Author: Angie Sykeny

Angie Sykeny is a Hippo staff writer covering local arts, theater, music and pop culture. She can be reached at asykeny@hippopress.com.

Jump $tart on finances

Hillsboro man helping kids learn money management

Dan Hebert of Hillsboro has been named a winner of the 2020 Myra Kraft Community MVP Award, presented each year by the New England Patriots Foundation and Kraft Family to recognize exemplary community volunteers throughout New England. Hebert is the founder and president of NH Jump$tart, a state chapter of the national nonprofit organization Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy, where he has volunteered for the last 20 years. NH Jump$tart was one of 25 organizations to receive a $10,000 donation in honor of its MVP volunteer.

What is Jump$tart all about?

We have one singular mission, and that is to teach kids how to manage their money. … We all need to be financially capable, right? Consumer behavior and financial capability is key to your success; it’s key to my success; it’s just what we have to do. We’re in a country of free will where we can make our own choices about money, so my hope is that we give kids the tools and the knowledge to help them make those choices in an informed way.

In the big picture, why is increasing financial literacy important?

The conversation across the country now is all about the different levels of inequality. Financial education provides knowledge — knowing what’s available, and knowing how to use it in a proper way — and that knowledge can definitely help bridge that gap between different wealth inequalities and different communities.

What kinds of programs and activities does NH Jump$tart run?

We have a second-grade program called “I Can Save” where our volunteers go into the classroom and do a short presentation with the kids. At that age, we’re really focusing on needs versus wants. We leave them with what we call “Centsables” money boxes, which are essentially piggy banks separated by three sections: one for saving, one for spending and one for sharing. We also do a high school student tournament in April where all the topics are based on the national Jump$tart standards for personal finance. The kids compete online for a period of time, and then we invite the six highest-scoring teams to come perform in a face-to-face competition for the state championship. It’s pretty much like Jeopardy! — lights and buzzers and that sort of thing. Finally, we hold an annual teacher conference or workshop where we introduce teachers who teach personal finance to different resources, and I bring them speakers. It gives them a chance to network and to have opportunities for professional development.

How did you get involved?

I founded New Hampshire Jump$tart when I was still in banking. My banking background is in consumer lending and collections, so, particularly in collections, I saw all the consequences of poor credit and all the opportunities of good credit. Back then, New Hampshire was leading the country for the highest percentage increase in bankruptcy filing … and the financial landscape had become very complex. I got my heartstrings wrapped around this [issue] when I was asked to speak at a teacher conference about credit cards. … It surprised me how little the teachers themselves knew about how credit cards work. More importantly, it wasn’t being taught in the schools. … I discovered this national nonprofit called Jump$tart and saw that they operate independent state coalitions, and we didn’t have one here in New Hampshire. … I said, “When my banking career comes to an end, this is what I’m going to do for my next chapter.”

What has been the most fulfilling thing about this work for you?

Lately, it’s been working with the teachers. In order for them to help the kids, we have to help them improve their own knowledge and their own confidence in personal finance, and doing that just gives me a really good feeling.

How will Jump$tart use the donation money?

We’re planning on putting the funds away in an investment account. We’re not even going to touch it; we’re just going to let it grow. I guess you could say we’re letting our actions match our words [about money management].

With NH Jump$tart school programs on pause right now, how can parents help their kids be financially literate?

I would encourage parents to go on our website and the national organization’s clearinghouse [jumpstartclearinghouse.org], which has teaching resources for all different levels, languages and concepts, and most of them can be downloaded for free. There are coloring books and reading books for younger kids and games and simulations for teenagers. … The national organization also has an initiative called Check Your School; we know the power rests with the parents and that superintendents and school boards listen to parents, so we need parents to contact their local school leadership and ask them to teach personal finance and money management concepts.

What’s next for you, personally?

I’m at the retirement point, but I have no desire to take that hook. I just want to keep going. It’s great to get up in the morning and come up with new ideas and new approaches [for Jump$tart]. I’m sticking to it.

Featured photo: Dan Hebert

Creative gifts

Perfect presents for the art-, science- and nature-lovers in your life

Art and craft shops and holiday markets are full of unique gifts for art-lovers, and, for art-makers, art and craft studios sell gift certificates that can be used for all kinds of classes and workshops, many of which have in-person and remote options. You can get your budding musician a gift certificate or package for private lessons in all kinds of instruments at a music school. Performing arts venues offer gift certificates that can be put toward tickets for any show, as well as memberships, which come with all kinds of exclusive benefits for a theater enthusiast. If your gift recipient is more into nature or science, there are gift certificates and memberships for them, too.

Holiday art and craft markets/exhibits

You’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts like jewelry, woodwork, pottery, fiber art, paintings, photography and more at these holiday art and craft markets and special exhibitions.

• The Warner Historical Society has a virtual holiday shop online now at warnerhistorical.org/store, with curbside pickup on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Upton Chandler House Museum (10 W. Main St., Warner). The shop features hand-painted holiday ornaments, calendars, mugs and drinking glasses, T-shirts, books, jigsaw puzzles and more, plus a holiday raffle. Call 456-2437 or email info@warnerhistorical.org.

• Twiggs Gallery (254 King St., Boscawen) presents its annual “Sleighbell Studio” exhibit now through Dec. 12. It features a curated collection of fine art and crafts affordably priced for holiday gift giving. Gallery hours are Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twiggsgallery.wordpress.com or call 975-0015.

• Two Villages Art Society and the Hopkinton Historical Society present “Home for the Holidays: an Art Show & Sale” now through Dec. 20 in Contoocook and online. The show will feature all kinds of art, including oil and watercolor paintings, ceramics, tapestry, woodworking, wearable art, book making and more, created by local artists and artisans. The show will be held in person at the Bates Building (846 Main St.; masks required) on a drop-in and by-appointment basis and virtually at shop.twovillagesart.org. Show hours at the Bates Building are Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit twovillagesart.org.

• The Seacoast Artist Association presents its holiday exhibit, “Big Gifts in Small Packages,” now through Dec. 26, at 130 Water St. in Exeter. The exhibit features a variety of artwork priced under $100 for gift buying. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and by appointment. Visit seacoastartist.org or call 778-8856.

• Creative Ventures Gallery in Milford presents its annual holiday exhibit, “Small Works — Big Impact,” virtually now through Dec. 31. The exhibit features small works of art in various media, priced affordably for gift buying. Visit creativeventuresfineart.com or call 672-2500.

