The Hippo Press – Page 86

Balance of power

Marsalis brings Democracy! Suite to NH

By Hannah Turtle

hturtle@hippopress.com

Legendary jazz musician Wynton Marsalis is slated to play Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club in Portsmouth on Saturday, July 9.

Marsalis’ newest work is called The Democracy! Suite, one he wrote during lockdown. The record is based on his idea that jazz music is a metaphor for democracy. In a recent interview, he had plenty to say about the album.

“If we just think about the things that are required for democracy. The one thing is: no king. The basis is, you have a constitution, you distribute power. Our music has that type of distribution of power. I might be the leader of the band, but when we start playing, the president of the band is the drummer, not the trumpet player. The drummer is playing all the time, making decisions. There’s an actionable form to create a plurality, it’s designed to prevent kleptocracy. Now, we aren’t really doing good with that right now, but it’s checks and balances,” said Marsalis.

“You’ve got the legislative branch, the executive branch and the judicial branch. In jazz, if you look at the rhythm section, each instrument represents that. The judicial branch is represented by the bass, that’s the final word on harmony, it’s at the bottom. The executive branch is the drums, that’s the quick power. And, the legislative branch is the piano — it has all the keys.”

Though ideas of democracy and the constitution have been a hot-button issue lately, Marsalis is not worried about our ability to persevere.

“The fundamentals of democratic living are not based on the time you live in, it’s based on the principles themselves. For example, there was a time in America when we had slaves, but it was antithetical to principles of freedom, so we fought it,” he said

“Jazz has three fundamental components. One is improvisation. That’s the personal freedom, that’s the part that everyone agrees on. The second component is swing, and we don’t agree on that. Swing has the African component, and America struggles to deal with its own African-ness. Swing is also the collective part, it’s the ‘we.’ We just don’t agree on the ‘we.’ Our dream is what we can individually do: I can get a house, I can make some money. We don’t think of the community, the collective thought. We want to have the bass vamp the same four notes, have the drums replaced by something electronic that plays a loop, all that is the decision that I don’t want to deal with the ‘we,’” Marsalis said.

He brings it back to the beginning.

“It’s the desire to change the plurality to something that an individual can dominate. But we have an actionable form too, it’s a chorus that goes around and around in a cycle. The energy pulls from the bottom up, it doesn’t go top down. The top is just where the instructions come from. For example, elections are run by states, not by the federal government. Polls are local. A poll worker is just a person in the community. That’s how our music is. We get people from communities, they don’t have to be from a certain kind of family, and we just play.”

That final fundamental jazz component is the blues. It’s something Marsalis spoke of reverently. “The blues has an optimism that’s not naive. Stuff doesn’t go your way a lot of the time, but you can’t give up. Use your will, get into the struggle, and create the change you want to see.”

On that note, I had just one more request for Marsalis, to describe his music to readers who might not be familiar. At that, he was back to a simple answer: “I really don’t know. There’s a lot of it. I’ve done like a hundred and fifteen records. They’re all different. The one thing about the music is that it’s collective. Every time, I play with great musicians, and we play together.”

The Wynton Marsalis Septet
Where: Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club, 135 Congress St., Portsmouth; 888-603-JAZZ
When: Saturday, July 9, 7:30 and 9 p.m.
Tickets: $125 to $195 at jimmysoncongress.com

Featured photo: Wynton Marsalis. Photo by Lawrence Sumulong.

Kiddie Pool 22/07/07

Family fun for the weekend

Farm fun

• Get some family fun, farm-style, at J & F Farms (124 Chester Road in Derry; jandffarmsnh.com) on Friday, July 8, at their Friday Family Fun event from 4 to 7 p.m., with a petting farm, food truck, live music and $5 per person hayrides, according to the farm’s Facebook post. A Sunday Funday event will feature many of the same attractions from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., a post said, and of course at both events you can load up on farm goodies from the farm stand.

Brand-new play center

• The American Independence Museum (1 Governors Lane in Exeter; independencemuseum.org) has a new interactive space, the Foy Family Children’s Library. The library has a reading nookfilled with books about American history, a dress-up area where kids can wear 18th-century-style clothing, a play kitchen area and historic games. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission to the museum costs $8 for adults; $6 for seniors, students, educators and first responders; $4 for children 6 to 18 years old; and free for children under 6.

Movie time

• O’neil Cinemas’ Summer Kids Series continues on Monday, July 11 with a 10 a.m. showing of Hotel Transylvania: Transformia(PG, 2022). The movie will also screen on Wednesday, July 13, at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $2 for attendees age 11 and lower, $3 for ages 12 and older, and the cinema is offering a $6 popcorn-and-drink combo pack. See oneilcinemas.com/epping-nh/events.

And for the older crowd that might need a more relaxed movie-going environment, the theater’s weekly Sensory Friendly Flix film on Saturday, July 9, is Thor: Love and Thunder(PG-13, 2022) at 10 a.m., when house lights will be higher and noises will be a little less loud, the website said.

• After a fun-filled day in the sun, relax with Movie Night Mondays on Hampton Beach (next to the playground) on Monday, July 11, starting at dusk. The movie lineup will run through Aug. 29. Bring a chair or a blanket to set up for the free show. The first in the family-friendly movie series is Paw Patrol (G, 2021). For more information and for a full lineup of all the summer shows and approximate dusk times, visit hamptonbeach.org. Rain dates are Tuesdays.

• And while you’re not watching a movie you do get to enjoy some movie theater candy at Theater Candy Bingo, which will be held at Chunky’s in Manchester (707 Huse Road) on Wednesday, July 13, at 6:30 p.. and in Nashua (151 Coliseium Ave.) on Thursday, July 14, at 6:30 p.m. The event, described as family friendly and offering chances to win movie theater candy and other prizes, costs $10 per person to reserve a seat ($5 for a food voucher plus the candy). See chunkys.com.

Story time!

• Petals in the Pines (126 Baptist Road, Canterbury) is bringing Peter Rabbit to life with an in-garden reading of “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” on Saturday, July 9, and Sunday, July 10, from 1 to 3 p.m. and on Monday, July 11, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Children will get to participate in activities like seed starting and gardening, play in the award-winning outdoor classroom, and pose for a character photo. The event requires registration and tickets are $12 for adult and one child, $6 for each additional child, and infants are free. Reservations can be made at petalsinthepines.com/kids-workshops.

• New Hampshire Boat Museum (399 Center St., Wolfeboro) is hosting an outdoor story hour for kids ages 2 to 6 on Friday, July 8, at 10 a.m. The Wolfeboro Public Library children’s librarian, Jeanne Snowdon, will read stories and lead kids in a craft. This event is free for one child with an accompanying adult. For more information, visit nhbm.org.

