|
Entertainment Directory
Music and Dance
Wamogo Regional High School, 98 Wamogo Rd. in Litchfield hosts BLUEGRASS ON THE HILL, an evening of traditional and second-generation music on Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m. in the James Eisenhower Auditorium. Featured performers include The Just Friends Bluegrass Band and Too Blue. Just Friends Bluegrass Band has been playing traditional, gospel and contemporary bluegrass music since 1995 and are known for their warmth and humor in addition to a well-rounded sound with varied harmonies and spirited acoustic instrumentation. Too Blue is a bluegrass/ swing band based in Woodbury; their first CD, "A Little on the Blue Side," has been praised for "creative lyrics, musical artwork and playful arrangements." This benefit event is sponsored by the Wamogo Choir for their trip later this spring. Refreshments will be available. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door; for more info call 860-567-9182.
Litchfield County Choral Union presents a BROADWAY TUNE SING-ALONG for the whole family on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 21 Fern Dr. in Torrington. Music will be provided. Proceeds will benefit the Torrington Area Salvation Army; food donations are also welcomed. The Choral Union, under the direction of Jonathan F. Babbitt, is entering its 104th season. Averaging 90 members, the Choral Union is open to all singers without audition and strives to carry out the joyous spirit of its original dedication in 1899: "to honor the composer and his works in the most elevated conditions." Suggested donation to defray expenses is $10; for more info call 860-868-0739.
Music for a Change presents legendary folk/ rock performer JONATHAN EDWARDS on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Millard Auditorium at the University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave. in West Hartford. Singer/ songwriter Kenny White, who has had a hand in scoring and songwriting for many films, will open the show. Tickets are $17; proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. For more info call 860-768-4228, or 800-274-8547.
Social Connections offers a '50s and '60s DANCE on Friday, March 14 from 8 p.m.-midnight at Nuchie's 164 Central St. in Bristol. There will be a DJ, as well as a buffet served from 8-9:30 p.m. and door prizes. Admission is $12, dress casual; for more info call Jean at 860-347-6404.
59 Barber Street in Torrington presents the ARTS, PEOPLE & JOY FESTIVAL—a benefit for WAPJ Nutmeg Conservatory Broadcasting on Saturday, March 15 beginning with a kid's hour at 3 p.m. Featured performers include Marty Brennan and Rick Patches, Love at Work, Orrin Bolton, Sandra Ebner, Linda Richmond, The Fables, Alan Delarm, Bucky Howard, Steve Bellwood, Larry Livolsi and Dennis Nied, David Quick, Cheryl Della Pelle, David Maharg and the Allstars, and many more. Suggested donation is $10, or pay what you can afford; for more info call 860-489-0137.
Stockbridge Congregational Church, 4 Main St. in Stockbridge hosts percussionist PETER WISE in a recital of music from around the world on Saturday, March 15 at 4 p.m. Wise, a Berkshire native and currently a senior studying at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, returns to the Berkshires to present his degree recital, capping his studies in classical, modern and world percussion. This concert’s diverse program will include music by J. S. Bach, New York composer David Lang, Japanese composer Akira Miyoshi, as well as music of the traditional mbira (thumb piano) from Zimbabwe and the world premier of a new piece for marimba and piano by Uzbek composer Alisher Latif-Zade. A colorful palette of instruments will be played including marimba, timpani, metal sounds, hand drums and amplified cardboard tubes. A graduate of Monument Mountain High School, Wise has played with a wide variety of community and professional music organizations in the Berkshire area over the past ten years. Free and open to the public.
