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Music and Dance
Torrington Recreation presents the NIGHT MOVES BAND performing popular hits on Friday, July 5 from 7-9 p.m., rain or shine at the Coe Park Civic Center, Litchfield St. in Torrington. Free and open to the public; bring chairs, blankets, etc. to sit on the grass in the park.
Licia and Mason Beekley Community Library presents CHRIS BRUBECK AND TRIPLE PLAY on Friday, July 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the North Congregational Church in New Hartford. Triple Play is the name given to three outstanding and versatile musicians: Chris Brubeck on piano, electric bass, bass trombone and vocals; Peter "Madcat" Ruth on harmonica, guitar, jaw harp, percussion, and vocals; and Joel Brown on folk and classical acoustic guitar and vocals. Collectively they bring a rare level of joy, virtuosity and American spirit to the folk, blues, jazz and classical music they perform. Advance tickets are $15 adults, $7.50 students; tickets at the door are $20 adults, $10 students. For more info call 860-379-7235.
Talcott Mountain Music Festival in Simsbury presents the Hartford Symphony Orchestra in "CELEBRATE AMERICA!" on Friday, July 5 at 7:30 p.m. along Iron Horse Boulevard in downtown Simsbury; gates open at 6 p.m., with pre-concert kids' activities from 6:15-7:15 p.m. Guest conductor Alastair Willis leads the HSO in an evening of patriotic tunes and other popular American classics–capped off by a spectacular fireworks display. At 6 p.m. enjoy a free concert on the Foreman Carillon at Simsbury United Methodist Church, 799 Hopmeadow St. in Simsbury. Bring lawn chairs for seating, and picnic baskets are welcome. There is limited parking throughout downtown Simsbury; please carpool when possible and arrive early. For more info call 860-244-2999.
Norfolk Chamber Music Festival at the Yale Summer School of Music, Routes 44 & 272 in Norfolk presents SIX WORLD PREMIERES on Friday, July 5 at 8 p.m. The Festival's 61st season opens with world premieres of new works by six rising composers: Patrick Burke, William Coble, Sarah Graef, Keith Murphy, Seung-ah Oh and Gregg Wramage; ensembles-in-residence Contrasts Quartet and "eighth blackbird" will perform. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 young adults (ages 18-25), kids free. For more info call 860-542-3000.
Music Mountain, Routes 63 & 126 in Falls Village presents "STARS & STRIPES FOREVER–The Great American Piano," a performance by pianist Paul Bisaccia on Friday, July 5 at 8 p.m. The star of a new PBS documentary, "The Great American Piano," Mr. Bisaccia makes his Music Mountain debut in a concert celebrating the best of American music. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door, $10 students; for more info call 860-824-7126.
Kent Silver Bay Music Festival presents a CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT on Friday, July 5 at 8 p.m. in St. Joseph's Chapel on the campus of the Kent School in Kent. Program includes Mendelssohn's Trio in D Minor, Opus 49; Tsontakis' Piano Quartet; and Shostakovich's Piano Quintet Opus 57. Composer George Tsontakis will attend and will give a short presentation on the work before the performance. The concert features internationally acclaimed artists/ faculty, who have been providing intensive chamber music instruction to thirty selected students throughout the week; the final student concert will be on Saturday, July 6 at 10 a.m. All festival concerts are free and open to the public; for more info call 860-927-6219.
The Guthrie Center, 4 Van Deusenville Rd. in Great Barrington in Simsbury presents JOHN FLYNN on Friday, July 5, and BILL MORRISSEY (following Meg Hutchinson) on Saturday, July 6 at 8 p.m.; doors open at 7 p.m. John Flynn also performs a kids' show on Saturday at 1 p.m. Please bring at least one canned good or non-perishable food item to donate. For more info call 413-528-1955, or visit <www.guthriecenter.org>.
Trinity Art Series presents the ESTONIAN CHAMBER CHOIR on Saturday, July 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 220 Prospect St. in Torrington. This exceptional group of young singers performs works in the mystical tradition of Orthodox sacred music. The choir has won the International Choral Music Competition in Tallinn, as well as many other prizes. Tickets are $10 general admission, $20 for priority seating. For more info call 860-482-4411.
Beacon Grange, 670 Northfield Rd. (Route 254) in Northfield presents a COUNTRY WESTERN DANCE with the Country Travelers on Saturday, July 6 from 8 p.m.-midnight. Donation is $9; door prizes, raffle and refreshments available. For more info call 860-482-1962.