• The Craftworkers’ Guild’s Holiday Fair is being held virtually now through Dec. 22, with curbside pickup at the historic Kendall House (3A Meetinghouse Road, Bedford) daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fair features seasonal decor, photography, fine art and prints, cards, gourmet treats, woodworking, fiber and fabric, stained and fused glass, mixed media, jewelry and more by more than 40 juried artisans and craftspeople. Visit craftworkersguild.org.

• Wrong Brain (55 Third St., Dover) is having its ninth annual “Holidaze Bizaare” alternative craft fair now through Dec. 30, with fair hours Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. It features art, apparel, jewelry, ceramics, stuffies, candles, candy and more by dozens of emerging local artists. Virtual shopping with curbside pickup is also be. Call 834-9454 or visit wrongbrain.net.

• The New Hampshire Art Association hosts its holiday exhibition, “This Merry Moment,” online and at the NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth) now through Jan. 2. The exhibit and sale features a variety of artwork and greeting cards created by NHAA members. Gallery hours are Monday and Tuesday by appointment; Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Call 431-4230 or visit nhartassociation.org.

• Pop-up holiday shop Concord Handmade is open now at 2 Capital Plaza in downtown Concord, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It features handmade gifts by artists from New England and beyond. Visit concordhandmade.com.

Art and craft shops

Stop by these art and craft shops, which sell handmade items by local artists and craftspeople year round.

• Currier Museum of Art gift shop (150 Ash St., Manchester, 669-6144, currier.org, open Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

• The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Fine Craft Galleries (nhcrafts.org):

Concord (36 N. Main St., 228-8171, open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Hooksett (530 W. River Road, 210-5181, open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Nashua (98 Main St., 595-8233, open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Meredith (279 Daniel Webster Hwy., 279-7920, open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.)

• Manchester Craft Market (Mall of New Hampshire, 1500 S. Willow St., Manchester, manchestercraftmarket.com, open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.)

• Spriggs Shoppe (Twiggs Gallery, 254 King St., Boscawen, 975-0015, twiggsgallery.wordpress.com, open Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.)

• Studio 550 Art Center (550 Elm St., Manchester, 232-5597, 550arts.com, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 3 to 8 p.m.)

• Wild Little Art Shop (Wild Salamander Creative Arts Center, 30 Ash St., Hollis, 465-9453, wildsalamander.com, open Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Private shopping hours for groups of five or less are available by reservation on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday.)

Art and craft classes/workshops

For a more hands-on art gift, try a gift certificate for an art or DIY craft studio, where the recipient can participate in various session classes, one-day workshops and paint-and-sip events. Some studios also offer online instruction and take-and-make kits.

• AR Workshop Manchester (875 Elm St., Manchester, 573-9662, arworkshop.com/manchester) Offers DIY workshops and take-home kits for creating custom wood signs, canvas pillows, centerpiece boxes, canvas tote bags and more.

• The Canvas Roadshow (25 S. River Road, Bedford, 913-9217, thecanvasroadshow.com) Offers DIY workshops and take-home kits for creating custom wood signs, canvas paintings, sea glass art and more.

• Creative Ventures Gallery (411 Nashua St., Milford, 672-2500, creativeventuresfineart.com) Offers various weekly art classes and one-day workshops for all experience levels.

• Currier Museum of Art, Art Center (180 Pearl St., Manchester, 669-6144, currier.org) Offers seasonal weekly classes, master classes and one-day workshops for kids and adults in all kinds of media.

• Kimball Jenkins School of Art (266 N. Main St., Concord, 225-3932, kimballjenkins.com) Offers weekly classes, master classes and one-day workshops for kids and adults in all kinds of media, starting in 2021.

• The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Fine Craft Galleries (98 Main St., Nashua, 595-8233; 279 Daniel Webster Hwy., Meredith, 279-7920, nhcrafts.org) Offer weekly classes and one-day workshops for a variety of crafts, starting again in 2021.

• Muse Paintbar (42 Hanover St., Manchester, 421-6500, musepaintbar.com) Offers paint-and-sip workshops in person as well as take-home kits with instructional videos.

• Studio 550 Art Center (550 Elm St., Manchester, 232-5597, 550arts.com) Offers private parties, classes, workshops and camps for all ages and experience levels in pottery, clay, painting, stained glass and more.

• Time to Clay (228 Daniel Webster Hwy., Nashua, 888-0482, timetoclay.com) Offers in-studio pottery workshops and take-home kits for all ages.

• The Voice of Clay (16 Meetinghouse Hill Road, Brookline, 672-2626, voiceofclay.com) Offers in-studio and online pottery classes for all ages and experience levels.

• You’re Fired (25 S. River Road, Bedford, 641-3473; 133 Loudon Road, No. 101, Concord, 226-3473; 264 N. Broadway, Salem, 894-5456; yourefirednh.com) Offers open studio times and materials for pottery and mosaic projects.

Music lessons

• Nashua Community Music School (5 Pine St. Extension, Nashua, 881-7030, nashuacms.org) Offers in-person and remote private lessons for all ages and experience levels in piano, guitar, ukulele, violin, viola, cello and percussion; music therapy sessions and instrument rentals.

• Manchester Community Music School (2291 Elm St., Manchester, 644-4548, mcmusicschool.org) Offers in-person and remote private lessons for all ages and experience levels in woodwind, brass, percussion and string instruments, as well as voice, music theory and music composition.

• Concord Community Music School (23 Wall St., Concord, 228-1196, ccmusicschool.org) Offers private lessons, remotely only until further notice, for all ages and experience levels in all instruments and voice, as well as chorus and ensemble opportunities.

Shows

These performing arts venues have several gift options. You can buy someone tickets to a particular show, or let them choose their own shows with a season package or general gift certificate. If you’re looking for a larger gift for someone who frequents the theater, consider a membership package. There are usually different tiers to choose from, with perks like reserved seats, access to pre-sales, discounts on tickets, admission to members-only events and more.

• Capitol Center for the Arts (44 S. Main St., and Bank of New Hampshire Stage, 16 S. Main St., Concord, 225-1111, ccanh.com) Features traveling theater shows, dance performances, musical and comedy acts, film screenings and more. The 2021 schedule includes comedian Juston McKinney, Celtic Woman, Queen and Eagles tribute bands, the Capital Jazz Orchestra performing music of Frank Sinatra, That Golden Girls Show: A Puppet Parody and more.

• Hatbox Theatre (270 Loudon Road, Concord, 715-2315, hatboxnh.com) Features live music, theater, comedy and more. The schedule for 2021 is TBA.

• Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester, 668-5588, palacetheatre.org) Features shows by its own professional and youth and teen performing companies as well as visiting theater, music, dance and comedy acts. The schedule for 2021 is TBA.

• The Music Hall (Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., and Loft, 131 Congress St., Portsmouth, 436-2400, themusichall.org) Features live music, theater, comedy, on-screen events, literary events and more. The 2021 schedule includes the Portsmouth Symphony, comedian Kevin Nealon, Giraffes Can’t Dance – The Musical and more.

Science, nature & history

If you’re looking for a gift outside of the arts, think about a gift certificate or membership for a science, history or nature center.

• Aviation Museum of New Hampshire (27 Navigator Road, Londonderry, 669-4820, aviationmuseumofnh.org) A museum dedicated to the science, technology, history and culture of aviation, with interactive exhibits and educational programs. Members receive a 10-percent discount at the gift shop, a monthly e-magazine, a quarterly newsletter and invitations to special events.

• New Hampshire Audubon (Massabesic Audubon Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, 668-2045; McLane Audubon Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, 224-9909, nhaudubon.org) A wildlife sanctuary and nature center with live animals, exhibits and educational programs. Members receive discounts on NH Audubon camps, programs and Nature Store purchases; a monthly electronic newsletter; invitations to members-only events and more.

• SEE Science Center (200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org) A museum focused on technology, engineering, mathematics and more with interactive exhibits, demonstrations and educational programs. Members receive priority admission and discounts to special programs; a discount on a child’s birthday party; 10 percent off purchases at the gift shop; a members-only newsletter and more, depending on the package.

• McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center (2 Institute Drive, Concord, 271-7827, starhop.com) A museum focused on astronomy and aviation with interactive exhibits, simulations, an observatory, a planetarium and more. Members receive free admission to exhibit halls, Super Stellar Fridays series and regular planetarium shows; an e-newsletter; discounts on workshops and programs; discounts at the gift shop and more, depending on the package.

• Millyard Museum (200 Bedford St., Manchester, 622-7531, manchesterhistoric.org/millyard-museum) A museum dedicated to Manchester history, particularly the history of the Amoskeag Millyard. Members receive unlimited visits to the museum, free or discounted admission to special programs and events, invitations to members-only events and more, depending on the package. The museum is also selling original, limited edition brass-plated holiday ornaments that celebrate Manchester’s history.

• New Hampshire Historical Society (30 Park St., Concord, 228-6688, nhhistory.org) Members receive free admission to exhibits and the research library, free or discounted admission to special programs, invitations to members-only events, a subscription to the biannual Historical New Hampshire magazine and more, depending on the package. The museum is also selling bobbleheads of famous figures from New Hampshire history, such as the sled dog Chinook, John Stark, the Old Man of the Mountain and others.

Featured photo: “Sleighbell Studio” at Twiggs Gallery. Courtesy photo.

The Art Roundup 20/12/10

The latest from NH’s theater, arts and literary communities

• Theater suspended …: The Palace Theatre in Manchester has reclosed its doors due to “the surge in Covid-19 cases in Manchester and surrounding areas,” according to an announcement on its website. “After careful consideration of current circumstances, the Palace Theatres announce an intermission in our live performances for December and into the New Year,” it said. “We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates.” The Palace Theatre’s Holiday Spectacular concert, which was set to run through Dec. 20, and the New Hampshire School of Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker that was scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 26, are among the shows that have been canceled. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

The Hatbox Theatre in Concord has also closed for the remainder of the year, stating on its website that it is “going on hiatus until the end of February [and] will reevaluate conditions in January and announce plans to resume operations when they are feasible.” Call 715-2315 or visit hatboxnh.com.

• … or gone virtual: The Seacoast Repertory Theatre and The Players’ Ring in Portsmouth both announced that they have suspended live shows and will feature view-at-home content only until further notice. The Winter Wonderettes, presented by The Seacoast Repertory Theatre, will give live streamed performances of iconic ’60s versions of classic holiday tunes from Dec. 10 through Dec. 19, with showtimes on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., and Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. Tickets cost $20 per viewer. Call 433-4472 or visit seacoastrep.org.

The Players’ Ring will present its one-man adaptation of A Christmas Carol, performed by Christopher Savage, virtually, with a rentable video available starting on Friday, Dec. 11. Tickets cost $24 for adults, $20 for students and seniors and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• Christmastime at the Village: Canterbury Shaker Village (228 Shaker Road, Canterbury) will host A Magic Journey through the North Shop Barn from Dec. 11 through Dec. 23, and from Dec. 27 through Dec. 30, daily from 1 to 5 p.m. The North Shop Barn, which has been transformed into a winter wonderland, will feature art vignettes like a Shaker Christmas, a dollhouse, a skating panorama and snowy forest scenes; a Find-the-Elf treasure hunt; hot cocoa and cider; and shopping at the Village Store. Additionally there will be a Christkindlmarkt-inspired artisan market of handcrafted holiday gifts on weekends; food trucks with sweet treats on Saturdays, Dec. 12 and Dec. 19, and a live musical performance by Massimo Paparello and his Brass Quartet on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 3 to 4 p.m. Admission costs $10 for adults and is free for youth. Visit shakers.org or call 783-9511.

• Different kinds of nature art: The New Hampshire Art Association has three exhibitions going in Concord through Thursday, Dec. 17. “Moments in Nature,” on view at the gallery in the Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St.) features oil paintings by BJ Eckardt that capture brief encounters with nature. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the Lobby at 2 Pillsbury St., there’s the exhibit “Unseen Light,” featuring infrared photography of New England seaside vistas, pastoral farmland, stark mountain landscapes and other scenery by Mark Giuliucci; and “An Extrapolation of Close Observation,” featuring prints of ponds, meadows and secluded places in nature by Kate Higley, created by painting or rolling inks to a surface which is then printed on paper. Lobby hours are Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 7 to 11 a.m.Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• Shop antiques: New Hampshire Antique Co-op (323 Elm St., Milford) has a holiday sale going on now through Jan. 3, with up to 65 percent off prices on vintage ornaments, holiday decor, jewelry, books, fine art, collectibles and more. The shop is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday by appointment, and Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 673-8499 or visit nhantiquecoop.com.

Orchestrating a comeback

Symphony NH presents virtual holiday pops, monthly concerts through May

After its 2019-2020 season was cut short in the spring, New Hampshire’s oldest professional orchestra, Symphony New Hampshire, is returning to a regular schedule of shows — albeit virtually — beginning with its holiday pops concert, which will be recorded and livestreamed from St. Mary and Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church in Nashua on Saturday, Dec. 12.

