At Jorgensen, Momix – Botanica – optical confusion

Momix performs "Botanica" at Jorgensen at UConn on April 15-16, 2011. Courtesy photo.

Momix, the Connecticut-based dancer-illusionists who have regaled audiences on five continents in the last 30 years will perform its natural mystery tour called “Botanica” on Friday and Saturday, April 15 and 16, at 8 p.m. in Jorgensen’s popular Cabaret.

The Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts is located on the Storrs UConn campus.

Momix has been showcased on PBS’s “Dance in America” series, in one of the first 3D IMAX films “IMAGINE,” in the Emmy Award-winning film “Pictures at an Exhibition” with the Montreal Symphony, and even in a recent national ad for Hanes underwear and one for Target, which ran during the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards.

Contemporary dance wunderkind Moses Pendleton has created a lush testimony to fertility, using inventive props, magical lighting, athletic dance and a touch of humor, plus a wide-ranging score that runs from Delirium to Peter Gabriel to Vivaldi.

Pendleton wants us to see the art in nature, and he does this through what he playfully calls “optical confusion.” He said it this way in Where magazine: “Like Michelangelo finding a sculpture in a hunk of marble, I think creativity is more about revealing what is already there.”

Pendleton is the director and choreographer of Momix, an offshoot of Pilobolus Dance Theater, which he founded with college friends at Dartmouth in the ’70s.

Momix was named for his first solo work, performed at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics and called “Moses Mix.”

Pendleton’s connections to nature started early. He was raised on a Vermont dairy farm and was a champion cross-country skier.

His troupe now rehearses in a barn on the property he shares with Cynthia Quinn, Momix associate director, in Washington, CT. Their daughter Quinn Elisabeth dances professionally in Germany.

The ten dancers performing “Botanica” spring from such well-respected sources as Jacob’s Pillow, Joffrey Ballet, Pilobolus, Alvin Ailey, Dance Theater of Harlem, Merce Cunningham, Twyla Tharp, Boston Conservatory, Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts, LaGuardia High School for the Performing Arts, Mark Morris and Moscow Ballet.

Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts is located at 2132 Hillside Road on the UConn campus in Storrs.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Sandwiches, desserts, alcohol and other beverages are available for purchase, cash only.

Regular tickets are $45, $38 and $34, with some discounts available. For tickets and information, call the Box Office 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at 860-486-4226, Monday through Friday, or order online at http://www.jorgensen.uconn.edu.

Convenient free parking is available across the street in the North Garage.

Posted April 6, 2011

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This weekend – indoor tag sale, rummage sale, book sale, breakfasts and more

Saturday April 2

ANNUAL INDOOR TAG SALE
Masonic Lodge Hall, 1534 Stafford Road (Route 32), Mansfield, will host its annual indoor tag sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, April 3. Info: (860) 684-3437 or (860) 429-9394.

RUMMAGE SALE
First Baptist Church of Lebanon, 694 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, will host a rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Clothing, household items and tag sale. Info: (860) 642-7975

FRIENDS OF THE MANSFIELD LIBRARY BOOK SALE
Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Road ( Route 89), Mansfield Center, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thousands of quality, donated books for sale throughout the library for $1, sorted by topic; lots of children’s books, CDs, DVDs, audio books, etc.

SPAGHETTI/MEATBALL DINNER
St. Joseph Church Hall, 99 Jackson St., Willimantic, will host a spaghetti and meatball dinner from 4 to 7 p.m. Adults $8, seniors and children $6. Benefit St. Mary-St. Joseph School.

SWEET ADELINES SING IN CHAPLIN
Chaplin Congregational Church, 43 Chaplin St., Chaplin, will host a sing-a-long from 5 to 6 p.m. Free will offerings accepted. Potluck sup­per to follow.

OAK GROVE MONTESSORI SCHOOL AUCTION
The Oak Grove Montessori School of Mansfield will host a goods and services auction at Wright’s Mill Farm, Canterbury, from 6: 30 to 10:30 p.m. For tickets, call (860) 456-1031 or email admin@ogms.org.

QUIET CORNER CONTRA DANCE
Storrs Congregational Church Hall, 2 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, will host the Quiet Corner contra dance. Church driveway is a short way down from the intersection of Route 195 on the University of Connecticut campus. Free lessons at 7:30 p.m., with dance beginning at 8 p.m. $10 non-member adults, members $8. High school and college students $5, children under 12, $3.

