Music and Dance
59 Barber Street in Torrington presents RACHEL BISSEX AND THE LOVE AT WORK BAND on Friday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m. There is a relaxed air and a refreshing sense of humor about Rachel Bissex that makes her listeners totally at ease. While maintaining poise and a seasoned stage presence, she takes her audience on a musical journey. The Love at Work Band consists of four uniquely creative musicians, Stan Bronski, Kath Bloom, Tom Hanford and Fran Patnaude. They play original and traditional music with a "bluesy," improvisational feel. Guitars, fiddle, harmonica and stand-up bass accompany dynamic vocal harmonies, the hallmark of their live performances. Requested donation is $7; for more info call 860-489-0137.
Music for a Change presents the Mexican and American folk music of TISH HINOJOSA on Friday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m. in Wilde Auditorium at the University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave. in West Hartford. Hinojosa's latest album, "Sign of Truth," is a mix of 1970s horn rock, San Antonio's Latin R&B, and mid-tempo Spanish music that has received much critical praise. Tickets are $15; proceeds benefit Hartford Area Habitat for Humanity. For more info call 860-768-4228.
Warner Theatre, 68 Main St. in Torrington hosts a FESTIVAL OF PERFORMING ARTS on Friday, April 12 at 8 p.m. The show will feature music and dance performers of international acclaim with ties to Litchfield County. This year's performers include dancers from the dance company MOMIX, illusionist Michael Moschen, violinist Krystyana Chelminski, and singer Christie Williams. Returning to this year's show is master of ceremonies Regina Barreca, UConn Professor of English and feminist theory, humorist and newspaper contributor. Following the show there will be a champagne reception in the Warner atrium, during which guests may mingle with performers. Tickets are $25 general admission, $100 patron (including reception); proceeds benefit the Susan B. Anthony Project. For more info call Lisa or Jeanne at 860-489-3798.
Hartford Symphony Orchestra presents HIP HARP on Friday and Saturday, April 12-13 at 8 p.m. in Mortensen Hall at The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford. Deborah Henson-Conant will make her debut appearance with her unconventional musical style, described as "jazz pop comedy folk blues celtic flamenco," and will lead the orchestra in this concert. Tickets are $10-$53 adults, $5 students with a valid ID; for more info call 860-244-2999.
Hartford Community Dance sponsors a JAM SESSION on Saturday, April 13 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post, 275 Main St. in Wethersfield. Musicians of all skill levels are invited to play new England contra dance tunes–reels, jigs and waltzes. Free; for more info call 860-232-2504. A New England CONTRA DANCE will follow from 8-11 p.m. with music by Rose White with the Wingnuts. No partner needed, all dances will be taught, and beginners are welcome; a workshop will begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $7 adults, students free; for more info call 860-233-6603.
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. (Route 202) in Litchfield presents "TRAVEL TOUR '02: AN EVENING OF SONG AND DANCE" on Saturday, April 13 at 6 p.m. The Hotchkiss Cabaret Troupe, accompanied by Litchfield High School student Kate Cudworth, offers a musical revue celebrating great Off-Broadway shows. Admission is $3 adults, $2 students; for more info call 860-567-8302.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton presents HARVEY REID on Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 p.m. Master minstrel Harvey Reid returns with selections from his new disc "The Great Sad River." This double National Champion on autoharp and fingerstyle guitar also plays mandolin, banjo and slide guitar. Fine singing, songwriting and humor are part of his programs, which range through the Celtic, ragtime, country blues and bluegrass genres. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door; for more info call 860-693-0263.
Sweet Harmony's Coffee House presents SIRIUS COYOTE on Saturday, April 13 at 8 p.m. at St. Andrew's Church, Route 202 in Marbledale. This ensemble of talented musicians combines Afro/ Latin rhythms, ancient Mesoamerican melodies and contemporary World Beat in an exciting performance of traditional and original music. Enchanting myths and folklore enhance this highly entertaining and enlightening experience. Many of the musical instruments form their impressive display have been handcrafted by the artists themselves. Join the band on a musical journey to the realms of magical sounds of the Americas–from the tropical rainforests to the deserts of the high Sierras. Tickets are $10; bring a coffee mug and the coffee is free. For more info call 860-868-2846.
The Warner Theatre, 68 Main St. in Torrington presents SPYRO GYRA on Saturday, April 13 at 8 p.m. Spyro Gyra has created its own instrumental hybrid, incorporating elements of jazz, R&B, Latin and Brazilian music. Topping the contemporary jazz charts with their new CD, "In Modern Times," Spyro Gyra continues to give the contemporary jazz listener a thrilling ride. Members of the band include Jay Beckenstein on saxophone, Tom Schuman on keyboard, Julio Fernandez on guitar, Joel Rosenblatt on drums and Scott Ambush on bass. Tickets are $34.50 and $27.50; for more info call 860-486-7180.
