Thursday, Aug. 28
Dance Designs has an open house from 4 to 8 p.m. at its new location on the corner of Route 108 and Red Oak Drive, Unit E, Plaistow, N.H. Students can see the new facility and meet the teachers. For more information, call 603-382-3373.
"Spousal Deafness and Other Bones of Contention" is a terrific comedy with great songs by husband and wife, Gordon Carlyle and Susan Poulin at 2 and 8 p.m. as part of Act One's Festival of Fun at West End Studio Theatre, 959 Islington St., Portsmouth, N.H. Tickets are $18, $16 for seniors. For reservations or more information, call 603-300-2986 or visit www.actonenh.blogspot.com.
"The Twig Family" by Deborah Costine at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. The Twig Family lives in an oak tree in harmony with nature. Their neighbors in the tree include Robin and Baby Bird, Hyla the tree frog and Gray Squirrel. In this show, the audience learns about nature, living simply and confronting our fears. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Tickets are $10 general, $8 members. Prepaid reservations are recommended. For information or tickets, call 617-731-6400 or visit www.puppetshowplace.org.
"What's Happening to our Bats?" on Thursday, Aug. 28, from 7 to 8 p.m. at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. Bats are an essential part of our ecosystem and are often misunderstood. Recently, a disease has been afflicting hibernating bats and causing deaths, sounding the alarm for scientists. Join Susi VonOettingen, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service scientist, to learn more about the natural history of the bats in our area and what this disease means for them and us. No registration necessary. For more information, call 978-465-5753 or visit www.parkerriver.fws.gov.
Saturday, Aug. 30
Lebanese festival: St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church annual Mahrajan, a two-day Lebanese festival from 5 to 11 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 31, from noon to 11 p.m. at the church grounds, 145 Amesbury St., Lawrence. Homemade food and pastries will be served, including beef and chicken kabob, kibbee, hummus, baba ghanouj, tabouleh, spinach pies, hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries and more. There will be live Lebanese entertainment, raffles, games and activities. Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information, call the rectory at 978-685-7233.
Gloucester Schooner Festival: Guests can expect to see both large and small vessels ranging from 19 feet to more than 125 feet in length. The festival is planned and organized by the Gloucester Schooner Festival Committee, composed of representatives of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce and the city of Gloucester. For more information, call 978-283-1601. For a full schedule of events, visit www.capeannvacations.com/schooner.
Sunday, Aug. 31
Navy reunion: USS Bergall (SSN-667) in Louisville, Ky. For more information, contact Richard Fiske at SSN-667@HullNumber.com.
Lebanese festival: St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church annual Mahrajan, a two-day Lebanese festival from noon to 11 p.m. at the church grounds, 145 Amesbury St., Lawrence. Homemade food and pastries will be served, including beef and chicken kabob, kibbee, hummus, baba ghanouj, tabouleh, spinach pies, hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries and more. There will be live Lebanese entertainment, raffles, games and activities. Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information, call the rectory at 978-685-7233.
Gloucester Schooner Festival Guests can expect to see both large and small vessels ranging from 19 feet to more than 125 feet in length. The event also features The Mayor's Race, with more than 15 large schooners expected to compete for the Esperanto Cup, the Cameron Cup, and the Ramsey Plate. The festival is planned and organized by the Gloucester Schooner Festival Committee, composed of representatives of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce and the city of Gloucester. Form ore information call 978-283-1601. For a full schedule of events, visit www.capeannvacations.com/schooner.
Wednesday, Sept. 3
Navy reunions: USS Hyades (AF-28) in Nashville, Tenn. For more information, contact Robert Stearns at AF-28@HullNumber.com. USS Collett (DD-730) in Irving, Texas. For more information, contact Frank Olderr at LHD-4@HullNumber.com.
Old-fashioned tea party at 2 p.m. at the Whittier Home, 86 Friend St., Amesbury, in the garden. Menu includes hot or cold tea, lemonade, sandwiches and desserts. Cost is $15. For more information or to reserve a spot, call 978-388-1337.
Free muzzle-loading course on Sept. 3, 5, 10 and 12 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Methuen Rod and Gun Club, 240 Tyler St., Methuen. This comprehensive program is open to both advanced and beginning students and focuses on many topics, including equipment selection, history of muzzle-loading, safety, use, care and cleaning of muzzle-loading guns. Participants must attend every session. Minors must present a certificate of completion from a state-approved basic hunter education program. Preregistration is required. For more information or to register, call 978-632-7648 or visit www.mass.gov/masswildlife.