Music Mountain, Routes 63 & 126 in Falls Village presents the ST. PETERSBURG STRING QUARTET with pianist Maxim Mogilevsky on Saturday, July 6 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, July 7 at 3 p.m. Saturday’s program includes Mozart’s String Quartet in E Flat Major, K. 428; Schubert’s String Quartet in D Major, D.94; and Brahms’ Piano Quartet in G Minor, Opus 25; Sunday’s program includes Shostakovich’s String Quartet # 13 in B Flat, Opus 138; Beethoven’s String Quartet in F Major, Opus 59 # 1; and Brahms’ Piano Trio in B Flat, Opus 8. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door, $10 students; for more info call 860-824-7126.
Winsted Recreation presents the JERRY CARILLO ORCHESTRA on Tuesday, July 9 from 7-8:40 p.m. at the Rotary Bandstand in East End Park in Winsted The Orchestra will perform a variety of musical styles including big band, Broadway, Dixieland, jazz, patriotic and more. Bring blankets or chairs; rain location is the Greenwoods Building at Northwestern CT Community College. For more info call 860-379-8670.
Torrington Recreation presents the LEO LIDDLE BIG BAND on Tuesday, July 9 from 7-9 p.m., rain or shine at the Coe Park Civic Center, Litchfield St. in Torrington. Free and open to the public; bring chairs, blankets, etc. to sit on the grass in the park.
Friends of Brodie Park, West Hill Rd. in New Hartford present "BEST OF OPEN MIKE" NIGHT in the Brodie Park field house on Wednesday, July 10 from 6:30-8 p.m. Featuring the top four performers from the April, May and June open mikes–Bill O'Connor of Bristol, Carolyn Reed of New Britain, Ron Anthony of Northford; and Broderick Neil Jones of Torrington; starting the evening will be special guest Gill Dube. Series host is Fred Mertz. Admission is $3; refreshments will be available. For more info call Fred Mertz at 860-307-7784 (days) or 860-738-1117 (evenings).
Litchfield Parks and Recreation presents ACES & EIGHTS in concert on Wednesday, July 10 from 7-9 p.m. on the Green in Litchfield. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating; for more info call 860-567-7569.
Granby Parks and Recreation presents MAGIC AND MUSIC NIGHT on Thursday, July 11 at Salmon Brook Park, Route 10 in Granby. At 7 p.m., Ed Popielarczyk from Magical Moments will perform a family magic show and create balloon sculptures. Afterwards, Rocky Picarillo and his band Common Ground will play the classic rock sounds of Tom Petty, Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin, as well as some original pieces. East West Karate will perform a demo before the main entertainment. The snack shack will serve hot dogs, pizza, snacks and beverages. Free and open to the public; attendees should bring lawn chairs and blankets, and may bring a picnic supper. (Rain site is Granby Senior Center, 15 North Granby Rd. in Granby.) For more info call Kay Woodford at 860-653-8947.
Torrington Park and Recreation sponsors a concert at Torrington City Hall with MUSIC GALLERY performing music from the ‘50s and ‘60s on Thursday, July 11 from 7-9 p.m.
Norfolk Chamber Music Festival at the Yale Summer School of Music, Routes 44 & 272 in Norfolk presents a Young Artist Recital on Thursday, July 11 at 7:30 p.m. Fellows of the Yale Summer School of Music perform in an informal setting designed to introduce families and young people to the arts. Admission is by donation; for more info call 860-542-3000.
Litchfield County Barbershop Chorus (Norwestones) hold a WEEKLY REHEARSAL on Thursday, July 11 at 7:30 p.m. in the school rooms at the Litchfield Congregational Church. The Chorus, which has been in Litchfield County for 36 years, is looking for men who like to sing; college students are welcome. Come and join us on any Thursday and get hooked on the sound of four-part harmony. For more info call Al at 860-482-5413.
Laurel City Band holds BAND REHEARSALS on Mondays through July 22 from 7-9 p.m. in the band room at the Gilbert School. The Laurel City Band is a school/ community band made up of students from area high schools, college musicians, professional musicians, and even "summers only" musicians; all levels are welcome, from high school age up. For more info call band director Scott Minnerly at 860-379-8251, ext 2126.
Drama and Comedy
Sherman Players present "BIG, THE MUSICAL" on Friday and Saturday, July 5-6 at 8 p.m. at the Sherman Playhouse, Routes 37 & 39 (behind the Sherman Firehouse) in Sherman. This family show about a frustrated adolescent who wants to be "big" (based on the 1987 movie "Big" starring Tom Hanks) boasts a cast of 50 adults and young people. Tickets are $18 adults, $16 seniors and students; reservations are necessary. For more info call 860-354-3622.
