copyright © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
This edition of Your Week Ahead covers two weeks. Look for the next Globe Magazine on September 9.
August 27-30 and September 3-6
THE CONVENTIONS ARE COMING
> Republican National Convention
Tampa, August 27-30
Why Florida matters Mitt Romney almost certainly must take Florida to win the presidency, but his harsh rhetoric on immigration and his choice of running mate, Paul Ryan — who’s proposed serious Medicare cuts — put at risk two important constituencies in the state: Hispanics and seniors.
Expect to see A forceful, animated keynote speech from Chris Christie, the brashly appealing governor of New Jersey and a rising star in the Republican Party.
Don’t expect to see Any speech at all by former vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin, who, with Romney’s ascent, has gone from GOP it girl to marginal voice.
> Democratic National Convention
Charlotte, North Carolina, September 3-6
Why North Carolina matters Barack Obama pulled off a historic victory in this state in 2008, and a win here — polls have indicated a tight race — would bode well for a second term.
Expect to see Former president Bill Clinton (aka The Big Dog), who has had an uneven relationship with Obama over the years and who will seize the prime time spotlight to deliver a vigorous pitch for his reelection.
Don’t expect to see Hillary Rodham Clinton, who delivered a memorable, magnanimous address four years ago but who now, as secretary of state, is supposed to shun political activity.
September 1
COLLEGE KICKOFF
Welcome back, NCAA football! Boston College gets the ball rolling at home against Miami at 3:30 p.m.
September 1
A ROYAL SUBJECT
France’s most infamous queen is the subject of David Adjmi’s new comedy, Marie Antoinette, premiering at the American Repertory Theater. 617-547-8300; americanrepertorytheater.org
September 2
POLITICAL PUPPETRY
A free “satirical circus” performed with giant papier-mache creatures by the politically radical Bread and Puppet Theater starting at 3 p.m. marks the beginning of Harvard Square’s Revival Month. Concerts, films, and a hootenanny are part of the series. 617-491-3434; harvardsquare.com.
September 8
OVER-THE-TOP HATS
Some 250 whimsical turbans, bonnets, caps, and fascinators designed by British milliner Stephen Jones go on display in a new exhibition at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem. 978-745-1876; pem.org