“It’s a lot different from what we had in mind, but at the same time we’re fortunate that we can still perform live music in some way, and that we can provide some work for our musicians,” said music director Roger Kalia, who joined Symphony NH in the fall of 2019. “That’s rare right now, because most orchestras have canceled or postponed their seasons. We’re one of very few orchestras still performing during this time.”

Since musical performances in New Hampshire are currently limited to no more than 15 musicians in a shared space, Kalia said, he decided to feature the symphony’s brass ensemble for the holiday pops.

“I think brass has become synonymous with the holidays,” Kalia said. “There is, at least for me, just a real connection between brass and holiday music, because when I was growing up I played in brass choirs and brass quintets during Christmastime, and I remember those times very fondly.”

The musicians will perform at a safe distance from each other with bell covers on their instruments, a new Covid-era accessory for brass and woodwind musicians that acts as a “mask” covering the opening of the instrument from which aerosol would be projected.

“When [Covid] first happened, we knew that any instrument with a bell would be a real superspreader and that we would have to limit their involvement,” Kalia said. “Then these bell covers came out and we said, ‘This is great. The sound might be a little softer, but at least we can incorporate them now.’”

The holiday pops concert program will include holiday favorites like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Frosty the Snowman” and “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” as well as sacred works like “O Holy Night” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” performed in “a variety of different styles and moods,” Kalia said.

“It’s going to be a fresh take on the traditional holiday repertoire,” he said. “It’s not just classical music; there are also hints of jazz, pop, big band, you name it.”

After the pops, Symphony New Hampshire will continue to perform once a month, virtually until it is safe to perform in person, through May. The following show will be “Mozart Flute Concert, Golijov, and Piazzola” on Saturday, Jan. 30, featuring Symphony NH’s principal flutist, Kathleen Boyd.

“I’d be lying if I said that I don’t miss having the full orchestra,” Kalia said, “but one of the silver linings of that is when we have less musicians we’re able to put more musicians in the spotlight and in soloist roles, which is really exciting.”

February’s show will center on a new hour-long work by American composer Sarah Kirkland Snider that Kalia described as “Radiohead meets Bjork” in that it combines classical music with elements of indie pop and electronic music.

Another perk of the virtual concerts is that with videography they can create a more intimate experience for the audience than a live concert can, Kalia said. Various camera angles will be used and close-up shots of the musicians will be shown throughout the livestream.

“You’re going to see the orchestra up close and personal,” he said. “You can see the musicians’ fingers and faces and emotions as they play.”

Symphony NH concerts beyond February are still in the works, and the 15-musician limit has made developing the programming a challenge, Kalia said, but a welcome one.

“Everything has had to be reimagined,” he said. “Smaller groups [of musicians] means we’ll be doing mostly smaller repertoire and chamber repertoire — a variety of new music that we don’t normally do, and we’re excited about that.”

Symphony NH presents Holiday Pops
When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Virtual livestream via YouTube with a shared link
Cost: Minimum donation of $10 per household
More info: Visit symphonynh.org/events/holidaypopsnashua or call 595-9156

Art

Exhibits

• “SLEIGHBELL STUDIO” Exhibit features a curated collection of fine art and crafts affordably priced for holiday gift giving. Twiggs Gallery (254 King St., Boscawen). On view now through Dec. 12. Gallery hours are Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twiggsgallery.wordpress.com or call 975-0015.

• “BIG GIFTS IN SMALL PACKAGES” Artwork priced under $100. Presented by the Seacoast Artist Association. On display now through Dec. 26. 130 Water St., Exeter. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and by appointment. Visit seacoastartist.org.

Fairs and markets

• VIRTUAL HOLIDAY SHOP The Warner Historical Society presents an online shop at warnerhistorical.org/store featuring hand-painted holiday ornaments, calendars, mugs and drinking glasses, T-shirts, books, jigsaw puzzles and more, plus a holiday raffle. Curbside pickup on Sat., Dec. 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sat., Dec. 12, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Upton Chandler House Museum (10 W. Main St., Warner). Call 456-2437 or email info@warnerhistorical.org.

• “HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: AN ART SHOW & SALE Features all kinds of art, including oil and watercolor paintings, ceramics, tapestry, woodworking, wearable art, book making and more, created by local artists and artisans. Up now through Dec. 20. In person at the Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook; masks required) on a drop-in and by-appointment basis and virtually at shop.twovillagesart.org. Show hours at the Bates Building are Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Visit twovillagesart.org.

• THE CRAFTWORKERS’ GUILD HOLIDAY FAIR Virtual shop features seasonal decor, photography, fine art and prints, gourmet treats, woodworking, stained and fused glass, mixed media, jewelry and more. Now through Dec. 22, with curbside pickup at the Kendall House (3A Meetinghouse Road, Bedford) daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit craftworkersguild.org.

• HOLIDAZE BIZAARE Alternative craft fair features art, apparel, jewelry, ceramics, stuffies, candles, candy and more by dozens of emerging local artists. Wrong Brain (55 Third St., Dover). Now through Dec. 30, with fair hours Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. Virtual shopping with curbside pickup will also be available. Call 834-9454 or visit wrongbrain.net.

Special events

• NHAA 80TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY New Hampshire Art Association hosts a silent art auction fundraiser. Bidding runs through Dec. 11. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

Featured photo: Symphony NH. Courtesy photo.

Kiddie Pool 20/12/03

Family fun for whenever

Holiday happenings

See Santa Claus at Greeley Park (100 Concord St., Nashua) for a socially distanced visit on Saturday, Dec. 5, from noon to 2 p.m., featuring photo opportunities, free gifts and more. Visit nashuanh.gov.

Join the YMCA of Greater Londonderry (206 Rockingham Road, Londonderry) for its annual Great Candy Cane Hunt on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Santa Claus will hide hundreds of candy canes around the YMCA for you to look for during the event. Start by receiving your candy cane hunt bag at the check-in table, then venture to the field for the hunt. Santa will also be there for socially distanced photo opportunities. This year there will be groups of 32 people per 30-minute time slot to help with social distancing (bring your own flashlight). Masks or face coverings are required for all participants. Visit graniteymca.org.

Chunky’s Cinema & Pub’s Manchester location (708 Huse Road) will convert a theater to an evening of family-friendly candy Bingo on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m., featuring movie theater-sized candy boxes as prizes and the big screen as a bingo board. Tickets of $4.99 per person will get you a box of Chunky’s theater candy that you’ll turn in to get your bingo cards. Once all the candy is collected, Chunky’s staff will divide it up and start playing the rounds. Visit chunkys.com.