Sunday April 3

CANTERBURY VFW BREAKFAST
The Canterbury VFW will host a breakfast at the Post home on Route 169, North Canterbury Road, from 8 to 11 a. m. Cost is $ 5.50/ person, children 5 years old and under free.

VFW SUNDAY BREAKFAST
VFW Post 1724, Main Street, Willimantic, will host a breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Senior discounts available.

FRIENDS OF THE MANSFIELD LIBRARY BOOK SALE
Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Road (Route 89), Mansfield Center, will host a book sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thousands of quality, donated books for sale throughout the library for $1, sorted by topic. Lots of children’s books, CDs, DVDs, audio books, etc.

ANNUAL INDOOR TAG SALE
Masonic Lodge, 1534 Stafford Road, Route 32, Mansfield, will host an indoor tag sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: (860) 684-3437 or (860) 429-9394.

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES – STORRS
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Storrs, 10:30 a.m., will host Sunday worship services. The Rev. Darrick Jackson will present a sermon entitled “Shadow Work.” Info: (860) 429-6088.

RICK SPENCER AND ‘OUTLAWS, VILLAINS AND ROUGES’
Lebanon Historical Society, 856 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, will host “Outlaws, Villains and Rouges” at 2 p.m. Program is a musical presentation of songs that tell the stories of the villains we love to hate. Members free, Non-members $2. Info: (860) 642-6579.

MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY ‘TAKE NOTE’
First Baptist Church of Mansfield, corner of Route 195 and Spring Hill Road, Mansfield Center, 3 p.m. Donations accepted at the door. Info. www.fbcmansfieldct.com or (860) 429-6043.

HOPE 4 HAILEY DINNER & DANCE
Elks Club, Pleasant Street, Willimantic, will host a charity dinner/ dance from 4 to 9 p.m. Tickets $20. Benefit for Hailey, youngest daugh­ter of Floretta and Jeromy Sanderson, who is recovering from her third brain surgery. Info: (860) 710-8474.

‘TEA AND TALK’
The Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, will present its “Tea and Talk” program in conjunction with the current exhibit, “Polish Past in Willimantic and Windham,” from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The speaker will be Prof. M.B. Biskupski, the S.A. Blejwas Chair of Polish Studies at Central Connecticut State University. Tickets $10. Reservations/information: (860) 377-7755.

DR. ANTHONY G. ALESSI SPEAKS IN HEBRON
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church will welcome Dr. Anthony G. Alessi who will present a talk entitled “Haiti: A Time for Change.” A pot-luck supper begins at 5 p.m. Talk begins at 6 p.m. in Phelps Hall, 30 Church St. (Route 85), Hebron. The public is welcome to attend the talk and the supper (bring a dish to share) or just the talk. If attending, call (860) 228-3244 or email stpetershebron@sbcglobal.net.

The first weekend of Spring brings lots to do

Saturday March 26

HORSE TRAILER DRIVING CLINIC
A trailer driving clinic will take place at the University of Con­necticut’s Horse Barn Hill Arena from 9 a.m. to noon. Learn how to drive and back a stock and bumper-pull trailer. Benefits University of Connecticut Equine Extension Program. Info: http://animalscience.uconn.edu/calendar.php.

PREPARED CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASS
Windham Community Memorial Hospital offers an all-day “mara­thon” childbirth education class from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the hospital’s education center. Cost is $65 for families delivering their babies at WCMH and $75 for families delivering elsewhere. Information/register: (860) 456-6894.

WOMAN’S CLUBS OF NORTHEAST CONNECTICUT
The General Federation of Woman’s Clubs of Northeast Connecticut will meet at 10 a.m. at the Youth Building in Patriot’s Park, Lake Street, Coventry. Everyone is welcome to discuss the needs of northeastern Connecticut. The organization is currently supporting the Windham Region No Freeze Hospitality Center in Willimantic and the Children in Placement program. Info: Rose Fowler (860) 742-9362.

MOVIE “MEGAMIND”
Willington Public Library Community Room, 7 Ruby Rd., Willington, 12:30 p.m. Rated PG and runs for 96 minutes. All are welcome to attend and bring your own snacks. Info. (860) 429-3854.

