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Entertainment Directory
Music and Dance
Connecticut Choral Artists (CONCORA) hold an OPEN CHORAL REHEARSAL on Friday, March 28 from 7-10 p.m. at South Church in New Britain; supper will be served at 6 p.m. Observe the "behind the scenes" preparation for the April 6 presentation of J.S. Bach’s Mass in B Minor as Maestro Richard Coffey rehearses with members of CONCORA. Tickets are $10 for rehearsal only, $20 for supper and rehearsal; reservations are required. For more info call 860-224-7500.
Farmington Valley Chorale presents a SPRING CONCERT on Friday, March 28 at 8 p.m. at Valley Community Baptist Church, West Avon Rd. (Route 176) in Avon. The Chorale will perform under the direction of Donald Smith of Burlington, with orchestra and professional soloists. Featured works will be Fauré’s "Requiem," first performed in 1888 (before completion) at the prominent Church of the Madeleine in Paris, and Bach’s Cantata No. 4, "Christ lag in Todesbanden." Soloists are soprano Sarah Callinan, mezzo-soprano Gretchen Collins, tenor Floyd Higgins, and baritone Mathew Hock, all singers with the Woodland Scholars. The church is handicapped accessible. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door; for more info call 860-676-0857.
Hartford Symphony Orchestra presents guest pianist AWADAGIN PRATT on Friday and Saturday, March 28-29 at 8 p.m. in Mortensen Hall at the Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford; a concert preview by HSO Music Director Edward Cumming will precede the program at 7 p.m. on both evenings. Awadagin Pratt joins the HSO in performing Ludwig van Beethoven’s Third Piano Concerto; the program will also include Samuel Barber’s Overture to "The School for Scandal" and Arnold Schoenberg’s arrangement of Johannes Brahms’ Piano Quartet in G Minor. Awadagin Pratt won the prestigious Naumburg International Piano Competition in 1992, becoming the first African-American classical instrumentalist to win first prize in this competition. He has played with most of the major symphony orchestras in the United States and has performed internationally in a dozen countries. Tickets are $10-$55 adults; $5 student tickets are available with valid ID; for reservations call 860-987-5900.
Whigville Grange, 153 South Main St. in Burlington hosts a CLASSICAL GUITAR CONCERT on Saturday, March 29 at 4 p.m. The performance will feature the Guitar Ensemble of the Connecticut Classical Guitar Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the appreciation of classical guitar. This is a return engagement for CCGS, brought back by popular demand after the success of their appearance in Burlington last year. Refreshments will be available. Admission is free, although the Grange is encouraging donations to the educational programming of CCGS; suggested donations are $6 adults, $2 children.
Joyful Noise presents CHORUS ANGELICUS on Saturday, March 29 at 7 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 220 Prospect St. in Torrington. The internationally acclaimed children’s choir, directed by Grammy-winner Paul Halley, performs in a concert entitled "On the Road Again," a preview concert and fundraiser for the choir’s June tour in the Pacific Northwest. The program features sacred works by Britten, Poulenc and Verdi in addition to a vibrant collection of folk songs from around the world. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 students; all seats are reserved. There is also an "Adopt a Traveling Chorister" program for a tax-deductible donation of $100; these patrons will receive a front-row seat and a postcard from the beneficiary on tour. For more info call (toll-free) 888-788-8882.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton presents GARNET ROGERS on Saturday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m. Canada’s great baritone singer and superb songwriter-guitarist returns with songs from ten recordings. With a voice that flows like a great dark river and with guitar arrangements that defy duplication, Garnet Rogers sings extraordinary songs about people who are not obvious heroes and of the small victories of the everyday. Tickets are $16 in advance, $18 at the door; for more info call 860-693-0263.
Nutmeg Square and Round Dance Club holds a Plus Level SQUARE AND ROUND DANCE on Saturday, March 29 from 8-10:30 p.m. at Judson School, Hamilton Lane in Watertown. Caller is Sandy Corey, with cuer Beverly Boudreau. 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.
The Warner Theatre, 68 Main St. in Torrington presents "SWINGTIME: Music from the 1940s," an original dance and music revue on Saturday, March 29 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, March 30 at 2 p.m. Step into a swinging musical journey celebrating the decade that changed America! The Hon. Charles Gill hosts an evening of song and dance, featuring timeless standards, including the early music of Frank Sinatra and boisterous WWll-era favorites like "Boogie-Woogie Bugle Boy." Enjoy performances by local luminaries including WATR’s Tom Chute, Joyce Folio, John and Joanne Chenkus, Ryan Jeffries, Juliette Garrison, Rich Janak, Roxie Quinn, Mary Richards, Philip Szajda and Priscilla Squires. Tickets are $22, $19 and $16; for more info call 860-489-7180.