The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford presents THE DUKE ELLINGTON SHOW CHOIR on Saturday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the Belding Theater. The choir, whose repertoire includes Broadway and Motown classics, spirituals, and classical and opera favorites, has thrilled audiences around the world. The Duke Ellington Show Choir is the "cream of the crop" of Duke Ellington School of the Arts’ music students. For over 25 years, the Duke Ellington School of the Arts has been the site of a unique public high school that combines college preparatory academic courses with training in the visual and performing arts, focusing on providing for the educational needs of talented inner city youth. Tickets are $18-$28; for more info call 860-987-5900.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton presents Celtic harpist PATRICK BALL on Saturday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m. Patrick Ball returns with his new theater piece that weds stories woven like fine Irish tweed with masterful playing of the wire-strung harp that is hauntingly beautiful. Using his harp, penny whistle, and the brogues of a pubful of characters, he will weave a pageant out of scraps of stories, researched history, and the raucous dark humor of the Irish. Tickets are $15 in advance, $17 at the door; for more info call 860-693-0263.
Torrington Symphony Orchestra presents a CABARET POPS CONCERT on Saturday, March 15 at 8 p.m. at Cornucopia Banqueting Hall in Torrington. The orchestra is joined by special guest baritone Mark McNally in a program of music for everyone, showcasing Broadway musicals, movie themes and orchestral pops. There will be a cash bar, and snacks will be available. Tickets are $10; for more info call 860-489-9183.
Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts hosts a two-day TAP FESTIVAL on Saturday and Sunday, March 15-16. The festival begins with a performance of "Totally Tap!" starring Brenda Bufalino, Jimmy Slyde (schedule permitting), Tony Waag and Diane Walker on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Theater of the Performing Arts on the Learning Corridor campus, 359 Washington St. in Hartford. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door; $50 tickets include admission to a pre-show reception with the stars beginning at 6:15 p.m. For more info or to purchase advance tickets, call the theater box office at 860-757-6388. The festival continues with master classes taught on Sunday by Clare O'Donnell, Diane Walker, Brenda Bufalino and Tony Waag at the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts, 15 Vernon St. in Hartford. Fee is $25 for one class, $45 for two, $60 for three; for schedules and to register, call Clare O'Donnell at 860-563-1662.
Avon Free Public Library, 281 Country Club Rd. in Avon presents a PIANO AND CELLO CONCERT on Sunday, March 16 at 3 p.m. Pianist Leanne Baldwin and cellist Melissa Morgan will perform. Ms. Baldwin has performed in Europe, South America and throughout the country as a soloist and with orchestras. Melissa Morgan has been on the faculty of the University of New Mexico and San Francisco Community Music Center; she plays a 1768 Klotz cello with an 1800 Christopher Dodd bow. Free; for more info call 860-673-9712.
Norfolk Library, Route 44 in Norfolk presents the Irish music of SÉAD for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration on Sunday, March 16, at 5 p.m. Enjoy an evening of festive entertainment with the lilting tunes of Séad and the finest Irish musicians this side of the Atlantic. Guitarist and vocalist Julee Glaub has been performing traditional Irish music since 1988, combining clear, sweet vocals with the instruments of Ireland to evoke the quiet Irish countryside and the rhythms of Dublin. Julee is joined by fiddler Brian Conway and bodhran player Brendan Dolan. Free, but reservations are requested; for more info call 860-542-5075.
Beardsley and Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place in Winsted presents JACK MCCARDLE AND HIS IRISH STEPPERS on Wednesday, March 19 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jack has been teaching Irish dancing for over 35 years, including two decades as director of Irish dancing schools. He has performed in many venues—including Carnegie Hall and Irish TV. Though American born, Jack opted to seek certification as a master teacher of Irish dancing in Dublin and fulfilled the stringent requirements and exam of the prestigious dancing commission on his first attempt—unusual for an American candidate. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-379-6043.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton presents an OPEN MIKE on Wednesday, March 19 at 7 p.m.; sign up at 6:45 p.m. Featured performer Dave Fry is the former music director of Bethlehem, PA’s legendary club Godfrey Daniels. He will wow you with his consummate vocal, writing and guitar skills while sharing songs from his CD "Pearls." Tickets are $5; for more info call 860-693-0263.