Thursday, Sept. 4
Navy Reunions: USS West Virginia (BB-48) in Colorado Springs, Colo. For more information, contact Joe Variot at BB-48@HullNumber.com. USS Graffias (AF-29) in Nashville Tenn. For more information, contact John Morrow at AF-29@HullNumber.com. USS Neches (AO-47) in Rock Island, Ill. For more information, contact Ed Anderson at AO-47@HullNumber.com. USS Toledo (CA-133) in Seattle. For more information, contact Bob Nadeau at CA-133@HullNumber.com.
The Firehouse Center for the Arts presents "The Brubeck Brothers Quartet" for their Newburyport debut at 7:30 p.m. This jazz concert will feature cuts from their latest CD, "Classified." Tickets are $33 for members, $38 nonmembers. For tickets, call 978-462-7336 or visit www.brubeckmusic.com.
Friday, Sept. 5
Laughter for Life fundraiser: A benefit fundraiser for the northeast chapter of the National Transplant Assistance Fund, which provides aid to transplant and catastrophic injury patients when required, will be at the Amesbury Playhouse, 194 Main St. The night is titled "Laughter for Life," in honor of Christy Manclark of Amesbury, a 40-year-old mother of two who has polycystic kidney disease. Manclark's kidneys failed several months ago and she is on dialysis. The evening will feature comedy, music, dancing and dinner. A silent auction will also be held with items such as a flat-screen TV, jewelry, Merrimac River Cruise, weekend get-a-ways and more. Doors open at 6 p.m., with dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40, of which $29 is tax deductible. Tickets can be purchased at Natural High Fitness at The Tannery, 50 Water St., Newburyport; laughterforlife@comcast.net; or from Nancy McCarthy at 978-499-0993 or Theresa Ramsden at 978-388-9391.
Opening reception for the exhibit "Moments of Serenity: The beauty of flora, fauna and seascapes captured in oils" by Wendy Lynne Dickes from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Newburyport Art Association in the Laura Hill Combs Gallery. For more information, call 781-799-3632, e-mail secretgardenstudio@verizon.net or visit www.thesecretgardenstudio.com.
Saturday, Sept. 6
"MusicFest": Wachusett Mountain has its 11th annual music and blues festival on the mountain. Saturday's entertainment includes performances by Whiskey Falls, a Nashville, Tenn. based band with an original southern sound, Pure Prairie League, known for classic rock hits such as "Amy" and "Amnesia," and the headlining act, The Outlaws. The Sunday line up includes: Mary Lou Ferrante performing pre-war 1920s and 1930s blues, Ernie and the Automatics, playing traditional smooth blues, Chris Fitz Band and many more. The skyride will run at the festival. Saturday tickets are $15 advanced, $20 at door. Sunday tickets are $25 advanced, $30 at door. Kids 6-12 $4 advanced and $5 at door, free for children under 5. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 978-646-2300 or visit www.wachusett.com.
Navy reunion: USS Rigel (AF-58) in New York, N.Y. For more information, contact Tom Burke at AF-58@HullNumber.com.
Benefit yard sale: Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society will hold a yard sale with proceeds benefiting the cats and kittens in the charity's care from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at MRFRS Headquarters, 63 Elm St., Salisbury. For more information, call 978-462-0760 or visit www.mrfrs.org.
New England Culture Fest 2008 from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Lowell Art District across from 172 Middle St. The benefit festival features various ethnic foods and performances including: hip-hop, West African dance, a 15-piece Brazilian drum ensemble, belly dancing and much more. The cost is $10. Children under 12 admitted for free. Two admissions for price of one coupon available online. For more information, call 978-455-6025 or visit www.second-world.com.
Kidfest from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lucent Field on Route 125, North Andover. The North Andover Youth Hockey League will host a fun-filled day for children of all ages. The event will offer a variety of games and activities for the entire family, including sack races, a moonwalk, hockey shootouts, a dunking tank, baseball, soccer, tug-of-war, entertainment and more. Trophies and medals will be awarded. Refreshments will be available for sale. Proceeds will benefit the North Andover Youth Hockey League. Tickets are $8 each and can be purchased at the gate. Children age 3 and under are free. For more information, contact NAYHL at cmknights1981@aol.com.
Sunday, Sept. 7
"MusicFest": Wachusett Mountain will be holding its 11th annual music and blues festival on the mountain. Saturday's entertainment includes performances by Whiskey Falls, a Nashville, Tenn. based band with an original southern sound, Pure Prairie League, known for their classic rock hits and the headlining act, The Outlaws. The Sunday line up includes: Mary Lou Ferrante performing pre-war 1920s and 1930s blues, Ernie and the Automatics, playing traditional smooth blues, Chris Fitz Band and many more. The skyride will run at the festival. Saturday tickets are $15 advanced, $20 at door. Sunday tickets are $25 advanced, $30 at door. Kids 6-12 $4 advanced and $5 at door, free for children under 5. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 978-646-2300 or visit www.wachusett.com.