Avon Free Public Library, 281 Country Club Rd. in Avon presents a finalist in the CONNECTICUT YOUNG ARTIST PIANO COMPETITION, sponsored by the Connecticut State Music Teachers Association on Sunday, March 30 at 3 p.m. The concert is free; for more info call the library at 860-673-9712.
Nutmeg Square and Round Dance Club holds a GRADUATION SQUARE DANCE featuring caller Allan Brozek on Tuesday, April 1 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Judson School, Hamilton Lane in Watertown. All new dancers from clubs throughout Connecticut are invited to attend and dance with Nutmeg’s graduating dancers. 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.
Hartford Symphony Orchestra presents "SCHERZO! (WHAT’S THE JOKE?)" on Thursday, April 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the Belding Theater at the Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford. HSO Music Director Edward Cumming serves as conductor and host for this mini-history of the brisk, lighthearted symphonic movement known as the scherzo, and features the scherzo from Felix Mendelssohn’s "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," Antonin Dvorak’s "Scherzo Capriccioso," the "Queen Mab Scherzo" from Hector Berlioz’ "Romeo and Juliet," and excerpts from symphonies by Haydn, Beethoven, Brahms and Bruckner. Tickets are $29-$39; more info call 860-987-5900.
Wadsworth Atheneum, 600 Main St. in Hartford presents "MAGDALENA BACH’S WILL" starring Lynn Redgrave on Thursday, April 3 at 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday, April 5 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the Aetna Theater, with a pre-concert talk by the author beginning 30 minutes before each show. Written by Harry Clark, "Magdalena Bach’s Will" is a biographical drama with classical music. Anna Magdalena Bach, Johann Sebastian Bach’s second wife, was a brilliant professional soprano before marrying at age 21 and becoming his companion, musical confidante and mother of 11 children. After Sebastian’s death, and left destitute without a will, Anna Magdalene recounts life with her husband and children, her great joy of performing, and imparts to the audience is a striking portrayal of female strength and spirited will. Interwoven into the story is music by Bach, Vivaldi and Handel. Tickets are $25 members, $30 non-members, $10 students, with center section preferred seating available for an extra $10 per seat; for more info call 860-278-7148.
Drama and Comedy
Canton High School's Junior Class presents "A SLAYING IN THE SOUTH," the 4th annual murder mystery dinner on Friday, March 28 at 5:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at Canton High School, 76 Simmons Ave. in Canton. The night will include a pasta dinner, dessert, and an interactive play. You will have the opportunity to figure out who committed the murder. Actors are the members of the faculty and staff of Canton High School. Tickets are $7 adults, $5 students and seniors; for more info call Assistant Principal Jordan E. Grossman at 860-693-7707.
Clockwork Repertory Theatre, 133 Main St. in Oakville presents the Michael Parker comedy "WHOSE WIVES ARE THEY ANYWAY?" on Friday and Saturday, March 28-29 at 8:15 p.m. Two cosmetic company execs decide to take a weekend off playing golf and let their wives go shopping. Their new boss is also playing golf at the same club, and upon a chance meeting, she says that no exec who went off to play golf for the weekend and left his wife at home would ever work for her! In a panic, the two execs concoct a scheme that pulls in a young receptionist and a lot of champagne. After lots of confusion, laughs and free-flowing bubbly, the scheme continues to work and baffle all—until the two real wives show up! Tickets are $14; for more info call 860-274-7247.
Social Connections, a social club for singles in Connecticut, sponsors an evening of DINNER AND THEATER on Saturday, March 29 beginning at 6 p.m. at Paradise Pizza & Restaurant, 10 East St. in New Britain. After dinner, see "The Winter’s Tale" at the Hole in the Wall Theater. Princes, maidens, clowns, rogues and even wild beasts explore a dreamlike landscape of love, madness and finally wisdom in Shakespeare’s oft-neglected romance. Admission is $37; for reservations call Marcia at 860-828-4817.
Winsted Equinox Festival presents Shakespeare’s "MACBETH" on Thursday through Saturday, March 27-29 at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 30 at 4 p.m. at Redman’s Hall, 15 Case Ave. in Winsted. Free and open to the public; there is seating for 50 people each night.
Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston presents "THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL" from March 29 through April 13; performances are on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. In 1905, a young Hungarian-born writer named the Baroness Orczy created an audacious and reckless hero, a "daring plotter" who used "tricks and games" against the cruelties of the French Revolution. As the Reign of Terror reaches its bloody climax in 1794, a brave band of Englishmen risk their lives to rescue the intended victims of the guillotine. Their leader is an enigmatic hero known only by his calling card: the red, star-shaped wildflower known as the Scarlet Pimpernel. Revived as a sweeping and exciting musical comedy in the late 1990s, "The Scarlet Pimpernel" was a Broadway smash hit, with rousing musical numbers, elaborate costumes and swashbuckling swordfights. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door; for more info call 860-283-6250.