Drama and Comedy
The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford presents HA! HA! HARTFORD!, a night of stand-up comedy on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Belding Theater. Three featured comedians will perform their stand-up routines: Ed Helms, a correspondent on Comedy Central’s "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" and one of New York City’s hottest comedians; Eric McMahon, who has performed with Kevin James and Drew Carey; and Nancy Tucker of Goshen, who was the first-place winner at the 2002 Connecticut Comedy Festival. Tickets are $15 and $22; for more info call 860-987-5900.
Henry James Memorial School presents the Broadway musical "INTO THE WOODS" on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday, March 15 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium at Simsbury High School, 34 Farms Village Rd. in Simsbury. Watch your neighborhood kids sparkle as 37 talented teenagers from the school's Performing Arts Theater program take part in this production. For more info call 860-651-6322.
The Warner Theatre presents fully-staged productions of the four winning plays of its 8th annual CONNECTICUT ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL on Friday and Saturday, March 14-15 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. in the Warner Studio Theatre, 69 Main St. in Torrington. The winning Connecticut playwrights and plays are: Joan Clifford of Morris with "Caring for the Young"; Burlington’s David Irvin for "A Scene at the Park"; "Foreplay" by Robert Kilzer of Torrington; and "Nothing’s Forgotten" by Torrington’s Elizabeth Harris. This production is part of The Warner’s Festival of New Works, which showcases the accomplishments of Connecticut playwrights and is dedicated to nurturing and producing new drama. Tickets are $15; for more info call 860-489-7180.
Torrington High School Project Graduation Committee presents an adult COMEDY HYPNOSIS SHOW on Saturday, March 15 from 7:30-9 p.m. at Torrington Middle School. Tickets are $15 per person or $25 per couple, and will be available at the door; all proceeds go to the graduating class of 2003. For advance tickets or more info, call 860-482-1451.
Seven Angels Theatre, located at Hamilton Park Pavilion on Plank Road in Waterbury presents "DANCING AT LUGHNASA" through March 16; performances are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. "Dancing At Lughnasa" portrays the five Mundy sisters and their family in an Irish village in 1936 as they get caught up in the changes of the early 20th century—changes that threaten to unravel their lives. Brian Friel’s play is at once quintessentially Irish and universally human, as the play echoes the dreams and hopes of love felt by people in small towns anywhere in the world. For ticket info and reservations, call 203-757-4676.
Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston presents Edward Albee's "THE ZOO STORY" and David Mamet's "DUCK VARIATIONS" on Friday and Saturday, March 14-15 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. in the Opera House Arts Center. Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 at the door; for more info call 860-283-6250.
Goshen Players visits Litchfield Woods in Torrington for a performance by the cast of "GODSPELL" on Thursday, March 20 at 7 p.m.
Hartford Stage Company, 50 Church St. in Hartford presents Horton Foote’s "THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL" through March 23 with performances on Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; as well as matinees on selected dates. This 50th anniversary of Horton Foote’s best-loved play is directed by Hartford Stage Artistic Director Michael Wilson under the personal supervision of Mr. Foote, whose works have received the Academy Award and the Pulitzer Prize. "The Trip to Bountiful" is the humorous and touching story of a woman’s journey to her childhood home. Dee Maaske will play the role of Mrs. Carrie Watts, and the greatest interpreter of Mr. Foote’s work, his daughter Hallie Foote, will play the role of the overbearing daughter-in-law, Jessie Mae. Tickets are $22-$60; for more info call 860-527-5151.
Art Exhibits
Oliver Wolcott Library, 160 South St. (Route 63) in Litchfield presents Sybil M. Perry's MOUNTAINS, WATER AND MIST: HONORING KYOTO through March 28. Perry's journey to Kyoto, made possible in 2000 by a grant awarded on the basis of her art work, enabled her to study ancient gardens as a stimulus for her own painting as well as her garden design work. Once there she found that the beauty of the surrounding mountains overwhelmed her. These paintings of lush landscapes were inspired by the memories of her unique experience there. Library hours are 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 860-567-8030.