PLAN AHEAD
Trip to Foxwoods: The Vic Geary Senior Center in Plaistow, N.H., will sponsor a trip to Foxwoods Casino on a large coach bus on Monday, Sept. 8. The buss will leave the Vic Geary Senior Center at 7 a.m. and return at approximately 4:30 p.m.. Cost is $32, which includes free bingo games on the way there, a movie with snack on the return trip, Foxwoods coupons for Keno and a $10 food or full buffet coupon. Seats are limited. Vic Geary Senior Center is on Greenough Road, Plaistow, N.H. For more information or to reserve a seat, call Bob at 603-382-8193 or Joyce at 603-382-9276. Future trips are on the second Monday of each month.
Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society's Back to School Adopt-a-thon will be Saturday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at MRFRS Headquarters, 63 Elm St., Salisbury. The event will feature more than 30 cats and kittens available for adoption, focusing on those that have been at the shelter for a long time. The adoption fee will be waived for those over 60 when adopting a cat over 5 years old. In addition, outside tents will feature MRFRS T-shirts, handmade cat toys, new cat and kitten supplies and more. For more information, call MRFRS Director of Adoptions Renee Pabisz at 978-462-0760 or visit www.mrfrs.org.
Golf outing: The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church will host a golf outing on Sept. 17 at the Ould Newbury Golf Club, 319 Newburyport Turnpike, Newbury. Shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Dinner will follow at Nicholson Hall on Harris St., Newburyport. Entry fee is $100 and includes 18 holes of golf with a cart, gifts, prizes, dinner and a raffle. For more information or to register, call Byron Matthews at 978-462-2750.
Bean supper: Holy Family Parish of Amesbury will hold a bean supper on Saturday, Sept. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the main hall off Spark Street. Supper includes navy and kidney beans, hot dogs, ham, potato salad, cole slaw, homemade relish, bread, drink and dessert. Cost is $6 for adults, $4 children 12 and under. For more information, call 978-388-1654.
Auditions: Coro Stella Maris will audition for its 2008-2009 season. Openings are available in all voice sections. Choral experience and good reading required. Auditions will be by appointment only through September. For more information or to make an appointment to audition, call 867-919-4218 or 617-964-6609.
"Eighth Fire Gathering" on Sept. 13 and 14 at the Earthlands, Petersham. A cross-cultural gathering of Native American elders, sustainability leaders, and concerned citizens will spend two days in dialogue, ceremony and celebration with the intention of building a network for sustainable culture in the Northeast. Honored guests include internationally recognized visionary, Anishinabe Tribal Elder Dave Courchene Jr. This event is sponsored by the Sacred Earth Network. For more information, call 978-724-0120 or visit www.eighthfiregathering.com.
Barktoberfest: Help raise money for forgotten dogs in town pounds by taking a walk with or without your pooch on Sunday, Sept. 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the 4-H Fairgrounds, Westford. The event features a bake sale, food court and several contests including "Best Trick," "Best Booty Wiggle," "Looks Most Like Owner," and many more. Barktoberfest will be held rain or shine. For more information, call 508-435-5029 or visit www.poundhounds.org.
Tickets for the Polar Express will be available on Oct. 18 from 9 to 11 a.m. at St. Michael School, 80 Maple Ave., North Andover. Tickets are $20 per person. The Polar Express will begin running on Nov. 29. Join Santa's elves for a reading of Chris Van Allsburg's "The Polar Express," cocoa, dessert and visits from some special Christmas friends. Trains depart from the Newburyport MBTA station at 11:35 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 3:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit the Cor Unum Meal Center in Lawrence. Donations of new hats, mittens, scarves and sweaters will be accepted at the train station and will be distributed by Cor Unum and the Department of Children and Families to those in need. For tickets after Oct. 18, call 978-686-1862 or visit www.saintmichael.com.
Open auditions: New England Civic Ballet will hold open auditions to cast the roles for its annual production of "The Nutcracker Ballet" on Sunday, Sept. 14 at the NECB studios, Dracut Street, Lawrence. There is a $10 registration fee. For information regarding ages, time and proper dress attire, call the studio at 978-975-0289. Performances will be in December at the Rogers Center for the Performing Arts, Merrimack College, North Andover.