The Derry Public Library will host a virtual holiday gift making workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 4 to 5 p.m. The library will post tutorials for Sharpie mugs, hot chocolate kits and gift bags on its Facebook and YouTube pages. Register in advance to pick up a Take It and Make It bag in the library’s lobby. If registration is full, you can still complete the projects with materials at home. Visit derrypl.org.

Join the Manchester City Library (405 Pine St., Manchester) for a virtual Polar Express bedtime event on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 6 to 7 p.m. Goodie bags with treats and crafts are now available for curbside pickup. The virtual program will include Christmas carol sing-alongs and demonstrations on how to make the crafts found in the goodie bags. Visit manchester.lib.nh.us.

Stellar!

Have a Super Stellar Friday with a virtual program from the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center (2 Institute Drive, Concord), on Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. This month, learn about Nor’easters, including what they are, how they form and how they impact us. This event is free, but registration is required at starhop.com.

Featured photo: The Polar Express. Courtesy photo.

The Art Roundup 20/12/03

The latest from NH’s theater, arts and literary communities

“This My Joy,” an oil painting by Brittany Soucy, featured in “This Merry Moment.” Courtesy photo.

• Festive art: The New Hampshire Art Association hosts its holiday exhibition, “This Merry Moment,” online and at the NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth) now through Jan. 2, with an opening reception to be held virtually on Zoom on Friday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. The exhibit and sale features a variety of artwork and greeting cards created by NHAA members. Gallery hours are Monday and Tuesday by appointment; Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Call 431-4230 or visit nhartassociation.org.

A Christmas Fable, illustration by Susan Monty. Courtesy photo.

The Warner Historical Society’s online holiday shop at warnerhistorical.org/store features hand-painted holiday ornaments, calendars, mugs and drinking glasses, T-shirts, books, jigsaw puzzles and more, plus a holiday raffle. Curbside pickup on Saturday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 12, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Upton Chandler House Museum (10 W. Main St., Warner). Call 456-2437 or email info@warnerhistorical.org.

• New reads: Peterborough-based literary journal and media company Monadnock Underground is releasing two new anthologies on Friday, Dec. 4: Spiritus Oppidum, Vol. 1, a collection of spiritual writing, and Demiurges and Demigods in Space, Vol. 1, a collection of science fiction, fantasy and speculative fiction. The books feature 24 stories, essays, reflections, abstract prose pieces, poems and a mini play from 21 local and regional authors. Paperback copies and Kindle versions will be available at the publication’s website. Visit monadnockunderground.com or call 978-257-5328.

Two local women, Debbie Ryan of Sandown and her mother, Alice Duston of Hampstead, have published a children’s holiday book called A Christmas Fable. In the book, Saint Nicholas tells the story of the birth of Jesus to all the animals of the forest. The story was originally written by Joan Carter, Duston’s mother and Ryan’s grandmother, who read it to the family every year on Christmas Eve until she died at the age of 92. Watercolor illustrations for the book were done by Derry artist Susan Monty. Find A Christmas Fable on Amazon.

• Sounds of the holidays: The Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) presents a concert, “Joyful Christmas,” with fiddler Eileen Ivers, live on Friday, Dec. 4, at 5 and 8 p.m. Tickets cost $40. Then, also at the Dana Center, the New Hampshire School of Ballet presents “Songs for the Holidays” on Sunday, Dec. 6, with performances at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost $18. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) presents its Holiday Spectacular concert from Dec. 4 through Dec. 20, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon. Inspired by the golden age of television variety shows, the concert features more than 30 classic Christmas songs and a visit from Santa Claus. Tickets cost $39 to $46 for adults and $25 for kids. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

In place of its annual holiday pops concert, the Manchester Community Music School will host an Outdoor Holiday Stroll on Saturday, Dec. 5, and Sunday, Dec. 6, from 5 to 7 p.m. Attendees will be escorted in small groups around the holiday-lighted school grounds, where students and faculty will perform live. Tickets cost $25 per person or $225 for groups of 10 and include holiday treats. Registration is required. Call 644-4548 or visit mcmusicschool.org.

The Winter Wonderettes perform iconic ’60s versions of classic holiday tunes live at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre (125 Bow St., Portsmouth) now through Dec. 19, with showtimes on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 6, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30 to $48. Select performances will also be livestreamed for $20 per viewer. Call 433-4472 or visit seacoastrep.org.

Tooned in

Yellow Submarine, classic cartoons animator visits Manchester

Relive the golden age of Saturday morning cartoons with legendary animator Ron Campbell, who has planned a three-day stop in the Granite State as part of his Beatles Cartoon Art Show Tour.

Campbell will be at Creative Framing Solutions in Manchester from Friday, Dec. 4, through Sunday, Dec. 6, exhibiting and selling around 70 original works of art he has created during his retirement from his 50-year career in television cartoons.

The collection of watercolor and ink cartoon paintings is largely focused on Campbell’s work as an animator for The Beatles’ 1968 animated feature film Yellow Submarine and as director of The Beatles’ Saturday morning cartoon, The Beatles, which aired on ABC from 1965 through 1969.

“You can buy all kinds of Beatles [fandom merchandise], but it’s very rare to be able to get a piece of artwork by one of the people who helped present the [Beatles] cartoons you watched when you were a child,” Campbell said.

In addition to The Beatles paintings, the show will feature paintings inspired by some of the other cartoons Campbell contributed to, which include Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!, Rugrats, The Smurfs, The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, The Flintstones, The Jetsons, George of the Jungle, The Yogi Bear Show, Captain Caveman and the Teen Angels, Ed, Edd n Eddy and more.

“This isn’t a serious art show; it’s not Picasso or Rembrandt,” Campbell said. “These are bright and colorful paintings that are very fun to look at and bring back a lot of nostalgic memories for people.”

Each person who purchases a painting will receive a certificate of authenticity along with a custom drawing done by Campbell on site.

“I’ll do The Beatles, Fred Flintstone, Scooby-Doo — whatever cartoon character the customer would like,” he said.

Originally from Australia and now residing in Arizona, Campbell has been bringing his Beatles Cartoon Art Show to cities across America for several years now, but has been exhibiting and selling his artwork in some capacity since he retired in 2008. Only when he started meeting his audience in person, he said, did he realize the “enormous impact” that his cartoons had on the American citizens who grew up with them.

