Category: Art & Theater

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

• A Chicken and a Birdie: The Palace Theatre’s (80 Hanover St., Manchester) next mainstage production, Bye Bye Birdie, will have its opening show on Friday, March 11, at 7:30 p.m. The Broadway classic is set in 1958 in the small town of Sweet Apple, Ohio, and centers around an Elvis-like rock ’n’ roll star named Conrad Birdie who is drafted into the Army. As a publicity stunt, Birdie’s agent and songwriter arranges for Birdie to appear on a television program, where he will perform a new song called “One Last Kiss” and give one lucky girl from his fan club a real last kiss before reporting for duty. Bye Bye Birdie will run through April 3, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon. Ticket prices range from $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

Seacoast-based Upside Arts Company presents Chicken Little at the Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth), with showtimes on Saturday, March 12, and Sunday, March 13, at 10 a.m., and on Sunday, March 20, at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The production is an original musical, adapted from the classic children’s story, with a book and music by Portsmouth theater artist Joshua Goldberg. “I had a picture book when I was little with a few different folk and fairy tales, and for some reason the Chicken Little illustrations have always stuck with me,” Goldberg told the Hippo in January. “My adaptation is centered on the idea of fame; at first, Chicken Little is fed up with everyone teasing him and wants to be anonymous, but then, the king validates his fear that the sky is falling and calls him a hometown hero, so he has experiences with two ends of the spectrum and has to navigate to the middle.” Tickets cost $18 for adults and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit theupsideartscompany.org/chickenlittle or playersring.org, or call 436-8123.

• From nature to fabric: See “Stitched Together – Elements of Nature from Textile Fragments,” an exhibition presented by the New Hampshire Art Association featuring the work of NHAA member Cheryl Miller, on display now through April 15 at NHAA’s gallery space at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St., Concord). Miller is a textile artist who creates fabric collages using hand dyed cottons, batik and machine-stitched vintage fabrics. The exhibit includes a series of her textile collages that were inspired by the colors seen in nature. “The compositions are mostly abstract but also incorporate some elements of landscape, trees or leaves,” she said in a press release. “The idea of these pieces is to evoke a mood through the use of color and focus on small details in nature.” Gallery hours at the Chamber are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All works in the exhibition are for sale. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

Political laughs
It’s the final weekend for local theater company Bedford off Broadway’s production of The Senator Wore Pantyhose at the Bedford Old Town Hall (70 Bedford Center Road, Bedford). Showtimes are on Friday, March 11, and Saturday, March 12, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, March 13, at 2 p.m. The 1989 comedy by Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore centers on a failing presidential campaign where the candidate’s unwavering integrity and honesty are set against a sleazy campaign manager who will do whatever it takes to win votes. Tickets cost $15 for general admission and $12 for seniors and students. See “Bedford off Broadway” on Facebook.

• Writers welcome: The Merrimack Valley Writers’ Group is looking for new members, according to an email from Pembroke Town Library, which hosts the group in partnership with the Hooksett Public Library. All published and unpublished local writers who are interested in sharing their work with other writers and giving and receiving constructive feedback are invited to join. The group meets regularly; the next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 5, from 5 to 7:15 p.m., and will be held virtually over WebEx Meetings. To reserve your spot, email pembrokenhtownlibrary@gmail.com.

---

ART

Exhibits

“CONNECTING THREADS” New Hampshire Art Association fiber art invitational exhibition features hand-dyed fabrics, Japanese weaving, fine art quilting, embroidery and felting by New England fiber artists. Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery, 136 State St., Portsmouth. On view now through March 27. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “AWAKENING” New Hampshire Art Association exhibition features members’ works inspired by the natural or inner world. Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery, 136 State St., Portsmouth. On view now through March 27. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “SETTING THE STANDARD” Exhibition features new work from League jurors in all media areas. League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters, 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. On view now through March 31. Regular exhibition hours are Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 4 p.m. Visit nhcrafts.org.