Seven Angels Theatre, located at Hamilton Park Pavilion on Plank Road in Waterbury presents the world premiere of "BEACON HILL BOOK CLUB" by Susanna Salk through April 27. This hilarious play explores what happens when a sexy, young stranger decides that she wants to be a member of a senior ladies’ book club. Warren Kelley, Artistic Director for the Ivoryton Playhouse, directs a cast of five artists from New York City with extensive Broadway and off-Broadway credits. Playwright Susanna Salk says that "Beacon Hill Book Club" was inspired by growing up on Boston’s North Shore in a family with extensive Brahmin roots. Salk, a Roxbury resident, also has an earlier play to her credit, "Vassar Girls." For schedule and ticket info, call 203-757-4676.
Art Exhibits
Canton Artists’ Guild presents BLACK & WHITE, a members' theme show at the Gallery on the Green, Route 44 in Canton through March 30. Also showing currently are works by Richard Ivany in the Spotlight Gallery, and a group exhibition by a teacher and two students in the Upstairs Gallery. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 1-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-693-4102.
Bristol Center for Arts & Culture, located in the New England Carousel Museum, 95 Riverside Ave. (Route 72) in Bristol presents THE RED EDGE OF THE MOON, a new exhibit featuring artists Judith Bird and Tess Bermingham Bird through April 13. A variety of watercolors and acrylics will be on display by two artists who are fascinated by the creative process and who happen to be mother and daughter. Winter hours (through March) 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.
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. 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 Rd. in Salisbury presents a seminar on "LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE: Taking Care of Your Future" on Friday, March 28 from 5-7 p.m. The speaker is David J. Guttcheon, who serves as director of the Health and Human Services Unit of Connecticut’s Office of Policy and Management, director of the CT Partnership for Long-Term Care, and chair of the Long-Term Planning Committee, a legislative and executive body charged with developing a long-term care plan for the state. He will review the advantages, risks and cost of long-term care insurance and its use as a tool in an overall long-range plan. A light supper will be served. Free, but reservations are requested; to register call Sandy Gomez at 860-435-9851, ext 132.
Teikyo Post University in Waterbury presents CT Animal Control Officer Richard Gregan speaking on ANIMAL ABUSE on Friday, March 28 at 7:15 p.m. in Room 201 of the Drubner Center, Route 63 (exit 17 off I-84) in Waterbury. Officer Gregan will describe his work and speak about the animal abuse situations he finds. He will address the legal definitions of animal abuse and also explain what he considers abuse for horses and other animals. The specifics of helping an abused animal will be covered in a look at correct reporting methods, and the limits on what can or cannot be done under the law. Sponsored by the Equine Resources Committee; proceeds benefit equine scholarships at Teikyo Post. Tickets are $6 in advance, $10 at the door; for more info call 203-596-4631.
CT Alliance for Peace in Palestine & Israel presents a documentary about Palestinian refugees living under military siege in 2002, "JENIN JENIN" on Friday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the United Church of Christ, Bolton Hill Rd. (off Route 4) in Cornwall Village. Banned in Israel, "Jenin Jenin" depicts the Jenin refugee camp, home to 15,000 Palestinians refugees living on one square kilometer. On April 3, 2002, more than 150 Israeli tanks, armored personnel carriers and artillery, backed by F-16 fighter jets, attacked the camp, beginning a three-week siege which left an unknown number of Palestinians dead and reduced the camp center to rubble and dust. In interviews, Jenin residents reflect on their current lives and their country’s future. Free and open to the public.
The Cornwall Association sponsors a forum on INVASIVE EXOTIC PLANTS on Saturday, March 29 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Cornwall Town Hall, 26 Pine St. in Cornwall. A distinguished group of experts from the tri-state area will speak, providing an overview of this important issue as well as more a close-up look at specific environments, species and control techniques. WKZE radio personality Sally Spillane will serve as moderator. Free and open to the public; light refreshments will be served.
White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd. (off Route 202) in Litchfield presents BLUEBIRDS AND OTHER CAVITY NESTERS with Dave Rosgen on Saturday, March 29 at 2 p.m. in the Arthur B. Ceder Classroom. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-567-0857.
Burlington Land Trust hosts an interactive program from WIND OVER WINGS on Sunday, March 30 at 2 p.m. in the auditorium at Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area, Route 69 in Burlington; the program follows the Land Trust’s annual meeting, which is open to the public and begins at 1 p.m. Wind Over Wings, Inc. is a wildlife rehabilitation and education center that specializes in birds of prey. This unique program will feature owls, hawks, and a magnificent golden eagle. The goal of Wind Over Wings is to raise awareness of the roles of birds of prey in nature, and to help children and adults make a personal connection with wildlife that will lead to good stewardship of the environment. Free and open to the public, but registration is requested; for more info call 860-673-8730.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Canton hosts a talk on CHILDREN IN PLACEMENT IN CONNECTICUT on Sunday, March 30 from 2-4 p.m. Cassandra Porcaro-Roach, a Coordinator with Children in Placement who works with the Superior Court in Torrington, will show a brief (7-minute) video and answer questions about the program. Children in Placement is an organization that trains volunteers to serve as advocates or guardians ad litem for abused and neglected children. As the court-appointed advocate for a child, the volunteer’s job is to talk with those involved in a child’s case and help the judge determine the course of action that is best for the child. Advocates also help to assure that safe, permanent homes are found for children. An advocate can make a real difference in the life of a child. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-693-5800.