“I’ve learned now from my experiences talking to people that those Saturday morning cartoons were some of their happiest memories from their childhood,” he said. “They would rush down the stairs on Saturday morning, screaming, because it was the one time where they had total control of the TV. It was a special, magical time for them.”

Campbell, who turns 81 years old this month, said he “never gets tired of meeting the audience” and has no plans to stop touring. He’s bringing the show to Kennebunk, Maine, next weekend and hopes to return to a more regular tour schedule once Covid restrictions are loosened.

“Sometimes, when I’m just sitting in my chair, I get a bit drowsy and grouchy, but as soon as I know I’m going to be leaving and doing a show, that gets me up and working and planning,” he said. “It keeps me young.”

The Beatles Cartoon Art Show with Ron Campbell
Where: Creative Framing Solutions, 89 Hanover St., Manchester
When: Friday, Dec. 4, from 4 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 5, from noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 6, from noon to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free; RSVPs recommended
More info: Call 320-5988 or visit creativeframingsolutions.com or beatlescartoonartshow.com

Art

Exhibits

• “SLEIGHBELL STUDIO” Exhibit features a curated collection of fine art and crafts affordably priced for holiday gift giving. Twiggs Gallery (254 King St., Boscawen). On view now through Dec. 12. Gallery hours are Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twiggsgallery.wordpress.com or call 975-0015.

• “MOMENTS IN NATURE” The New Hampshire Art Association presents oil paintings by BJ Eckardt. Concord Chamber of Commerce Gallery, 49 S. Main St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “UNSEEN LIGHT” The New Hampshire Art Association presents infrared photography by Mark Giuliucci. 2 Pillsbury St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “AN EXTRAPOLATION OF CLOSE OBSERVATION” The New Hampshire Art Association presents prints and paintings by Kate Higley. 2 Pillsbury St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “SMALL WORKS – BIG IMPACT” Creative Ventures Gallery’s annual holiday exhibit featuring small works of art in various media, priced affordably for gift buying. Virtual. On display now through Dec. 31. Visit creativeventuresfineart.com or call 672-2500.

Fairs and markets

• VIRTUAL HOLIDAY SHOP The Warner Historical Society presents an online shop at warnerhistorical.org/store featuring hand-painted holiday ornaments, calendars, mugs and drinking glasses, T-shirts, books, jigsaw puzzles and more, plus a holiday raffle. Curbside pickup on Sat., Dec. 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sat., Dec. 12, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Upton Chandler House Museum (10 W. Main St., Warner). Call 456-2437 or email info@warnerhistorical.org.

• “HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: AN ART SHOW & SALE Features all kinds of art, including oil and watercolor paintings, ceramics, tapestry, woodworking, wearable art, book making and more, created by local artists and artisans. Up now through Dec. 20. In person at the Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook; masks required) on a drop-in and by-appointment basis and virtually at shop.twovillagesart.org. Show hours at the Bates Building are Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Visit twovillagesart.org.

• THE CRAFTWORKERS’ GUILD HOLIDAY FAIR Virtual shop features seasonal decor, photography, fine art and prints, cards, gourmet treats, woodworking, fiber and fabric, stained and fused glass, mixed media, jewelry and more by more than 40 juried artisans and craftspeople. Now through Dec. 22, with curbside pickup at the historic Kendall House (3A Meetinghouse Road, Bedford) daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit craftworkersguild.org.

Special events

• NHAA 80TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY New Hampshire Art Association hosts a silent art auction fundraiser. Bidding runs through Dec. 11. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• PAINT NITE a 21+ event featuring the creation of a “Starstruck Snowman” light-up wine bottle at Chunky’s Cinema Pub (707 Huse Road, Manchester, chunkys.com) on Sat., Dec. 5, 7 p.m. On Sat., Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., Chunky’s Nashua (151 Coliseum Ave.) will feature a “Birch Buddies Wine Bottle With Lights” project. Tickets $37 and $35, respectively (follow link through Chunky’s website to buy).

Featured photo: Ron Campbell. Photo by Alex Lowy Photography.

The Art Roundup 20/11/26

The latest from NH’s theater, arts and literary communities

Beatles animator Ron Campbell. Photo by Alex Lowy Photography.

• Virtual art shop: The Picker Artists, an artist co-op in Nashua, is having a virtual holiday sale now through Nov. 30. The online shop features a wide variety of art and crafts, including jewelry, photography, quilting, pottery, stained glass, paintings, collage, prints, 3D art and more. There’s a 20-percent discount on most items priced above $50 with the use of a promo code, according to the website. Orders can be picked up at the Picker Artists building (3 Pine St.), either by going inside (masks required) or by calling to request that they be brought out to your car. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Monday by appointment or by chance. Visit shoppickerartists.com or call 930-5080.

• A final look at Manchester’s ponds: Catch “Manchester’s Urban Ponds: Past, Present, and Future: A Celebration of the Manchester Urban Ponds Restoration Program’s 20th Anniversary,” on display in the Millyard Museum’s (200 Bedford St., Manchester) State Theater Gallery, before it closes on Nov. 28. Through its cleanup efforts, the Manchester Urban Ponds Restoration Program has helped restore the city’s ponds to their historic uses. “Although ponds may not be the first thing one thinks about in Manchester, the Queen City has several ponds that have played an important role in the area’s history,” program coordinator Jen Drociak said in an email. The exhibit provides a look at the history of some of those ponds, including Crystal Lake, Dorrs Pond, Maxwell Pond, Nutts Pond, Pine Island Pond and Stevens Pond. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs $8 for adults, $6 for seniors age 62 and up and college students, $4 for youth ages 12 through 18, and is free for kids under age 12. Call 622-7531 or visit manchesterhistoric.org/millyard-museum.

• Beatles animation: Ron Campbell, animator of Yellow Submarine and director of Saturday Morning Beatles Cartoon, is coming to Creative Framing Solutions (89 Hanover St., Manchester) to exhibit, sell and discuss his original cartoon paintings of The Beatles and other works from his 50-year career in animation, including Scooby-Doo, Smurfs, Rugrats and more. He’ll be there on Friday, Dec. 4, from 4 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 5, from noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 6, from noon to 4 p.m. Campbell will also paint original remarques of any one of his cartoon characters onsite for customers who purchase his artwork. The event is free and open to the public. According to a press release, RSVPs are “strongly recommended” as “the demand for meeting Ron Campbell is expected to be great.” Private viewings are available by appointment. Masks are required. Call 320-5988 or visit creativeframingsolutions.com.