Oliver Wolcott Library, 160 South St. in Litchfield presents the glasswork of LINDA BANKS in its display case through March 28. Linda takes ordinary window, plate and "art" glass made especially for fusing and transforms them into plates, bowls and whimsical creatures. She has developed her own style using various techniques with an array of colored reflective glasses. Her whimsical lizards, bugs and turtles are delightful, especially to those young at heart. For more info call 860-567-8030.
Washington Art Association, 4 Bryan Plaza in Washington Depot presents the paintings of CONSTANCE LaPALOMBARA, LISA HESS and JUSTIN KIM through March 30. Constance LaPalombara is a landscape and still life painter whose main focus in recent years has been the urban landscape of New Haven, where she lives, as well as Maine, where she spends her summers. Lisa Hess will be exhibiting a selection of new paintings depicting the human figure as well as some of her lyrical landscapes. The work of Justin Kim in this exhibit is a product of a cross-country trip he took last fall, consisting mainly of landscapes of the American West. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday from noon-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-868-2878.
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. (Route 10) in Simsbury presents THE "FANSEAFUL" FISH SERIES of Virginia Shepard Buck, on exhibit in the program room during the month of March. Ms. Buck’s inspired paintings are imaginative expressions based upon her love for all creatures of the earth. Born in Key West, she grew up in southeastern Connecticut, further developing her affinity for the sea and nature—a love that has continued throughout her adult life. In addition to painting and book illustration, Ms. Buck has produced a ballet entitled "A Blue Whale." For more info call 860-658-7663.
Pump House Gallery, 60 Elm St. (in the southeast corner of Bushnell Park) in Hartford features the artwork of fiber collagist Cecilia Payne and painter Cecilia Peterson from March 18 through April 25. A reception for the artists will be held on Thursday, March 20 from 5-7 p.m. Payne and Peterson will give a gallery talk on Sunday, April 13 at 3 p.m., with the gallery open from 2-4 p.m. on that day. Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; for more info call 860-722-6536, or 860-543-8874
Sheffield Historical Society, 159-161 Main St. in Sheffield presents the exhibition "IMAGES FROM THE EYE OF THE NEEDLE AND THE TIP OF THE HOOK" through April 26 in the society’s Old Stone Store; an opening reception will be held on Saturday, March 15 from 2-4 p.m. This exhibition encompasses three forms of textile art: hooked rugs, samplers and needlepoint. The three artists represented are well known locally in textile-related circles, and their work has been on display throughout the region. Dorothy Marosy’s hooked rugs have been pictured in both books and magazines. Samplers from the private collection of Muriel Rokos, many dating from the 1920s, will be displayed alongside samplers that this expert quilter has herself created over the years. Susan Young’s needlepoint has received awards on the international level. Visitors’ hours in the Old Stone Store are Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and by appointment; for more info call 413-229-2694.
Lectures and Presentations
Noble Horizons, Cobble Road in Salisbury presents Dr. Richard O’Connor speaking on "DEPRESSION: THE SILENT EPIDEMIC" on Friday, March 14 from 5-7 p.m. The former director of the Northwest Center for Family Service & Mental Health, Dr. O’Connor is in private practice in Canaan and New York City and is the author of two books on depression. He will review warning signs of depression in individuals from youngsters to seniors, treatment and recovery, and the role of the family and the community. This is the first in a five-part seminar series, "Fridays in Spring," which will also feature noted experts in long-term care insurance, estate and financial planning, Medicare and home elder care. A light supper will be served. Free, but reservations are requested; for more info call Sandy Gomez at 860-435-9851, ext 132
Barkhamsted Historical Society presents a talk by blacksmith BOB VALENTINE on Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m. at the Barkhamsted Senior Center, 109 West River Rd. in Pleasant Valley. Bob Valentine, an authority on blacksmithing and owner-operator of the Village Blacksmith in Goshen, will speak on historical aspects if iron hardware and blacksmithing. Free admission; refreshments will be served. For more info call Noreen Watson at 860-738-1152.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton presents AMBER: THE GOLDEN STONE on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. Collinsville resident Yale Goldman will enlighten the audience on the mysteries of amber: how it’s formed, where to find it and why it is in such demand. Find out whether the concept behind "Jurassic Park" is true! Goldman is also a collector of amber, and a portion of his collection is currently on exhibit at the Nature Center, where it may be viewed during normal center hours. Admission is $3 adults, $2 children; registration is not required. For more info call 860-693-0263.