Play ball!

• The New Hampshire Fisher Cats run of games against the Hartford Yard Goats continues with games daily through Sunday, July 10 at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium in Downtown Manchester. Games Thursday, July 7; Friday, July 8, and Saturday, July 9, start at 7:05 p.m. and Thursday and Saturday games feature post-game fireworks. Friday is North Woods Law night with a jersey giveway, according to the website. Sunday’s game starts at 1:35 p.m. See nhfishercats.com.

• The Nashua Silver Knights have home games Thursday, July 7, and Friday, July 8, at Holman Stadium (67 Amherst St. in Nashua). Both games start at 6 p.m. and are against the Vermont Lake Monsters. Friday’s game features post game fireworks. See nashuasilverknights.com.

— Katelyn Sahagian

Hillsboro Summer Festival returns

Fun times to support firefighters

By Katelyn Sahagian

ksahagian@hippopress.com

Hillsboro Summer Festival is back for its 32nd year, celebrating the firefighters and community that started it all those years ago.

“The event has evolved a lot in the past 32 years,” said Katherine Charette, the co-chair of the Hillsboro festival committee. “It started out as something put on by the fire department and had different events to raise money for the community and their organization.”

Back when it started, Charette said that there would be Fireman Musters, or competitions between fire departments. Back in the day, firefighters would work to see who was fastest at unraveling hoses and winding them up again, do obstacle courses, and compete in other tests of their skill. Charette said that firefighters from across the country would come to compete.

Now, the event is filled with local artisans selling their wares, live music performances, carnival rides and games, and an impressive fireworks show. Even with the changes, the festival still honors firefighters.

“This is our second year back since having that time off from the pandemic,” Charette said. “We have the most events we’ve ever had for every single age.”

Hillsboro Fire Chief Kenny Stafford said that while the event is time-consuming for him and his volunteer firefighters, who set up and take down everything for the event, he is glad that it brings the community together.

“It brings people to town, and this weekend shows you exactly who we are,” Stafford said. “[The festival] shows what our town is all about.”

Charette said that she wanted to try to make the festival as low-cost as possible so that families could plan to have fun throughout the day without breaking the bank. Besides the $25 wristbands that gain access to all the rides, the only other part of the festival that costs money is donating to the fire department for parking.

From pie and cupcake eating contests to a warrior obstacle course, Charette said, “it’s all free and a really great event for the whole community.”

For Stafford, seeing the community recognize the sacrifice and dedication of his firefighters is what makes the event special.

“It’s awful nice to have someone come up and say, ‘Thanks for all you do,’” Stafford said. “We couldn’t do what we do if we didn’t have that support.”

Hillsboro Summer Festival

Where: 29 Preston St., Hillsboro
When: Thursday, July 7, from 6 to 10 p.m.; Friday, July 8, from 5 to 11 p.m.; Saturday, July 9, from noon to 11 p.m., and Sunday, July 10, from noon to 5 p.m.
Price: $10 per car, $25 for rides wristband.
Events include:
• Friday, 6 to 8 p.m. — Cub Scouts host the mobile basecamp (with gaga, archery, bb range and more)
• Friday, 6:30 p.m. — 5K Road Race (register in advance or onsite at 5:30 p.m.)
• Friday, 7 to 9 p.m. Superbug performs
• Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Warrior Obstacle Course
• Saturday, 1 p.m. Women’s Skillet Toss
• Saturday, 2 to 5 p.m., Interactive Juggling
• Saturday, 10 p.m., fireworks
• Sunday, noon, Hometown Parade
• Sunday, noon to 2:30 p.m., Car and Truck Show
• Sunday, 1 p.m. 10-and-under cupcake eating contest
• Sunday, 2 p.m. Pie Eating Contest
• Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m. Mary Poppins Balloon Artist
More: hillsborosummerfest.com, 464-0377

Featured photo: Photo courtesy of Katherine Charette of the Hillsboro Festival.

The Art Roundup 22/07/07

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

• “I wish I were big”: The Majestic Theatre presents Big – The Musicalon Fridays, July 8 and July 15, at 7 p.m.; Saturdays, July 9 and July 16, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, July 17, at 2 p.m. at the Derry Opera House (29 West Broadway, Derry). Adapted from the 1987 film of the same name, Big follows Josh, an awkward kid who wishes to a Zoltar machine to become an adult and soon realizes it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors 65 and up and $15 for youth 17 and younger. Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 669-7469 or visiting www.majestictheatre.net, or at the door.

• Owls in focus: The photography exhibit “All Things Owl in New England Habitats” featuring the work of Howard S. Muscott opened on July 1 at the New Hampshire Audubon’s McLane Center (84 Silk Farm Road in Concord; nhaudubon.org, 224-9909) and will be on display through Wednesday, Aug. 1. The exhibit is available during the center’s hours, Tuesdays through Fridays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Thursday, July 7, the center will host an opening from 4 to 6 p.m. Find more about Muscott and his nature photography at chasingthegoldenlight.com.

Through the fire
For one night and one night only, the Village Players present Through the Fire, Victor Almanzar’s newest work. On Friday, July 8, at 7:30 p.m., Almanzar will give a preview performance of the production at the Player’s theater (51 Glendon St. in Wolfboro). Almanzar, seen in Homeland, Empire and Pulitzer prize-winning Between Riverside and Crazy, shares his own life’s story through this hip-hop-filled production developed by Wolfeboro local Estelle Parsons, an Oscar-winning and Tony-nominated actress. The show, which follows Almanzar as he immigrates from the Dominican Republic to New York and spends time serving in the U.S. Marine Corps in Kosovo and Iraq, will be headed to New York City in the coming weeks, and this preview performance at the Village Players Theater will benefit the theater. Tickets are $25 each, available online at village-players.com and at the door.

• Students on stage: The kids of the Palace Youth Theatre summer camp will present High School Musical 2 Jr. on Friday, July 8, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, July 9, at 11 a.m. at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St. in Manchester; palacetheatre.org). Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for kids. The young performers range in age from second grade to high school, according to the website.

• Toys and art: Author and illustrator Sandy Steen Bartholomew drew some of her favorite toys for her “My Year of Toys” project. Some of these drawings are now on display at the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (6 Washington St. in Dover; childrens-museum.org) in their Gallery 6 space. The show, perfect for kids who love toys and comics, is on display through Oct. 16 and Gallery 6 can be viewed for free during museum hours without purchasing museum admission. The museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon. Admission to the museum costs $12.50 for everyone over 12 months (65+ is $10.50) and advance online registration is required, the website said.