• “STITCHED TOGETHER – ELEMENTS OF NATURE FROM TEXTILE FRAGMENTS” New Hampshire Art Association exhibition features the textile collages of Cheryl Miller, inspired by the colors in nature. On view now through April 15. Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center. Gallery hours are Monday througwh Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All work is for sale. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “APPEAL OF THE REAL: 19TH CENTURY PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE ANCIENT WORLD” exhibition features photographs taken throughout the Mediterranean to record the ruins of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view now through June 12. 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 under age 13 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.

• “WARHOL SCREEN TESTS” exhibition features 20 films from Andy Warhol’s silent black and white Screen Tests, shown in loops across four largescale projections. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view March 31 through July 3. 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 under age 13 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.

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.

Workshops and classes

• WINTER 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.

• GENERAL ART CLASSES Weekly art classes are 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 kids 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 on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Tuition is pay-as-you-go at $20 per student per class and is due upon arrival. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com for availability.

THEATER

Auditions

• THE BALD SOPRANO The Community Players of Concord holds open auditions for its June production of The Bald Soprano. Mon., March 21, 7 p.m., Players’ Studio, 435 Josiah Bartlett Road, Concord. Visit communityplayersofconcord.org/auditions.

Shows

• LITTLE WOMEN The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents. Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin). Thurs., March 10, through Sat., March 12, at 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 13, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org or call 934-1901.

• THE SENATOR WORE PANTYHOSEBedford off Broadway presents. Now through March 13, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for general admission and $12 for seniors and students.

• CHICKEN LITTLE presented by Upside Arts. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). Showtimes on Sat., March 12, and Sun., March 13, at 10 a.m., and on Sun., March 20, at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost $18 for adults and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• BYE BYE BIRDIE Mainstage production by The Palace Theatre. 80 Hanover St., Manchester. March 11 through April 3, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon. Tickets range from $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• PIPPIN The Pinkerton Players present. Fri., March 25, and Sat., March 26, at 7 p.m., and Sun., March 27, at 2 p.m. Stockbridge Theatre at Pinkerton Academy, 5 Pinkerton St., Derry. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. Call 437-5210 or visit stockbridgetheatre.com.

• PUFFS! OR SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., April 29, through Sun., May 1. Visit cztheatre.com.

Classical

• WINTER MAINSTAGE CONCERT The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra performs. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. Sun., March 13, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $25 to $35 for adults, $20 for students and $25 to $30 for seniors age 60 and up. Call 436-2400 or visit themusichall.org.

• DRAWN TO THE MUSIC 2022 – STORIES IN MUSIC The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performs. Seifert Performing Arts Center, 44 Geremonty Drive, Salem. Sat., April 9, 2 p.m., and Sun., April 10, 2 p.m. Visit nhphil.org.

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

• Printmaking exhibition: Catch Two Villages Art Society’s exhibition “For the Love of Impression” at the Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook) before it’s gone on Saturday, March 5. The exhibition features eight local artists who are members of the group New Hampshire Printmakers. Their work utilizes traditional techniques and materials, combined with contemporary aesthetics, new materials and new technology. “Printmaking is a time-honored artistic process in which images are transferred from a wooden, metal or glass matrix onto another surface, such as paper or fabric,” Two Villages Art Society president Alyssa McKeon said in a press release. All pieces are for sale. Gallery hours are Thursday through Saturday, from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twovillagesart.org or call 413-210-4372.

• Auditions for Macbeth: Manchester-based Cue Zero Theatre Co. is looking for actors for its June production, an original female-driven interpretation of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth by Cue Zero’s artistic director Dan Pelletier. “It can be argued that all of the important action of the play is motivated by the ambitions and desires of Lady Macbeth,” Pelletier said in a press release, “and I want to lean into that; make her the central focus and maybe even the cause of every plot point.” Auditions will be held on Sunday, March 13, from 3 to 6 p.m., and Tuesday, March 15, from 6 to 9 p.m., with callbacks, if needed, on Thursday, March 17, from 6 to 9 p.m., and will take place in person at Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Performers should sign up for a timeslot in advance on the Cue Zero website and prepare two contrasting Shakespearean monologues totaling no more than four minutes combined. Actors will rehearse three days a week between Sunday and Thursday based on their availability. The performance is planned for Friday, June 17, through Sunday, June 19, at the Derry Opera House. Visit cztheatre.com or email cztheatre@gmail.com.