Nutmeg Square and Round Dance Club holds a Plus Level SQUARE AND ROUND DANCE on Saturday, April 13 from 8-11 p.m. at Judson School, Hamilton Lane in Watertown. Caller is Bill Mager, with cuer Liz Becker. The dance is held in a smoke-free and alcohol-free environment; spectators are always welcome. Fee charged for dancers, no fee for spectators; refreshments will be served. For more info call Mary at 860-283-9943, or Rich and Ellen at 860-274-6876.
Ramsdell Public Library, Main St. in Housatonic presents an encore afternoon of music with MIKE ERKKINEN AND MICHAEL HAYNES on Sunday, April 14 from 2-4 p.m. Everyone enjoyed last month’s performance so much, the musicians will return for another wonderful program of acoustic guitar music and song. Free, and refreshments will be served; for more info call 413-274-3738.
Avon Free Public Library, 281 Country Club Rd. in Avon presents the FOLK-BLUEGRASS MUSICIANS Phil Rosenthal, Beth Sommers, and their daughter Naomi Sommers on Sunday, April 14 at 3 p.m. They will perform folk and bluegrass classics as well as delightful new compositions in arrangements that feature beautiful three-part harmony singing and intricate instrumental work. Phil Rosenthal was the 1994 Connecticut State Troubadour. Free; for more info call 860-673-9712.
Waterbury Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents a 50TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT on Sunday, April 14 at 4 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, 222 West Main St. in Waterbury. International recitalist Stephen Roberts will be featured in a concert of music of many styles for the pipe organ. The church has a three-manual Moller pipe organ that was built in 1965, and has recently had several additional stops added. It is one of the finest pipe organs in the Waterbury area. There is no admission charge, but a free-will offering will be taken. A reception will follow the program.
Music for a Change presents ALISON KRAUSS AND UNION STATION featuring Jerry Douglas on Thursday, April 18 at 8 p.m. in the Lincoln Theater at the University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave. in West Hartford. This three-time Grammy Award winning group will bring their country-bluegrass-folk sound as part of The Music for a Change benefit concert series. Proceeds from this concert will benefit Interval House, a nonprofit organization that provides free and confidential support services to victims of domestic violence, regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender. Tickets are $32 and $47; for more info call 860-768-4228, or 800-274-8587.
Drama and Comedy
Trinity Art Series presents "MACBETH" by Shakespeare and Company of Lenox on Saturday, April 13 at 8 p.m. The production will be preceded by an authentic medieval feast of many courses at 6 p.m., featuring period entertainment–instrumental music by Everyman Guild, madrigals by Black Pond Consort, Paul Halley on the virginal, a performance of early dance, and more. Tickets for the play only are $10, or $30 for priority seating; tickets for the banquet and play are $65, which includes priority seating at the play. The banquet is a fundraiser for the Trinity Art Series; for more info call Mimi Harden at 860-482-4411.
Goshen Players present "HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING" on Fridays and Saturdays, April 12-13 and April 19-20 at 8 p.m.; Thursday, April 18 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 14 at 2 p.m. at the Old Town Hall, Routes 4 & 63 in Goshen. This popular musical comedy, the story of a window washer who learns the secret of getting to the top of his company, is the Goshen Players' 54th spring production. Tickets are $10, with matinee discounts for seniors and children (under 12); for more info call 860-491-2127.
Simsbury Light Opera Company presents Gilbert and Sullivan's "IOLANTHE" on Saturday, April 13 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, April 14 at 2:15 p.m.; and Saturday, April 20 at 2:15 and 8 p.m. at Simsbury High School, 34 Farms Village Rd. in Simsbury. Gilbert delighted in poking fun at Victorian society with all its pomp, ritual and facade. "Iolanthe" is no exception to his tongue in cheek commentary on the social mores of the day. The House of Lords was then, and for many years afterwards, populated by the aristocracy of the landed and lorded British gentry. No matter how inept, incompetent or unsuitable the incumbent, rank riches and title guaranteed you a place in the British equivalent of the U.S. Senate. Gilbert pits the Peers against a Victorian favorite fantasy–a "brood" of fairies and their Queen. Tickets are $22 general admission, $17 senior matinees, $5 children at the family matinee on April 7, and can be purchased by calling 860-521-8076, or by visiting <www.sloco.org>.