Norfolk Library, Route 44 in Norfolk presents the third session of its five-part SUNDAY WITH JAMES lecture series on Sunday, March 30 at 4 p.m. Lecturer James Kraft, formerly of Princeton University, will discuss "The Author of Beltraffio," "The Aspern Papers," "The Altar of the Dead" and "The Figure in the Carpet" by Henry James. These lectures, including discussions, are intended to establish an approach to James by the reading of his finest short fiction. The major themes of James—the American and European, innocence and experience, the role of the American woman, art and the supernatural—will all be examined. Free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served; for reservations call 860-542-5075.
CT Alliance for Peace in Palestine & Israel presents Israeli writer and activist OZ SHELACH on Tuesday, April 1 at 7 p.m. at East Granby Public Library, 24 Center St. in East Granby. Currently on a nationwide reading tour through the U.S., Shelach will read from his new novel, "Picnic Grounds: A Novel in Fragments," and will talk about growing up in a culture of denial. He will also discuss the fictions of Nature and Unity and how they shape Israeli nationalism. Free and open to the public.
Northwestern CT Community College in Winsted presents a talk on ROMAN CATHOLICISM by Jack O'Malley of Norfolk as part of its series on world religions on Tuesday, April 1 from 7-9 p.m. in Room 10 of the Joyner Learning Center. O'Malley has been involved in teaching and education administration throughout his career, primarily at Villanova University. Cost is $10; registrant may bring a guest for free. For more info call 860-738-6444.
Torrington Library, 12 Daycoeton Place in Torrington hosts a discussion of the book "EVERYDAY LIFE IN THE MUSLIM MIDDLE EAST," edited by Donna Lee Bowen on Wednesday, April 2 from 7-8:30 p.m. Discussion leader will be Steven Blackburn, Adjunct Professor of Arabic at Hartford Seminary. Recent events make it especially important to recognize that the Middle East is not merely a conflict-torn region; it is home to millions of people whose lives are colored by more than just religion and politics. "Everyday Life in the Muslim Middle East" is an extremely accessible collection of essays, stories, memoirs and photographs that are organized around topics such as family, gender, work and entertainment. Come to a discussion of a book that, in providing information on the texture of daily life in the Middle East, quietly invites us to challenge stereotypes we might not even know we hold. Free and open to the public, but reservations are requested; for more info call 860-489-6684.
Glastonbury Peace and Justice Organization sponsors "WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?", a talk with experienced activist and organizer Gil Salk on Wednesday, April 2 from 7-9 p.m. in the Friends Room at Welles-Turner Library, 2407 Main St. in Glastonbury. Why is the Bush/ Cheney White House trying to make Americans (and the rest of the world) afraid to disagree with its disastrous military adventuring? How can we make clear that "patriotic" Americans can support our troops by saying: "Don't turn our children and friends into targets … or casualties … or killers"? What can we do to make our voices heard in opposition? These topics and more (subject to breaking news) will be discussed; bring your thoughts, questions and concerns. Gil Salk is coordinator of the Martin Luther King Jr. Social Action Council in Amherst, director of Draft Counseling Services at UMass Amherst, and fundraising director of the Greater Hartford Chapter of the American Heart Association. For more info visit <www.gpjo.org>.
The Questioning Citizen, a weekly cultural and public affairs cable program on Charter Community TV channel 21 airs a talk given by GHASSAN ANDONI, a primary figure in Palestine's nonviolent resistance movement on Wednesdays, April 2 and April 9 from 10-11 p.m.; and Saturdays, April 5 and April 12 from 2-3 p.m. Andoni has been a lecturer in the physics department at Birzeit University near Ramallah since 1984. He is also founder and executive director of the Palestinian Center for Rapprochement Between People (PCR). Under Andoni's leadership, PCR has been in the forefront of the nonviolent movement, motivating and leading Palestinians in the struggle for human, civil and national rights. This talk was recorded last September at the United Church of Christ Parish House in Cornwall.
Mattatuck Museum, 144 West Main St. in Waterbury presents GOODYEAR’S LEGACY on Thursday, April 3 at noon. Discover a personal side to industrial history during program devoted to the life of Charles Goodyear. Although his name today is a household word, Goodyear met with little financial success. Raechel Guest, assistant curator of the Mattatuck Museum, will explore Goodyear's difficulties and successes marketing his vulcanized rubber. This is the third program in a ten-week series, "History Bites: Putting a Face on History," looking at the lives of famous, infamous and little-known past residents of northwestern Connecticut. Attendees should bring their own lunch; beverages and dessert will be provided. Free; reservations are requested but not required. For more info call 203-753-0381.