Sheffield Historical Society, 159-161 Main St. in Sheffield presents FDR’S IDEAS AND ROCKWELL’S IMAGES, a talk by Stuart Murray on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Community Rooms of Old Parish Church in Sheffield. Can you picture in your mind’s eye Norman Rockwell’s paintings "Four Freedoms"? The images are famous locally and nationally. Whether you have seen them lately or not at all, come explore these images in a new light. A prolific writer as well as an editor, Stuart Murray is the co-author of a widely read and highly recommended book on the "Four Freedoms." Learn the story of the development of these paintings and the response of the U.S. government to the series—from initial disdain to incorporation into the war effort. This discussion of politics and art is as important in our communities today as it was decades ago. Free and open to the public; for more info call 413-229-2694.
White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd. (off Route 202) in Litchfield presents a slide show on WILDFLOWERS with Bob and Jean Seymour on Saturday, March 15 at 2 p.m. in the Arthur B. Ceder Classroom. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-567-0857.
Scoville Memorial Library, 38 Main St. in Salisbury presents a reading by author MINDY LEWIS on Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. in the Community Room. Mindy Lewis, a New York City writer and painter, will read from her arresting new memoir, "Life Inside," which explores the inner life of an adolescent girl remanded to a psychiatric ward in the late 1960s. It is a vivid first-person account of life inside a psychiatric hospital and the aftermath of long-term hospitalization and a young woman's struggle to define herself on her own terms. Books will be available for purchase and signing; refreshments will be served. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-435-2838.
Great Barrington Land Conservancy presents "FOLLOWING THE FOOD CHAIN—The Politics and Ecology of Eating" with science journalist and best-selling author Michael Pollan on Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. at St. James Church, 352 Main St. in Great Barrington. Michael Pollan will talk about his lessons learned following a steer, an organic TV dinner, and a genetically modified potato through the food chain. He'll share his experience of the tension between the laws of ecology and economics, the insights into saving land and the way we eat, and alternatives to the industrial food chain. Tickets are $10 at the door; for more info call Billie Best at 413-644-8971.
Torrington Woman's Club meets on Monday, March 17 at 2 p.m. at Center Congregational Church in Torrington. Alan Kinsella will present a program on ARCTIC TRAVELS. If you would like to attend, call 860-489-6189.
Farmington Valley Christian Women's Club presents THE MAD HATTER, a luncheon at the Farmington Club, 162 Town Farm Rd. in Farmington on Thursday, March 20 from noon-2 p.m. The special feature for the afternoon will be a hat show given by The Hat Place of Rocky Hill; professional models will present an exquisite collection of hat designs originating from their store in New York City. Remember to wear a hat from your own collection to show off. Vocalist Sarah Strecker of Canton will present the afternoon’s music, and Barbara Vernoski of Blairstown, NJ will talk about using the right flight plan, using her personal experiences to encourage your heart. Cost is $14.50; reservations are required by March 19 for both the luncheon and free childcare. For more info call Bea at 860-673-4402, or Diane at 860-621-0088.
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. (Route 202) in Litchfield presents a talk on EDWARD BEECHER AND PRUDENCE CRANDALL by Jocelyn Courtney and Kazimiera Kozlowski on Thursday, March 20 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. This event is part of the Beecher House Society Lecture Series. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-567-8302.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Canton presents STONE IN THE GARDEN, a talk by Gordon Hayward on Thursday, March 20 at 7 p.m. The first day of spring will be the perfect time to hear Gordon Hayward talk about using stone in the garden. He is the author of several gardening books, including "Designing Your Own Landscape," "Garden Paths: A New Way to Solve Practical Problems in the Garden," and "Stone in the Garden: Inspiring Designs and Practical Projects." His books, articles and lectures have inspired many a garden and many a gardener. Free, but registration is requested; for more info call 860-693-5800.