• Summer theater: The Peterborough Players’ 2022 summer season continues with Circle Mirror Transformation, opening on Thursday, July 7, and running until Sunday, July 17, at the Players’ stage at 55 Hadley Road in Peterborough. The dramedy by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Annie Baker follows a group of acting students in Vermont as they learn more about each other and themselves through a series of seemingly outrageous exercises. Tickets are $47 each, available online or at the door. The Friday, July 8, show will allow for ‘pay what you can’ ticketing, for patrons to pay what they are able. See peterboroughplayers.org or call the box office at 924-7575

Just like the Doobies
Concerts on the Common features “What a Fool Believes – A Doobie Brothers Experience” on Wednesday, July 13, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on the Londonderry Town Common (265 Mammoth Road, Londonderry). The performance features vocalist Sean Byrne as well as a host of performers to perform Doobie Brothers top hits. In case of bad weather, the concert will relocate to the Londonderry High School cafeteria. For a complete schedule and more details visit concertsonthecommon.org

• Art as a response: Ukrainian sculptor Natasha Dikareva opens an exhibition called “From Whispering to Screaming” at the Seacoast Artist Association gallery at 130 Water St. in downtown Exeter, as a “response to war on her country with art.” Dikareva, an internationally acclaimed sculptor who now lives in Newmarket, describes the collection as a reaction to both the pandemic and the war in her homeland. The works are on display at the gallery during regular business hours for the month of July, and a reception will be held for the public on Friday, July 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, visit seacoastartist.org.

• Strings in the garden: Saint-Gaudens National Park in Cornish kicks off its summer concert series with The Fischers and The Jennings, a program of classical works for violin, cello and piano, on Sunday, July 10, at 2 p.m. The summer concert series will run every Sunday through August. The concerts will take place in Little Studio on the grounds at 139 Saint Gaudens Road, which include a large lawn space for listeners to sit and enjoy. Tickets are $10 per person, which includes a seven-day pass to the grounds. Visit saint-gaudens.org.

• Be a part of Shrek: The Epping Community Theater (38c Ladd’s Lane in Epping; eppingtheater.org) will present Shrek the Musical Oct. 21 through Oct. 30 at the Epping Playhouse and is holding auditions on Sunday, July 17, from 1 to 5 p.m. and Tuesday, July 19, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. See the website for the audition form, the signup form and the play’s production schedule. The show is a “family fun musical with casting opportunities for ages 8 to 108,” according to a press release.

– Hannah Turtle

ART

Exhibits

• “WARHOL SCREEN TESTS” In the mid-1960s, American multimedia artist Andy Warhol had shot more than 400 short, silent, black-and-white films of his friends at his studio in New York City. Warhol referred to the films, which were unscripted and played in slow motion, as “film portraits” or “stillies.” The exhibition will feature 20 of those films, provided by the Andy Warhol Museum, in loops across four large-scale projections. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On display now through July 24. Museum admission costs $15 for adults, $13 for seniors age 65 and up, $10 for students, $5 for youth ages 13 through 17 and is free for children age 12 and under and museum members. Current museum hours are Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday through Wednesday. Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org for more information.

• “ARGHAVAN KHOSRAVI” Artist’s surrealist paintings explore themes of exile, freedom and empowerment; center female protagonists; and allude to human rights issues, particularly those affecting women and immigrants. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On display now through Sept. 5. Museum admission costs $15 for adults, $13 for seniors age 65 and up, $10 for students, $5 for youth ages 13 through 17 and is free for children age 12 and under and museum members. Current museum hours are Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Monday through Wednesday. Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org for more information.

• “THE PEOPLE’S SCULPTOR: THE LIFE AND WORKS OF JOHN ROGERS” Exhibit celebrates the art of American sculptor John Rogers, who came to Manchester in 1850, and explores the influence that Manchester had on Rogers’ life and work. Presented by the Manchester Historic Association. On view now through September. Millyard Museum (200 Bedford St., Manchester). Gallery 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.

• “WOOL: CONTEMPORARY FIBER ART EXHIBITION Twiggs Gallery (254 King St., Boscawen) through Sept. 2. Gallery hours are Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twiggsgallery.wordpress.com or call 975-0015.

• ROBIN CORNWELL The New Hampshire Boat Museum will feature local artist Robin Cornwell in the museum’s gallery (399 Center St. in Wolfeboro; nhbm.org) in July. Cornwell produces art quilts as well as bark paper paintings and woven placemats and rugs. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. To learn more about Cornwell, visit robincornwellembellishments.com.

• “PIXELS, WOOD, CLAY” Two Villages Art Society presents an exhibition of work by artists Tony Gilmore, Rick Manganello and Caren Helm. The Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook). Aug. 12 through Sept. 9. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 4 p.m. There will be an opening reception on Sat., Aug. 13, from noon to 2 p.m. Visit twovillagesart.org or call 413-210-4372.

• ART ON MAIN The City of Concord and the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce present a year-round outdoor public art exhibition in Concord’s downtown featuring works by professional sculptors. All sculptures will be for sale. Visit concordnhchamber.com/creativeconcord, call 224-2508 or email tsink@concordnhchamber.com for more information.

• SUMMER MEMBERS SHOW Two Villages Art Society presents a mixed media art show at the Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook) from July 1 through July 30.Visit twovillagesart.org or call 413-210-4372.

Fairs and markets

• CRAFT FAIR AT THE BAY More than 75 juried artisans from all over New England will feature their work. Sat., July 16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sun., July 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Community House and Waterfront (24 Mount Major Highway, Alton Bay). Visit castleberryfairs.com.

Tours

• NASHUA PUBLIC ART AUDIO TOUR Self-guided audio tours of the sculptures and murals in downtown Nashua, offered via the Distrx app, which uses Bluetooth iBeacon technology to automatically display photos and text and provides audio descriptions at each stop on the tour as tourists approach the works of art. Each tour has 10 to 15 stops. Free and accessible on Android and iOS on demand. Available in English and Spanish. Visit downtownnashua.org/nashua-art-tour for more information.

Workshops and classes

• ART CLASSES Art classes for teens and adults, including Pottery, Stained Glass, Intermediate Watercolor and Clay Hand Building. Studio 550 Art Center (550 Elm St., Manchester). Five-week sessions. Classes met for two hours a week. Call 232-5597 or visit 550arts.com for the full schedule and cost details.

• DRAWING & PAINTING CLASSES Art House Studios, 66 Hanover St., Suite 202, Manchester. Classes include Drawing Fundamentals, Painting in Acrylic, Drawing: Observation to Abstraction, Exploring Mixed Media, and Figure Drawing. Class sizes are limited to six students. Visit arthousestudios.org or email arthousejb@gmail.comfor more information.