• An unlikely angel: Manchester author Nathan Graziano just released a new novella, his ninth full-length book of prose and poetry. Fly Like The Seagull follows The Seagull, a polymorph and modern angel modeled after actor Steven Seagal, who is sent to bring a new mythology and revive faith in the faithless fictional town of Northboro. “Fly Like The Seagull peels back the good, the bad and the ugly and takes a big, juicy bite along the way as [Graziano] navigates the reader through the underbelly of a modern life,” Rob Azevdeo, fellow local author and host of the radio show Granite State of Mind, said of the book in a press release. Visit nathangraziano.com.

• Prestigious exhibit winners announced: The New Hampshire Art Association has announced the Award Winners of its 21st annual Joan L. Dunfey Exhibition, titled “Intrinsic Moments.” First place was awarded to Jacqueline Harrington for her art piece “Dreaming of My Roots,” created using pressed flowers. “The medium surprised and delighted me, leaving me wanting to know more about the artist’s process,” a juror commented, according to a press release. “The work’s composition and colors are as interesting as its materiality, creating a strong visceral and joyful response.” Second place went to Kathryn Terwilliger-Smith for her oil painting “The Game,” and third place went to Lee Gordon for his glass piece “Hem and Haw.” The exhibit, which features juried artwork in a variety of media by regional NHAA members and non-members, is on display now through Nov. 29 at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth) and in a virtual gallery on the NHAA website. One of the NHAA’s most prestigious exhibits of the year, according to the NHAA website, it is held in honor of Joan L. Dunfey, who was a resident of the New Hampshire Seacoast and a steadfast patron of the arts. Gallery hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., and Tuesday by appointment. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• Art school improvements: The Institute of Art and Design at New England College in Manchester has expanded its offerings for art students, according to a press release. Three additional majors have been added: 3D Studies, Animation, and Game and Digital Media Design. The Institute has also brought on new renowned faculty and redesigned student spaces around campus to create a new photography lab and studio and a new gathering space in the library. Visit nec.edu or call 623-0313.

Art

Exhibits

• “MOMENTS IN NATURE” The New Hampshire Art Association presents oil paintings by BJ Eckardt. Concord Chamber of Commerce Gallery, 49 S. Main St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “UNSEEN LIGHT” The New Hampshire Art Association presents infrared photography by Mark Giuliucci. 2 Pillsbury St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “AN EXTRAPOLATION OF CLOSE OBSERVATION” The New Hampshire Art Association presents prints and paintings by Kate Higley. 2 Pillsbury St., Concord. On display now through Dec. 17. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “BIG GIFTS IN SMALL PACKAGES” Artwork priced under $100. Presented by the Seacoast Artist Association. On display now through Dec. 26. 130 Water St., Exeter. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and by appointment. Visit seacoastartist.org or call 778-8856.

• “SMALL WORKS – BIG IMPACT” Creative Ventures Gallery’s annual holiday exhibit featuring small works of art in various media, priced affordably for gift buying. Virtual. On display now through Dec. 31. Visit creativeventuresfineart.com or call 672-2500.

Special events

• NHAA 80TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY New Hampshire Art Association hosts a silent art auction fundraiser. Bidding runs through Dec. 11. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• PAINT NITE a 21+ event featuring the creation of a “Starstruck Snowman” light-up wine bottle at Chunky’s (707 Huse Road, Manchester, chunkys.com) on Sat., Dec. 5, 7 p.m. On Sat., Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., Chunky’s Nashua (151 Coliseum Ave.) will feature a “Birch Buddies Wine Bottle With Lights” project. Tickets $37 for the Manchester event and $35 for the Nashua event (follow link through Chunky’s website to buy ticket).

Theater

Shows

• THE ADVENTURES OF SLEEPYHEAD New Hampshire Theatre Project presents its 2020 – 2021 MainStage Season Opener. Fri., Nov. 27, and Sat., Nov. 28, 7 p.m., and Sun., Nov. 29, 2 p.m. Live in person at 959 Islington St., Portsmouth, and virtual live-stream. In person tickets cost $10. Virtual tickets cost $10 per streaming device. Call 431-6644 or visit nhtheatreproject.org.

Classical

Events

• UTE GFRERER Concert soloist performs. Sat., Nov. 28, 6 and 8 p.m. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. $130 for a table of two, $260 for a table of four and $390 for a table of six. Visit themusichall.org.

• A DICKENS’ CHRISTMAS WINE DINNER WITH PICCOLA OPERA Piccola Opera’s Dickens Carolers perform. Sat., Dec. 5, 6 to 8 p.m. LaBelle Winery & Event Center, 345 Route 101, Amherst. $387.20 to reserve a table of four, $580.80 to reserve a table of six. Visit labellewineryevents.com.

Handmade holidays

Where to see and shop for art throughout the season

Find all kinds of unique handmade items by local artists and craftspeople at these holiday-inspired art shows and events, some offered in-person, some offered virtually and some with both options.

• The Warner Historical Society has a virtual holiday shop online now at warnerhistorical.org/store, with curbside pickup on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Upton Chandler House Museum (10 W. Main St., Warner). The shop features hand-painted holiday ornaments, calendars, mugs and drinking glasses, T-shirts, books, jigsaw puzzles and more, plus a holiday raffle. Call 456-2437 or email info@warnerhistorical.org.

• Twiggs Gallery (254 King St., Boscawen) presents its annual “Sleighbell Studio” exhibit now through Dec. 12. It features a curated collection of fine art and crafts affordably priced for holiday gift giving. Gallery hours are Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twiggsgallery.wordpress.com or call 975-0015.

• Two Villages Art Society and the Hopkinton Historical Society present “Home for the Holidays: an Art Show & Sale” now through Dec. 20 in Contoocook and online. The show will feature all kinds of art, including oil and watercolor paintings, ceramics, tapestry, woodworking, wearable art, book making and more, created by local artists and artisans. The show will be held in person at the Bates Building (846 Main St.; masks required) on a drop-in and by-appointment basis and virtually at shop.twovillagesart.org. Show hours at the Bates Building are Tuesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with extended hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Friday, Nov. 27, and Saturday, Nov. 28. Visit twovillagesart.org.

• The Seacoast Artist Association presents its holiday exhibit, “Big Gifts in Small Packages,” now through Dec. 26, at 130 Water St. in Exeter. The exhibit features a variety of artwork priced under $100 for gift buying. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and by appointment. Visit seacoastartist.org or call 778-8856.

• Creative Ventures Gallery in Milford presents its annual holiday exhibit, “Small Works — Big Impact,” virtually now through Dec. 31. The exhibit features small works of art in various media, priced affordably for gift buying. Visit creativeventuresfineart.com or call 672-2500.