James Morris Museum, located next to the Morris Library at Routes 61 & 109 in Morris hosts antique expert WAYNE MATTOX on Thursday, March 20 at 7 p.m. Mr. Mattox will take interested friends and neighbors on a tour of the historic antique collection located in the museum. There will be lots of laughs, history, and tips on antique-hunting. Refreshments will be served; for more info call the Morris Library at 860-567-7440.
Business Women’s Network meets on Tuesday, March 25 at Silo Ridge in Amenia for the group’s monthly dinner meeting. The evening includes a talk on "gardens to delight the heart and soul," presented by landscape and gardening consultant Nan Seeburger and personal consultant and educator Dona Ferry. Cost is $20; reservations are required by March 20. Non-members are welcome; for more info call Catherine Murphy at 845-373-9063.
Classes and Workshops
Avon Free Public Library, 281 Country Club Rd. in Avon presents RESIDENTIAL ORGANIZING AND CLUTTER REDUCTION on Tuesday, March 18 at 7 p.m. Join professional organizer Faith Manierre of Busy Bees as she helps us organize problem areas and reduce those piles. No more searching for important papers and anxiety over disorder. Free; for more info call 860-673-9712.
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. (Route 10) in Simsbury hosts FOUR PR TRENDS TO HELP YOU GRAB BUSINESS on Wednesday, March 19 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Marketing and business communication specialist Andrea Obston will share four trends in public relations that small businesses can leverage to increase their business in a competitive market. Participants will learn how to time publicity and advertising, how to make the most of their web site, where to aim their public relations efforts, and methods to nurture clients. The workshop is geared to small business owners as well as those who are considering starting a business. Free and open to the public; to register call Jennifer Keohane at 860-658-7663.
Mine Safety and Health Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor and the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association present a MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH WORKSHOP on Thursday, March 20 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Best Western Motel in East Windsor. Safety professionals from mining companies as well as MSHA personnel will share information and experiences in dealing with hazards of stone, sand and gravel mining operations. The workshop will focus on effective safety and health programs, safe maintenance and repair activities, and the hidden costs of mine accidents. Seminar leaders will also discuss specific safety hazards encountered by mining operations in southern New England. Free, but advance registration is encouraged; for more info call Carl Liddeke at 603-666-7691, or visit <www.msha.gov>.
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane, Avon Park North in Avon offers SETTING DIRECTION AS AN ARTIST, a two-day workshop for working and aspiring artists on Fridays, March 21 and April 4 from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The focus of the workshop sessions is on asking important questions such as, "Am I a real artist?" and "Am I doing this for fun or a profession or both?" Through discussion and interaction with other artists, participants will begin to seek answers and to determine next steps in achieving their artistic goals. Workshop leader will be painter Beth Ellis, who has been an artist and entrepreneur for more than a decade and has led a number of related programs. Cost is $35; to register call 860-678-1867, ext 101.
Berkshire Botanical Garden, Routes 102 & 183 in Stockbridge offers WATTLE FENCING WITH WILLOW on Saturday, March 22 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Long familiar to gardeners and countrymen throughout England, this ancient skill is enjoying a popular revival with the increased interest in rustic fencing and edging. This hands-on workshop will teach participants how to make a section of wattle fencing for the garden, covering material selection, harvesting, preparation and construction. Instructor Wendy Jensen is a basket maker in Great Barrington; her baskets are sold nationwide, and her popular workshops are offered throughout the country. Cost is $50 members, $60 non-members; all materials are included. Advance registration is required; for more info call 413-298-3926.
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. (Route 10) in Simsbury hosts QUICK-FIX, HEALTHY CHINESE COOKING with Norma Chang on Saturday, March 22 at noon. The author of "Wokking Your Way to Low Fat Cooking" and "My Students’ Favorite Chinese Recipes," Norma is also a popular instructor for her warmth, humor and ability to inspire her students. This is the first in a four-part series, The Cooking School, being held by the library in March and April. Dishes will be prepared in front of the audience, and attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy samples and take recipes home. Free, but reservations are recommended; to register call 860-658-7663.