FREE MAKE -AND-TAKE BRACELET CLASS
Swift Waters Artisans’ Cooperative, 866 Main St., Willimantic, will host a free bracelet class from 1 to 1:30 p.m. for children 6-10 years old. Any additional bracelets $1.50. Call the gallery to sign up at (860) 423-1898. Walk-ins welcome if space permits.

COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
Mansfield Advocates for Children (MAC) will be hosting a Community Conversation, 2: 30 p. m. to 6 p. m., Audrey P. Beck Municipal Building (Town Hall), Council Chambers. This plan attempts to develop and implement strategies to ensure that all Mansfield’s chil­dren are healthy, successful learners who are connected to their commu­nity. Childcare provided. Info: (860) 429-3399 ext. 3933 or http://www.mansfieldct.gov.

ROAST PORK DINNER
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 30 Church St. (Route 85), Hebron, will host a roast pork dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. $10 adults, $5 children ages 12 and under. Bring non-perishable food items in support of St. Peter’s outreach to local food banks. Info: (860) 228-3244 or visit www.StPetersHebron.com.

HAM & BEAN SUPPER
Hampton Congregational Church, 263 Main St., Hampton, will host a ham and bean supper from 5 to 7 p.m., with music by the “Rusty Implements.” Take-out available.

BLUEGRASS SHOW
Playing for the first time in Killingly is the noted Bear Bridge Band. They are featured along with Nick Anderson and Shady Creek. Show is at the Killingly Grange Hall, Route 101 at Dog Hill Road, Killingly, at 7 p.m. $12 donation. Info: Nick at (860) 564-1018 or e-mail nick.anderson@att.net.

MUSICAL COMEDY, ‘SMILE’
The Lyman Memorial High School Drama Club, will perform the musical comedy “Smile” at 2 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m., 917 Exeter Road, Lebanon. Tickets: $7. Small bouquets of flowers to give to friends and family will be available on-site for $10. Tickets: (860) 642-5716.

THE BREAD BOX
Local favorites, Aztec-Two Step, will be making a return appear­ance to The Bread Box. Thought of by many as America’s premier folk act, come celebrate Rex and Neal’s 40th anniversary of making music together. The Bread Box is located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 220 Valley St., Willimantic. Music starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $20 and reservations can be made by calling (860) 429-4220. As always, all proceeds will benefit the Covenant Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry in Willimantic.

Sunday March 27

SILVERBACK WRESTLING FUNDRAISER BREAKFAST
Willimantic-based Silverback Wrestling will host a fundraising breakfast at Olympic Pizza, 58 Boston Post Road, Willimantic, from 7 to 10 a.m. Tickets $5. Information/tickets: James Poulin at (860) 377-9483.

BUFFET BREAKFAST
Knights of Columbus Council 14, 41 Club Road, Windham, will host a buffet breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Children under 5 are free, ages 6 to 12, $5.50, seniors, $6 and adults over 12, $6.50. Take-out available.

ANNUAL COIN AND PAPER MONEY SHOW
A coin and money show will be hosted by the Mansfield Numismatic Society, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Gymnasium Building, 233 Prospect St., corner of High Street, in Willimantic. Event to feature 75 dealer tables. Free admission. For information, log on to www.MansfieldNumismaticSociety.org.

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES – STORRS
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Storrs, 10:30 a.m. The Rev. David Nelson will present a service entitled “Neither Victims Nor Executioners,” based on a book of that title by Albert Camus. Info: (860) 429-6088.

COMMUNITY CONVERSATION AND EXHIBIT
Lebanon Historical Society, 856 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, will host at 2 p.m. a community conversation and exhibit called “The Goshen Society: Church and Community.” Public welcome for free event. Info: (860) 642-6579.

Posted 3-24-2011

Blarney Stone Dash, Indoor Farmers' Market, grinder sale and more this weekend

Saturday March 19

COLUMBIA LIONS CLUB PANCAKES BREAKFAST
The Columbia Lions Club will host a pancake breakfast in the Horace W. Porter School cafeteria, School House Lane, Columbia, 7 to 11 a.m. Free eye screening, 8 to 11 a.m. and a silent auction. Advance tickets for adults are $5.50, seniors $5, children (under 12) $3. Add 50 cents to each price at the door. All proceeds benefit Lions projects. Tickets/info: Joe Pernaselli, (860) 228-0808.

