13 ideas for fun in Columbia, June 9-15

THURSDAY (June 9)

MOONLIGHT CEMETERY & SECRETS FROM THE GRAVE TOURS

One hundred and sixty years of history will come to life during these nighttime tours at one of Columbia’s oldest cemeteries. Discover centuries of stories on the markers and headstones in Elmwood Cemetery.

‘LOVE & FRIENDSHIP’

Catch the final showing of this film at The Nick. In “Love & Friendship,” Lady Susan Vernon takes up temporary residence at her in-laws’ estate and, while there, is determined to be a matchmaker for her daughter Frederica – and herself, too.

FRIDAY (June 10)

CHONDA PIERCE

Emmy-nominated and best-selling comedian Chonda Pierce – or “the country comic,” as Billboard Magazine dubbed her – has been making audiences laugh for more than two decades. She’s on the road with her music and comedy tour and special guest Kayrn Williams.

‘THE TESTAMENT OF MARY’

Trustus Theatre’s popular Off-Off-Lady Series returns at the Columbia Museum of Art. Based on the novella by Colm Tóibín, this Tony-nominated play provides a glimpse into the heart and mind of a grieving mother, not an icon. A gallery tour is offered at 2:30 p.m.

Saturday (June 11)

DRIFTJAM: PARTY ON A BOAT

Related: Boat to DriftJam for a free floating concert

DriftJam is a one-of-a-kind music festival, completely on water. The annual concert has a floating stage, speakers and a huge LED screen just off Spence Island on Lake Murray for a day of fun, sun and music. Scheduled performers include Ellis Melillo, Kelly Cheats, Finnegan Bell, Kenny George Band and headliner Villa*Nova. The festival is free, but make a donation to benefit Hidden Wounds, a Columbia nonprofit that supports military personnel suffering from combat stress injuries.

HOPE IN HARMONY

An evening of arts and community dialogue responding to the first anniversary of the Mother Emanuel AME tragedy. Premiering a song cycle by Darryl Izzard, performed through gospel, spirituals, jazz and bluegrass, combined with poetry, dance, and visual arts. Light refreshments and a cash bar will be available.

Sunday (June 12)

SOUTHEASTERN PIANO FESTIVAL

The weeklong Southeastern Piano Festival kicks off Sunday, June 12, and features a pianist who can play 100 minutes of Bach from memory, a competition with some of the best virtuosos in the country, and piano mash-ups of popular hits like Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk.” The weeklong festival takes place at various venues, including the University of South Carolina, Columbia Museum of Art and Trinity Episcopal Cathedral.

SOUTHERN GUITAR FESTIVAL

Catch the final day of the annual Southern Guitar Festival and Competition, which brings world-caliber guitarists to Columbia. This final day features a concert with Duo Amaral. The opening day event on Saturday, June 11 includes a concert featuring Canadian guitar virtuoso Janet Grohovac and an open mic night of local guitar talent. Check the website for prices, locations and times for both event days.

Monday (June 13)

‘RACE: ARE WE SO DIFFERENT?’

This new exhibit explores a cultural and scientific look at race throughout history and the reasons we should celebrate our differences. It will address the topics of race from three different perspectives: science, history, and everyday experience.

HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE LEVEL RUNNING CAMP

If you’re serious about improving your running, this camp coordinated by Strictly Running might be for you. The focus of the camp is to provide instruction in running events, primarily 800 meters through 5,000 meters and cross country for ages 12-21. Running workouts, drills, strength training and strategies are part of the program.

Tuesday (June 14)

ABOUT FACE DRAWING SESSIONS

Looking for a supportive and friendly environment to hone your artistic skills? About Face Drawing Sessions are for you. There’s no instructor, but there is a group of inspired artists, representing a range of abilities, who love to draw from the live model. For ages 18 and older.

RENOVATION RODEO: COTTONTOWN

Historic Columbia’s Palladium Society continues its popular tour series of refurbished and renovated homes and buildings that have stayed true to their history. This installment features a location in the Cottontown neighborhood, as well as light hors d’oeuvres from The War Mouth, beer and wine. Reservations required.

Wednesday (June 15)

LEADING LADIES CABARET

This celebrity impersonator Las Vegas-style show will star “America’s Got Talent” contestant Dorae Saunders. Celebrity song and dance illusions and top female impersonators in the South performing to old and new school music and artists. Elaborate costumes appear on every number.

This story was originally published June 8, 2016 at 11:41 AM.