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Music and Dance
Licia and Mason Beekley Community Library, Central Ave. in New Hartford presents FENNO HEATH PLAYS BROADWAY on Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m. Fenno, the long-time director of the Yale Glee Club, will present 20 songs from a variety of musical productions and lead the audience in a sing-along. He will also share some information and anecdotes about musical theater and its composers. Refreshments will be served. Suggested donation is $5; for more info call 860-379-7235.
Pioneer Valley Pickers and Grinners host their CHRISTMAS ACOUSTIC MUSIC PICKING PARTY on Friday, December 20 from 7-9 p.m. at the American Inn, 802 College Highway (Route 10/202) in Southwick, MA. Musicians playing stringed acoustic instruments who are interested in traditional American music are welcome. Non-players are welcome to come and enjoy the music and sing along. Free admission; refreshments will be available. No smoking and no alcohol please. Members of the Resurrection Airmen will host this event; for more info call Kirk Creswell at 413-569-3637.
Mighty Goshen Festival Singers present the 6th annual GOSHEN CHRISTMAS FEAST AND SONG on Friday and Saturday, December 20-21 at 6:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall at Church of Christ Congregational in Goshen. Enjoy a gourmet dinner and listen to harmonious sacred and secular Christmas music. Tickets are $25, reservations required; for more info call 860-491-2793.
Joyful Noise presents CHRISTMAS ANGELICUS featuring Chorus Angelicus and Gaudeamus with special guest narrator John McDonough on Friday, December 20 at 7:30 p.m. at Simsbury United Methodist Church, 352 Main St. in Simsbury; on Saturday, December 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Hotchkiss School Chapel, 11 Interlaken Rd. in Lakeville; and on Sunday, December 22 at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 220 Prospect St. in Torrington. Chorus Angelicus, the acclaimed children's choir, and Gaudeamus, the adult vocal ensemble, present their 12th annual Christmas concert, a festive celebration of holiday music and readings to warm your heart. Tickets are $20-$30 adults, $10 students; for more info call 888-788-8882.
Berkshire Foothills Ballet performs "THE NUTCRACKER" on Saturday, December 21 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium at Northwest Regional #7 School in Winsted. Featured dancers are Nicole Fern as Clara, Tiffany Thibault as the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Sara Defoe as the Nutcracker. Tickets are $14 adults, $12 students and seniors, $8 children (under 8); for more info call 860-738-0714.
CT Valley Theatre Organ Society presents JUAN CARDONA, JR. and special guest Michelle Dawson-Cardona on Sunday, December 22 at 3 p.m. at the Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston. Tickets are $10 adults; students (age 16 and under) free. For more info call 203-426-2443.
The Parish Church of Saint Andrew, Route 202 in Marbledale hosts a COMMUNITY CAROL SING on Sunday, December 22 at 4 p.m. Come and sing the old favorites, led by the Rev. Amy Egan and St. Andrew’s Choir members, with Elaine Barksdale at the organ. All are welcome; there is no charge for admission, although a free-will offering will be taken. For more info call 860-868-2275.
Unionville Museum sponsors its 20th annual CHRISTMAS CAROL SING on Sunday, December 22 at 5 p.m. at the gazebo in Clover Pinney Park in Unionville. All are welcome to join in this longstanding tradition; the park will be lit with festive luminaries and Santa Claus is also expected to stop by. (Inclement weather location is First Church of Christ Congregational on School St.) "The Spirit of Giving," the current exhibit featuring Christmas trees decorated by local volunteer groups, will be open before and after the carol sing at the Unionville Museum, located at 15 School St.; for more info call 860-673-4210.
The World of Arts, People & Joy hosted by Wilbert Boles on WAPJ 89.9 FM presents guests MIKE ROOTS at 7 p.m. and music by local artists at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 26. For more info call the studio at 860-489-9033.
Norfolk Library, Route 44 in Norfolk presents a family celebration with SANKOFA KUUMBA on Sunday, December 29 at 4 p.m. Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Arts Consortium was founded in 1986 by Nandi Christine Dixon-Smith. Centering on the traditional dances, drumming, choreography and oral traditions of Africa, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, Sankofa Kuumba’s performance captures all of the astonishing power, beauty and truth of the African Diaspora. This is a truly remarkable group comprised of talented children in colorful costume with high energy. Bring the whole family to this inspiring show. Free, but reservations are requested; for more info call 860-542-5075.