Sherman Players present "RECKLESS" on Fridays and Saturdays through April 27 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 21 at 3 p.m. at the Sherman Playhouse, Routes 37 & 39 (behind the firehouse) in Sherman. "Reckless" is a fast-paced, bizarre but bittersweet comedy by Craig Lucas. Tickets are $15 adults, $13 seniors and students; reservations are required. Seniors are invited to the dress rehearsal for free on Thursday, April 4 at 8 p.m. For more info call 860-354-3622.
Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston presents "JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR" on April 13 through April 28, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. From his entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday through to his death at the hands of Pontius Pilate, "Jesus Christ Superstar" is an epic retelling of the last seven days in the life of Jesus of Nazareth. Telling the story of men and women driven to their fate by forces beyond their control, this unique musical is as powerful and compelling today as the day it was written. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door; for more info call 860-283-6250.
Clockwork Repertory Theatre, 133 Main St. in Oakville presents the murder mystery "DEAD MAN'S HAND" on Fridays and Saturdays through May 4 and Saturday, May 11 at 8:15 p.m. At first, "Dead Man's Hand" seems to be the usual "Agatha Christie" type play, with two couples lured to a remote Italian villa to be murdered one by one. But the couples are actually "rehearsing" their own mystery plot! When one of the couples is murdered for real, the twists and turns begin, teasing the audience along. Who is the murderer and what do those about to be murdered have in common? Yet even this ploy is not what it at first seems. An intriguing final twist unravels the real reason for the whole charade. Tickets are $13; early reservations are strongly suggested. For more info call 860-274-7247.
The Warner Theatre holds AUDITIONS by appointment only for its July production of "Annie" on Sunday, April 28 beginning at 2 p.m. for children (ages 8-15); and Monday, April 29 beginning at 7 p.m. for adults (age 16 and older) at the Warner Theatre Center for Arts Education, 21 Water St. in Torrington. Those auditioning should be prepared to dance, read, and sing from the show. For appointments or more info, call the Warner box office at 860-489-7180.
Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston holds OPEN AUDITIONS for its July production of "The Music Man" on Sunday, May 5 from 4-7 p.m. for children, and from 7-9 p.m. for adults; and on Monday, May 6 from 7-9 p.m. for adults. Callbacks will be held on Tuesday, May 7 at 7 p.m. if needed. A large ensemble cast of adults and children is sought; all roles are open and no appointments are necessary. Performers who play musical instruments (for the marching band) are encouraged to audition. All auditioning are asked to come prepared with a song (if not from "The Music Man," please bring sheet music). Auditioners will also be asked to read from the script and perform a brief dance combination that will be taught at the audition; please dress comfortably. The show will be directed by Rob Bongiolatti; for more info call 860-283-6250.
Art Exhibits
Tunxis Community College, Routes 6 & 177 in Farmington presents its STUDENT ART SHOW featuring graphic design, digital media and photography on Monday through Friday, April 15-19 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. in Tunxis Gallery, in the main Administration Building. There will be an opening reception on Wednesday, April 17 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.; refreshments will be served. For more info call 860-677-7701.
Artwell Gallery, Water St. in Torrington presents THE TRIBOU FAMILY–FIVE GENERATIONS from April 13 through April 21, with an opening reception on Saturday, April 13 from 6-8 p.m. Artwell member David Tribou will be presenting the artwork of his great-grandfather, grandfather, father, his own work, and work by his children. Dave, a Torrington native, is a self-taught metal sculptor. Gallery hours are Thursday and Friday from 1-6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-482-5122.
Oliver Wolcott Library, 160 South St. in Litchfield presents the DORA COX 80TH BIRTHDAY ART SHOW through April 26. Dora Cox is a renowned local watercolor artist, teacher and writer who has studied with a number of prominent Canadian and American painters, including members of the Ontario College of Art and the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Michigan. The art show and sale features seascapes, landscapes, lighthouses, outhouses and flowers. An artist's reception will be on Friday, April 12 from 5-7 p.m. The exhibit can be viewed during regular library hours: Monday from noon-5 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-567-4456.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Collinsville presents an EXHIBIT OF ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS during the month of April. Eight architect/ artists have chosen interesting buildings, churches and points of interest from Canton, Canton Center, Collinsville and North Canton, capturing the essence of the buildings and the character of the community in their drawings. Contributing artists are Myles Brown, Peter Clarke, Roger Clarke, Bill Clegg, Elois Marinos, Kent McCoy, Richard Swibold and Don Tarinelli. Created for the Canton League of Women Voters' "Know Your Town" booklet, some of the original drawings are marked for sale; matted, signed prints and note cards are also available for a number of the drawings, with sales benefiting local nonprofits. The exhibit is on display during regular library hours: Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-693-5800.