Northwestern Literary Club hosts THE NUTMEG GUILD on Thursday, April 3 at 7 p.m. in Founders Hall Auditorium at Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted. Members of the Guild will present the best of their creative efforts over the past year. The Nutmeg Guild consists of 12 local writers who gather each week to encourage one another through supportive critical review. For this program, the members will read outrageous memoirs that reveal guarded secrets of their lives and families, haunting mysteries that will disturb you for days, troubling and inspiring accounts of human conflict, tragedy and triumph, hilarious tales of people’s struggles with their pampered pets, and more! Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-738-6446.
Simsbury Public Library, Hopmeadow St. (Route 10) in Simsbury presents a viewing of the film "GLOBAL WARMING: WHAT'S UP WITH THE WETHER" on Thursday, April 3 from 7-9 p.m. This is the fifth meeting in a film and discussion series called the "Research Revolution: Science and the Shaping of Modern Life," which aims to increase the community's understanding of scientific discovery and technological transformation in the 20th century. Facilitator is Stephen Goddard, award-winning writer and national authority on the history and social impact of transportation in America. Mr. Goddard has spoken to audiences from coast to coast; he is also the co-founder of All Aboard, an advocacy group formed to press for a regional public transit system. Free and open to the public; to register call the Adult Reference Desk at 860-658-7663.
Classes and Workshops
Beardsley and Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place in Winsted presents a PORTABLE WRITING WORKSHOP with Joan Gleckler and Faith Vicinanza on Thursday, March 27 from 6:30-8 p.m. Using writing exercises and prompts, this workshop offers both creative exercise and self-discovery. The facilitators are experienced writers: Joan Gleckler writes fiction and screenplays and is at work on her second novel, while Faith Vicinanza is best known in the realm of poetry, as the executive director of the CT Poetry Festival and organizer of numerous live poetry events around the state. Free and open to the public; for more info call Becky Benedict at 860-738-3934.
Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. (Route 10) in Simsbury hosts HEALTHY DESSERTS with Mariah Bechtold on Friday, March 28 at 2 p.m. How can rich-sounding desserts like chocolate almond torte be healthy? Mariah Bechtold, chef at Garden of Light in Avon and Glastonbury, will show how. Dishes will be prepared in front of the audience, and attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy samples and take recipes home. Free, but space is limited and reservations are recommended; for more info call 860-658-7663.
Winsted Recreation sponsors LOW IMPACT AEROBICS CLASSES with Lucille Kelsey in the Hinsdale School gymnasium; classes will be held on Mondays and Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for eight weeks. Lucille is an AFAA-certified instructor with ten years experience. The classes consist of warm-ups, aerobics and cool-down followed by body sculpting for all fitness levels. Participants may take one or two classes a week, as their schedules permit; new participants may join at any time. Fee is $35 for 16 classes, $17.50 for 8 classes; to register or for more info, call Lucille at 860-738-4019.
Winsted Recreation offers KARATE classes beginning on Tuesday, April 1 in the cafeteria at the Pearson School in Winsted; youths meet from 6-7 p.m., and adults meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Cost is $35 for eight weeks; for more info call 860-379-8670.
Canton Parks and Recreation sponsors PILATES classes for adults starting in April. This yoga strengthening and stretching class creates long, lean muscles, not bulky ones. Enhance your flexibility and balance while you create a strong core (abs, lower back and buttocks). Cost is $45 for eight-week session; for more info call 860-693-5808.
Our Lady of Calvary Retreat House, 31 Colton St. in Farmington offers "SHARING LIFE WITH CHRIST: A Gate into the Heart of God," a day of reflection and prayer on Wednesday, April 2 from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The group will be led by Sister Pauline Semkow, RSM, who will invite participants to think about the ways they share life with Christ in everyday activities. The program includes communal prayer and sharing, quiet time, and the opportunity for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Cost of $25 includes lunch; to register call 860-677-8519.
Winsted Recreation offers DOG OBEDIENCE classes beginning on Wednesday, April 2 at the Green Building on Rowley St. in Winsted. Dogs must show proof of vaccines. Cost is $85 for eight weeks; for more info call 860-379-8670.
The Scrapbook Cottage in the Shops at Ledgebrook, 200 New Hartford Rd. (Route 44) in Winsted offers a PHOTOGRAPHY class with Don Kenney on Thursday, April 3 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. This will be a basic to intermediate instructional class. Depending upon those who attend, the instruction will cover as many areas as possible from equipment (except digital) to composition, with the overall emphasis on getting better pictures. Bring your questions; all skill levels welcome. Cost is $15; bring your own scissors, black pen, paper trimmer and adhesive, or purchase them before class. For more info call 860-738-3772.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Collinsville offers an introduction to CHI-LEI QiGONG on Thursday, April 3 at 7 p.m. Instructor Laurie Ann Leach will give a brief introduction to Chi-Lei QiGong, a practice which integrates movement, meditation, breath regulation and visualization to stimulate the flow of chi, thereby increasing vitality and creativity while promoting relaxation. Following the introduction, she will lead participants in a 20-minute demonstration of the practice of Chi-Lei QiGong. Participants should wear loose, comfortable clothing. Free, but pre-registration is requested; for more info call 860-693-5800.