Drama and Comedy
The Warner Theatre, 68 Main St. in Torrington presents Charles Dickens’ classic "A CHRISTMAS CAROL" on Saturday, December 21 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, December 22 at 2 p.m. This tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s prophetic Christmas Eve is ultimately one of family and conscience, of desperation and regret, and second chances. This new version of "A Christmas Carol" includes stellar performances by veteran actors along with sensational special effects. Tickets are $22, $19 and $16; for more info call 860-489-7180.
TheaterWorks, 233 Pearl St. in Hartford presents "DINNER WITH FRIENDS" through December 22, with performances on Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Gabe and Karen, Beth and Tom are two Connecticut couples who have also been best friends for as long as any of them can remember. Married for 12 years, they planned on eating, drinking and parenting their way into old age together. But when Gabe and Karen host a dinner to try out some new recipes on their best friends, only one arrives bearing news that will test their friendship and even their marriage. Tickets are $30, except $40 on Friday and Saturday; center section reserved seats are $10 extra. For more info call 860-527-7838.
Hartford Stage, 50 Church St. in Hartford presents the beloved Dickens classic "A CHRISTMAS CAROL—A Ghost Story of Christmas" though December 28. This is the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, the heartless miser who discovers the true meaning of the holiday season after a Christmas Eve haunting. Featuring all of Charles Dickens’s well known characters (Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future), Michael Wilson’s adaptation is both a chilling ghost story and a heartwarming holiday event for the whole family. Tickets are $45-$35; for show times and more info, call 860-527-5151.
Seven Angels Theatre, located at Hamilton Park Pavilion on Plank Rd. in Waterbury presents its annual NEW YEAR’S EVE COMEDY SHOW featuring Howard Feller, Jessica Kirson, Johnny Lampert and James Oakes on Tuesday, December 31 at 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tickets for the early show are $38; tickets for the late show, which includes a champagne reception and hors d’oeuvres to ring in the New Year, are $60. For more info call 203-757-4676.
Seven Angels Theatre, located at Hamilton Park Pavilion on Plank Rd. in Waterbury presents "MESSHUGAH NUNS!" through February 2, with performances on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. This is the 5th show in the series created by Dan Goggin, which began with "Nunsense" in 1986. This time, the Little Sisters of Hoboken embark on a cruise to the Holy Land. Along the way, they're asked to fill in for the seasick cast of "Fiddler on the Roof." Tickets are $24-$38.50; for more info call 203-757-4676.
Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston holds OPEN AUDITIONS for its March production of "The Zoo Story" and "Duck Variations" on Monday and Tuesday, January 6-7 from 7-9 p.m. "The Zoo Story" by Edward Albee will be directed by John Fabiani; "Duck Variations" by David Mamet will be directed by Keith Winegar. All roles are open to audition; the directors are seeking four men ages late 20s to 60s. All auditioning will be asked to read from the script. For more info call 860-283-6250.
Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston holds OPEN AUDITIONS for its March production of "The Scarlet Pimpernel" on Tuesday and Wednesday, January 7-8 at 7 p.m. This action/ adventure show is based on Baroness Orczy’s famous 20th century novel about the French Revolution. Casting requirements call for 16 men, two principal women, plus an ensemble of players; all roles are open to audition. Those auditioning should be prepared to sing (if your song is not from "The Scarlet Pimpernel," please provide sheet music) and read from the script; there will be no dance audition. French accents will not be required. For more info call 860-283-6250.
Art Exhibits
Ann Raymond Center for the Arts sponsors a HOLIDAY ART EXHIBIT at the Licia and Mason Beekley Community Library in New Hartford through December 31. The excitement, enthusiasm and interest displayed by the children whose artwork is on exhibit are so wonderful to see. The exhibit may be viewed during regular library hours; for more info call 860-379-3972.
Greene Fox Gallery, 15 Water St. in Torrington represents over 40 local and nationally known artisans. Craft items for sale include hand-blown glass ornaments and oil lamps, metal night lights and sconces, whimsical picture frames, raku vases and platters, and beaded silver jewelry. The gallery also offers a wide range of loose beads, seed beads, pearls, jewelry findings and stringing materials. Ms. Greene, who holds a BFA in small metals from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, has sold her beaded purses and decorative collars in Boston. Gallery hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (or till 7:30 p.m. on performance nights at the Warner Theatre); for more info call 860-626-7118.