Greenwoods Theatre, Route 44 in Norfolk presents "A PRIVATE BUFFOON" through July 7 with performances on Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. The life of Gilbert & Sullivan librettist W.S. Gilbert is captured in this one-man musical. Tickets are $20 and $25; for reservations call 860-542-0026.
Barrington Stage Company presents "SOUTH PACIFIC" through July 13 at the Consolati Performing Arts Center in Sheffield. Set in an island paradise during World War II, "South Pacific" traces the stories of two parallel romances that are threatened by both the dangers of war and the evils of prejudice. A motley group of sailors, marines, seabees and nurses, also waiting to get into the war, add a humorous note with the antics they devise to wile away the time. For more info call 413-528-8888.
Barrington Stage Company presents "CASTRO’S BEARD" through July 13 on Stage II at the Consolati Performing Arts Center in Sheffield. The play takes place on a single day, as four agents meet in a cloistered room in CIA headquarters in Langley, VA. The year is 1960 and the charismatic Cuban rebel has recently taken over his country and is on his way to New York to speak at the UN. The agents have two hours to come up with strategies to make sure this is the last visit Fidel Castro will ever make, but not much goes according to plan in this theatrical version of the Marx Brothers meet Ian Fleming. For more info call 413-528-8888.
The Bushnell, 166 Capitol Ave. in Hartford presents "THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES" on Tuesday through Sunday, July 9-14 in the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts’ Belden Theater; performances are July 9-11 at 7:30 p.m., July 12 at 8 p.m., July 13 at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. and July 14 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Based on over 200 interviews with a diverse group of women, Eve Ensler’s phenomenal play is a collection of riotously funny and thoroughly human stories; "The Vagina Monologues" has been performed in more than 40 countries, translated into more than 35 languages, and is currently booked in more than 140 cities in the US and Canada. This production stars Glynis Bell, Rhonda Ross and a third performer to be announced. Tickets are $40-$45; for more info call 860-987-5900.
Tri-Arts at the Sharon Playhouse, Routes 4 & 343 in Sharon presents the Gershwin blockbuster musical comedy "CRAZY FOR YOU" through July 21 with performances on Wednesdays at 3 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 5 p.m. This main stage musical features such favorites as "I Got Rhythm," "Someone to Watch Over Me" and "Embraceable You." For more info call 860-364-7469.
TheaterWorks, 233 Pearl St. in Hartford presents "THE CREDEAUX CANVAS" through July 28 with performances on Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Winston, a young painter, shares an East Village apartment with Jamie, the disinherited son of a prominent art dealer–along with Jamie's alluring girlfriend, Amelia. The three devise a reckless get-rich-quick scheme in which Winston paints a nude portrait of Amelia and passes it off as a lost work of the great artist, Jean-Paul Credeaux. But when their forged painting is revealed as a fake, a complex web of secrets and lies is unraveled. Advisory: This play contains scenes of complete nudity. Tickets are $25, or $35 on Friday and Saturday evenings; center section reserved seats are $10 extra. For more info call 860-527-7838.
Shakespeare & Company, 70 Kemble St. in Lenox presents Shakespeare's murderous tale of lustful power and vaulting ambition, "MACBETH" through August 31. See why a 400-year-old play remains compellingly relevant; for more info call 860-542-5378.
Underdog Productions and the Repertory Theatre of New Britain hold AUDITIONS for chorus and lead understudy for its October production of "Rocky Horror Show" on Wednesday, July 10 from 7-10 p.m. at 23 Norden St. in New Britain. Appointments required; for more info call 860-582-6565, or 860-978-2461.
Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston holds OPEN AUDITIONS for its September production of "Pippin" on Sunday, July 14 at 6:30 p.m. Only the role of leading player will be open for audition; all other roles have been cast. Come prepared with a song (if not from "Pippin," please provide sheet music). Auditioners will be asked to read from the script and perform a brief dance combination that will be taught at the audition. This is a dance-heavy show; please dress comfortably. The production is directed by Sharon Wilcox; for more info call 860-283-6250.
Art Exhibits
New Arts Gallery, 513 Maple St. in Litchfield exhibits the work of STEVEN SORMAN and STEPHEN TALASNIK through July 22. Steven Sorman is a painter and printmaker who relies on intricate, rich, detailed surfaces and forms to express his varied visual vocabulary. Stephen Talasnik's work investigates both drawing and sculptural constructions made from basswood and also metal. Gallery hours are Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-567-5015.
Village Video and Ice Cream, 13 River Rd. in Washington Depot exhibits photography by DONALD TURNER through July 25.