The Scrapbook Cottage in the Shops at Ledgebrook, 200 New Hartford Rd. (Route 44) in Winsted offers a CHERISHED MEMORIES class with Chapin Huxley on Friday, April 4 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Make a beautiful two-page layout to scrapbook pictures of your loved ones. Tags embellished with eyelets, mulberry paper, punches and fibers accent this great page. Also learn tearing and chalking. Cost is $15; bring your own scissors, black pen, paper trimmer and adhesive, or purchase them before class. For more info call 860-738-3772.
Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church, 93 River Rd. in Pleasant Valley hosts a WOMEN'S SPIRITUAL RETREAT on Friday, April 4 from 7-9 p.m. and Saturday, April 5 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Registration fee is $6; for more info call 860-379-2157.
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, 229 East Litchfield Rd. in Litchfield offers WALKING IN FAITH starting on Friday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m. and continuing through Saturday, April 5 at 3 p.m. Walk the labyrinth to deepen your faith with Helen Curry, president of the Global Labyrinth Society and executive director of the Labyrinth Project of Connecticut. The program will include walks on the Wisdom House classical 7-circuit outdoor labyrinth and an indoor portable labyrinth. Discover finger labyrinths and receive instruction in how to draw these medieval symbols of the journey inward. Stay overnight in a relaxing and contemplative environment, with accommodations, meals and refreshments included in the fee. Cost is $120 shared room, $155 private room, $95 commuter; for reservations call 860-567-3163.
Berkshire Botanical Garden, Routes 102 & 183 in Stockbridge offers THE HOME ORCHARD on Saturday, April 5 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Learn about the art and science of growing fruit including designing, planting and caring for home fruit trees, berries, vines and bushes. This discussion will survey the fruits and berries that grow well in New England with a focus on realistic success. Planting varieties, siting, cultivation and fruit production of fruit trees will be covered, and maintaining trees with low pesticide use will be discussed. Other small fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, grapes, strawberries, blueberries and currants will also be discussed. Instructor Sonia Schloemann is the small fruit specialist at the UMass Extension in Amherst; her specialty is education and research in small fruit production with a focus on IPM. Cost is $35 members, $40 non-members; to register call 413-298-3926.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers an INTRODUCTION TO HOMEOPATHY on Saturday and Sunday, April 5-6 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Homeopathy is a gentle, profoundly acting system of medicine that can be used to treat acute and chronic physical illnesses of all varieties as well as treat the deepest levels of emotional and mental pathology. This course will provide an understanding of some major, widely applicable remedies from this "psychophysical" vantage, along with information about basic, practical prescribing useful to the beginning student. Cost is $175; to register call 860-738-6446.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers "ECO-HERBALISM: Replanting the Fields We Love" on Monday, April 7 from 7-8:30 p.m. Native medicinal plants are under siege. In the U.S. alone over 2,400 acres of native habitat are lost every day. Combined with the skyrocketing demand for herbal medicines, this loss of habitat has brought us to a critical juncture. This will be an evening dedicated to preserving our native medicinal plants. Instructor Alicia North has studied under ethnobotanist E. Barrie Kavash as well as herbalists such as Rosemary Carter, Susan Weed and Christopher Hobbs. Cost is $20; for more info call 860-738-6446.
Litchfield Little Britches holds VOLUNTEER TRAINING for its Therapeutic Riding Program on Tuesday, April 8 from 10:30 a.m.-noon at Lee’s Stable in Litchfield. Classes for children who are physically, emotionally or developmentally challenged begin on Monday and Tuesday, April 14-15 and continue through the first week of June. Both old and new volunteers are required to attend the training session; for more info call Peg Sweeney at 860-364-5671.
Foothills Adult and Continuing Education offers CREATIVE WRITING II starting on Thursday, April 10 from 7-9 p.m. at Northwestern Regional High School in Winsted. Take a closer look at writing fiction, nonfiction and poetry. Write with energy, find inspiration, work through writing anxiety and other obstacles, and build confidence. Cost is $55 for six sessions; to register call 800-300-4781, or 860-567-0863.
Foothills Adult and Continuing Education offers SAFE BOATING/ PERSONAL WATERCRAFT SAFETY on Saturday, April 12 from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Northwestern Regional High School in Winsted. This is a DEP-approved course for the Safe Boating Certificate or Personal Water Safety diploma. Cost is $89; to register call 800-300-4781, or 860-567-0863.