• GENERAL ART CLASSES Weekly art classes offered for both kids and adults of all skill levels and cover a variety of two-dimensional media, including drawing and painting with pastel, acrylic, watercolor and oils. Classes are held with small groups of three to eight to five students. Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Kids classes, open to ages 10 and up, are held on Thursdays and Fridays, from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. Adult classes are held on Thursdays, from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Tuition is pay-as-you-go at $20 per student per class, due upon arrival. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com for availability.

THEATRE

Classes/workshops

• STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS Monthly workshop series hosted by True Tales Live storytelling showcase. First Tuesday (except November), from 7 to 8:30 p.m., virtual, via Zoom. Registration is required. Visit truetaleslivenh.org for more information.

Shows

• THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED) [REVISED] at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse (33 Footlight Circle, Meredith; winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org) through July 9, with showtimes Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $29 to $39.

• ANYTHING GOES The Seacoast Repertory Theatre (125 Bow St., Portsmouth; seacoastrep.org, 433-4472) presents the musical through July 23, with showtimes on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $32 to $52.

• FOOTLOOSE Prescott Park Arts Festival (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth; prescottpark.org , 436-2848) presents this outdoor musical through Aug. 14, with showtimes on most Thursdays and Sundays at 7 p.m., and most Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., with some matinee showtimes TBA. General admission costs $5, and reserved seating tickets cost $55 to $150.

• INTO THE WOODS RGC Theatre presents this musical at Hatbox Theatre (inside the Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord; hatboxnh.com, 715-2315) July 8 through July 17, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $22 for students, seniors and members and $19 for senior members.

•THE GREAT ATLANTIC AND PACIFIC SHAKESPEARE COMPANY presented by Granite Playwrights at the Hatbox Theatre (inside the Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord; hatboxnh.com, 715-2315) from Aug. 19 through Aug. 28, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $22 for adults, $19 for students, seniors and members and $16 for senior members.

• DISNEY’S FROZEN KIDS presented by the 2022 Bank of New Hampshire Children’s Summer Seriesat the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester; palacetheatre.org, 668-5588) Tuesday, Aug. 23, through Thursday, Aug. 25, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Aug. 26, at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $10.

• LES MISERABLES presented by the Seacoast Repertory Theatre (125 Bow St., Portsmouth; seacoastrep.org, 433-4472) teen company from Aug. 25 through Sept. 4, with showtimes on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for students and $30 for adults.

• CRUEL INTENTIONS: THE ’90s MUSICAL presented by the Actorsingers at the Court Street Theatre (14 Court St., Nashua; actorsingers.org) Friday, Aug. 26, through Sunday, Aug. 28.

• SHREK THE MUSICAL presented by the Riverbend Youth Company at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford; svbgc.org/amato-center) from Friday, Aug. 26, through Sunday, Aug. 28.

• TITANIC THE MUSICAL Presented by the Manchester Community Theatre Players. Manchester Community Theatre Players Theatre, located at the North End Montessori School (698 Beech St., Manchester; manchestercommunitytheatre.com, 327-6777). Showtimes on Fri., Oct. 14 and Oct. 21, and Sat., Oct. 15 and Oct. 22.

• TRUE TALES LIVE Portsmouth-based storytelling showcase. Monthly, last Tuesday (no shows in July and August), from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Shows will be held in person (Portsmouth Public Media TV Studio, 280 Marcy St., Portsmouth) starting in April, and returning to the Zoom format for the winter, starting in November. Each month’s showcase is centered around a different theme. The series is free and open to all who want to watch or participate as a storyteller. Pre-registration for attendees is required for Zoom shows but not required for in-person shows. Visit truetaleslivenh.org and email info@truetaleslive.org if you’re interested in being a storyteller.

CLASSICAL

Events

• LISTEN AND LUNCH presented by Monadnock Music’s summer festival, David William Ross (guitar) performs at Depot Park in Peterborough, 12 Depot St, Thursday, July 7, from noon to 1 p.m., concert is free and open to the public. Visit monadnockmusic.org.

• DEERING VILLAGE VOCAL RECITAL Monadnock Music Summer Festival hosts vocalists Carley DeFranco and Aaron Engebreth for a recital including works by Debussy and Ravel on July 9 at 7pm at the Deering Community Church, 763 Deering Center Road, in Deering. Event is free and open to the public. Visit monadnockmusic.org. • SERGEI NOVIKOV PIANO RECITAL The NH Philharmonic’s Summer Concert Series will host accomplished pianist Sergei Novikov for two concerts this month, first on Friday July 15 at 7pm at the Kingswood Art Center, 21 McManus Rd, in Wolfeboro, then on Friday July 22 at 7pm at the Seifert Performing Art Center, 44 Geremonty Drive, in Salem. Part of ticket sales will go to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) to help assist Ukraine. Tickets are available online at speakingmusic.com or by calling (800) 595-4849.

• TOWN HOUSE EXTRAVAGANZA presented by Monadnock Music’s summer festival features a program of Weber and Schubert at Peterborough Town House, 1 Grove St, on Sunday, July 17, 3 p.m. Tickets: $35, Seniors- $25 Students and Under 18- $10. See monadnockmusic.org.

• PROGRESSIVE GARDEN PARTY Monadnock Music’s summer festival presents a botanical tour of Jaffrey set to classical music, performed live by soloists in 3 separate gardens, and featuring unique food and drink at each location, Saturday, July 23, noon to 5 p.m., location TBA. Tickets cost $100. Visit monadnockmusic.org.

• FAMILY CONCERTS Monadnock Music Summer Festival hosts three family concerts on July 27, titled “Moonstrike: Tellings of American Indian Legends.” The program features a string quartet with a narrator. The first is at noon at George Holmes Bixby Memorial Library, Francestown Old Meeting House, the second at 2 p.m. at Peterborough Library, 1833 Room, Peterborough, and the third at 4 p.m. at Olivia Rodham Memorial Library, Nelson Town Hall. Performances are free and open to the public. For more info, visit monadnockmusic.org.

Open calls

• THE RHYTHM OF NEW HAMPSHIRE SHOW CHORUS Women’s a cappella chorus is looking for female singers in the region to join. The group, an affiliate of the North American singing organization Harmony, Inc., performs a wide variety of music, including Broadway musical songs, patriotic songs, pop, jazz and seasonal pieces, for community and veterans’ events and private functions. Rehearsals are held weekly on Thursdays from 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. at the Marion Gerrish Community Center, 39 W. Broadway, Derry. Masks are required for singing, but both vaccinated and unvaccinated singers are welcome. Visit rnhchorus.org or email info@rnhchorus.org for more information.