Gallery on the Green, Route 44 in Canton holds its indoor/ outdoor OPEN JURIED SCULPTURE EXHIBITION through July 28. David Boyajian, Director of Studies in the Sculpture Department at Silvermine School in New Canaan, is the juror. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 1-5 p.m.; for more info call 860-693-4102.
First National Bank of Litchfield, Routes 4 & 63 in Goshen hosts an exhibit of photographs by ROBERT H. GROHS through the end of July during regular banking hours. The exhibit consists of color butterfly, flower and light scenes that were produced in the last few years. Several of Groh's images are of close-up work where one is able to see the minute details of the butterfly, some are at a medium distance and some are in a landscape. All of his work was photographed in Litchfield County in their natural environment.
Chesterwood National Trust for Historic Preservation, 4 Williamsville Rd. (off Route 183) in Stockbridge presents CONTEMPORARY SCULPTURE AT CHESTERWOOD daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through October 14. Thirty-four works by thirty-three different sculptors have been chosen to participate in this juried exhibition. The sculptures have been fabricated in varying contemporary media and style. Admission is $10 adults, $5 children; for more info call 413-298-3579.
Lectures and Presentations
The Mount, turn-of-the-century home of Edith Wharton in Lenox, presents "A CONSERVATIVE REBEL: Edith in the Garden" with Alan Emmet on Saturday, July 6 at 10 a.m. at Town Hall, 65 Walker St. in Lenox. This lecture is the part of the summer-long series "The Complex Art of Civilized Living." Lectures are followed by a book signing and refreshments; books may be ordered in advance from The Mount's bookshop. Tickets are $16 in advance, $18 at the door. Reservations recommended; for more info call 413-637-1899.
Beardsley and Memorial Library, 40 Munro Pl. in Winsted presents WATER-WISE GARDENING with Phillip Allen on Saturday, July 6 from 11-11:30 a.m. Whether in response to drought restrictions or a desire to conserve resources, many gardeners are looking for ways to reduce the amount of watering required to keep their plants and gardens healthy, productive and looking their best. This lecture will provide an overview of water-wise gardening, a combination of horticultural techniques and products that together can dramatically reduce consumption while achieving garden and landscape goals. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-379-6043.
Sheffield Historical Society, 159-161 Main St. in Sheffield hosts EIGHTEENTH CENTURY DAY–A Family Celebration on Saturday, July 6 from noon-5 p.m. The Historical Society joins the Colonel Ashley House in celebrating the stories and the lives of Sheffield’s founding families; both sites offer house tours, demonstrations and hand-on family activities. At the Historical Society’s Dan Raymond House, there will be demonstrations of sewing and textile production as well as spinning and dyeing; there will be candle making at the Colonel Ashley House. For more info call 413-229-2694.
Community Forum Project presents THE CASE FOR SINGLE-PAYER, UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE IN CONNECTICUT, a talk by John Battista, MD at the Richmond Citizens Center on the Green, 40 Main St. in New Milford on Sunday, July 7 from 7-8:30 p.m. Dr. Battista is the Coordinator of the CT Coalition for Universal Health Care and co-author of legislation that would create a publicly funded health insurance plan for all Connecticut residents. Co-sponsors are the Grass Roots Coalition of New Milford, the Washington Environmental League and the Western CT Chapter of the CT Green Party. Free and open to the public; for more info call Andy or Carrie Ziegler at 860-355-2482.
Goshen Public Library, 42 North St. (Route 63) in Goshen presents LEGEND OF THE LEATHERMAN with Steve Grant on Monday, July 8 at 7 p.m. at the Goshen Center School, next to the library. From about 1862-89, The Leatherman walked a circuit of 365 miles every 34 days between the Connecticut and Hudson Rivers. What made him unique was his precision in his daily routine. Mr. Grant walked the same route in 1993 and, as a well known reporter, wrote a feature story series for the Hartford Courant about The Leatherman. Free and open to the public, but registration is required; for more info call 860-491-3234.
Burlington Public Library, Route 4 in Burlington hosts "MEET MARINE LIFE" on Tuesday, July 9 at 7 p.m. Schooner, Inc., a nonprofit marine education organization dedicated to preserving the ecology, history and culture of Long Island Sound, will present this program. Schooner, Inc. promotes environmental awareness and personal growth by providing young people and adults educational experiences in marine science, sailing, and the history of Long Island Sound. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-673-3331.