The Scrapbook Cottage in the Shops at Ledgebrook, 200 New Hartford Rd. (Route 44) in Winsted offers a BASIC QUILTING class with Roseann Nicolls on Saturday, April 12 from 1-3 p.m. Learn the art of quilting (paper rolling) in this class. You will complete a five-piece scrapbook page set, including title block, two tags, and two photo/ journal mats embellished with this technique. Cost is $15; bring your own scissors, black pen, paper trimmer and adhesive, or purchase them before class. For more info call 860-738-3772.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers MAMA’S HERBAL PHARMACY on Sunday, April 13 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. This is an intensive herbal workshop that will cover the uses of herbs for pregnancy, breastfeeding, infants and children. Learn how to safely use herbs to prepare syrups, electuaries, salves, powders and more. Each participant will take home a number of herbal products that the group will make in the classroom, and will gain knowledge of how to safely use natural healing therapies during these special years. Cost is $50; to register call 860-738-6446.
Northwestern CT Community College, Park Place East in Winsted offers HOW TO RELIEVE AND PREVENT REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURIES on Thursday, April 17 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This workshop in the Feldenkrais Lessons is specific to preventing repetitive strain injuries and providing relief for those who have such injuries. Simple, easy, ingeniously designed slow movement done on the floor will teach you how to undo movement patterns which cause repetitive strain injuries . Cost is $85; to register call 860-738-6446.
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. (Route 202) in Litchfield offers BASIC ITALIAN II with Dona Frauenhofer on Thursdays, April 24 through June 5 from 9:15-11:15 a.m. Required text is "Learn Italian the Fast and Fun Way" by Marcel Danesi; class is open to adults and youth ages 12 and up. Fee is $50; registration deadline is April 17. For more info call 860-567-8302.
Sports
Forbes Flyers Jump Rope Team of Torrington will compete in the New England Regional JUMP ROPE TOURNAMENT on Saturday, March 29 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Northwestern Regional High School, 100 Battistoni Drive in Winsted. Thirty-two members of the Forbes team qualified for this event; participants range in age from grade 2 to college. For more info call Forbes coach Janice Harrington at 860-489-2500, ext 119.
Torrington High School hosts a benefit basketball game—HARLEM WIZARDS VS. TORRINGTON LEGENDS—on Saturday, March 29 at 7 p.m. in the Cornelius "Connie" Donahue Gymnasium; a preliminary game begins at 5:30 p.m. The internationally renowned exhibition basketball team the Harlem Wizards challenge the Torrington Legends, comprised of THS alumni and other community supporters. Tickets are available at Anzellotti’s Sporting Goods, Sports Palace, Tony’s Package Store, Good Spirits Package Store and at the THS main office; for more info call 860-482-2709, or 860-489- 8080.
Torrington Parks and Recreation sponsors GOLF LESSONS AND GOLF CAMP for ages 7-16 during the month of April at the Burlington Golf Center, located behind Hogan's Cider Mill on Route 4 in Burlington. Lessons will be held on Fridays, April 4 and April 11 from 4-6 p.m. and April 18 from 4-5 p.m. Camp will take place Tuesday through Friday, April 15-18 from 10-11:15 a.m. Cost is $65; to register call 860-489-2274.
Litchfield Parks and Recreation has tickets for a variety of BOSTON RED SOX games throughout the upcoming season, beginning with games against the Orioles on Saturday and Sunday, April 12-13. Tickets are $50-$100; on most dates the seating is in Section 18 (home plate area). For more info call 860-567-7569.
Kids
The Mark Twain House, 351 Farmington Ave. in Hartford presents an APRIL FOOLS! family program on Saturday, March 29 from 10:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. and from 12:30-2:15 p.m. Test your knowledge about Mark Twain, his house, his family and his writings on this tour designed to trick your senses. Listen and watch for things that don’t fit while touring the house. Admission is $20 for one adult and up to two children, $5 for each additional person; discount for members. Reservations are required; for more info call 860-247-0998, ext 23.
Scoville Memorial Library, 38 Main St. in Salisbury offers a CARTOONING WORKSHOP with syndicated cartoonist Bob Weber on Saturday, March 29 at 11 a.m. Mr. Weber will demonstrate how easy it is to create simple, exciting art in this imaginative program. A raffle of cartoons drawn during the workshop will be held at the end of the program, which is open to children ages 5 and up. Participants should bring a pad of paper and a pencil. Free, no registration is necessary; for more info call 860-435-2838.
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. (Route 202) in Litchfield presents "LOVE AT WORK" CHILDREN’S THEATER with Kath Bloom and Tom Hanford on Saturday, March 29 at 2 p.m. "Love at Work" uses music, masks and various experiences to bring the joy of the arts to the audience. Admission is $7 adults, $3 children, free for age 3 and under; for more info call 860-567-8302.