Playing to the littles

Children’s theater groups present kid- and adult-friendly entertainment

By Hannah Turtle

hturtle@hippopress.com

Touring children’s theater group IMPACT has a simple goal: to expose kids to the joy of live theater. Their upcoming summer series, called The Magic of Fairy Tales, comprising six unique shows, is meant to do just that.

The group performs each show at eight locations across southern New Hampshire each week, partnering with local arts venues to give access to as many families as possible. This year, the group has weekly performances in Concord, Laconia, Plymouth, Lincoln, Lancaster, Claremont, Gorham and Haverhill, all beginning this week.

IMPACT is part of a broader trend of live theater for children in the area. The Palace Theatre in Manchester is also running a children’s series this summer, including adaptations of Cinderella and Frozen, with tickets for only $10, and RB Productions is running a host of youth programming at the Capitol Center, including Legally Blonde Jr., and Winnie the Pooh Kids.

Started back in 1986, the touring group IMPACT, housed at North Country Center For the Arts at Jean’s Playhouse, has recently shifted to writing all of its own shows and programming. It’s a unique challenge, writing children’s programming that is still entertaining for the whole family. “We try to write in a way that’s not only fun for kids, but equally fun for adults, in a different way,” said Joel Mercier, Artistic Director at Jean’s Playhouse.

Telling stories in the right way was a major consideration for the group, whose upcoming series includes retellings of the stories of Sleeping Beauty and Little Red Riding Hood and a host of other classic fairy tales.

“As I’m writing the script, I’m trying to make it entertaining to myself, as an adult, because in my experience, sometimes children’s theater can come off a bit patronizing, sometimes it’s playing down to the kids, rather than bringing the kids up to the same level,” said Mercier. “We find that yes, there are differences in children’s theater, we talk a lot to the actors about making really bold decisions and really going big, but we tell them to never play cartoons, and to never play down to the audience.”

It’s this care that has made the programming a success over the years. “We do end up seeing a lot of kids who return week to week, and a lot of families make this a weekly tradition, which is not only great for us but it’s great for the venues too,” said Mercier. “We will sometimes get emails from families telling us who their favorite performers were this season, and just how much they enjoyed the shows.”

In addition to writing for the whole family, the group aims to modernize the messaging behind some of these older tales. “Some of these fairy tales are pretty dated and the morals are not the best, so we try to stay away from ‘damsels in distress,’” said Mercier. “We want to show characters with independence who solve problems themselves, learn how to compromise, cooperate with each other, and stand up against bullying. Those are the kinds of themes we want to highlight when writing.”

This year the program has a second mission, one taken on by the Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord. One of the stops for the group, the Capitol Center has made all IMPACT performances free for the audience, with the support of local sponsors.

”Our venue is for everyone, and the arts are too,” said Salvatore Prezio, Executive Director at the Capitol Center. “We have to get creative with the ways we get people involved, so it’s not just for kids from a certain neighborhood or income group. This is mission critical to us, to open our arms to the greater community.”

It’s a move Prezio hopes will broaden the — for lack of a better term — impact the programming will have on the community. “All of us remember our first experience with live theater,” said Prezio.

Affordable ticket pricing is a consideration for all eight venues this year, with all locations offering tickets for $8 or less. In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, IMPACT wants to make sure that finances are not a barrier to experiencing the arts.

“We’ve gotten out of the habit of going out. This is an easy way to get out and support the arts, for a very inexpensive ticket price,” said Mercier.

Shows for the kids

Palace Theatre Summer Children’s Shows

Palace Theatre, 80 Hanover St., Manchester, 668-5588, palacetheatre.org

Wizard of Oz Tuesday, July 12, through Thursday, July 14, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, July 15, at 10 a.m.
Rapunzel Tuesday, July 19, through Thursday, July 21, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, July 22, at 10 a.m.
Peter PanTuesday, July 26, through Thursday, July 28, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, July 29, at 10 a.m.
Cinderella Tuesday, Aug. 2, through Thursday, Aug. 4, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Aug. 5, at 10 a.m.
Beauty and the Beast Tuesday, Aug. 9, through Thursday, Aug. 11, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Aug. 12, at 10 a.m.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Tuesday, Aug. 16, through Thursday, Aug. 18, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Aug. 19, at 10 a.m.
Frozen KidsTuesday, Aug. 23, through Thursday, Aug. 25, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Aug. 26, at 10 a.m.
Tickets: $10 at palacetheatre.org

RB Productions Summer Children’s Shows

Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 S. Main St., Concord, 225-1111, ccanh.com

RENT School EditionFriday, July 8, and Saturday, July 9, at 7 p.m., tickets $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, plus fees
Beauty and the Beast Jr. Friday, July 15, and Saturday, July 16, at 7 p.m., $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, plus fees
Winnie the Pooh Kids Saturday, July 16, at noon (doors open 11 a.m.), tickets $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, plus fees
Matilda Jr. Friday, July 22, and Saturday, July 23, at 7 p.m., tickets $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, plus fees
Legally Blonde Jr. Friday, July 29, and Saturday, July 30, at 7 p.m., $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, plus fees

IMPACT Summer Series

When and Where: Monday, July 4, through Saturday, Aug. 13
Mondays at 10 a.m. at Belknap Mill/Powerhouse (25 Beacon St. East in Laconia)
Tuesdays at 10 a.m. at the Capitol Center for the Arts (44 S. Main St. in Concord;225-1111, ccanh.com)
(as well as locations in Plymouth, Lincoln, Lancaster, Gorham, Claremont and Haverill)

Show schedule:
Week of July 4 — Sleeping Beauty
Week of July 11 — Lost in Wonderland
Week of July 18 — Neverland
Week of July 25 — Little Red Riding Hood
Week of Aug. 1 — Return to Oz
Week of Aug. 8 — Jack and the Beanstalk

Tickets: Prices vary by location
More info: jeansplayhouse.com/youth-and-education/impact-childrens-theatre

Featured photo: Courtesy photo.

This Week 22/07/07

Big Events July 7, 2022 and beyond

Thursday, July 7

Chunky’s Cinema Pub is hosting a 21-and-older screening of Thor: Love and Thunder tonight at 8 p.m. at all three locations (707 Huse Road in Manhcester, 151 Coliseum Ave. in Nashua and 150 Bridge St. in Pelham; chunkys.com). O’neil Cinemas Brickyard Square (24 Calef Highway in Epping; oneilcinemas.com) is also on the list of theaters hosting “Thorsday” evening screenings. The movie opens wide on Friday, July 8.

Friday, July 8

The 47th annual Raymond Town Fair will start up at 5 p.m. this evening at Raymond Commons. Bingo starts at 5 p.m. under the tent, live music starts at 6 p.m. and the firemen’s parade starts at 7 p.m. The fair continues through Saturday, July 10, and will include a silent auction, fireworks and sack races. For more information, contact the organizers at raymondnhtownfair@gmail.com or find the event on Facebook.