Northwest Writers of CT present CREATIVITY–YOUR BIGGEST ASSET with author Sallianne Norelli on Wednesday, July 10 at 7 p.m. at the Goshen Library, Route 63 in Goshen. The author of nine published children's books, Ms. Norelli is a full-time freelance writer whose clients include Fisher Price, Casual Corner, Ethan Allen, and "Modern Bride." She has a special interest in helping other writers develop their creativity and confidence. The Northwest Writers is made up of writers from 14 area towns with varying levels of experience; they gather monthly to hear guest authors speak about their work and to network with fellow writers. Interested writers are welcome to attend the program; for more info call Cheryl Corey at 860-485-1494.
Farmington Valley Christian Women's Club presents BEACH TREASURES, a luncheon at the Farmington Club in Farmington on Thursday, July 11 from noon-2 p.m. Mark Ruede of Hartford will present a special feature on "Gems of the Sea." Dixie Westervelt of Shokan, NY will perform music along with her husband and children; she will also be the featured speaker with some "fascinating surprises" to share. Cost is $14; reservations are required by July 8 for both the luncheon and free childcare. For more info call Bea at 860-673-4402, or Diane at 860-621-0088.
Classes and Workshops
Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon offers FAUX FINISH FAVORITES with Carolann Dvorak on Sundays, July 7 through July 28 from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Participants will learn creative "special effects" for painting walls, ceilings, floors and furniture. Techniques taught will include traditional glazing and clouds, dimensional effects, 3-D painting, tromp l’oeil, shading for realistic details, gilding, gold leaf and marbleizing. No experience is necessary. Fee is $115 plus $35 or materials; for more info call 860-678-1867, ext 101.
Connecticut Dance Theatre, 523 Main St. in Watertown offers APPRECIATION CLASSES this summer in dance, drama and voice for children and teens, and a variety of dance classes for adults. Children’s classes begin the week of July 15 and run through August 9. Adult classes start July 8 and will be held on weekday evenings through August 9. Tuition for children and adults is $60 per class for four weeks; for specific class times and to register, call 860-274-0004.
Litchfield Community Center, Route 202 in Litchfield hosts a two-night class in EUROPEAN FLORAL DESIGN on Thursdays, July 11 and July 18 from 7-10 p.m. Instructor Gwenythe Briat Harvey is well known for her folk art and exceptional gardens in Litchfield County. Cost is $45; a materials list including silk and dried flowers will be provided, and items will be available at extra cost at the first session. For more info call 860-567-3245.
Berkshire Botanical Garden, Routes 102 & 183 in Stockbridge offers a hands-on GARDEN FURNITURE DESIGN workshop on Saturday, July 13 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Participants will craft a garden bench with maple saplings and bittersweet vines for their home garden while learning the basic concepts for designing and making rustic furniture, from choosing and harvesting the raw materials through design and construction. Instructor Janice Shields creates sculptural house and garden trellises, planters and arbors through her Lenox-based business, Cut It Out. Cost is $85 members, $95 non-members; registration is required. For more info call 413-298-3926.
Berkshire Botanical Garden, Routes 102 & 183 in Stockbridge offers a hands-on workshop on FAUX PAINTING with Barbara Willner on Tuesday, July 16 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Learn the art of decorative painting for indoor and outdoor use with a focus on faux marble painting. Take away a working knowledge of tools, paint selection, preparation, and experiment with actual painting techniques. The class will faux marble a wooden birdhouse to resemble a marble Greek Revival building. Participants will learn techniques in the morning and complete the project after lunch. Cost for is $60 members, $70 non-members; all materials are included. Registration is required; for more info call 413-298-3926.
Berkshire Botanical Garden, Routes 102 & 183 in Stockbridge offers a three-part WATERCOLOR PAINTING WORKSHOP with Linda Novick on Wednesdays, July 17-31 from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. View the summer garden with an eye for color, mood, and texture and then capture it on paper. Learn the basics of watercolor painting, including color mixing, brush techniques and composition. Learn step-by-step techniques at each class to create a finished watercolor. Beginners are welcome! Cost is $85 members, $95 non-members; registration is required. For more info call 413-298-3926.
Hartford Stage, 50 Church St. in Hartford offers SUMMER THEATRE WORKSHOPS for students: ages 7-12 meet on July 22-26, ages 13-16 meet on July 29-August 2, and ages 16-18 meet on August 5-9; each program runs from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. daily. Tuition is $195; enrollment deadline is July 12. For more info call 860-525-5601, ext 140.