Paris-New York-Kent Gallery, Kent Station Square in Kent exhibits the work of ALIDA BERLING, CLEMANCE GREGORY and ERNESTO MONTENEGRO from April 13 through May 12. Alida Berling offers an uncommon presentation of what are quite ordinary things; apparent in her paintings is a sense of drama, most likely influenced by her training in the Theater Arts in London. Clemance Gregory returns to the gallery with his surrealistic touch; his canvasses explode with more brilliancy than ever. Ernesto Montenegro has shadow box figures that are reverse silhouettes; his work combines bas-relief and carving in a very unique way. There will be an opening reception on Saturday, April 13 from 3-5 p.m. Gallery hours are Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-927-4152.
Bachelier-Cardonsky Gallery, Main St. in Kent presents PASSIONATE PAINT from April 13 through May 12, featuring Judith Corrigan, David Eddy and Kahn/ Selesnick. Judith Corrigan offers powerful depictions of horses, large and gestural, scratched and layered, full of energy and motion and mindful of the Lascaux cave paintings. David Eddy's paintings are phenomenal in their universal appeal: raw and delicate, quiet and jubilant, subtle and bold, and just utterly magical. Nicholas Kahn and Richard Selesnick have worked in collaboration for fifteen years; they offer a series of botanical paintings painted on cracked plaster to look like ancient frescoes, studies of beautiful plants that float against Renaissance-style backgrounds. A reception for the artists will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 3-5 p.m. The gallery is open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-927-3129.
Gallery on the Green, Route 44 in Canton presents its NATIONAL JURIED EXHIBITION from April 14 through May 19. Rachel Rosenfield Lafo was the juror for this competition. An opening reception will be held on Sunday, April 14 from 3-6 p.m. with an awards presentation at 5 p.m.; the reception is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 1-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-693-4102.
Hartford Department of Human Services features an exhibit by Hartford artist EDWARD LAROSE through June 28 at the Hartford Directors' Gallery, 2 Holcomb St. (2nd floor) in Hartford. Larose creates collages and incorporates pencil in them. He says, "When I was in college the emphasis was on European artists who did mostly oil on canvas, but I wanted to focus on my American culture. As a result of this I studied the techniques of American artists such as Romare Bearden and Fletcher Martin. I create collages that I think depict American life." A public reception will be held on Friday, April 19 from 4:30-7 p.m. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; for more info call 860-543-8874.
Studio 22, Route 22 in Amenia seeks artists for a JURIED EXHIBITION entitled "Worlds in a Box." Simply defined, a box is a receptacle or case for holding contents. Yet, with inquiry and curiosity, the box can be a stage, a convenient way of defining space, a cabinet of curiosities, a definable boundary between inside and outside. Art boxes are a hybrid genre, assembled from collage, sculpture, painting and found objects. Gallery owner Katherine Grelish hopes that artists will be receptive to working within the format of the box structure while staying true to their chosen medium. Submission dates are Saturday and Sunday, April 27-28; exhibit opening will be on Sunday, May 26 from 4-8 p.m. For more info and submission guidelines, call 845-373-7533.
Lectures
Norfolk/ Colebrook Garden Club presents R. Kennard Baker with his colorful slide presentation PEONIES–THE FULL SPECTRUM on Friday, April 12 at 5 p.m. at the Norfolk Library, Route 44 in Norfolk. Mr. Baker lectures and writes about peonies and is a member of the board of directors of the American Peony Society. His three-acre garden has what may be the largest private collection of both tree- and herbaceous-peony varieties in the world and has been featured in several magazines; while the New York Botanical Garden boasts 26 varieties of peonies, Mr. Baker has more than 500! Free and open to the public; for reservations call the Library at 860-542-5075.
Simon's Rock College in Great Barrington presents ISLAMIC LAW AND CULTURE, a lecture by Engin Akarli on Friday, April 12 at 7 p.m. in the Lecture Center. Engin Akarli is Joukowsky Family Distinguished Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History at Brown University. Mr. Akarli serves on the editorial board of "Islamic Law and Society," and he is the author of "The Long Peace: Ottoman Lebanon, 1865-1920." Free and open to the public; for more info call 413-528-7488.