Saturday, July 9

The Warner Historical Society is hosting playwright Eugenie Carabatsos for a staged reading of her short play Seven Minutes in Heaven at Warner Town Hall (5 E. Main St. inWarner) at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $10. Carabatsos, a professor at Dartmouth, is the first author presenting in this summer’s Tory Hill Authors series. Visit toryhillauthorsseries.com.

Saturday, July 9

The craft beer festival Keep NH Brewing is back (after a two-year hiatus) at Kiwanis Waterfront Park, 15 Loudon Road, Concord (see Matt Ingersoll’s story on page 26 in the June 30 edition of The Hippo; find the e-edition at hippopress.com). The event, which will run from 1 to 5 p.m., features more than 130 brewers from across the Granite State, plus vendors and music. The event is limited to adults age 21 and older. Tickets are $50 in advance, $55 day of, and $65 for VIP. Visit nhbrewers.org

Saturday, July 9

Catch the band Alligator Wine at the Millyard Brewery (25 E. Otterson St. in Nashua) tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. (music on the patio, weather permitting). Find more live music at more area patios (and inside breweries and restaurants), in the Music This Week listing, which starts on page 38.

Tuesday, July 12

As part of the Literary in the Lounge series, Tom Perrotta will read from his new novel, Tracy Flick Can’t Win, at the newly renamed Music Hall Lounge (131 Congress St. in Portsmouth) at 7 p.m. The book follows Tracy, a character from Perrotta’s 1998 novel Election, and how her life has changed since she was in high school. Tickets cost $44 and will include a hardcover signed copy of the book, an author discussion, Q-and-A session and post-show meet-and-greet. See themusichall.org. The space, which was formerly known as “The Loft” is a 116-seat venue and is slated to reopen July 7 with comedy by Pat McGann.

Save the Date! Thursday, August 11
The Manchester International Film Festival will run from Thursday, Aug. 11, through Sunday, Aug. 14, at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St.) and the Rex Theatre (23 Hanover St.). The film festival will show movies made by independent filmmakers, directors and performers. Film listings are still being announced but so far they include the short film For Pins, the and horror film An American Werewolf in London, which will have a podcast taping with Southern New Hampshire University film professors after the showing. Call the box office at 668-5588 or purchase tickets online at palacetheatre.org/film.

Featured photo. Thor. Courtesy photo.

Quality of Life 22/07/07

Taking to the skies

The five baby peregrine falcons that hatched in late April and early May at the New Hampshire Audubon’s peregrine nest box atop the Brady Sullivan Tower in Manchester have fledged. According to the Audubon’s daily peregrine falcons log, the male baby named Colum was the first of the bunch to fledge on June 10, followed by female Cinquey and male Blue on June 11, female Colby on June 12 and female Clem on June 13. Peregrine falcon fledglings typically spend four to six weeks learning to hunt from their parents before migrating out of the area, while the peregrine parents tend to stay in the area year-round. As of June 24, all five have been accounted for and have been seen and photographed in the sky running hunting drills.

QOL score: +1

Comment:You can watch the falcons on the Audubon’s 24/7 high-definition livestream of the nest box on YouTube. Visit nhaudubon.org/conservation-2/peregrine-web-cam and click “Link to Camera 1 Live Stream.” QOL is watching papa peregrine on the livestream now, at 8:30 a.m. (Images of the baby peregrines posted on the Audubon’s daily peregrine falcons log on June 22.)

Teachers honored

More than 150 New Hampshire teachers and educators were presented with a Christa McAuliffe commemorative silver dollar coin to recognize the difference they’ve made in the lives of students, as part of an initiative started this fall by the SEE Science Center and Service Credit Union. According to a press release, the teachers were chosen by students, families, colleagues and administrators. The coins were awarded at the teachers’ respective schools during school board meetings and education award ceremonies held by the New Hampshire Department of Education and the NH Excellence in Education Awards.

QOL score: +1

Comment:The U.S. silver dollar exclusively minted in 2021 bears the inscription of Christa McAuliffe’s words, “I touch the future, I teach.”

Welcoming new citizens

This Fourth of July, New Hampshire celebrated its newest U.S. citizens at a citizenship ceremony held at Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth. According to WMUR, 71 people from 31 countries were sworn in during the first large citizenship ceremony held by the U.S. Federal Court for the District of New Hampshire since the pandemic began.

QOL score: +1

Comment: Many of the new citizens said the thing they are looking forward to doing most as a new citizen is voting in the next election, WMUR reported.

Cheers for good weather

Since QOL is always quick to complain about early snow or late snow or some other weather unpleasantness, it seems fair to recognize the good weather when we get it. Such as the weather we had over the long Fourth of July weekend, when the days offered plenty of fun-in-the-sun opportunities and both the evenings of July 3 and July 4 were clear and fireworks-friendly.

QOL score: +1

Comments: Downtown Manchester got fireworks both evenings with the city fireworks show wowing the audience on Sunday night and the “biggest fireworks show in Fisher Cats history” (according to a team press release) on Monday night after the game.

QOL score: 80

Net change: +4

QOL this week: 84

What’s affecting your Quality of Life here in New Hampshire? Let us know at news@hippopress.com.

News & Notes 22/07/07

Covid-19 update	Last week	This week
Total cases statewide	331,496 (as of June 27)	332,120 (as of June 30)
Total current infections statewide	1,906 (as of June 23)	2,016 (as of June 30)
Total deaths statewide	2,576 (announced June 27)	2,585 (announced June 30)
New cases	1,434 (June 16 to June 22)	1,671 (June 23 to June 29)
Current infections: Hillsborough County	939 (as of June 27)	921 (as of June 30)
Current infections: Merrimack County	316 (as of June 27)	333 (as of June 30)
Current infections: Rockingham County	682 (as of June 27)	658 (as of June 30)

Information from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.

Bill signings

Gov. Chris Sununu signed 39 bills into law on July 1, including SB 422, which establishes an adult dental benefit under the state Medicaid program, according to a press release from the governor’s office. Other bills include an act about health care visitation policies (HB 1439), an act related to special education services for kids in chartered public schools (SB 238), an act establishing an office of the advocate for special education (SB 381) and a bill that seeks to protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation (SB 385), the release said.