Hill-Stead Museum, 35 Mountain Rd. in Farmington exhibits dozens of decorative art objects, books, prints and photographs from the ALFRED ATMORE POPE COLLECTION along with the museum’s famed inventory of Impressionist paintings through January 5. Original Japanese wood block prints will also be brought out of storage for this annual holiday exhibition. The house will be open for tours on Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; for more info call 860-677-8384.
New Arts Gallery, 513 Maple St. in Litchfield hosts an exhibition of the work of JIM SCHANTZ, SHERYL RUBINSTEIN AND MATTHEW LOPAS through January 5. Jim Schantz creates landscapes that are contemporary in nature and reflect his deep reverence for the natural world. Sheryl Rubinstein’s works on glass express her interest in the nature of beauty and memory. Matthew Lopas focuses the attention of his paintings on the interior world., with rooms telling the stories of their occupants even though they aren’t present. Gallery hours are Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-567-5015.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Collinsville presents its 2nd annual HOLIDAY GROUP ART SHOW through January 12. Library walls are decorated with artwork by a number of artists from the Farmington Valley area. Pieces on display include paintings, decorative masks, bowls and jewelry; works are available for sale. For more info call 860-693-5800.
Artwell Gallery, 19 Water St. in Torrington presents its new exhibition, CATS’ MEOW from December 28 through January 12. All of the images, objects and words in this show have something to do with cats. There will be an opening reception on Saturday, December 28 from 6-8 p.m. 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.
Wisdom House, 229 East Litchfield Rd. in Litchfield exhibits mixed media collages by MARJORY REID of Lakeville in its Marie Louise Trichet Gallery through January 25. Ms. Reid’s work is a combination of collage and drawing on paper. She challenges herself to unify mixed media, using drawing with other materials. The drawn image is often an echo of the collage. She calls the works "strip collages," and as long horizontal images, they combine many images. Her hope is "to convey metaphorically the idea that diversities among ourselves, our culture and the world are a beautiful thing." Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; for more info call 860-567-3163.
Norfolk Library, Route 44 in Norfolk showcases the illustrative paintings of Norfolk’s KINUKO CRAFT during December and January. A major figure in contemporary American illustration, Kinuko will personally select paintings for this exhibit from her range of fantasy art, book jackets, poster designs and children’s books. The awards, clients and exhibits of Kinuko Craft are far too numerous to mention here, but suffice it to say that the Norfolk Library is proud and excited to present the work of this world-renowned artist. For more info call 860-542-5075.
Lectures and Presentations
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. (Route 10) in Simsbury hosts a meeting of its Book Discussion Group to talk about the book "THE TALE OF MURASAKI" by Liza Dalby on Thursday, January 9 from 7-9 p.m. All are invited; new members may join the group at any time. For more info call the Reference Desk at 860-658-7663.
Classes and Workshops
The Amistad Foundation offers its 2nd annual KWANZAA CRAFTS AND CULTURE workshop for families on Saturday, December 21 from 1-4 p.m. at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, 600 Main St. in Hartford. A uniquely African-American celebration, Kwanzaa (observed from December 26 through January 1) is neither religious or political, but a time to reflect on traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce and self-improvement. Join the Iroko family in drumming, song and dance, learn how to set a Kwanzaa table, and make your own unique kinara (candle holder), mats and cards. Then explore the exhibition "Sankofa: Contemporary Culture and Ancestral Memory" in the Amistad Gallery. Refreshments will be served in the Hartford Courant Room. Admission is free, but registration is required; to register call 860-278-2670, ext 3094.