IS183 Art School of the Berkshires, 13 Willard Hill Rd. (off Route 183) in Stockbridge offers a WATERCOLOR AND MIXED MEDIA weekend workshop on Saturday and Sunday, March 22-23 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. In this two-day intensive students will experiment with a variety of water-based media. Students will explore texture, resists, collage and more as they combine traditional watercolor techniques with new applications and found materials including sand, wax, ink, tissue and acrylics. Instructor Pat Hogan specializes in watercolors inspired by the landscape and flowers of the Berkshires. Cost is $180 plus a $15 materials fee; tuition assistance is available. For more info call 413-298-5252, ext 100.
Foothills Adult & Continuing Education holds a class on MULTIMEDIA PRESENTATIONS WITH FLAIR, a three-week course on Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Northwestern Regional High School, 100 Battistoni Dr. in Winsted; first class is March 24. Learn to create outstanding presentations using Powerpoint and other software. Open to participants age 18 and over. Cost is $55; to register call 800-300-4781, or 860-567-0863.
Outdoors
Active Singles sponsors a HIKE at Macedonia Brook State Park in Kent on Sunday, March 16; meet at 9 a.m. Bring hiking boots and water; there will be four different skill levels. For singles only (ages 30s-50s), no children or dogs; new members are welcome. Optional brunch to follow 2-hour hike. Call Charlie at 860-489-9611 to register for lunch (a count is needed for the restaurant), or for directions and carpooling info.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton offers MAPLE SUGARING IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD on Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. This demonstration will help you get ready for the sugaring season—from identifying maple trees and collecting the sap to tasting the final product. Cost is $2 members, $4 non-members, half price for children under 12. Pre-registration is not required; for more info call 860-693-0263.
Sports
Tunxis District Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts hold their annual BOWL-A-THON on Saturday, March 15 from 9 a.m.-noon at Sky Top Lanes, 1000 East Main St. in Torrington. Scouts are encouraged to participate either with their troops or packs or individually, and others who wish to bowl in support of Scouting are also welcome. This fundraiser supports the Connecticut Rivers Council of the Boy Scouts. Over 36,000 boys are in Scouting in Connecticut, and the Bowl-a-thon is one of the local events that helps to fund the statewide organization and the local packs and troops. To participate, minimum sponsorship of $20 is required; walk-ins are welcome. For more info call Nils Andrews at 860-489-1298.
World Series Club of Hartford County presents "Amazing Mets" infielder ED CHARLES on Tuesday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Newington. Coming to the majors in 1962 with the lowly Kansa City Athletics, he was traded five years later to the awful New York Mets, but a better fate awaited this likeable man from Daytona Beach. In 1969, his final season, the Mets roared from ninth place to first, won 100 games, and disposed of the Orioles in five games in the World Series. His big league teammates included Sal Bando, Bert Campaneris, Hawk Harrelson, Catfish Hunter, Tug McGraw, Amos Otis, Nolan Ryan and Tom Seaver. The meeting will feature an opportunity to meet our guest, get autographs, enjoy a buffet dinner, and hear a talk by Ed about his time in the big leagues. Admission is $15 members, $25 non-members, $10 for young fans; reservations are requested. For more info call Larry Brennan at 860-666-1254.
Kids
The Mark Twain House, 351 Farmington Ave. in Hartford hosts "MANY HAPPY RETURNS," a Victorian birthday celebration on Saturday, March 15 from 10:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. and from 12:30-2:15 p.m. Guests will take a special tour of the Mark Twain House, inspired by written accounts of Susy Clemens' 1887 birthday party. There will be birthday cake party favors and games; guests will also be invited to try on Victorian costumes for an instant photo and then decorate a frame for their party memento. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is $20 for one or two adults and up to two children (ages 7-12), $5 for each additional child; for reservations call 860-247-0998, ext 23.