Lecture and book signing: Dr. William Mahon will discuss his most recent publication, "Thomas Griffin and the Irish Speaking People of Lawrence and the Irish Manuscripts at Villanova University by the Way of Lawrence" on Sunday, Sept. 14 at 1:30 p.m. at the Lawrence Heritage State Park Visitors Center, 1 Jackson St., Lawrence. Admission is free. Sponsored by The Irish Foundation, Division 8 AOH and LAOH, The Friends of the Lawrence Public Library, The Friends of the Harvard University Celtic Department and The Cumann, na Gaielge League of Boston. For more information, call 978-794-1655.
The Northshore Youth Symphony Orchestra is accepting musicians for the ensembles for the 2008-2009 season beginning in the fall. Auditions take place over the summer by appointment. NYSO's advanced orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, is open to advanced violinists, violists, cellists and double bass players. Intermediate string players will be considered for Intermezzo Orchestra, NYSO's intermediate orchestral ensemble. Openings for wind and string instruments and vocalists, grades 8 - 12, are available. For more information, call 978-578-6353 or visit www.nysorchestra.org.
Wayne Newton will perform a fundraiser concert in Lawrence on Monday, Sept. 15, to benefit the Adopt-A-Patient Foundation. Sal Lupoli, president and CEO of Sal's Pizza retail and wholesale division will host the event along with renowned author and therapist Dr. Rene Thomas. For more information, call 978-681-7777, ext. 24.
Trails and Sails: A Weekend to GO! The Essex National Heritage Commission presents its seventh annual Trails and Sails weekend from Sept. 26 through 28. The weekend event is designed to showcase the unique array of historic, cultural and natural resources within the Essex National Heritage Area and includes more than 200 free events spread out over 135 locations throughout Essex County. The weekend features guided hikes, walks, sails, paddles, historical tours and special art happenings for all ages, skill levels and interests. A kick-off celebration titled "A Taste of Trails and Sails" will be held on Thursday, Sept. 25 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Willowdale Estate in Bradley Palmer State park, Topsfield. The commencement celebration features fresh native produce, local cheeses and spirits from area wine and beer makers, live music and star gazing under the summer night's sky. Tickets are $25. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 978-740-0444 or visit www.trailsandsails.org.
Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society needs wet and dry cat and kitten food to feed more than 250 cats and kittens. Canned food is most needed. Ground or classic style food is preferred rather than sliced, chunks or shredded food. Items may be dropped off at anytime at the MRFRS adoption centers in Salisbury, Danvers and Danville, N.H. To access a complete wish list or for more information, call 978-462-0760 or visit www.mrfrs.org.
New Hampshire Walk for Autism on Sunday, Oct. 5, in Greeley Park, Nashua, N.H. Registration is at 10 a.m. The walk will begin at 11 a.m. To register for the walk, visit www.walknowforautism.org/nh. For more information, e-mail newhampshire@autismspeaks.org.
YMCA of the North Shore: Space is still available in the YMCA of the North Shore summer camps where campers will learn skills and leadership through character-building experiences. Campers will enjoy a broad range of age-appropriate programs, events and activities. Various schedules are available. Registration for any camp can be done in person at any North Shore YMCA. For more information, visit www.northshoreymca.org.
Fall bulb and perennial sale: The Middlesex Conservation District will be holding its annual fall sale on Friday, Sept. 19 from 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 20 from 8 a.m. to noon at the 4H Fairgrounds in Westford. Offerings include daffodils, tulips, specialty bulbs, perennials and various hard goods. All items can be preordered through Sept. 2 and picked up on the sale days. Early ordering is encouraged as items are sold on a first-come first-serve basis. For more information or to place an order, visit www.middlesexconservation.org or call 978-692-9395.
USS Columbus shipmates reconnect: Navy and Marine Corps shipmates who served on the USS Columbus (CA-74/CG-12) from 1944 through 1976 and the USS Columbus SSN-762 past and present who would like to share memories and camaraderie with old friends or make new ones, contact Allen R. Hope at 260-486-2221 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time or e-mail hope4391@comcast.net.
The Firehouse Center for the Arts Gallery is accepting submissions from artists for their work to be exhibited in the gallery until Dec. 31. Artists may submit proposals for exhibition of two-dimensional work in any medium. Exhibits consist of one or two people, group or themed shows, and normally run for four weeks. Submissions to include: an artist biography and resume; 10 to 20 images, preferably in a digital format, of work that is indicative of the current style of the artist; and a cover letter with name and contact information. If digital images are not available, 35 millimeter slides are acceptable. There is a $20 submission fee. Printed guidelines are available at www.firehouse.org or by calling 978-499-9931.