Sheffield Historical Society presents NATURE THEN AND NOW with Don Reid on Friday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m. at Dewey Memorial Hall, Route 7 in Sheffield. Have you ever wondered what it was like walking around the Southern Berkshires in the 18th century? Would you have seen the same wildlife or smelled the same flowers? Learn about the changes in the natural world between the time of early settlement and now. Don Reid will lead us in discovering the sights and sounds of a bygone era. Free and open to the public; for more info call 413-229-2694.
Norfolk Library, Route 44 in Norfolk presents REALITY AND IMAGINATION IN VERMEER'S "THE ART OF PAINTING," a slide-lecture by Dr. Francis Baudry on Saturday, April 13 at 4 p.m. Reservations are requested; for more info call 860-542-5075.
Glebe House Museum presents a slide-lecture on FINE VEGETABLE GARDENING on Sunday, April 14 at 4 p.m. at Saint Paul's Church Parish Hall in Woodbury. Jack Staub, a noted garden writer, designer and lecturer, will be speaking. Mr. Staub's lecture, called "The Art of the Potager," is an hour-long slide presentation devoted to vegetable garden design and history. The talk showcases some of the world's most beautiful potagers, including Villandry, Barnsley House, Haseley Court, Eythrope, and Forde Abbey. Mr. Staub will focus on garden architecture and structure learned from his mentor and good friend, the late Rosemary Verey, as well as on decorative and unusual vegetable varieties. Admission is $10 members, $12 non-members; for more info call 203-263-2855.
Lifelong Learning Association of Tunxis Community College, 271 Scott Swamp Rd. in Farmington presents TALKING WITH A NATION OF STRANGERS on Monday, April 15 at 1 p.m. in Fisher Hall. Jeff Rivers will talk on the role the press can play in unifying a fragmented country. Rivers is an associate editor and columnist with the "Hartford Courant." Winners of the George L. Knapp Essay and Poetry Contest, an annual contest for Tunxis students sponsored by the LLA under the direction of Dr. Ed Ifkovic, Tunxis professor of English, will also be announced. Requested donation for non-members is $2; refreshments will be served. For more info call 860-679-9526.
Simon's Rock College in Great Barrington presents translator STEVEN F. WHITE on Monday, April 15 at 4 p.m. in Blodgett House. White, who is the author and translator of twelve volumes of poetry, will discuss his work as a translator of Spanish and Latin American literature. He has translated and edited anthologies of poetry from Nicaragua, Chile and Brazil, and is considered the foremost authority on Nicaraguan poetry in America. Free and open to the public; for more info call 413-528-7222.
Simon's Rock College in Great Barrington presents a slide-show of photographs by TANYA MARCUSE on Monday, April 15 at 7 p.m. in Blodgett House. Tanya Marcuse, faculty member in studio arts and a Simon's Rock alumna ('81), will show slides of her photographs illustrating the development of her work from 1982 to present. Free and open to the public; for more info call 413-528-7412.
Trinity Episcopal Church, 220 Prospect St. in Torrington hosts a book discussion on Amy Tam's "THE BONESETTER'S DAUGHTER" on Monday, April 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the office "living room." For more info call the church office at 860-482-6027.
Beardsley and Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place in Winsted presents poet and storyteller TRACY CAMERON on Wednesday, April 17 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tracy Cameron is a Connecticut native currently living in Winsted. Her sensual poetry and mystical stories have been published in "The Door Opener" magazine and an anthology of poetry; a CD of her work, called "Drink from the Chalice in the Well," was completed last year. She is a poet and storyteller who also uses her intuitive gifts as a counselor and a teacher of ancient healing arts. Join Tracy as she shares her work with a sense of wonder and art. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-379-6043.
Simon's Rock College in Great Barrington presents author JOAN DELPLATO on Wednesday, April 17 at 7 p.m. in Blodgett House. A faculty member in art history and women's studies, Joan DelPlato will discuss her new book, "Multiple Wives, Multiple Pleasures: Representing the Harem, 1800-1975." Free and open to the public; for more info call 413-528-7412.
Institute of American Indian Studies, 38 Curtiss Rd. in Washington hosts THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS on Thursday, April 18 at noon. This lecture by the Institute’s Director of Education, Deseree B. Heme, will consider the last 100 years of "National Geographic" magazine. Attendees will look at the way Western European authors have followed patterns of cultural concepts of the non-West through time, and will learn how authors’ writing reflects themselves and changes in society over the last century. Free; for more info call 860-868-0518.
Licia & Mason Beekley Community Library, Central Ave. in New Hartford hosts SPRING COLOR FROM HOLLAND on Thursday, April 18 at 7 p.m. Robert Herman, horticulture professor at the University of Massachusetts, will present a fascinating video and slide presentation of the bulb-growing areas of Holland. Robert will also take you on a tour of the magnificent Keukenhof Gardens, where you'll see some of the millions of spring-flowering bulbs grown in Holland and exported throughout the world. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-379-7235.