Housatonic Youth Service Bureau sponsors a FAMILY SPLASH AND SWIM PARTY on Saturday, March 15 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Hotchkiss School’s new pool in Lakeville. Children age 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult (no drop-offs, please). Licensed lifeguards will be on duty. Baked goods and beverages will be sold. Admission is $2 adults, $1 children and youths (under 18). For more information call the HYSB at 860-824-4720.
Scoville Memorial Library, 38 Main St. in Salisbury presents THE SNACK LADY on Saturday, March 15 at 12:30 p.m. The Snack Lady (Ms. Murtaugh) will show children and parents how much fun it is to by-pass junk food in favor of "help your body go and grow" foods. She is one of the few people dealing with childhood nutrition by reaching children themselves. This program is open to children age 3 and up. Free and open to the public; no registration is necessary. For more info call 860-435-2838.
Burlington Public Library, Route 4 in Burlington hosts a FAMILY BOOK VOYAGE program on Tuesday, March 25 at 6:30 p.m.; pizza will be served at 6 p.m. Jan Brennan will lead this reading-based family program (for children ages 6-10); topic is "Fairness." Register and pick up reading material prior to the program; for more info call 860-673-3331.
Festivals and Sales
The Home Builders Association of Hartford County presents the 56th original CONNECTICUT HOME SHOW on Friday, March 14 from 4-9 p.m.; Saturday, March 15 from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; and Sunday, March 16 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Hartford Civic Center. This classic event will include display after display of the most innovative products and services for your home by hundreds of national and local exhibitors. Also, explore the many advances in energy-saving technologies, exciting state-of-the-art entertainment centers, and security systems to make your home a safe, comfortable and enjoyable haven. Admission is $7.50 adults, $6 seniors, children (12 and under) free.
St. Thomas Church, Route 63 in Goshen sponsors a FLEA MARKET on Saturday, March 15 (snow date is March 22) from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. in Donahue Hall. Many and varied vendors will fill the tables with their wares from antiques to zippers, bassinets to yardsticks and candles. Funds raised will help support the preservation of historic St. Thomas of Villanova chapel.
Farmington Valley Arts Center hosts its annual OPEN HOUSE on Saturday and Sunday, March 15-16 from 1-4 p.m. at the Art Center's Sperry Park Annex, 50 Simsbury Rd. (Route 10 North) in Avon. This eclectic event will feature interactive and hand-on arts activities, painting and pottery demonstrations and a show of student and faculty artwork. Shoppers will be tempted by the Pottery Seconds Sale featuring more than 200 decorative and functional pottery seconds by a dozen local potters, plus FVAC student work. On Saturday at 2 p.m. join in a Creativity Workout, similar to those offered by the FVAC the first Thursday evening of each month. On Sunday at 2 p.m. see a darkroom demonstration and learn more about the FVAC’s photography offerings. All activities are free and open to the public; for more info call 860-674-8315.
New Hartford Lions Club holds its 11th annual NORTHWEST CT ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES SHOW on Sunday, March 16 from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Northwest Regional High School, 100 Battistoni Dr. in Winsted; early bird buying is from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Last year, more than 85 dealers displayed such items as furniture, jewelry, silver, quilts, china, glass, books and paintings. Attendance grew to over 3,000 people, and the New Hartford Lions Club raised in excess of $9,200 for donation to local charitable activities. Appraisers will be available to appraise attendees’ articles for a small fee. Parking is available for over 400 cars; breakfast and lunch will be available. Admission is $4.50, or $4 with a discount coupon; early bird admission is $10.
Trips
Active Singles offers a singles cruise to NOVA SCOTIA on the Carnival Victory on Monday through Saturday, July 21-26. Cost of $810-$1030 double occupancy includes round trip motor coach to the New York pier, the cruise, port charges and taxes, and a special two-day land package to St. John's and Halifax. Initial deposit of $200 by March 24 will secure your spot; for more info call Charlie at 860-489-9611.
|
|