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, 229 East Litchfield Rd. in Litchfield offers MIDSUMMER SOUL SINGING in the Labyrinth on Monday, August 5 at 7 p.m. with vocalist Victoria Christgau and drummer Fre Atlast. Soul singing is singing from the bottom of your heart that is empowering and transformational; there is no preconceived notion of how your voice should sound, and the group energy supports individual expression. Ms. Christgau, an improvisational singer and peace educator, will lead songs from many different spiritual and cultural backgrounds; no experience is necessary, and all ages are welcome. Guests are welcome to bring percussion instruments, which will be used during the first half hour of the program. Soul Singing will be held rain or shine, but if weather permits the group will conclude with a labyrinth walk. A $6 donation is requested; to make a reservation, call 860-567-3163.
Outdoors
Housatonic Audubon Society holds its monthly NATURE WALK on Saturday, July 6 at 11 a.m. at Sharon Audubon Center, Route 4 in Sharon. A mid-day in July is the perfect time for observing butterflies. This month we will explore the butterfly garden and Bog Meadow Field to learn different local species. The program is weather dependent, so please call ahead and let us know if you are planning to attend; call 860-364-0520.
Litchfield Hills Audubon Society sponsors a BUTTERFLY WALK on Sunday, July 7 at 9 a.m. Naturalist writer Greg Hanisek will lead the walk. Group will meet in the parking lot at White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd. (off Route 202) in Litchfield. In case of rain, the walk will be cancelled. The public is invited; for more info call 860-482-0819.
Garden Conservancy sponsors an OPEN GARDEN DAY on Sunday, July 7: visit Steepleview Gardens, 25 Stillman Rd. in Colebrook from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Interesting plant habits and foliage textures are featured in more than 25 cottage-style gardens displaying hundreds of different hybrid daylilies, stunning six-foot-tall spikes of delphinium and a very large collection of familiar and unusual perennials. Admission is $5; Open Day goes on rain or shine, and reservations are not required. For more info call 888-842-2442.
Housatonic Audubon Society sponsors a BIKE AND BOG TRIP in Mohawk State Forest on Sunday, July 7 from 2-5:30 p.m.; meet at the parking lot entrance of Mohawk State Park on Route 4 in Cornwall (1.5 miles east of the intersection of Routes 4, 128 & 43). This trip includes a 4-mile bike ride and 30-minute walk through a black spruce bog. Bike along a two-mile park road featuring scenic vistas that include glimpses of the Catskills and Taconics; the road is relatively flat and the biking is fairly easy. The black spruce bog is the last remaining outpost for the black spruce tree in Connecticut. This unique area is truly a remnant of the ice age and supplies visitors with a firsthand sense of the type of vegetation common to that era. If you want to bring food, the park has grills available close to the vistas for cooking dinner after the program. For more info call Ed Thorney at 860-435-1060.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton offers NATURE WALKS on Wednesdays, July 10 through August 14 from 7:30-8:45 p.m.; meet in the Nature Center parking lot. Evening walks can provide a relaxing end to a busy summer day, as well as the opportunity to observe a wide range of animals that become more active in the cooler evening hours. It is suggested that participants wear long sleeves and bring a flashlight and insect repellant. Cost of each walk is $2 members, $4 non-members; pre-registration is not required. For more info call 860-693-0263.
Sports
Social Connections meets for a SINGLES ROCKCATS BASEBALL GAME on Saturday, July 5 at Willow Brook Park in New Britain. Meet at 5:30 p.m. at the ticket booth; game starts at 7 p.m. Even if you're not a sports fan, come anyway. We always have a fun time! Everyone needs to be there early, as this is a holiday weekend and the stadium will fill up early. Admission is $6; to reserve tickets call Marcia at 860-828-4817.
American Legion Post #43 Baseball vs. Simsbury on Sunday, July 7 at 1 p.m. at Walker Field in Winsted.
Northwest YMCA offers ROLLER HOCKEY CAMP for children (ages 7-13); sessions will be held on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-noon at the Litchfield Firehouse in Litchfield on July 8-12 and July 22-26, at Pearson School in Winsted on July 29-August 2, and at the Pavilion in Canaan on August 5-9. Participants should be prepared with roller in-line skates, knee and elbow pads, helmet, drink and snack; the YMCA will provide sticks and goalie equipment. The main focus will be on skating technique, individual and team drills, overall in-line hockey rules, and 5-on-5 games; a non-contact style of in-line hockey will be taught. At the end of each session, participants will receive a certificate of achievement and a YMCA roller hockey jersey along with membership in USA Hockey, which offers educational programs and resource materials for all skill levels. Instructors are John Calder and Mike Simon; both are CPR and First Aid certified. Cost is $120 per session, with a $20 discount for additional sessions; for more info call Derek Marshall at 860-379-0708.
American Legion Post #43 Baseball vs. Wolcott on Tuesday, July 9 at 5:30 p.m. at Wolcott High School.