Canton Feed & Supply in Canton hosts "ORGANIC GARDENING–IS IT FOR ME?" on Thursday, April 18 at 8 p.m. We all hear and read so much about organic foods and gardening, but what does it mean? Is it practical for the home gardener? This seminar will show you how to get started and what the many benefits are to maintaining an organic garden. Free and open to the public, but registration is requested; for more info call 860-693-8760.
Classes and Workshops
Berkshire Botanical Garden, Routes 102 & 183 in Stockbridge hosts a COMPOSTING MADE EASY workshop on Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m.-noon. This workshop will provide the what, how, and why of composting food and yard waste to produce a homemade soil conditioner for your garden and lawns. Composting in the backyard with bins and indoors with red wigglers will be explained. Samples of compost materials, bins, finished compost and even worm farms will be displayed. Instructor Jaime Cahillane is a composting specialist at the Center for Ecological Technology in Pittsfield; he is a solid waste recycling professional and public education is his focus. Free, but registration is required; for more info call 413-298-3926.
Collinsville Congregational Church, 7 South St. in Collinsville offers SEDUCTION OF OUR CHILDREN, a ten-week video course beginning on Sunday, April 14 at 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary. This video and discussion series is from Neil Anderson's Freedom in Christ Ministries. For more info call 860-693-6333.
Washington Art Association, 4 Bryan Plaza in Washington Depot offers SPRING CLASSES for adults and children beginning the week of April 15. For more info call 860-868-2878.
New Britain Museum of American Art, 56 Lexington St. in New Britain offers a free FIGURE DRAWING INSTRUCTION WORKSHOP on Saturday, April 20 from 1-3 p.m. Instructor Pieter Lefferts will guide participants to a deeper appreciation of the process of drawing the human figure by sketching from a live, clothed model in the gallery, surrounded by figurative works of some of America's best known artists. This workshop, which complements the current exhibit, "The Body Revealed: 200 Years of the American Nude," is sponsored by the "Cultural Connection" partnership formed by the Museum and the Farmington Valley Arts Center. Instruction and all materials are provided at no cost and pre-registration is not required, but the standard $5 museum admission fee applies; for more info call 860-229-0257.
Northwest YMCA announces SPRING SESSION CLASSES beginning on April 22. Programs include swimming, basketball, teen strength training, teen racquetball, teen aerobics and more. For more info call 860-489-3133, or 860-379-0708.
Foothills Adult and Continuing Education offers ESTATE PLANNING: EXPLORE THE OPTIONS on Tuesday, April 23 at Northwestern Regional High School in Winsted. Find out how to select the right investments for you, core strategies for success in the market, how to reduce your investment risk, and potential benefits. The class meets for two sessions; cost is $40. To register call the Education Connection at 860-567-0863, or 800-300-4781.
TriArts offers THE ACTING PROJECT, a workshop taught by professional theater veterans Ian Cadenhead and Gordon Heyworth on Sundays, April 28 through May 26 from 1-4 p.m. at the Town Hall School on Route 112 in Lakeville. Adults of all levels of experience will be welcome. The classes will include work on a classic script, providing an opportunity for participants to work on great theatrical literature by acting it rather than just reading. There will be ample opportunity for one-on-one coaching with the aim of honing the participant’s acting skills. Participants may sign up for any or all of the five sessions; fee is $20 per class or $80 for the series. Pre-registration is required; for more info call Mr. Henworth at 860-364-5490.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers TURN THE EXPERIENCES OF YOUR LIFE INTO FICTION with Claire Vreeland on Wednesdays, May 1 through June 5 from 10 a.m.-noon. Topics include how to find the main theme of your story, choosing a title that invites interest, and finding where the story actually begins and ends. Write the unique story that only you can write. Cost is $60; registration deadline is April 17. For more info call 860-738-6446.
Outdoors
Housatonic Audubon Society holds its monthly BIRD AND NATURE WALK on Saturday, April 13 at 9 a.m. at Sharon Audubon Center, Route 4 in Sharon. Bring binoculars or borrow a pair; for more info call 860-364-0520.
White Memorial Conservation Center, off Route 202 in Litchfield presents NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY ALONG THE BOARDWALK with by Bob Crispino on Saturday, April 13; meet in front of the Museum at 8 a.m. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-567-0857.