Nature textiles
The New Hampshire Art Association presents an exhibition “Stitched Together – Elements of Nature from Textile Fragments,” featuring the work of Cheryl Miller, at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St., Concord) now through April 15. Miller, a textile artist, creates fabric collages using hand dyed cottons, batik and machine-stitched vintage fabrics. The exhibit includes a series of her textile collages inspired by the colors in nature. “The compositions are mostly abstract but also incorporate some elements of landscape, trees or leaves,” she said in a press release. “The idea of these pieces is to evoke a mood through the use of color and focus on small details in nature.” Gallery hours at the Chamber are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All works are for sale. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• High standards: The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s triennial exhibit “Setting the Standard” is on view now through March 31 at its headquarters gallery (49 S. Main St., No. 100, Concord). The exhibit features new works by 45 League jurors, master craftsmen who volunteer to work with League hopefuls and review their work to uphold the League’s standard of artistic excellence. A variety of media is represented, including wood, textile, clay and metal. “These works … will reflect the spirit of the maker,” League executive director Miriam Carter said in a press release. “Given the difficulties faced during the past several months, the work of our members takes on an almost indomitable nature, mixing the strength and resilience of the artists with the vulnerability that we have all experienced,” Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 4 p.m. Pieces are for sale and can be picked up when the exhibit closes. Visit nhcrafts.org or call 224-3375.

Ancient World photographs
The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester) presents an exhibition, “Appeal of the Real: 19th Century Photographs of the Ancient World,” now through June 12. It features photographs of the ruins of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, taken prior to when tourists could take their own photographs, often at the request of wealthy European and American tourists. 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 under age 13 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.

• Little Women on stage: The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents a production of Little Women at the Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin) with showtimes Thursday, March 10, through Saturday, March 12, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, March 13, at 2 p.m. Based on Louisa May Alcott’s classic 1869 novel, the play follows the adventures of four sisters living with their mother in Massachusetts while their father is fighting in the Civil War. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org or call 934-1901.

• Political comedy: Theater company Bedford off Broadway presents The Senator Wore Pantyhose at the Bedford Old Town Hall (70 Bedford Center Road, Bedford) from March 4 through March 13, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. The comedy by Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore centers on a failing presidential campaign where the candidate’s unwavering integrity and honesty are set against a sleazy campaign manager who will do whatever it takes to win votes. Tickets cost $15 for general admission and $12 for seniors and students. See “Bedford off Broadway” on Facebook.

Poetic movement
ANIKAYA Dance Theater will perform Conference of the Birds at the Stockbridge Theatre (Pinkerton Academy, 5 Pinkerton St., Derry) on Tuesday, March 8, at 7 p.m. The multimedia movement theater work, created by a team of artists from 10 different countries, tells modern-day stories of migration through the lens of the Persian epic poem of the same name by Farid Ud din Attar. Tickets range from $5 to $30. Call 437-5210 or visit stockbridgetheatre.com.

---

ART

Exhibits

• “FOR THE LOVE OF IMPRESSION” Art exhibition features prints that were created using traditional techniques and materials, combined with contemporary aesthetics, new materials, and technology by eight local artists, all of whom are members of the artist group New Hampshire Printmakers. Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook). On view now through March 5. All of the pieces in the exhibition are for sale. Current gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twovillagesart.org or call 413-210-4372.

•“CONNECTING THREADS” New Hampshire Art Association fiber art invitational exhibition features hand-dyed fabrics, Japanese weaving, fine art quilting, embroidery and felting by New England fiber artists. NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery, 136 State St., Portsmouth. On view now through March 27. Opening reception at the gallery on Fri., March 4, from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “AWAKENING” New Hampshire Art Association exhibition features members’ works inspired by the natural or inner world. NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery, 136 State St., Portsmouth. On view now through March 27. Opening reception at the gallery on Fri., March 4, from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “SETTING THE STANDARD” exhibition features new work from League jurors in all media areas. League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters, 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. On view now through March 31. Regular exhibition hours are Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 4 p.m. Visit nhcrafts.org.