American Legion Post #43 Baseball vs. Burlington on Wednesday, July 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Walker Field in Winsted.
Torrington Parks and Recreation sponsors the 7th annual 3-ON-3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT on Sunday, July 14 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Divisions are 12 & under, 14 & under, high school, recreational and open; tournament is open to all Litchfield County residents, both male and female participants. Fee is $20 per team for the 12 & under and 14 & under divisions; $40 for the others. Rain date is Sunday, July 21. Entry deadline is July 12; for more info call 860-489-2274.
Canton Parks and Recreation offers SPORTS CLINICS on Monday through Friday, July 15-19. Boys baseball for ages 9-11 meets from 9:30-11:30 a.m.; co-ed field hockey for ages 8-12 meets from 9:30-11:30 a.m.; and girls softball for ages 8-11 meets from 6-8 p.m. Cost for each camp is $60; registration ends July 10. For more info call 860-693-5808.
Kids
World Peace Sanctuary in Amenia hosts a PEACE ARTS CAMP for children (ages 10-15) on Monday through Friday, July 8-12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This unique opportunity for children will include activities such as songs, dance, drama, art projects, cooperative games, nature walks, creative writing and sports, all based on a theme of peace through self-expression, and in the spirit of fun and cooperation. Victoria Christgau, singer and peace educator, and Paula Christine, Montessori teacher and coordinator of the international Peace Pals Program, lead the camp. Fee is $150; for registration or more info call 845-877-6093.
White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd. (off Route 202) in Litchfield offers MOUNTAINS, ROCKS AND WATER for children entering grades 3-4 on Monday through Friday, July 8-12 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Activities include rock and mineral collecting, investigating aquatic life, and learning to identify trees, birds, and other living things. Fee is $105 members, $120 non-members; for more info call 860-567-0857.
Torrington Library, 12 Daycoeton Place in Torrington offers SUMMER ARTS AND CRAFTS for children. Ages 7-9 meet on Tuesdays, July 9 through August 13 from 11 a.m.-noon. Ages 10-12 meet on Wednesdays, July 10 through August 14 from 1-2 p.m. Registration is required; for more info call Abigail at 860-489-6684.
Torrington Library, 12 Daycoeton Place in Torrington offers SUMMER STORY TIME for children. Ages 3-4 meet on Thursdays, July 11 through August 15 from from 3:30-4 p.m.; and on Fridays, July 12 through August 16 from 10:30-11 a.m. Ages 5-6 meet on Fridays, July 12 through August 16 from 3:30-4 p.m. Registration is required; for more info call Abigail at 860-489-6684.
Litchfield Historical Society presents PUNCH AND JUDY on Wednesday, July 10 at 11 a.m. on the lawn of the Tapping-Reeve House and Law School, 82 South St. in Litchfield. (Rain location is the Church House of St. Michael's Parish, 23 South St. in Litchfield.) Punch and Judy is the oldest continuous English speaking puppet show, first appearing in London in the late 1600s. Robert Olson, a staff member of Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts for over 20 years, has adapted this ancient puppet play to appeal to 20th century audiences. Admission is free and all are welcome; audience members are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs. For more info call 860-567-4501.
Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey Rd. in Canton offers ANIMAL BABIES, a live animal demonstration geared for all ages on Thursday, July 11 from 2-2:45 p.m. The program will feature slides and mounted animals as well as live specimens. Admission is $1 children, $2 adults; children under age 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is not required; for more info call 860-693-0263.
White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd. (off Route 202) in Litchfield offers MOUNTAINS, ROCKS AND WATER for children entering grades 5-6 on Monday through Friday, July 15-19 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Activities involve hiking, collecting minerals, climbing, and exploring for wildlife and plant life in area forests, mountains and wetlands. Fee is $105 members, $120 non-members; for more info call 860-567-0857.
White Memorial Conservation Center, 80 Whitehall Rd. (off Route 202) in Litchfield offers FORESTS, FEATHERS AND GARNETS for children entering grades 5-6 on Monday through Friday, July 22-26 from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Activities involve hiking, collecting minerals, climbing, and exploring for wildlife and plant life in area forests, mountains and wetlands. Fee is $105 members, $120 non-members; for more info call 860-567-0857.
Festivals and Sales
Kent Memorial Library, 32 North Main St. in Kent holds its summer-long BOOK SALE on Fridays and Sundays from noon-5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Each weekend new donations fill tables with unequaled selections at great prices. During the 4th of July weekend, raffle tickets for a family of four to Tanglewood on Parade on July 30 will be sold for $2; the drawing will be held on Sunday at 4 p.m. For more info call 860-927-3761.