Farmington Valley Arts Center offers a 90-MINUTE CREATIVITY WORKOUT led by award-winning painter, illustrator, designer and writer Susan Rubinroit on Thursday, January 2 from 7-8:30 p.m. at its Sperry Park Annex, 50 Simsbury Rd. (Route 10) in Avon. Rubinroit is an experienced meditator in the yogic tradition and often leads creative workshops in spiritual and artistic contexts. She will introduce participants to several practices—breathing, meditation and consulting the ancient "I Ching"—that can help them get out of their own way so creativity may flow through their lives. Once renewed freshness and clearer focus have been achieved, participants will explore the work and play of making art through painting and collage activities. No artistic background is required. Admission is $5, and drop-ins are welcome; for more info call 860-674-8315.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers ACRYLIC PAINTING FOR THE BEGINNER, a 5-week class on Mondays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. beginning January 6. This beginner-level class provides an introduction to color mixing, composition and rendering, and students will have the opportunity to paint from a variety of subject matter including nature and still life. Fee is $180 plus the cost of materials; registration requested by December 30. For more info call 860-678-1867, ext 101.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers POTTERY FOR THE BEGINNER, an 8-week class beginning in January; two sections will be offered: Mondays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. beginning January 6; and Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. beginning January 14. Students will learn the fundamentals of throwing pots on the wheel and will create and glaze bowls, plates and cylindrical forms such as vases and cups. Fee is $290 plus the cost of materials; registration requested by December 30. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers TAKE A BETTER PHOTOGRAPH, an 8-week class beginning in January; two sections will be offered: Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m.-noon beginning January 7; and Fridays from 7-9:30 p.m. beginning January 10. Instructor Erik Dreeke, an experienced teacher and professional photographer, covers the fundamental elements of taking good pictures including exposure, lighting and composition, and demystifies the process of selecting film speed, shutter speed, aperture and depth of field. Participants will also learn the basics of black and white film developing and printing. Fee is $265; registration requested by January 2. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers PASTELS FOR THE BEGINNER, an 8-week class on Wednesdays from 1-4 p.m. beginning January 8. Participants will discover the unique skills—a blend of drawing and painting—for working with this colorful medium. Fee is $290; registration requested by January 2. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers JEWELRY I, a 10-week class on Wednesdays from 7:30-10 p.m. beginning January 8. Beginners will gain hands-on experience in the basics of sawing, filing, piercing, soldering and polishing silver to create handmade jewelry creations of their own. Fee is $300 plus the cost of materials; registration requested by January 2. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers WATERCOLOR FOR THE BEGINNER, a 5-week class on Thursdays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. beginning January 9. Students will learn to express themselves in color and receive individualized instruction in this class, which covers basic watercolor techniques. Fee is $180 plus the cost of materials; registration requested by January 2. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL CAMERAS AND PHOTOGRAPHY on Thursday, January 16 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. This workshop is ideal for anyone who is just getting started with digital photography. Learn about digital camera features and capabilities so that you can make the most of the camera you own or get tips on buying a first or new digital camera from instructor Linda Steinmark. Fee is $30; registration requested by January 9. For more info call 860-678-1867 ext 101.
UConn Cooperative Extension Center sponsors a CREATIVE ARTS WORKSHOP at the UConn Torrington campus on Saturday, January 18 from 1-3 p.m. Bring your holiday pictures or other precious photos to learn how to preserve family memories; participants will transform family photos into a scrapbook photo album. Instructor Daphne Roy will demonstrate techniques for creating a scrapbook page; no experience required. Fee of $10 covers the cost of acid-free scrapbook materials; to register call 860-626-6240.
Kids
Forbes School, 500 Migeon Ave. in Torrington hosts basketball star SANDY "SPIN" SLADE on Friday, December 20 at 9:30 a.m. in a school assembly sponsored by the Forbes PTO. Since 1986, Sandy "Spin" Slade has been performing at NBA halftime shows, basketball camps and on television around the world. Her presentation combines her highly acclaimed basketball talent with important messages on building self-esteem and dealing with criticism, and she encourages kids to explore and develop their individual talents. Sandy also calls attention to the accomplishments of girls and women in sports. For more info call physical education teacher Janice Harrington at 860-489-2500.
Flamig Farm, 7 Shingle Mill Rd. in West Simsbury hosts BREAKFAST OR LUNCH WITH SANTA on Saturday and Sunday, December 21-22 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; breakfast seatings are at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., and lunch seatings are at noon and 1 p.m. In addition to a meal with Santa (pancake, sausage, toast and eggs for breakfast; and Santa’s favorite, pizza, for lunch), his young guests are invited to visit the petting zoo, collect eggs in the hen house and take a ride on the Christmas trolley. Tickets are $10; reservations are required. For more info call Gwen at 860-658-5070.
Carl Brozenski’s Christmas Village in Torrington will be open every day from 1-8:30 p.m. until Christmas Eve, when it will be open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mrs. Claus and her sister will be visiting Christmas Village during the season; call 860-489-2274 for specific times.