Holy Family programs and events
Senior supper on Sept. 17 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Caritas Holy Family Hospital auditorium in Methuen. Cost is $5. Reservations are required. For more information or to make a reservation, call 800-488-5959, ext. 375.
Care for Cancer Walk on Sunday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at Caritas Holy Family Hospital, featuring an all-you-can-eat family barbecue. Proceeds benefit the William L. Lane Cancer Management Center. For sponsorship and registration information, call the foundation office at 978-687-0156, ext. 2104.
"DivorceCare" support group will meet every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Atkinson Community Center, 4 Main St., Atkinson, N.H. The weekly seminar will focus on ways to heal from the hurt of divorce. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call Jean at 603-362-4753 or Denise at 603-489-1172 after 6 p.m.
Rogers Center for the Arts
Ninth annual "Pops Concert" on Sunday, Sept. 14, at 2:30 p.m. The concert will feature the Merrimack Valley Philharmonic Orchestra, whose members always receive a standing ovation for their interpretation of popular classic pieces, Broadway show tunes, and patriotic anthems.
"An Evening with Groucho" on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 7:30 p.m. Award-winning actor/director/playwright Frank Ferrante recreates his PBS-, New York- and London-acclaimed portrayal of legendary comedian Groucho Marx in this fast-paced 90 minutes of hilarity. The two-act comedy consists of the best Groucho one-liners, anecdotes, and songs including "Hooray for Captain Spalding," and "Lydia, the Tattooed Lady." The audience literally becomes part of the show as Ferrante ad-libs his way throughout the performance in grand Groucho style. Accompanied by his onstage pianist, Jim Furmston, Ferrante portrays the young Groucho of stage and film and reacquaints the audience with the likes of brothers Harpo, Chico, Zeppo, and Gummo; Charlie Chaplin, W.C. Fields; Greta Garbo; Marx foil Margaret Dumont; and MGM's Louis B. Mayer. A show perfect for all ages.
"The Capitol Steps" on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 7:30 p.m. The Capitol Steps began as a group of Senate staffers who set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them. In the years that followed, many of the Steps ignored the conventional wisdom ("Don't quit your day job!"), and although not all of the current members of the Steps are former Capitol Hill staffers, taken together the performers have worked in a total of 18 congressional offices and represent 62 years of collective House and Senate staff experience.
Devil Music Ensemble presents "Red Heroine" on Friday, Oct. 4, at 7 p.m. The DME will present an original soundtrack to a virtually unknown silent film of social, cultural, and artistic greatness. With the help of the Asian Community Development Corp., the DME negotiated a performance license for this 1929 film by Wen Yimin, from the Poly Asian Co., located in Beijing. This is the only extant silent Chinese martial arts film still in existence. Tickets are $12.
Sol y Canto present "Noche de Muertos" on Thursday, Oct. 30, at 7 p.m. A multimedia collaboration featuring projected images by photographer Susan Wilson of the whimsical, yet deeply spiritual, Mexican "Day of the Dead and Night of the Dead" celebration with original and popular Mexican and Pan-Latin compositions by Sol y Canto's guitarist/composer Brian Amador. Also featuring the soaring vocals of Rosi Amador, a sextet and special guest violist/violinist Rebecca Strauss of Melodic Vision. Advance tickets are $15 general admission, $12 for college employees, students and seniors. All tickets at the door are $18.
"War Bonds: Songs and Letters of World War II" on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 7:30 p.m. Take a sentimental musical journey through a war that redefined the world. This multimedia living history cabaret is interspersed with personal letters from the Front and headline news of the war. Twenty-two period songs lift the mood and juxtapose the anguish of war. Award-winning artists Serena Ebhardt and David zum Brunnen fill the stage with wartime memories and nostalgic tunes.
The Spencers: "Theatre of Illusion" on Friday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m. The Spencers have redefined the art of illusion and are shattering stereotypes of the traditional magician and assistant. They are the only artists to be named Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year for six consecutive years and have twice been named America's Best Entertainers. These skilled performers combine theatrical elements (music, movement, storytelling, dramatic lighting, and more) in an original way with state-of-the-art illusions and audience interaction. Advance tickets are $18 general admission; college employees, students, seniors, $15; and $20 at the door.
The Rogers Center for the Arts is at 315 Turnpike St., North Andover at Merrimack College. Advance tickets for all events are $22 general admission, $20 college employees, students, seniors and $25 at the door unless othwerwise indicated. Prior reservations are recommended for all events. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 978-837-5355 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or visit www.merrimack.edu/rogers.