• “STITCHED TOGETHER – ELEMENTS OF NATURE FROM TEXTILE FRAGMENTS” New Hampshire Art Association exhibition features the textile collages of Cheryl Miller, inspired by the colors in nature. On view now through April 15. Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All work is for sale. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “APPEAL OF THE REAL: 19TH CENTURY PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE ANCIENT WORLD” exhibition features photographs taken throughout the Mediterranean to record the ruins of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view now through June 12. 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 under age 13 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.

• “WARHOL SCREEN TESTS” exhibition features 20 films from Andy Warhol’s silent black and white Screen Tests, shown in loops across four largescale projections. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view March 31 through July 3. 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 under age 13 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.

• “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 view April 14 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 under age 13 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.

• “ECHOES: ABSTRACT PAINTING TO MODERN QUILTING” exhibition features abstract paintings inspired by the bold colors, asymmetry, improvisational layout, alternate grid work and negative space in composition of modern quilting. Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). April 22 through May 14. Visit twovillagesart.org.

“NATURE AT NIGHT: PAINTINGS BY OWEN KRZYZANIAK GEARY” Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). May 27 through June 18. Visit twovillagesart.org.

• “NEW HAMPSHIRE NOW” A collaborative photography project presented by the New Hampshire Historical Society and the New Hampshire Society of Photographic Artists, on display in eight exhibitions at museums and historical societies across the state. Nearly 50 photographers participated in the project, taking more than 5,000 photos of New Hampshire people, places, culture and events from 2018 to 2020 to create a 21st-century portrait of life in the Granite State. Exhibition locations include Belknap Mill Society in Laconia; Colby-Sawyer College in New London; Portsmouth Historical Society; Historical Society of Cheshire County in Keene; the Manchester Historic Association; Museum of the White Mountains at Plymouth State University; and the Tillotson Center in Colebrook; with the flagship exhibition at the New Hampshire Historical Society in Concord. Visit newhampshirenow.org and nhhistory.org.

• 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.

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.

Workshops and classes

• WINTER 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.

• GENERAL ART CLASSES Weekly art classes are 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 kids 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 on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Tuition is pay-as-you-go at $20 per student per class and is due upon arrival. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com for availability.

THEATER

Auditions

• THE BALD SOPRANO The Community Players of Concord holds open auditions for its June production of The Bald Soprano. Mon., March 21, 7 p.m., Players’ Studio, 435 Josiah Bartlett Road, Concord. Visit communityplayersofconcord.org/auditions.

Shows

• LIFESPAN OF A FACT Produced by Lend Me a Theater. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Now through March 6. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

• DEADLY Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents an original movement-based theater piece by Crystal Rose Welch. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., March 4, through Sun., March 6. Visit cztheatre.com.

• THE SENATOR WORE PANTYHOSEBedford off Broadway presents. March 4 through March 13, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for general admission and $12 for seniors and students.

• CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS Multimedia movement theater work inspired by the epic poem of Farid Ud din Attar embodying modern-day stories of migration. Tues., March 8, 7 p.m. Stockbridge Theatre at Pinkerton Academy, 5 Pinkerton St., Derry. Tickets range from $5 to $30. Call 437-5210 or visit stockbridgetheatre.com.

• LITTLE WOMEN The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents. Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin). Thurs., March 10, through Sat., March 12, 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 13, 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org or call 934-1901.

• BYE BYE BIRDIE Mainstage production by The Palace Theatre. 80 Hanover St., Manchester. March 11 through April 3. Tickets range from $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• CHICKEN LITTLE presented by Upside Arts. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). March 12 through March 20, with showtimes on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $18 for adults and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• PIPPIN The Pinkerton Players present. Fri., March 25, and Sat., March 26, at 7 p.m., and Sun., March 27, at 2 p.m. Stockbridge Theatre at Pinkerton Academy, 5 Pinkerton St., Derry. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. Call 437-5210 or visit stockbridgetheatre.com.

• PUFFS! OR SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., April 29, through Sun., May 1. Visit cztheatre.com.

• MUSICAL MOM Produced by the Community Players of Concord. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). May 5 through May 15. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

• LAST GAS Produced by the Community Players of Concord. Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St., Concord. Fri., May 6, through Sun., May 8. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $16 for youth ages 17 and under, $16 for seniors age 65 and up. Visit communityplayersofconcord.org.