• The Craftworkers’ Guild’s Holiday Fair will be held virtually from Friday, Nov. 27, through Tuesday, Dec. 22, with curbside pickup at the historic Kendall House (3A Meetinghouse Road, Bedford) daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fair will feature seasonal decor, photography, fine art and prints, cards, gourmet treats, woodworking, fiber and fabric, stained and fused glass, mixed media, jewelry and more by more than 40 juried artisans and craftspeople. Visit craftworkersguild.org.

• Wrong Brain (55 Third St., Dover) will have its ninth annual “Holidaze Bizaare” alternative craft fair from Nov. 27 through Dec. 30, with fair hours Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. There will be art, apparel, jewelry, ceramics, stuffies, candles, candy and more by dozens of emerging local artists. Virtual shopping with curbside pickup will also be available. Call 834-9454 or visit wrongbrain.net.

• The New Hampshire Art Association hosts its holiday exhibition, “This Merry Moment,” online and at the NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth) from Dec. 2 through Jan. 2. The exhibit and sale will feature a variety of artwork and greeting cards created by NHAA members. Gallery hours are Monday and Tuesday by appointment; Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. An opening reception will be held virtually on Zoom on Friday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. Call 431-4230 or visit nhartassociation.org.

Featured photo: Hand-painted ornaments for sale in the Warner Historical Society’s virtual holiday shop. Courtesy photo.

Shows for the season

Where to see holiday theater, music and dance

There are all kinds of holiday shows coming up — both live in-person and virtually from home — including traditional favorites like A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker and festive music performed in a variety of styles.

• The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) presents a youth production of A Christmas Carol Jr. from Friday, Nov. 27, through Sunday, Nov. 29, with showtimes at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for kids. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• The Winter Wonderettes will perform iconic ’60s versions of classic holiday tunes live at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre (125 Bow St., Portsmouth) from Nov. 27 through Dec. 19, with showtimes on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sundays, Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30 to $48. Select performances will also be livestreamed for $20 per viewer. Call 433-4472 or visit seacoastrep.org.

• The Players’ Ring presents a one-man adaptation of A Christmas Carol, performed by Christopher Savage, live at The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) and virtually from Nov. 27 through Dec. 20. Live showtimes are on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost the same for the live and virtual shows: $24 for adults, $20 for students and seniors and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• LaBelle Winery & Event Center (345 Route 101, Amherst) presents “A Very Merry Sinatra Christmas,” a three-course dinner featuring Boston jazz singer Rich Dimare, on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Dimare will perform Frank Sinatra songs as well as holiday favorites. Tickets cost $75 per person. Call 672-9898 or visit labellewinery.com.

• The Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) presents a concert, “Joyful Christmas” with fiddler Eileen Ivers, live on Friday, Dec. 4, at 5 and 8 p.m. Tickets cost $40. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) presents its Holiday Spectacular concert from Dec. 4 through Dec. 20, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon. Inspired by the golden age of television variety shows, the concert features more than 30 classic Christmas songs and a visit from Santa Claus. Tickets cost $39 to $46 for adults and $25 for kids. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• LaBelle Winery & Event Center (345 Route 101, Amherst) will host A Dickens’ Christmas Wine Dinner featuring Piccola Opera on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. The opera company will perform Christmas carols throughout the three-course meal. Tickets are sold by table only; it’s $387.20 to reserve a table for four and $580.80 to reserve a table for six. Visit labellewineryevents.com or call 672-9898.

• The Manchester Community Music School will host an Outdoor Holiday Stroll in place of its annual Holiday Pops Concert on Saturday, Dec. 5, and Sunday, Dec. 6, from 5 to 7 p.m. Attendees will be escorted in small groups around the holiday-lighted school grounds, where students and faculty will perform live. Tickets cost $25 per person or $225 for groups of 10 and include holiday treats. Registration is required. Call 644-4548 or visit mcmusicschool.org.

• The New Hampshire School of Ballet presents “Songs for the Holidays” at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Sunday, Dec. 6, with performances at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost $18. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• Guitarist Gary Hoey performs a Ho Ho Hoey 25th Anniversary holiday concert at the Tupelo Music Hall (10 A St., Derry) on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $50. Call 437-5100 or visit tupelomusichall.com.

• Symphony New Hampshire will perform its Holiday Pops concert on Friday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester); Saturday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary and Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church (39 Chandler St., Nashua); and Sunday, Dec. 13, at 3 p.m. at the Concord City Auditorium (2 Prince St., Concord). Tickets cost $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, $10 for students and free for youth under age 18 accompanied by a ticket-buyer. Visit symphonynh.org or call 595-9156.

• The Music Hall will show a filming ofClara’s Dream: A Jazz Nutcracker,performed there by Mad Theatricals in 2004, at its Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for seniors, students, military and first responders. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

• The Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord presents “Have Yourself a Rockin’ Little Christmas with Lucinda,” a livestreamed holiday concert by singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams, on Thursday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $20. Call 225-1111 or visit ccanh.com.

• Ballet Misha performs The Nutcracker at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 19, at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets cost $28. Call 641-7700 or visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities.

• Boston jazz singer Rich Dimare performs “A Sinatra Christmas” at the Rex Theatre (23 Amherst St., Manchester) on Saturday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $29 in advance and $39 at the door. Call 668-5588 or visit palacetheatre.org/rex-theatre.

• The Music Hall presents A Very Ida Christmas, a holiday show written and performed by Susan Poulin, at its Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $35. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

• The Bank of New Hampshire Stage (16 S. Main St., Concord) will show a rebroadcast of the Bolshoi Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for students, plus a $3.75 per-ticket fee. Visit banknhstage.com or call 225-1111.

• The Boston Camerata presents “An American Christmas,” on Tuesday, Dec. 22, at 7 p.m. at The Music Hall Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth). Tickets cost $45. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

• The New Hampshire School of Ballet will perform The Nutcracker at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester, palacetheatre.org, 668-5588) on Saturday, Dec. 26, at 6 p.m., and at the Dana Center (Saint Anselm College, 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, 641-7700, anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities) on Sunday, Dec. 27, at 2 and 6 p.m. Tickets cost $25.

• Safe Haven Ballet presents The Nutcrackerat The Music Hall Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) on Saturday, Jan. 2, at 2 and 6 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost $50 for adults and $45 for seniors and children. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

Featured photo: Ballet Misha performs The Nutcracker. Photo by Matthew Lomanno.

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