Rising fentanyl dangers

Gov. Chris Sununu, State Police Colonel Nathan Noyes, American Medical Response Regional Director Chris Stawasz, Concord Hospital President and CEO Bob Steigmeyer, and Concord Hospital Emergency Department Medical Director Dr. Nicholas Larochelle held a press conference at Concord Hospital on June 30 to raise awareness about the rising dangers of fentanyl being added to other substances, according to WMUR. While fentanyl has been known to be routinely mixed with heroin, Gov. Sununu and law enforcement and health officials warned that there has been a recent trend of fentanyl being mixed with non-opioid drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana and prescription drugs and being put into vape cartridges. “We’re seeing a whole new mix and integration of these very dangerous and deadly drugs being mixed in with more recreational activities, whether it’s vaping, whether it’s marijuana,” Sununu said according to the WMUR.

New prescription opioid strike force

The Justice Department’s Criminal Division announced in a press release the formation of the New England Prescription Opioid Strike Force, a joint effort between law enforcement, the Health Care Fraud Unit in the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for three federal districts and law enforcement partners in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and FBI. The new force will focus on combating unlawful prescribing by identifying and investigating health care fraud schemes and drug diversion offenses by physicians, pharmacists and other medical professionals in the New England region and prosecuting those and other individuals involved in the illegal distribution of prescription opioids and other prescription controlled substances. “The formation of NEPO presents a tremendous opportunity for our three Northern New England states to disrupt the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids,”U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young for the District of New Hampshire said in the release.

First probable case of monkeypox

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services announced in a press release that it has identified what it believes to be the first probable case of monkeypox in the state. The New Hampshire Public Health Laboratories conducted the initial testing of the patient, who is a resident of Rockingham County. DHHS is currently conducting an investigation to determine if any other individuals were exposed and infected. “While this is a concerning development, the risk to the general public is very low,” Dr. Jonathan Ballard, DHHS Chief Medical Officer, said in the release. Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by a virus that is categorized in the same group as the smallpox virus. Symptoms may include fever, headache, exhaustion, muscle aches, sore throat, cough, swollen lymph nodes and a skin rash and may last for two to four weeks. Transmission typically requires close interaction or physical contact. Anyone experiencing symptoms, particularly a new skin rash or skin lesions, should consult their health care provider.

Blue-green algae dangers

Potentially toxic cyanobacteria has been blooming more frequently in New Hampshire, according to a press release from the Lake Winnipesaukee Association. Often referred to as blue-green algae, the waterbody organisms are needed for the health and growth of many native plants, but can produce toxins that are dangerous to humans and animals, particularly affecting the nervous, liver and endocrine systems, if ingested in large quantities. The Lake Winnipesaukee Association, joined by the Moultonborough Conservation Commission and UNH Lakes Lay Monitoring Program, will hold an informational session on Tuesday, July 12, at 3 p.m. at the Moultonborough Public Library. Anyone who sees an algae bloom or water quality issue is asked to report it to the Lake Winnipesaukee Association at 581-6632 or mail@winnipesaukee.org.

Rock blasting operations will begin on the F.E. Everett Turnpike in Bedford, on the northbound barrel just south of the I-293 interchange, on Thursday, July 7, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation announced. According to a press release, what that means for drivers is rolling road blocks intermittently on weekdays between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for the next several months.

The 2022 summer concert series at Stark Park in Manchester (650 River Road) kicks off with a performance by Love Dogs on Sunday, July 10, from 2 to 4 p.m. The Boston-based seven-piece band plays music with elements of jump blues, New Orleans R&B and early rock ’n’ roll. See starkpark.com/events for the full schedule.

AARP New Hampshire has announced the recipients of four 2022 Community Challenge grants, one of which is Hillsborough Community Center, which will use the funds to create a new welcoming and relaxing space with a small garden for older adults. The grants are awarded for quick-action projects with long-term impacts that improve quality of life in New Hampshire communities, particularly for adults over the age of 50.

Summer of books — 06/30/22

Going on vacation? Not going on vacation but need some escape? Angie Sykeny asked area librarians and booksellers for their recommendations for books to keep you busy reading this season whatever your summer plans.

Also on the cover: Katelyn Sahagian lays out your Fourth of July options for fireworks and other holiday fun (page 18). Matt Ingersoll explains what’s on tap at the Keep New Hampshire Brewing Festival (page 26). And, speaking of beer, we say a fond farewell to the regular beer columns of Jeff Mucciarone, our longtime go-to beer guy, with some recommendations for what to drink with your celebratory hot dog (page 29) and a look at fishing for “smallies,” smallmouth bass (page 19).

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Fireworks, festivals, parades and naturalization ceremonies

Events happening in New Hampshire on and around the Fourth of July

By Katelyn Sahagian

ksahagian@hippopress.com

Independence Day is a time for cookouts, fireworks, parades and parties, as people say happy birthday to America.

One museum, Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, has been taking it a step further for the past 20 years by holding a naturalization ceremony in conjunction with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the United States District Court – District of New Hampshire.

“I’m so very much looking forward to it,” said Veronica Lester, the spokesperson for the museum. “The joy that radiates from the new citizens will be something quite special to witness.”

Strawbery Banke was settled by British colonists in 1623; they named the area for either wild strawberries that grew along Piscataqua River or an estate in England. Sometime later, it was given the name Puddle Dock and went from wilderness outpost to newcomer neighborhood. People lived in the area until the 1950s, when Portsmouth officials closed the neighborhood for urban renewal.

The new citizens will take their Oath of Allegiance on the museum’s lawn, Puddle Dock, named after the disbanded neighborhood. Lester said that the land Strawbery Banke is on has always been a place for immigrants, whether the first British settlers, or immigrants from across the world in the 19th century.

“It seems fitting that the naturalization ceremony occurs at the museum that is this neighborhood of newcomers,” Lester said. “It’s a special ceremony that takes place at this special location.”

In addition to the celebration at Strawbery Banke, here are some other celebrations happening in the Granite State.

Amherst Fourth of July Celebration

Two days’ worth of celebration and entertainment, featuring fireworks, a festival on the town green, and a parade with classic cars competing for awards.

When: Sunday, July 3, festivities begin at 6 p.m. with fireworks. A second day of festivities, including the parade and festival, begins Monday, July 4, at 9:45 a.m.

Where: July 3 events at Souhegan High School, 412 Boston Post Road. July 4 parade leaves opposite the Wilkins School, 80 Boston Post Road.

Visit: amherstnh4th.org

Brookline parade and fireworks

When: Monday, July 4, 10 a.m., parade will step off. The fireworks will begin shortly after dusk, around 9 p.m.

Where: South Main Street, traveling down Route 130 to Richard Maghakian Memorial School, 22 Milford St. The fireworks will be over Lake Potanipo, Max Cohen Memorial Grove, 3 Mason Road.

Visit: brooklinenh.us

Canobie Lake Park fireworks

Stick around after a day at the amusement park for fireworks over the lake. The fireworks show is timed to patriotic music and the amusement park recommends viewers to watch them by the daVinci’s Dream ride.