Merimack Valley Philharmonic Orchestra 2008-2009 Season
Program No. 1 on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 2:30 p.m. features Claude Debussey "Prelude to the Afternoon of Faun" and "Danses Sacred and Profane for Harp and Strings," Maurice Ravel "Introduction and Allegro for Harp and Orchestra," Emily Halpern Lewis, harp soloist and Sergei Prokofiev "Symphony No. 6 in e-flat minor, Op. 111.
Program No. 2 on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2:30 p.m. features "Family Holiday Concert" with The Andover Choral Society, directed by Allen Combs.
Program No. 3 on Sunday, March 1, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. features Felix Mendelssohn "Hebrides Overture, Op. 26, Fingal's Cave," Richard Wagner "Wesendonck Songs," Susan Trout, soprano and Franz Schubert "Symphony No. 9 in C Major, D 944, "The Great."
Program No. 4 on Sunday, May 3, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. features Richard Rodgers "Slaughter on Tenth Avenue" from "On Your Toes," William Grant Still "Symphony No. 1 Afro-American Symphony," George Gershwin "Concerto in F Major for Piano and Orchestra" and Louis Stewart, piano soloist.
All Merrimack Valley Philharmonic Orchestra events take place at The Rogers Center for the Arts, 315 Turnpike St., North Andover at Merrimack College. Tickets are $60 general admission, $42 seniors and students ages 13 to 18 or with college ID. For more information, call 978-685-3505 or visit www.mvpomusic.org.
Puppet Showplace Theatre
"Three Pigs and Other Tales" by Deborah Costine on Sept. 17 at 10:30 a.m. Using a puppet stage that looks like a castle, Deborah Costine will perform her unique versions of "The Three Little Pigs," The Three Billy Goats Gruff" and "Stone Soup" with charming shadow puppets.
"Sir George and the Dragon" by Pumpernickel Puppets on Sept. 24 and 25 at 10:30 a.m. Join and adventurous princess and she journeys to Mystery Mountain to visit the Great Green Dragon. Along the way, the audience is introduced to several quirky characters.
"Jack and the Beanstalk" by Spring Valley Puppets on Sept. 20 and 21at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. When Jack trades the family cow for a few magic beans that grow into a beanstalk overnight, he climbs it to find adventure and fortune. Along the way he meets a feisty and funny chicken, the magic singing harp and one real rat of a giant. Recommended for ages 4 and up.
"Rumpelstiltskin" by Dream Tale Puppets on Sept. 27 and 28 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Once upon a time there was a miller who bragged that his daughter could spin straw into gold. When the king heard of this, he demanded the girl spin for him. The girl had no idea how to accomplish the impossible task until the funny looking little man appeared and caused more problems. The story turns into a most exciting with an unexpected happy ending. Recommended for ages 4 and up.
The Puppet Showplace Theatre is located at 32 Station St., Brookline. Prepaid reservations are recommended for all events. Performances are recommended for ages 3 and up unless otherwise indicated. Tickets are $10 per person or $8 for members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 671-731-6400.
Museum House Tours
The Great house at Castle Hill will be open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from now until Oct. 11. The cost is $10 adults, $5 children, members free.
Castle Hill landscape tours: Thursdays and Saturdays beginning at 10 a.m. from now through Oct.11. Full tours last 90 minutes; half tours last 45 minutes.
The Stevens-Coolidge Place will be open every weekend from 1 to 3 p.m. from now through Oct. 12. The cost is $8 adults, $5 children, members free.
The Paine House at Greenwood Farm will be open the first weekend of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. from now through Oct. 12. The cost is $8 adults,$5 children, members free.
All museum houses offer one-hour tours unless otherwise indicated. All tours are recommended for children ages 8 years or older. For more information, call The Trustees of Reservations at 978-921-1944 ext. 4009.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
Volunteers needed: The Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge needs volunteers to help staff The Plover's Nest gift shop and bookstore at the Refuge Headquarters and Visitor Center. The store will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers will be needed to help customers and act as cashiers during those times. Training will be provided. The store is expected to open in May. For more information or to volunteer, call Kate Toniolo at 978-465-5753.
Navy reunions
USS Essex (CV-9) on Sept. 8 in Seattle, Wash. For more information, contact Gerald McDonell at CV-9@HullNumber.com.
USS Colonial (LSD-18) on Sept. 10 in Kansas City, Mo. For more information, contact Vernon Kinchen at LSD-18@HullNumber.com.
USS Pictor (AF-54) on Sept. 10 in Kansas City, Mo. For more information, contact John Tollefson at AF-54@HullNumber.com.
USS Mars (AFS-1) on Sept. 10 in Pittsburgh, Pa. For more information, contact Everett R. Jones at AFS-1@HullNumber.com.