David M. Hunt Library, Main St. in Falls Village holds its monthly BOOK SALE on Saturday, July 6 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For more info call 860-824-7424.
Sandisfield Arts Center sponsors an ESTATE SALE featuring the entire contents of an 1800s minister’s farmhouse in Otis on Saturday and Sunday, July 6-7 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Proceeds from the estate and tag sale will go to the Sandisfield Arts Center for its restoration project and to the Sandisfield Historical Society for its Well Fund. The components of the building will also be sold, including the wide board flooring, antique hardware, doors and windows. Contents include furniture, appliances, lamps, rugs, china, books, and knick-knacks. There is also a collection of 1950s Popular Mechanics magazines and a motor boat with a trailer. The farmhouse is located on Route 8 in Otis, just north of Cold Spring Rd. Credit cards and early birds will not be accepted.
Washington Art Association holds its 11th annual CLOTHESLINE ARTS AND CRAFTS SALE at the Washington Town Hall in Washington Depot on Saturday and Sunday, July 6-7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., rain or shine. Browse and enjoy works of art and crafts in many styles and media, all for sale at affordable prices. For more info call 860-868-2878.
Trips
Mattatuck Museum offers a day trip to the FLORENCE GRISWOLD MUSEUM in Old Lyme on Saturday, July 13; bus leaves the commuter parking lot off I-84 in Waterbury at 8:30 a.m. and returns at 3:30 p.m. The current exhibition at the museum offers a multi-layered interpretive approach that introduces the story of the Lyme Art Colony, and will also offer a closer look at the characteristics of Tonalism and Impressionism, the two artistic styles associated with the Lyme Art Colony. Time will be provided to view exhibits, take a guided tour of the Period Rooms in the Griswold House, enjoy a box lunch on the veranda of the museum grounds, visit the gift shop and meander in the gardens. Cost of $60 members, $70 non-members includes box lunch; for more info call 203-753-0381, ext 10.
And More
Sharon Historical Society presents THE GREAT SHARON MIX FOR BRICKS on Friday, July 5 at 6 p.m. under the big tent behind the Gay-Hoyt House on the Green in Sharon. Enjoy hors d'oeuvres catered by the Sharon Day Care Center and an open bar while you take a tour of the new addition to the Society's museum. Featured at the party will be commemorative bricks for sale; you may purchase a brick for $50 and have it inscribed with words of your choice. The bricks will be installed in a new patio outside the addition. Proceeds from the party and from the sale of bricks benefit the Society's building campaign. Tickets for the party are $40; for more info call 860-364-5688.
Falls Village-Canaan Historical Society sponsors an HISTORIC BUILDING OPEN HOUSE featuring the District One Beebe Hill School House on Fridays, July 5 through August 30 from 1-4 p.m. One of ten school buildings in the Township of Canaan, the Beebe Hill School House is located at the junction of Beebe Hill Rd. and Railroad St. (at Route 7) in Falls Village. Guides Catherine Giulian, Lee Starrs, Alberta Dean, Ginny Diedine, Anna Kavula, Barbara Kelsey and Tracey Wilson will have information concerning the building; publications of the Historical Society will be available. Society Curator Doris Longaven will be on duty in the Depot building.
Stanley-Whitman House hosts a REVOLUTIONARY WAR ENCAMPMENT on Saturday, July 6 at the West District School in Farmington. Revolutionary War re-enactors, from both Patriot and British sides, will present a soldiers' camp and an exciting living history program for the entire day. The Second Continental Light Dragoons will lead re-enactors from units from around New England in a variety of presentations, from tactical exercises on foot and horseback to activities of everyday colonial life, such as children's games and carpentry. Special programs for children will include a hands-on area and a magical "treasure" hunt. Admission is $3; lunch food will be available for purchase onsite. Parking is available at West District School and at Tunxis Mead Park on Red Oak Hill Rd.; a free shuttle bus will run throughout the day. For more info call 860-677-9222.
Norfolk Volunteer Fire Dept. presents a CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION on Saturday, July 6 with a block party starting at 3 p.m. in the center of town. There will be food, a live band, games, activities, and horse-drawn carriage rides. A parade at 4 p.m. will include over 40 fire companies with more than 100 fire trucks and marching bands. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
Beardsley and Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place in Winsted presents "FOREIGN CORRESPONDENT" on Wednesday, July 10 from 6-7:30 p.m. as part of its Alfred Hitchcock Summer Film Festival. Free and open to the public; for more info call 860-379-6043.
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