Canton Land Trust holds VOLUNTEER WORK DAYS at the Mary Conklin Sanctuary on Saturdays, April 13 and April 20 from 9 a.m.-noon. The group will prune trees, limb up cedar trees, clean trails and level existing stumps on the trails, remove bittersweet and other invasives, enlarge the path into the field and move rocks from the path. Volunteers will also clear brush along the road and clean up in preparation for seeding at Sun, Wind and Woodland on Breezy Hill Rd. on Tuesday, April 23 and Thursday, April 25 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. For more info call Betty Stanley at 693-2074.
Social Connections sponsors SINGLES WALK AND LUNCH on Sunday, April 14 at 11 a.m. on the Collinsville Trail, Route 179 in Collinsville. This is a great place to take a Sunday walk. Come join us, and afterward we'll go for lunch at a local restaurant. Free; for more info call Steve at 860-658-2385.
Canton Land Trust holds VOLUNTEER TRAIL WORK DAYS at the Fred Swan Preserve on Case St. on Thursdays, April 18 and April 25 from 9-11 a.m. For more info call Chris at 693-6142.
Housatonic Audubon Society holds its ANNUAL DINNER with guest speaker Wendell Minor on Friday, April 19 at 6 p.m. at the Interlaken Inn in Salisbury. Wendell is a local artist who has illustrated numerous children’s books and is also known for his cover illustrations for books such as "Fried Green Tomatoes," "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "Alaska." He is also an individual with a deep respect and understanding for the natural world, and he loves bringing scenes of the natural world to children. "If we lose touch with nature," he has said, "then we lose touch with ourselves." For dinner reservations call Laurie Fortin at 860-424-3963.
Morris Park and Recreation Department offers a series of GUIDED SPRING HIKES on Monday mornings beginning April 22; hikes begin at the start of each trail at 9 a.m. All levels of ability are welcome; upcoming hikes include White Memorial, Lillinonah trail, Tunxis Trail's Mile of Ledges and more. Fee is $35 for six hikes; for more info or to register, call Leslie at 860-567-4447, or Cindy at 860-567-4804.
Sports
Northwestern Regional High School, 100 Battistoni Dr. in Winsted hosts the USA JUMP ROPE REGIONAL TOURNAMENT on Saturday, April 13 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Jumpers from the entire northeast region will compete to qualify for the Nationals in June. The Forbes Flyers from Forbes School in Torrington, with Coach Janice Harrington, will be the only Connecticut team. Thirty-two members of the Flyers (in grades 4-12) have qualified for this event, making this the team's largest representation at a regional tournament. Two former jumpers, now college freshmen, will be at this event to assist with coaching and judging. Free and open to the public; for more info call Coach Harrington at 860-489-2500.
Canton Parks and Recreation sponsors a trip to Fenway Park to see the BOSTON RED SOX play the Seattle Mariners on Saturday, May 18. Bus will leave from Mills Pond Park, 10 East Hill Rd. at 10 a.m., with game time at 1:05 p.m.; bus will depart Boston 1/2 hour after the game. Cost is $75 including transportation and tickets to the game; for more info call 860-693-5808.
Kids
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Collinsville presents a live personal appearance MAX THE BUNNY from Rosemary Wells' books on Saturday, April 13 at 11 a.m. Free and open to all ages; for more info call 860-693-5800.
Harwinton Public Library, 80 Bentley Dr. in Harwinton presents the HARTFORD YOUTH DANCE INITIATIVE on Saturday, April 13 at 1:30 p.m. Young dancers will demonstrate a bit of ballroom glamour, swing, dance theater and humor, and bring some of the history of dance to life. Michelle Evans, a Canton resident and two-time national ballroom champion, formed the group in 1995 to expose children to a variety of dance styles; children involved learn swing, tango, waltz, fox trot and other ballroom dances. This performance will appeal to all ages. For more info or to register, call 860-485-9113.
The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford presents "THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR" and "THE VERY QUIET CRICKET" on Sunday, April 14 from 1-4 p.m. Eric Carle's familiar tales will come to life during this glow-in-the-dark puppet production. "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" tells the tale of the hungry caterpillar's progress through an amazing variety of foods towards his eventual metamorphosis into a butterfly. "The Very Quiet Cricket" follows the quest of a little cricket who yearns to find his own voice. Carle's colorful collages combined with Mermaid Theatre's masterful puppetry and music create a truly memorable event for youngsters ages 3-8. Following closely the books from which the shows are adapted, the stories teach as well as entertain with large-scale puppets in vibrant shapes and shades. Tickets are $12 and $15; for more info call 860-987-5900.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Collinsville presents THE SCIENCE GENIE on Tuesday, April 16 at 1 p.m. This "crazy scientist" from the Science Center of Connecticut will entertain kids in grades 1-5. Free; for more info call 860-693-5800.