BOOK SALE
Janet Carlson Calvert Library, 5A Tyler Drive, Franklin, will host a book sale with free admission from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m. Fill a bag for $5 (bag provided). Info: (860) 642-6207 or www. calvertlibrary.com.

MARCH MADNESS SALE/WINTER CLEARANCE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique, open 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St., Willimantic. New items every week. Donations accepted. Info: (860) 423-6827 or visit www.churchw. org.

BLARNEY STONE DASH
A St. Patrick’s Day road race will be presented by the Irish Club and the Windham Recreation Department at 10 a.m. Information: (860) 465-3046. Event starts at Windham Middle School, Quarry Street. Registration is at timing@thelastmileracing.com or by calling (860) 456-4451. Funds raised are for scholarships.

BASKET MAKING WORKSHOP
Lebanon Historical Society, 856 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, will host a basket-making workshop from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Cost is $25 for members, $35 for non-members and includes all supplies. Information or register, call (860) 642-6579.

SATURDAY BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Hospice of Eastern Connecticut, 34 Ledgebrook Drive, Mansfield, will host a bereavement support group from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Group is appropriate for those who are grieving a year or more. Group is open to the community. For information, call (860) 456-7288, ext. 293.

PRE-ORDER GRINDER SALE
Pick-up only 11 a.m. to noon, downstairs hall, Franco-American Club at 116 Club Road, North Windham. Pre-orders are requested, at (860) 423-5385, by Friday, March 18. Grinders are $5 for an 8-inch grinder, and choices are ham or salami grinders with American or pro­volone cheese.

ASHFORD INDOOR WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET
The Ashford Indoor Farmers Market will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Route 44 across from the Ashford Library in the old post office building. Features fresh-brewed coffee, fresh farm eggs, lamb meat, farmstead cheese, jams, jellies, pickles, relish, healers, special recipes, honey, maple syrup and candy, spring plant orders and more.

CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE SUPPER
The Second Congregational Church of Coventry Church Community House will host a corned beef and cabbage dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Adult, $9, seniors, $8 and $4 for children 6 to 12. Children under 6 are free. Reservations at (860) 742-8130. Take-out orders are available.

SPAGHETTI DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION
Boy Scout Troop 58 will host its 10th annual spaghetti dinner and silent auction from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Lebanon Fire Safety Complex. For advance tickets or more information, contact Sue at (860) 450-9463. Advance tickets: $7, 12 years and older; $5 seniors and children 6-11; children 5 years and under are free. Tickets at door: $8, 12 years and older; $6 seniors and children 6-11; children 5 years and under free. Take-out available.

‘YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN’
Coventry High School, Veteran’s Auditorium, 78 Ripley Hill Road, Coventry, will showcase “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, $10 adults, $7 students and seniors, children under 5 are free. Info: (860) 742-7346, ext. 581.

FULL MOON WALK
A full moon walk is scheduled at 8 p.m. in the form of a 2-mile walk on level ground along Rail Trail. Free and suitable for all ages, but no dogs please. Meet at the Hop River Rail trail parking area on Hop River Road, on the Coventry side of the river. Overcast skies will cancel. Sponsored by the Columbia Trails Committee. Info: Joan Hill (860) 228 2849.

Sunday March 20

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES – STORRS
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Storrs, 10:30 a.m., will host Sunday worship services with the Rev. Darrick Jackson, who will retell the creation story from the point of view of the tree with a sermon entitled, “Tree: Guardian and Witness.” Info: (860) 429-6088.

BOOK SALE
Janet Carlson Calvert Library, 5A Tyler Drive, Franklin, will host a book sale. Free admission. Sale is from noon to 3 p.m. Fill a bag for $5 (bag provided). Info: (860) 642-6207 or www.calvertlibrary.com.

WORLD’S SMALLEST QUARTET
The “World’s Smallest Quartet” will be performing at the Canterbury Town Community Room (Route 14), beginning at 3 p.m. This acous­tic group plays an impressive range of music from the 1960s to the pres­ent. This free town event is being sponsored by the Cat Hospital of Canterbury, Chelsea-Groton Bank and Reflections Hair Care.

Posted 3-17-2011

Corned Beef, rocking chair fundraiser and more this weekend

Saturday March 12

MARCH MADNESS SALE/ WINTER CLEARANCE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique, open 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St., Willimantic. New items every week. Donations accepted. Info: (860) 423- 6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP WITH JANET ZEH
The Northeastern Connecticut Art Guild is sponsoring a one-day watercolor workshop with Janet Zeh in the Killingly Public Library community room from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For details and to register, contact Barbara Gleason (860) 928-2162 or visit www.nectartguild.org/events.