• THE BALD SOPRANO Produced by the Community Players of Concord. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). June 17 through June 26. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

Classical

• WINTER MAINSTAGE CONCERT The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra performs. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. Sun., March 13, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $25 to $35 for adults, $20 for students and $25 to $30 for seniors age 60 and up. Call 436-2400 or visit themusichall.org.

• DRAWN TO THE MUSIC 2022 – STORIES IN MUSIC The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performs. Seifert Performing Arts Center, 44 Geremonty Drive, Salem. Sat., April 9, 2 p.m., and Sun., April 10, 2 p.m. Visit nhphil.org.

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

• Wild Salamander owners retiring: Wild Salamander Creative Arts Center (30 Ash St., Hollis) will close its doors in June, according to an announcement on its website. Owners KC Morgan and Charlie Morgan said in the announcement that, after 10 years of running the art center, they have decided to retire. “It has been an honor, a privilege, and a great deal of fun to be a part of the journey for artists both young and old, seasoned and beginner, student and teacher,” they said. “We have made friends who will forever be a part of our lives. We look forward to finding new ways to bring awareness to the arts in our local community.” Over the last decade, Wild Salamander has hosted 2,300 classes and camps, where more than 6,000 students have been taught by 100 artists, and the center’s Whitty Gallery and Wild Little Art Shop have generated more than $120,000 for local artists, the announcement stated. Registration is open for in-person and online classes and workshops that will continue being offered through June. Programs are offered for kids and adults and include working with clay, felting, drawing, jewelry making and more. February hours for the gallery and shop are Tuesday from noon to 6 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday from 2 to 5 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit wildsalamander.com or call 465-9453.

Art for bid
The New Hampshire Art Association’s permanent collection auction is open for online bidding now through Saturday, Feb. 26, closing at 5 p.m. The auction features 75 pieces acquired by NHAA over the last 40 years, including pieces by former and current NHAA members. “Over the years, NHAA has been home to some very talented artists, and we are pleased to be able to offer some of their pieces to the public at very reasonable prices,” NHAA board president Renee Giffroy said in a press release. Bidders can see the pieces in person at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth). Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• Last call for these fabric art exhibits: Catch the “Translating Nature Into Fabric” exhibit at the Nashua Public Library (2 Court St., Nashua) before it’s gone on Saturday, Feb. 26. It features 15 art quilts by Hollis artist Ellen Fisher, with nature-based designs, such as trees and streams, inspired by Fisher’s career as a landscape designer and conservationist. “I am not as interested in making other people’s designs but very interested in figuring out my own, and I do this with great respect for the traditional quilting world,” Fisher told the Hippo last month. “I have a real root system in traditional quilting that I have just interpreted in my own way.” Most quilts are for sale. The exhibit can be viewed during library hours, which are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Visit nashualibrary.org or call 589-4600.

See the special exhibit “As Precious as Gold, Carpets from the Islamic World” at the Currier Museum of Art(150 Ash St., Manchester) before it closes on Sunday, Feb. 27. On loan from the Saint Louis Art Museum, the exhibit features 32 carpets with various geographical origins, dating from the 15th century to the 19th century, including a Spanish rug, three Egyptian rugs, Lotto and Holbein patterned carpets, a 16th-century Ushak medallion and a late 17th-century small medallion carpet. 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 members and children under age 13. Museum hours are Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Masks are required for visitors age 2 and up, and proof of vaccination is required for visitors age 5 and up (at least one dose for visitors under age 12, and at least two doses for visitors age 12 and up). Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org.

• A dance through life: Manchester-based theater company Theatre Kapow presents Dance Nation at the Derry Opera House (29 W. Broadway, Derry), with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 25, and Saturday, Feb. 26, at 7:30 p.m. The Pulitzer Prize-finalist play by Clare Barron follows a group of pre-teen competition dancers, played by adult actors, as they navigate the challenges of growing up. “Just reading Dance Nation was like being struck by lightning,” director Wanda Strukus said in a press release. “It’s bold, intense, and fierce. It’s filled with an adolescent urgency, joy, and terror that truly feels like a force of nature.” Attendees must present proof of vaccination or a recent negative Covid test and must wear a mask to enter the theater. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for seniors age 62 and up and students. Visit tkapow.com/dancenation.