Winsted Recreation presents a BASEBALL CLINIC on Saturday and Sunday, March 29-30 at the Green Building on Rowley St. in Winsted. Ages 7-9 meet from 12:30-2:30 p.m. each day, and ages 10-12 meet from 9-11 a.m. For more info call 860-379-8670.
Canton Public Library, 40 Dyer Ave. in Canton holds a TEA PARTY for ages 8-12 on Sunday, March 30 at 2 p.m. This fun and fancy tea party will be a chance to dress up, bring a favorite doll and celebrate spring. Refreshments will be served. Free, but space is limited and registration is required; for more info call 860-693-5800.
Canton Parks and Recreation offers the following SPRING INTO FITNESS classes for children taught by Nancy Wade starting in April: Baby Gym for parents and tots (ages 1-2); Tot Gymnastics (ages 3-4); and Gymnastics Plus (ages 5-6). Cost is $45 for eight-week session; for more info call 860-693-5808.
The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford presents Disney’s "BEAUTYAND THE BEAST" in Mortensen Hall on Wednesday, April 2 at 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, April 3 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Friday, April 4 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, April 5 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 6 at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. This Tony Award-winning smash hit musical, full of spectacular production numbers, is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an evil enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. Time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. Tickets are $19-$68, depending on performance time and seat location; for more info call 860-987-5900.
Burlington Public Library, Route 4 in Burlington hosts a FAMILY BOOK VOYAGE program on Tuesday, April 8 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 "Courage." Register and pick up reading material prior to the program; for more info call 860-673-3331.
Torrington Parks and Recreation offers an EASTER CERAMICS PROJECT class for ages 6 and up on Friday, April 11 from 4-5:15 p.m. at the Recreation Hall on East Albert St. in Torrington. Jody Forsberg teaches how to make a special ceramic gift for Easter. Fee is $13.50; for more info call 860-489-2274.
Festivals and Sales
Friends of Bushnell-Sage Library sponsor an APPRAISAL FAIR on Friday, March 28 from 7-9 p.m. in the cafeteria at Mount Everett High School, Berkshire School Rd. in Sheffield. Bring your most treasured items for appraisal by experts on clocks, pottery, jewelry, paintings, furniture, china, coins, paper currency and documents. There will be a 50/50 raffle at 9 p.m.; winner need not be present. Light refreshments will be served. Fee for appraisal is $5 per item.
Winsted United Methodist Church, 630 Main St. in Winsted holds its 4th annual "CURE FOR CABIN FEVER" FLEA MARKET on Saturday, March 29 (snow date is April 5) from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. With more than 30 vendors, the market features collectibles, antiques, crafts, jewelry, beanies, baked goods and a children's table. Lunch including homemade chowders, sandwiches and hot dogs will be available downstairs from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Creamery Gallery at Canton Clay Works, 150 Cherry Brook Rd. (Route 179) in Canton welcomes spring with new pieces by Connecticut-renowned and nationally recognized artists. Glass, ceramics, woodturning, sculpture, basketry and other textiles as well as fine art and jewelry can all be found at the gallery. Hours are Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-693-1000.
Harwinton Girl Scouts hold an ADULTS-ONLY CHINESE AUCTION on Friday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Torrington Elks Club, 70 Litchfield St. in Torrington. There will be over 100 fabulous auction prizes plus door prizes. Admission is $5, plus bring a roll of quarters; all proceeds benefit the Harwinton Girl Scouts and the Northwest CT Council. Advance ticket purchase is encouraged; for more info call 860-689-8008.
Trips
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd. in Litchfield offers a trip to NEW YORK CITY on Wednesday, May 7; bus departs the Community Center at 7:15 a.m. and leaves NYC at 5:45 p.m. There will be three drop-off options and one central pickup location; enjoy the day as you please. Cost is $21; registration required by April 28. For more info call 860-567-8302.
Goshen Recreation Department and Goshen Friendly Neighbors are offering a trip combining historic landmarks with great hotel accommodations and entertaining shows in PENNSYLVANIA on Wednesday through Saturday, May 14-17. Bus leaves Goshen on Wednesday at 7:45 a.m. bound for Philadelphia and Valley Forge Historic Park. Thursday morning’s destinations include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Carpenter’s Hall, Ben Franklin’s grave, and the infamous Eastern State Penitentiary; in the afternoon the coach will travel to Amish country to the popular Millennium Theater for the dynamic musical production of "Daniel." On Friday the group will travel to Gettysburg; besides touring the battlefield and adjoining points of interest with a National Park guide, there will be time spent at the Hall of Presidents and First Ladies and a visit to Ike and Mamie Eisenhower’s farmhouse. On Saturday there will be time to shop at the popular Kitchen Kettle Shops in the Pennsylvania Dutch town of Intercourse; there will also be a stop at the miniature world of Roadside America before arriving back in Goshen at about 8:30 p.m. Cost is $499 per person double occupancy; non-residents are invited. For more info call dale at 860-491-2249, or Barbara at 860-491-3230.
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