WOMEN ON THE BRIDGE
People will be gathering at the Thread City Crossing Bridge in Willimantic from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. as part of a global campaign led by Women for Women International. Info: Margaret Macha, maggie.macha@gmail.com. Gathering point: Intersection of Main and Jackson streets.

E.O. SMITH SAFE GRAD CAN AND BOTTLE DRIVE
E.O. Smith High School, 1235 Storrs Road, Storrs, will host a can and bottle drive from 9 a.m. to noon. All profits go to a fun and safe grad­uation night for graduating seniors in June. Sponsored by Parents in Ashford, Mansfield and Willington. Info: Sandy at (860) 429-2246. Volunteers always needed.

POLISH DAY EVENT FOR KIDS
Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, will host a Polish Day celebration from 1 to 2: 30 p.m. Visitors can learn about Poland and when and why some Polish people immigrated to Willimantic. This activity is in conjunction with the museum’s Polish exhibit. Participants will hear Polish music, learn about the Polish flag, customs and taste Polish food. Kids will make a popular paper-cutting design called Wycinanki. Kids Club members free. General admission $5 for children, $2 for adults. All supplies and refreshments included. For reservations, call (860) 377- 7755.

FRESH AIR FUND OPEN HOUSE
Willington Library, 7 Ruby Road, Willington, will host an open house for the Fresh Air Fund at 1: 30 p.m. Looking for new host families to bring in children from the city to spend some time in the country. Info: Karen Michaud (860) 684- 0617.

NATIVE TREES AND SHRUBS TALK
The Lebanon Garden Club and The Lebanon Historical Society are sponsoring a lecture and slide show presentation at the Lebanon Historical Society Museum, Route 87, Lebanon Center, at 2 p.m. “Underutilized and Exceptional Native Trees and Shrubs” presented by Adam Wheeler from Broken Arrow Nursery, Hamden. Suggested donation, $4. Snow date: March 26. Public is welcome. Info: (860) 642- 6579.

CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE DINNER – COVENTRY
The First Congregational Church of Coventry, 1171 Main St., Coventry, will host a corned beef and cabbage dinner from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Cost is $8 adults, $7 seniors, $4 children ages 6-12 and free for children under 6. Take-out available.

ROCK- A- THON FUNDRAISER FOR NO FREEZE SHELTER
First Congregational Church, 913 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, from 5 p.m. to midnight, will host a rocking chair marathon courtesy of the church’s youth group. Donations accepted or checks payable to the First Congregational Church can be sent to P. O. Box 125, Lebanon, CT 06249 and designated to the “Rock- A- Thon.” Info: (860) 642- 6179. Proceeds benefit the Windham Region No Freeze Hospitality Center in Willimantic.

CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE DINNER – WILLIMANTIC
Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church, 220 Valley St., Willimantic, 5: 30 p. m. will host a corned beef and cabbage dinner, followed by Celticity concert at 7:30 p.m. and Full Gael at 8:45 p.m. Dinner tickets by reser­vation only, $20/ticket. Concert only, $10/ ticket. Info: (860) 429-4220. Benefits Covenant Soup Kitchen in Willimantic.

Sunday March 13

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES – STORRS
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Storrs, 10:30 a.m. will host Sunday worship services. Victoria Nimerowski, executive director of WAIM (Windham Area Interfaith Ministry) will lead a service on “The Workings of WAIM: Who Comes, Who Volunteers?” Info: (860) 429-6088.

POTATO PANCAKE FESTIVAL
Moriah Lodge No. 15, 220 Providence Road, Brooklyn, will host a potato pancake festival from noon to 2 p.m. $8/person, dine-in or take-out. Asking for donations to help the Danielson homeless shelter.

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
Mount Hope Montessori School, 48 Bassetts Bridge Road, Mansf ield, will host an open house from 1 to 3 p.m. Pre-K through kindergarten Montessori education format.

