa Barbara St.

The lecture is free and open to the public.

Hear and sing traditional music of the season when ������Ƶ’s choral groups and instrumental ensembles present their holiday concert “Christ, the Prince of Peace,” 8 p.m. Dec. 10 and 11 at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Santa Barbara. Admission is free, although a donation will be requested.

������Ƶ Windancers’ fall dance program, “Cirque: Short, Sweet and Surreal,” offers a circus of surprising twists and turns 8 p.m. Dec. 3 and 4 in Porter Theatre. Refreshments and a question-and-answer time follow the short recital.

Directed and choreographed by dance Professor Erlyne Whiteman, the production features choreography by theater arts instructor Vicki Finlayson and student performances by the Windancers.

The premiere public performance of “Kenosis,” an original composition of spiritual poetry set to contemporary music, will be 8 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Center Stage Theater, Paseo Nuevo Shopping Center in downtown Santa Barbara.

The ������Ƶ Big Band and three combos will perform the best of their work at the Jazz Ensemble Concert 8 p.m. Nov. 19 in Deane Chapel. Admission is free.

The 15-piece big band, directed by music instructor Ron McCarley, will feature both swing music and more contemporary big band music.

“One piece is a tribute to Benny Goodman,” McCarley said.  “The three combos will play a wide variety of music from jazz standards to Wayne Shorter pieces.”