USS Kawishiwi (AP-146) on Sept. 10 in Mobile, Ala. For more information, contact Robert Taylor at AO-146@HullNumber.com.
USS Rehoboth (AVP-50) on Sept. 10 in Casper, Wyo. For more information, contact Kurt Box at AVP-50@HullNumber.com.
USS O'Brien (DD-725) on Sept. 10 in San Diego. For more information, contact Adrian Lee at DD-725@HullNumber.com.
USS Loeser (DE-680) on Sept. 10 in St. Louis, Mo. For more information, contact Dan Coranoto at AF-54@HullNumber.com.
Golden Swordsmen (VP-47) on Sept. 10 in Reno, Nev. For more information, contact Maurice Sherman at VP-47@HullNumber.com.
USS Barry (DD-933) on Sept. 11 in Charleston, S.C. For more information, contact Larry Loss at DD-933@HullNumber.com.
USS Robinson (DDG-12) on Sept. 11 in Branson, Mo. For more information, contact Chuck Siedschlag at DDG-12@HullNumber.com
USS Canopus (AS-34) on Sept. 11 in Jacksonville, Fla. For more information, contact Jeanne Marie Everson at AS-34@HullNumber.com.
USS Douglas A. Munro (DE-422) on Sept. 11 in Nashville, Tenn. For more information, contact J.W. (Luke) Elder at DE-422@HullNumber.com.
USS William P. Biddle (APA-8) on Sept. 12 in Philadelphia. For more information, contact Ray Casey at DD-732@HullNumber.com.
USS Hyman (DD-732) on Sept. 14 in Lancaster, Pa. For more information, contact Ralph Beck at DD-732@HullNumber.com.
USS Floyd B. Parks (DD-884) on Sept. 15 in Portland, Maine. For more information, contact Bill Bordsong at DD-884@HullNumber.com.
USS CoolBaugh (DE-217) on Sept. 15 in Philadelphia. For more information, contact Rodney Monnat at DE-217@HullNumber.com.
USS Cascade (AD-16) Sept. 15 through 22 at the Sheraton Park Ridge Hotel, 480 North Gulf Road, King of Prussia, Pa. For more information, contact Bob Croghan at 314-954-7801 or bobcroghansr@yahoo.com or Barb Kennovin at 302-945-2719.
USS Tinsman (DE-589) on Sept. 16 in Staten Island, N.Y. For more information, contact Michael Langone at DE-589@HullNumber.com.
USS Wilhoite (DE-397) on Sept. 17 in Branson, Mo. For more information, contact John Mauldin at DE-397@HullNumber.com.
USS Wilkinson (DL-5) on Sept. 17 in Saint Louis, Mo. For more information, contact Maurice Mullen at DL-5@HullNumber.com.
USS Finch (DE-328) on Sept. 17 in Colorado Springs, Colo. For more information, contact Robert Buck at DE-328@HullNumber.com.
USS Paricutin (AE-18) on Sept. 17 in Cincinnati, Ky. For more information, contact Jerry King at AE-18@HullNumber.com.
USS Akutan (AE-13) on Sept. 17 in Cincinnati, Ky. For more information, contact Jerry King at AE-13@HullNumber.com.
USS Butte (AE-27) on Sept. 17 in Cincinnati, Ky. For more information, contact Jerry King at AE-27@HullNumber.com.
USS Fremont (APA-44) on Sept. 17 in St. Louis, Mo. For more information, contact Dave and Donna Lape at APA-44@HullNumber.com.
USS Simon Lake (AS-33) on Sept. 17 in Norfolk, Va. For more information, contact AS-33@HullNumber.com.
USS Sproston (DD-577) on Sept. 17 in Boston. For more information, contact Kenneth Landry at DD-577@HullNumber.com.
USS Hale (DD-642) on Sept. 17 in Chattanooga, Tenn. For more information, contact Jon Marshall at DD-642@HullNumber.com.
USS Hank (DD-702) on Sept. 17 in Colorado Springs, Colo. For more information, contact John Jones at DD-702@HullNumber.com.
USS William S. Sims (FF-1059) on Sept. 17 in San Diego, Calif. For more information, contact Ken Campbell at FF-1059@HullNumber.com.
USS St. Clair County (LST-1096) on Sept. 17 at the Grand Plaza Hotel in Missouri. For more information, contact Bobby Moore at LST-1096@HullNumber.com.
USS Tide Water (AD-31) on Sept. 18 in Branson, Mo. For more information, contact Russ Agee at AD-31@HullNumber.com.