New England Air Museum, off Route 75 (adjacent to Bradley International Airport) in Windsor Locks holds FAMILY VACATION ACTIVITIES on Thursday through Monday, December 26-30. The special schedule includes a scavenger hunt with prizes on Thursday; an Open Cockpit event with some aircraft open to the public on Friday; a LEGO competition for ages 3-12 on Saturday; a presentation of "The Wright Idea," an original 25-minute play by Alison Moncrief bringing the story of the Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane to life, on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.; and modeling workshops for ages 10 and up on Monday. The Museum is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (but closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day). Admission is $7.50 adults, $4 children (ages 6-11); a nominal materials fee applies for the modeling workshops. For more info call 860-623-3305, or visit <www.neam.org> .
Beardsley & Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place in Winsted offers a program on MAKING A CHARM BRACELET with Sue Dean Thebarge on Friday, December 27 from 10:30 a.m.-noon. This jewelry making workshop is for ages 9 and up. To register call 860-379-6043.
Torrington Library, 12 Daycoeton Place in Torrington offers MUSIC TOGETHER for children (ages 0-4) on Monday, January 6 at 10:30 a.m. This program with local musicians Kath Bloom and Tom Hanford will engage the children in chants, instrument play, tonal play and movement. Registration is required; for more info call Abigail at 860-489-6684.
Northwest YMCA in Torrington and Winsted begins its winter session of YOUTH CLASSES including swim lessons, gym classes, racquetball instruction and more on Monday, January 6. For more info or to register, call 860-489-3133, or 860-379-0708.
And More
Wally Hawley of Forever Farms offers HORSE-DRAWN HAYRIDES powered by his two Percherons (2,000 lbs. each) on Saturday, December 21 at 1 p.m. beginning at the Winsted-Colebrook town line on Route 8. This Christmas-themed hayride—with carol singing and a special bearded visitor—will clip-clop to East End Park and Main St. in Winsted and travel through town, with stops along the way, before making the trip back to the start. The entire trip is expected to be cover about 9 miles. For more info call Leon Gomlinski at 860-379-0877, or Guilds O’Dell at 860-379-9821.
Social Connections sponsors a singles gathering to see the FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS on Saturday, December 21 at 7 p.m. at Constitution Plaza in Hartford. Meet at 6 p.m. and carpool from the Sears store (across from West Farms Mall) in West Hartford. This will be a fun night for everyone to enjoy the twinkling holiday lights. Afterward, the group will go nearby for refreshments. For more info call Gail at 860-582-8229.
Ventfort Hall Association, 104 Walker St. in Lenox hosts a HOLIDAY TEA AND TOUR on Saturday, December 28 from 1-5 p.m. Also, from Thursday, December 26 through Tuesday, December 31, tours of the decorated Gilded Age mansion will be conducted hourly from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., with the last tour beginning at 2 p.m. Visitors will see a lavish holiday setting in the restored and newly furnished dining room, a gingerbread replica of the estate’s ice house and one of its greenhouses, and several additions to the museum’s collection and the restoration of the mansion. Admission for the holiday tea and tour is $10; admission at other times is $8 adults, $4 children; for more info call 413-637-3206.
Social Connections sponsors a SINGLES NEW YEAR’S POTLUCK PARTY at a location in Bristol on Tuesday, December 31 from 8 p.m. until we ring in the new year! We’ll celebrate together, have a great time, and maybe even dance. Dress to impress, BYOB and a dish to share (casserole, salad or dessert). Admission is $15; for reservations call Gail at 860-582-8229.
Gunn Historical Museum, Wykeham Rd. and Route 47 in Washington presents its annual holiday exhibit, "A Child’s Delight: TOY TRAINS AND THE MAGIC OF MAKE BELIEVE" through January 5. Hours are Thursday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday from noon-4 p.m.; for more info call 860-868-7756.
New England Carousel Museum, 95 Riverside Ave. (Route 72) in Bristol has magnificent carousel pieces on display including antique horses, menagerie figures, chariots, rounding boards and trim pieces. Winter museum hours are Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday from noon-5 p.m. Admission is $5 adults, $4.50 seniors, $2.50 children (ages 4-14), free for members and children under 4; for more info call 860-585-5411.
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