When: Saturday, July 2, through Monday, July 4, 9:15 p.m.

Where: Canobie Lake Park, 85 N. Policy St., Salem

Visit: canobie.com

Concord Fourth of July Celebration

Featuring food, live music, fireworks and more

When: Monday, July 4, food vendors and live music begin at 5 p.m., fireworks at 9:20 p.m. (rain date is Tuesday, July 5).

Where: Memorial Field, 70 S. Fruit St.

Visit: concordnh.gov

Derry fireworks

When: Monday, July 4, dusk.

Where: Best viewing areas are Hood Commons, Crystal Avenue and Tsienneto Road

Visit: derry-nh.org

Exeter Independence Day Celebration

The American Independence Museum is hosting its 32nd annual American Independence Festival later than the holiday. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum and meet with vendors, learn about cooking during the Revolutionary War, and watch military reenactments.

When: Saturday, July 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: 1 Governor’s Way

Cost: $10 for adults, $5 children 4 to 18, free for children under 4, veterans and active military, and museum members.

Visit: independencemuseum.org

Hampton Beach fireworks

When: Monday, July 4, 9:30 p.m.

Where: On the beach, across from B and C streets

Visit: hamptonbeach.org

Hopkinton Fourth of July Family Fun Day

Featuring a kiddie and main parade, family games, live music and a cookie bake-off

When: Monday, July 4, cookie competition drop off is from 9 to 11 a.m., kiddie parade begins at 11:30 a.m., main parade begins at noon and competition results are at 2 p.m.

Where: Parades begin at Hopkinton High School (297 Park Ave., Contoocook), then proceed through Fountain Square toward Contoocook Village Cemetery. Other festivities held at Houston Park, 41 Houston Drive, Hopkinton.

Visit: hopkintonrec.com

Laconia Celebration and Fireworks

Not only will Laconia be holding a parade and a festival full of vendors and live music, but there will be two different fireworks shows. The first will be at Opechee Park following the festival, and the second will be at Weirs Beach at midnight.

When: Sunday, July 3. The parade will start at 4:30 p.m., the band will start playing at 5:30 p.m. and fireworks will begin at 10 p.m. A second round of fireworks will start at midnight.

Where: The parade will start at the Laconia High School, 345 Union Ave., and end at Opechee Park, 915 Main St. The second round of fireworks will be atWeirs Beach.

Visit: laconianh.gov

Manchester Independence Day Celebration

Enjoy fireworks, live music, and food vendors.

When: Sunday, July 3. Live music starts at 7 p.m.; fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

Where: Arms Park, 10 Arms St.

Visit: manchesternh.gov

Merrimack Fourth of July festivities

A weekend-long celebration featuring fireworks, live music, a road race, a pancake breakfast and much more.

When: The Merrimack Concert Association’s annual Patriotic Concert in the Park will be held Sunday, July 3, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The 25th annual Merrimack Sparkler 5K Road Race will begin at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 4. The Merrimack Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. A parade will begin at 1 p.m. and fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

Where: Holiday concert at Abbie Griffin Park. Road race begins and ends at the Merrimack YMCA, 6 Henry Clay Drive. Pancake breakfast and fireworks at Merrimack High School, 38 McElwain St. The parade will start at the Commons Shopping Plaza, 515 Daniel Webster Hwy.

Visit: merrimackparksandrec.org

Milford Family Fun Day and fireworks

The holiday kicks off with a 5K, followed by a bike parade, family fun, live music and fireworks.

When: Saturday, July 2, family activities start at 1:30 p.m., concert is from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Fireworks begin at dusk.

Where: Keyes Memorial Park, Elm Street

Visit: milford.nh.gov

Nashua Fourth of July Celebration

Fireworks, live music, and hall of fame inductions.

When: Monday, July 4, children’s activities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., concert at 6 p.m. featuring The Slakas. Fireworks begin at dusk.

Where: Holman Stadium, 67 Amherst St.

Visit: nashuanh.gov

New Boston Fourth of July Celebration

Featuring a parade, live music, a barbecue, ax throwing and the firing of the historic Molly Stark cannon.

When: Monday, July 4, parade begins at 10 a.m., fairgrounds will open at 4 p.m., opening ceremonies are at 5 p.m., and the fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m.

Where: Parade begins at the top of High Street and will end at the grounds of the Hillsborough County Youth Center Foundation, off River Road.

Visit: newboston4thofjuly.org

New London Fireworks

When: Saturday, July 1. Flares are at 9 p.m., fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m.

Where: Pleasant Lake

Visit: plpa.net

Portsmouth fireworks

When: Sunday, July 3, 9:15 p.m. (rain date is Tuesday, July 5)

Where: South Mill Pond, Junkins Ave. (across from Portsmouth City Hall)

Visit: portsmouthnh.com

Raymond Fourth of July Celebration

20th annual Fourth of July parade will have floats, horses, antique cars, clowns and more

When: Monday, July 4, parade at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Parade proceeds from Route 27 (Epping Street) down to the Raymond Town Common, onto Old Manchester Road and to Wight Street.

Visit: raymondareanews.com

Rye July 4th Celebration

When: Friday, July 1, live music will start at 7 p.m., fireworks will start at dusk.

Where: Parsons Field

Visit: town.rye.nh.us

Salem Independence Day Celebration

Featuring live music, food trucks, face painting, fireworks, a beer garden and more.

When: Saturday, July 2. Yappy Hour starts at noon, live music and face painting will be from 4 to 8 p.m., food and the beer garden will be open from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., and fireworks will start at dusk.

Where: The event this year is taking place at Tuscan Village, 9 Via Toscana.

Visit: townofsalemnh.org

Silver Lake Fireworks

When: Sunday, July 3, at dusk.

Where: Silver Lake, Hollis.

Visit: facebook.com/SilverLakeFireworks

Strawbery Banke Naturalization Ceremony

Come and celebrate Independence Day by welcoming new citizens in one of the oldest neighborhoods in New England.

When: Monday, July 4, 10 a.m.

Where: Strawbery Banke Museum, 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth.

Visit: strawberybanke.org

Suncook River Family Resort Live Music and Fireworks

Live music featuring Nicole Knox Murphy and Mystical Magic will accompany a celebration with games, kayaking, a bonfire and fireworks.

When: Sunday, July 3. Music starts at 3 p.m.; fireworks start at 9 p.m.

Where: 2 Fanny Drive, Suncook

Cost: $8 for people ages 12 and older.

Visit: campsuncookriver.com

Featured photo: Photo courtesy of the Strawbery Banke Museum.

Author: The Hippo Press

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Fireworks, festivals, parades and naturalization ceremonies

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