5 things to do this weekend, including the musical 'Suffs' and Salem Film Fest

While it might not feel like spring, the season is officially here on our doorsteps. We’re seeing an abundance of creatively rich events appearing on our calendars. Visit the Salem Film Festival to watch documentaries from across the globe, or stop by a local Chinatown school to see a performance from an all-women lion and dance troupe. When you’re not listening to an engaging talk, you might watch the hit Broadway musical “Suffs” on tour. If you haven’t had enough of these fun weekend events by Monday, catch snippets of poetry from former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins. See these recommendations below.

Attend a talk at the ICA with some of the city’s most vocal and flourishing artists. The museum hosts members from the African American Master Artists-in-Residency Program, one of the first in-residence programs for Black artists in America. L’Merchie Frazier, Reginald L. Jackson and Shea Justice, whose works are featured in the exhibit “Say It Loud: AAMARP: 1977 to Now,” share their memories of AAMARP and their own creative processes. According to the ICA, “AAMARP has stood at the intersection of art, activism, and community for nearly five decades,” and it has remained both “an artistic haven and a cultural force.” Moderated by the ICA curator Jeffrey De Blois, the conversation promises to be enlightening. This event is free; advanced registration is encouraged.

For four days, the Salem Film Fest will engross participants through screenings of international documentaries from around the world. The volunteer-run festival was first organized in 2007 through the Salem Community Arts Center. Expect to see films such as “25 Cats from Qatar” (showing Friday), about a rescue mission that resulted in 25 street cats being transported across the globe, and “Elephants & Squirrels” (showing Sunday), about a Sri Lankan artist’s discovery of ancestral remains and cultural objects. In addition to the films, there will also be events: “Mass Reality Check” is a chance for college students to share their short documentaries and experimental films. At “Filmmaker Forum,” artists from the year’s program will engage in discussion about topics such as the filmmaker’s responsibility and whether festivals can bring about social change. You can purchase tickets to individual film screenings for $17.84 (including fees), or buy ticket packs. A five-pack pass is $79.88 with fees included, and a 10-pack pass is $153.49 with fees. [Check out our spring arts guide for more film festival recommendations.]

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Gund Kwok, the first Asian women’s lion and dragon dance troupe in the United States, hosts a celebration honoring the Year of the Horse. Held at Chinatown’s Josiah Quincy Upper School auditorium, the family-friendly festivities will bring together performance, live music and several jaw-dropping stunts. During the same afternoon, children’s author and illustrator Grace Lin will be on site for book signings. Guests will also have the opportunity to try on costumes and take pictures after the show. It runs from 1-3 p.m., and tickets start at $20. Proceeds will be donated to the Boston Immigration Justice Accompaniment Network, supporting immigrant families.

There’s still time to catch a performance of the national touring production of “Suffs,” the Tony Award-winning musical at the Emerson Colonial Theatre. The show, written by Shaina Taub, tells the story of the American women’s suffrage movement. Set in the early 20th century, it focuses on the dynamic and passionate female figures who pushed for change in the Constitution that would give women the right to vote. Audiences will be riveted by songs such as “Finish the Fight,” “Find a Way” and “Keep Marching,” the anthem that closes out Act 2. Tickets start at $58.50.

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum hosts a unique conversation with former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins. The writer’s most recent book of poetry is called “Dog Show,” published in the fall of last year. In a talk moderated by Jared Bowen of GBH, Collins will focus on his work and “the many ways dogs warm our hearts” while revealing “the profound role these majestic animals play in our lives and the meaning they give us.” The event runs from 7-8 p.m., and food and drink will be available for purchase. For in-person attendees, the Kennedy Library’s exhibit “Presidential Pets” will be on view 5:30-7 p.m. General admission is free, and spots can be reserved in advance.