USS Passumpsic (AO-107) on Sept. 18 in Evans, Colo. For more information, contact Bob Brockman at AO-107@HullNumber.com.
USS Windham Bay (CVE-92) on Sept. 18 in Vienna, Va. For more information, contact M.W. Steward at CVE-92@HullNumber.com.
USS Benson (DD-421) on Sept. 18 in Buffalo, N.Y. For more information, contact Nancy Bailey at DD-421@HullNumber.com.
USS Blue (DD-744) on Sept. 18 in Portland, Ore. For more information, contact Phil King at DD-744@HullNumber.com.
USS Mitscher (DL-2) on Sept. 18 in St. Louis, Mo. For more information, contact Bob Lange at DL-2@HullNumber.com.
USS Mitscher (DDG-35) on Sept. 18 in St. Louis, Mo. For more information, contact Bob Lange at DDG-35@HullNumber.com.
USS Lamoure County (LST-883) on Sept. 18 in Hendersonville, N.C. For more information, contact David Sitton at LST-883@HullNumber.com.
USS Guitarro (SSN-665) on Sept. 18 in Bremerton, Wash. For more information, contact Gerald Martin at SSN-665@HullNumber.com.
USS Joseph Strauss (DDG-16) on Sept. 18 in Tucson, Ariz. For more information, contact Mike Flood at DDG-16@HullNumber.com.
USS Tiru (SS-416) on Sept. 18 in Niagara Falls, N.Y. For more information, contact Glenn Reed at SS-416@HullNumber.com.
USS Columbus CA-74/CG-12/SSN-762 Oct. 1 through 4 at the Holiday Inn North, Dayton, Ohio. For more information, contact Allen R. Hope at 260-486-2221 or hope4391@comcast.net.
Art
"Moments of Serenity: The beauty of flora, fauna and seascapes captured in oils" by Wendy Lynne Dickes will be on exhibit from Sept. 7 through 14 at the Newburyport Art Association in the Laura Hill Combs Gallery. For more information, call 781-799-3632, e-mail secretgardenstudio@verizon.net or visit www.thesecretgardenstudio.com.
Ferry Wharf Gallery presents "The Art of Music" by John Tavano and Paul Neverette from now through Sept. 15. Gallery hours are daily from noon to 5 p.m., closed Tuesday. The Ferry Wharf Gallery is at 1R Water St., Newburyport. For more information, call 978-462-2740 or visit www.ferrywharf.com.
"Light Impressions," by photographer David Whitney, will be exhibited from now through Sept. 3 in the Laura Coombs Hills Gallery at the Newburyport Art Association, 65 Water St., Newburyport. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 978-465-8769 or visit www.newburyportart.org.
Faculty exhibition: New Hampshire Institute of Art will host its annual faculty exhibition from Aug. 29 through Oct. 1 in the French Building, 148 Concord St. and the Amherst Street Gallery, 77 Amherst St, Manchester. An opening reception will be held on Sept. 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. Both exhibitions are free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, contact Alison Williams at 603-836-2573 or awilliams@nhia.edu or visit www.nhia.edu.
"Art Quilts Lowell 2008: A National Juried Exhibition" will be on display through Oct. 26 at The Brush Art Gallery, 256 Market St, Lowell. The exhibition provides an overview of art quilts by artists representing many of the states in the U.S. It includes work by 33 quilt artists whose nontraditional quilts reflect the expanding boundaries of the Art Quilt Movement. For more information, call 978-459-7819.
Newburyport Art Association: Fall class schedule announced. "Watercolor All Levels," taught by renowned watercolorist and Copley artist Beverly Mitchell; "Foundation Drawing" with Alan Bull, who will guide students through the basic skills needed to draw well; "Painting Bold and Free," taught by Edith Heyck, who will offer students the opportunity to explore abstract art through painting and collage; "Figure Sculpture: All Levels," instructed by Marilyn Coon, for those students who want to work in clay; "Oil Painting Studio," taught by NAA Education Director Lully Schwartz through demonstration, individual instruction and motivating examples in art history; "Pastel Painting for Colorists," taught by Karen Jones, for students who want to experiment with color. In addition to these classes, the NAA will offer a variety of after-school art classes for children and teens. Classes are taught by professional artists/instructors working with students and artists of all levels with class sizes of no more than 10 students. All classes are taught in the NAA studio/gallery space and are open to members and nonmembers. Registration will begin Tuesday, Sept. 2, and will continue until classes are full. For more information, call 978-465-8769 or visit www.newburyportart.org.
New England Wild Flower Society's Garden in the Woods presents the Big Bugs Sculpture Exhibit and Web-of-Life Extravaganza