‘ON THE MARCH AND AT THE FRONT’
The Columbia Historical Society will host a program “On the March and at the Front” at 2 p.m. at Yeomans Hall, Route 87, Columbia. Joan Hill and Ingrid Wood will present Joan’s research on Columbia residents who served in the American Revolution. Bruce Clovette – author and noted historian with the Public Archaeology Survey Team – and Alicia Wayland – municipal his­torian, Lebanon – will also speak. They will touch on Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Heritage Trail and inter­play between soldiers and locals and the French connection in Lebanon from 1780-1781. Military artifacts and items pertaining to ancestors of current Columbia residents who fought in the American Revolution will be on display. All are welcome.

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH EVENT
” The Seven Last Words of Christ on the Cross: Early Choral and Organ Music of César Franck ( 1822- 1890)” will be sung by Renaissance Revival and soloists, directed by Michael McCarthy at 7 p.m., St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson St., Willimantic. Admission free. Voluntary donations welcome.

Posted 3-11-2011

Business Expo, concerts, fundraising this weekend

Saturday March 5

MARCH MADNESS SALE/WINTER CLEARANCE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique, open 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St., Willimantic will host its annual March Madness sale to benefit the church. New items every week. Donations accepted. Info: (860) 423-6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

WINDHAM CHAMBER’S ANNUAL BUSINESS EXPO
The Windham Region Chamber of Commerce will host its annual business expo at the East Brook Mall, Route 195, Mansfield, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, from noon to 4 p.m. Members rate for booth: 4-feet by 10-feet, $100, 8-feet by 10-feet, $200; Non-Members rate for booth is $100 and $400, respectively. Guests: Free. Info: Call (860) 423-6389.

ASHFORD INDOOR WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET
The Ashford Indoor Winter Farmers Market will be located on Route 44 across from Ashford Library in the old post office building. Market is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Features fresh brewed coffee, fresh farm eggs, lamb meat, farmstead cheese, apples, enlightened healers special reci­pes, honey, maple syrup and candy, spring plant orders, and more.

DINNER AND MOVIE
The Chaplin Congregational Church, 43 Chaplin St., Chaplin, will host a dinner and a movie event. Dinner is from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by movie at 7:15 p.m. Cost is $10 adult and $7 child. Free admission to movie and free soda and popcorn. Reservation: Call (860) 455-9708.

WILLIMANTIC WHITEWATER FUNDRAISING EVENT
ArtSpace Gallery, 480 Main St., Willimantic, will host a fundraiser for the Willimantic Whitewater Partnership from 6 to 10 p.m. Music by Patty Tuite and the Boilermakers. Food, cocktails and silent auction will be available. Suggested donation: $50. Proceeds matched by Savings Institute. Contact: (860) 617-8287 or WillimanticWhitewater@charter.net.

THE ELECTRIC TRAINS RETURN
Dr. Ashbel Woodward Museum, 387 Route 32, Franklin, will host the musical group “The Electric Trains” at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Donations accepted. Info: www.theelectrictrains.com.

LITTLE RIVER CONCERT SERIES
The Little River Concert Series presents a Cabaret Concert featur­ing Les Sampou, who will be performing songs from her new CD “Lonesomeville,” at 7:30 p.m. in the Hampton Community Center (the former Little River Grange), 178 Main St., Hampton.

QUIET CORNER CONTRA DANCE
The Quiet Corner Contra Dance will be at the Storrs Congregational Church Hall, 2 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, (at the intersection of Route 195, on the University of Connecticut campus). Free lessons at 7:30 p.m., with dance beginning at 8 p.m. (all dances are taught). Bring soft-soled shoes and water to drink; desserts are also welcome. Cost is $10 for non-member adults, members $8. High school and college stu­dents $5, children under 12, $3. Info: contact Marc (860) 933-5144 mas­crivener@gmail.com or Dave (484) 844-5203 dcannell@freeshell.org

WINDHAM THEATRE GUILD PRESENTS ‘BLESSED EVENT’
Burton Leavitt Theatre, 779 Main St., Willimantic, 8 p.m., will be showcasing “Blessed Event.” Adults $15, seniors and students, $12 and children under 12, $8. Info: (860) 423-2245 or www.windhamthe­atreguild.org.

Sunday March 6

PANCAKE BREAKFAST
St. Margaret Church Hall, Route 14, Scotland, will host a pancake breakfast from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Adults $5, children under 12 $3 and children under 5 are free. Maximum per household $20. Sponsored by St. Margaret’s Men’s Club.