Auto oil
See “Vehicular Narratives,” an exhibition of paintings by local artist William Turner, at The Art Center (located inside the Washington Mill, 1 Washington St., Suite 1177, Dover) before it’s gone on Monday, Feb. 28. Turner worked in the auto body restoration business for 30 years before becoming a full-time painter, earning BFA and MFA degrees in visual arts and painting from the former New Hampshire Institute of Art (now the Institute of Art and Design at New England College). His oil paintings, which he describes as “narrative realism,” have depicted distressed vehicles and machinery, vintage toys and stories from Greek and Roman mythology and folklore told through imagery of automobiles. All works are for sale. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with private appointments available by request. Visit theartcenterdover.com.

---

ART

Auctions and sales

• NEW HAMPSHIRE ART ASSOCIATION PERMANENT COLLECTION AUCTION Fundraiser auction features 75 pieces acquired by NHAA over the last 40 years, including pieces by former and current NHAA members. Pieces will be on view starting Wed., Feb. 16, at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth). Online bidding will run Fri., Feb. 18, through Sat., Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Masks are required indoors. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230 to learn more.

Exhibits

• “FOR THE LOVE OF IMPRESSION” Exhibit features prints created using traditional techniques and materials, combined with contemporary aesthetics, new materials, and technology by eight local artists who are members of the group New Hampshire Printmakers. Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook). Now through March 5. All pieces are for sale. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twovillagesart.org or call 413-210-4372.

• “SETTING THE STANDARD” Exhibit features new work from League jurors in all media areas. League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters, 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. Now through March 31. Regular exhibition hours are Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 4 p.m. Visit nhcrafts.org.

• “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 view April 14 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 under age 13 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.

• “ECHOES: ABSTRACT PAINTING TO MODERN QUILTING” Exhibit features abstract paintings inspired by the bold colors, asymmetry, improvisational layout, alternate grid work and negative space in composition of modern quilting. Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). April 22 through May 14. Visit twovillagesart.org.

“NATURE AT NIGHT: PAINTINGS BY OWEN KRZYZANIAK GEARY” Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). May 27 through June 18. Visit twovillagesart.org.

Workshops and Classes

• PASTEL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Feb. 26, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

• WINTER 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.

• 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.

THEATER

Shows

• LIFESPAN OF A FACT Produced by Lend Me a Theater. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Now through March 6. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

• DEADLY Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents an original movement-based theater piece by Crystal Rose Welch. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., March 4, through Sun., March 6. Visit cztheatre.com.

• LITTLE WOMEN The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents. Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin). Thurs., March 10, through Sat., March 12, 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 13, 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org or call 934-1901.

• BYE BYE BIRDIE Mainstage production by The Palace Theatre. 80 Hanover St., Manchester. March 11 through April 3. Tickets range from $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• CHICKEN LITTLE presented by Upside Arts. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). March 12 through March 20, with showtimes on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $18 for adults and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• PUFFS! OR SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., April 29, through Sun., May 1. Visit cztheatre.com.

• MUSICAL MOM Produced by the Community Players of Concord. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). May 5 through May 15. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

• LAST GAS Produced by the Community Players of Concord. Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St., Concord. Fri., May 6, through Sun., May 8. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $16 for youth ages 17 and under, $16 for seniors age 65 and up. Visit communityplayersofconcord.org.

• THE BALD SOPRANO Produced by the Community Players of Concord. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). June 17 through June 26. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

Classical

• WINTER MAINSTAGE CONCERT The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra performs. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. Sun., March 13, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $25 to $35 for adults, $20 for students and $25 to $30 for seniors age 60 and up. Call 436-2400 or visit themusichall.org.

Lecture series brings free music and more to the Capital City

With a lineup that’s heavy on music, the Walker Lecture Series is starting its spring season of free community events, which will include tribute bands, a string quartet, travelogs and an exploration of the art of silent film.

“We do try to make sure to include some conventional lectures to be true to our name,” Walker Lecture Series Trustee Jon Kelly said. “There is more music this season than usual — some of that is the way Covid worked out.”