Ramsdell Public Library, Main St. in Housatonic offers STORY TIME for ages pre-K through grade 1 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3:30-4 p.m. Sign-up is not required; for more info call 413-274-3738.
Harwinton Public Library, 80 Bentley Dr. in Harwinton presents Connecticut author and illustrator NAN PARSON ROSSITER speaking to school-age children on Wednesday, April 17 at 1:30 p.m. Nan Parson Rossiter is the author of "The Way Home," the story of a farm boy who befriends an injured Canada goose; and "Rugby and Rosie," about a yellow lab puppy training to be a guide dog. This program is made possible by a grant from Civic Family Services; for more info or to register, call 860-485-9113.
Beardsley & Memorial Library, 40 Munro Pl. in Winsted hosts RAPTORS presented by the Sharon Audubon Society in the children’s room on Wednesday, April 17 at 4 p.m. By viewing these powerful birds up close, both children and adults will gain an understanding of how raptors fit into our world, how important they are to our environment, as well as why they should be protected and respected. Free and open to the public; to register call 860-379-6043.
Torrington Library invites patrons to celebrate National Poetry Month by contributing to a POETRY GALLERY in the Children’s Room of the library. Choose your favorite poem to illustrate in any way you want–with photography, a collage, a drawing or painting, calligraphy, or any other way you choose. Winners will be chosen for their creativity and will be notified by phone. Please drop off your illustrated poem by April 20.
Ramsdell Public Library, Main St. in Housatonic offers a SCRATCHBOARD ART craft activity for children (ages 6-12) on Saturday, April 20 from 10:30 a.m.-noon. Registration is required by April 13; for more info call 413-274-3738.
Mason Library, Main St. in Great Barrington offers STORY TIME sessions for children (ages 2 1/2-5) on Wednesdays, April 24 through May 15 and Fridays, April 26 through May 17 from 10-11 a.m. Pre-registration is required; for more info call 413-528-2403.
Festivals and Sales
First United Methodist Church Women sponsor a RUMMAGE SALE on Friday, April 12 from 6-8:30 p.m.; and Saturday, April 13 from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 21 Fern Dr. in Torrington. There will be a large variety of clothing for babies, young adults and adults, as well as thousands of other items.
Auxiliary Thrift Shop, 115 Spencer St in Winsted holds a HALF-PRICE SALE on all clothing on Tuesday through Saturday, April 16-20; hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays and 9:30 a.m.-noon on Saturday. Please remember the Auxiliary Thrift Shop at spring cleaning time; we need your donations for all our departments. For more info call 860-379-1997.
Gilbert Soccer Booster Club is seeking participants for its TAG SALE on Saturday, May 4 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Gilbert School cafeteria to benefit the Gilbert Boys and Girls Soccer teams. With your $30 donation, you will be provided with a table area of ten-plus feet for your items. Crafters and artisans are also invited to participate. For more info call 860-738-8486, or 860-379-1454.
Trips
Sharon Audubon Center invites the public to join Scott Heth for a SPRINGTIME ON THE CHESAPEAKE BAY trip aboard the 100-passenger M/V Nantucket Clipper on April 27 through May 4. Depart from Washington, DC on a trip to explore the Chesapeake Bay in its spring glory. Highlights will include birdwatching at the Jean duPont Shehan Audubon Sanctuary in Bozman, as well as touring the National Aquarium and exploring St. Michaels, Annapolis and Baltimore. For more info call the Audubon Center at 860-364-0520; for reservations call Beth Ryan at 800-967-7425.
Foothills Adult & Continuing Education offers a day trip to CAP'N JACK'S LOBSTERBAKE in Rhode Island on Saturday, August 10. Step back in time to Narragansett's Victorian Age with a guided tour of the summer cottages, Ocean Road, the fishing capital of Galilee, and the Point Judith Lighthouse. There will be a stop at Mystic Village for shopping. Cost is $61, including lunch; to register call 800-300-4781, or 860-567-0863.
And More
Sheffield Historical Society, 159-161 Main St. in Sheffield presents the exhibition SHEFFIELD FASHIONS–Dresses, Drawers, Hats and Hoops with special tours offered on Sundays, April 14 and April 21 at 2 p.m. View the stylish array of clothing worn by Sheffield residents during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Admission is free for members, $3 for non-members; children are admitted free, men admitted free during this exhibit. The exhibition can also be visited weekdays by appointment; for more info call 413-229-2694.