VFW SUNDAY BREAKFAST
VFW Post 1724, Main Street, Willimantic, will host a breakfast fundraiser from 8 to 11 a.m. Eggs made to order. Omelets, pancakes, French toast, choice of meat, ham, sausage or bacon, home fries, toast, juice and coffee are on the menu. Senior discount available.

WINDHAM CHAMBER’S ANNUAL BUSINESS EXPO
The Windham Region Chamber of Commerce will host its annual business expo at the East Brook Mall, Route 195, from noon to 4 p.m. Members rate for booth: 4-feet by 10-feet, $100, 8-feet by 10-feet, $200; Non Members rate for booth is $100 and $400, respectively. Guests: Free. Info: Call (860) 423-6389.

WINDHAM THEATRE GUILD PRESENTS ‘BLESSED EVENT’
Burton Leavitt Theatre, 779 Main St., Willimantic, 2 p.m., will be showcasing “Blessed Event.” Adults $15, seniors and students, $12 and children under 12, $8. Info: (860) 423-2245 or www.windhamthe­atreguild. org.

Posted 3-3-2011

Blues & Bluegrass music, Willimantic Orchestra performance & fundraisers among activities this weekend

Saturday Feb. 26

PREPARED CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASS
Windham Community Memorial Hospital offers an all- day, ” mara­thon” childbirth education class from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the hospital’s education center. Cost is $65 for families delivering their babies at WCMH and $75 for families delivering elsewhere. Info: (860) 456-6894.

MOVIE, ‘SECRETARIAT’
Willington Public Library Community Room, 7 Ruby Road, Willington, will host a 12:30 p.m. showing of the movie “Secretariat.” All are welcome to attend and visitors are asked to bring their own snacks.

SNOW MOON DINNER DANCE
The Snow Moon Dinner Dance is being sponsored by St. Francis Ladies Guild and Knights of Columbus. It will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. Cost is a $20 donation per person at the Lebanon Fire Safety Complex, Lebanon. Tickets or information available at (860) 642-7049 or (860) 423-8040.

LASAGNA TAKE -OUT DINNER
The Federated Church of Christ, Route 6, Brooklyn, will host a take­-out lasagna dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Cost is $8. Take-out orders only.

SPAGHETTI SUPPER
Hampton Congregational Church, 263 Main St., Hampton, will host a spaghetti dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets $8 adults; $5 children up to 12 years; free for children under 5.

NETWORK INC. FUNDRAISER
The French Club, Club Road, Windham, will host a fundraiser from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets, $25 individual, $40 couple. All proceeds from the event will benefit clients with developmental disabilities served by Network Inc. For tickets, call Bev at (860) 742-1313. For information, call Kathleen McLean (860) 753-2923 or e-mail to kmclean@network­programs.com.

WINTER BLUES FEST
The annual Winter Blues Festival is slated at the Elks Lodge, 198 Pleasant St., Willimantic, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Tickets are $15. Info: (860) 456-2188.

BLUEGRASS SHOW
A bluegrass show featuring Mike Boulay and The Hope Valley Volunteers, along with Nick Anderson and Shady Creek, will take place at 7 p.m., Killingly Grange Hall, Route 101 at Dog Hill Road, Killingly. $12 donation requested. Info: Call Nick at (860) 564-1018 or e-mail nick.anderson@att.net.

Sunday Feb. 27

BUFFET BREAKFAST
Knights of Columbus Council 14, 41 Club Road, Windham, will host a buffet breakfast from 7:30 to 11 a.m. Children under 5 are free, ages 6-12 $5.50, seniors $6 and adults over 12 $6.50. Take-out available.

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES – STORRS
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Storrs will host Sunday worship services at 10:30 a.m. The Rev. David Nelson will present a sermon entitled, “Neither Victims nor Executioners.” Info: (860) 429-6088.

WINTER BUFFET DINNER
Moriah Lodge No. 15, 220 Providence Turnpike, Brooklyn, will host a winter buffet dinner from noon to 2 p m. Cost is $10 person. Indoor yard sale — rent a table for $5. Help support the VA by bringing unused essential apparel. Tour the lodge, which was established in 1790, and learn more about the Freemasons.

WILLIMANTIC ORCHESTRA PERFORMS AT EASTERN
The Willimantic Orchestra will present a concert at 3 p.m. in Shafer Auditorium at Eastern Connecticut State University. Admission free, however, a donation is suggested. Individuals with a disability who need accommodations for this event can contact the Office of University Relations at (860) 465-5735.

VICTORIAN NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
The Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association will host a meeting to elect officers at 3:30 p.m., 869 Main St., Willimantic. Guest speaker, Andrew Gutt, owner of Cafemantic, Topic: his vision of Main Street. Potluck to follow at 67 Lewiston Ave., Willimantic.

Posted 2-25-2011

New adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice premieres at UConn

Alexandra Perlwitz as Elizabeth Bennet and Kevin Coubal as Mr. Darcy in Connecticut Repertory Theatre’s production of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice playing in the Nafe Katter Theatre, Storrs, Feb. 24 – March 6. Photo by Bob Copley, Jr.

The Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT), located on the UConn campus, will present Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice from Feb. 24 through March 6, 2011 in the Nafe Katter Theatre.

CRT is presenting the East Coast premiere of this exciting new stage adaptation.

The works of Jane Austen have been read and adapted for almost 200 years, but no adaptation has been more popular or illuminating than the recent translation to the stage of Pride and Prejudice by Joseph Hanreddy and J.R. Sullivan.

This version captures Austen’s cleverness and fervor in the telling of this witty, elegant, sharply observed and richly rendered love story in which the Bennets, an early 19th Century, British middle-class family with no sons and five eligible daughters must find them husbands.

Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia Bennet are all awaiting the day a wealthy bachelor sweeps them off their feet. When the Bingleys arrive, the Bennets are thrilled. Young Mr. Bingley is an eligible bachelor and Mrs. Bennet is sure one of her daughters will be his match.

Yet when Mr. Bingley arrives at the public ball with his sister and close friend Mr. Darcy, the encounters are not what the Bennets expected.

Despite all the complications and obstacles, despite their pride and prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are drawn together in one of the most romantic stories ever told.

(For tickets and information, call 860-486-4226 or visit www.crt.uconn.edu )

Director Helene Kvale said, “It is a delight to be working on a period piece that engenders such a passionate response amongst contemporary audiences. Austen’s beautifully constructed narrative, wrapped in wit and irony, is not just a romance, but a subtle commentary on 1811 English domestic life. In the context of revolutionary upheaval abroad, Pride & Prejudice raises questions about the marriage market and the strictures of class and gender. We are drawn in by Austen’s gloriously portrayed characters, rich in dimension and humor.”

Dramaturg Dassia Posner said, “There is something wonderful about experiencing Austen directly, for the audience and for the actors who are studying 19th century life from card games to embroidery to literature, including an understanding of how class and gender impacted relationships. We are going to continue this hands-on approach to Austen with audience dance workshops and an afternoon tea at the Nathan Hale Inn.”

Enjoy some “UnCommon Sense”

CRT’s “Uncommon Sense” Series is a collection of events, many of which are free and open to everyone, that investigate a variety of topics through performing art.

For regular updates on all “Uncommon Sense” Series events, sign up for CRT’s electronic newsletter at www.crt.uconn.edu, or call (860) 486-4226 for information.

For Pride and Prejudice, CRT will sponsor the following special events:

Dancing with Jane Austen

Join us for a free class in dance from Jane Austen’s period – learn about the mood, music and moves, and practice a few steps: on Sunday, Feb. 27, 2011 at 12:30 p.m. (finish in time for the 2 p.m. matinee) and on Tuesday, March 1 at 6 p.m. (will finish in time for the 7:30 p.m. performance). Held in Room 128 of the UConn drama building (just down the hall from the Nafe Katter Theatre).

The dance workshop will be led by Math Professor, Q Center Director and Austen fan Tom Roby, who teaches “Jane Austen Dances” at UConn.

Call 860-486-1629 for your reservation – space is limited.

High Tea at the Nathan Hale Inn

Join us for this traditional “meal” featuring a menu specially prepared by the Nathan Hale Inn and including music and a celebration of the tradition of Tea in British culture on Sunday, Feb. 27, immediately following the 2 p.m. matinee at the Blue Oak Café of the Nathan Hale Inn – with Director Helene Kvale, Dramaturg Dassia Posner, guest scholars and musicians

The cost is $25 per person, payable in advance by calling the Nathan Hale Inn at 860-427-7888 and requesting “High Tea” reservations. Advance reservations are required.

Posted Feb. 13, 2011