No programs were canceled due to Covid in the past two years, with some presenters opting to speak or perform via Zoom, or to use rented space at the Hatbox Theatre to allow for social distancing, but most of the musical acts opted to postpone their shows until it was safe to play live at Concord City Auditorium.

“We found that lecturers could still do a wonderful presentation, but musicians found that Zoom did not work for [them] the way it would for a speaker,” Kelly said.

The Walker Lecture Series has presented programs since 1896, using funds from a trust gifted to the City of Concord by lifelong resident Abigail B. Walker with the provision that the series offers free lectures on “subjects of history, literature, art or science, and free dramatic, musical, literary, historical and other cultural events” in Concord, according to the terms of the trust.

Music tends to bring in the biggest crowds, Kelly said, so musical acts have increased in recent years, even aside from the Covid factor. Kelly himself is looking forward to hearing Artful Noise this season.

“I don’t know very much about classical music and string quartets, [and] this is a great opportunity to expose myself to something new,” he said.

The musical genres vary greatly for this series, and that’s no accident. Kelly said that a Beatles tribute band was a huge success, with a large audience and people up dancing, while an opera was not as well-attended — and that’s OK, he said.

“We love having a full house, but we also love bringing an opportunity that might not have existed otherwise to the community,” he said. “It still brings value.”

This season’s musical offerings are no different in their variety, with the string quartet, some a cappella, a night of doo-wop, a tribute to Chicago and a tribute to Johnny Cash. The latter could appeal to many, Kelly said.

“Older people remember him from when he was touring with Elvis in the ’50s, but younger people who saw [Walk the Line] know him from that,” Kelly said. “He really spoke across the generations.”

Two of this season’s programs are travelogs, presented by travel photographers and filmmakers; one is an exploration of Central and South America, and the other is a journey through Japan.

“We’ve been going since 1896, and historically there’s been an interest in travelogs — and that feels like it’s from another century because now people can watch the Travel Channel,” Kelly said. “But … what makes it different from sitting in the living room is the photographer and the videographer are in the room with you.”

The other non-music presentation of the season is a lecture called “Sennett, Chaplin, Keaton & the Art of Silent Film Comedy,” which Kelly thinks can also appeal to a broader audience.

“It’s easy for people to say [silent film is] a hundred years old, and yet people like Chaplin and Keaten were so skilled at reaching everybody [in the audience] that when you see them today, you still get that connection,” he said.

And, as with all of the programs, there’s really nothing to lose from checking it out, Kelly said.

“Here’s a chance to come and try it for free — if you find out you love it, then that’s a great gift,” he said.

Walker Lecture Series spring season

Where: Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St.
When: All shows are on Wednesdays and start at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: walkerlecture.org

Schedule
Feb. 23: Buskers’ Night In, produced by Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki
March 2: The Rockin’ Daddios, An Evening of Doo Wop
March 16: Artful Noise, a string quartet from the New Hampshire Seacoast
March 23: Filmmaker Marlin Darrah explores Central and South America, an introduction to the grand natural wonders, architectural treasures, and cultural and artistic highlights of several cities and countries.
March 30: Travel photographer and documentary filmmaker Brent Winebrenner presents “Japan, Land of the Rising Sun,” a multimedia presentation about its history, traditions, culture and people.
April 6: Counterfeit Cash: A Tribute to Johnny Cash
April 13: Patrick Anderson, film buff and Colby-Sawyer professor, presents “Sennett, Chaplin, Keaton & the Art of Silent Film Comedy.” Learn how film creates and delivers ideas, and how it shapes and reflects popular attitudes, then discuss movies and enjoy the art of silent film comedy as it was developed by three masters.
April 20: An Evening of A Cappella with Mixtape and Ball in the House
May 11: Introduction: Tribute to Chicago

Featured Photo: The Rockin’ Daddios will be playing at the Walker Lecture Series on Wednesday, March 2nd. Photo by Jim Brady.

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

• Making impressions: Catch the New Hampshire Art Association’s exhibition “Impressions: Nature,” featuring the work of Allenstown artist Daniela Edstromat, at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St., Concord) before it’s gone on Thursday, Feb. 17. Edstrom’s art explores the abstract qualities of light, form and color found in the New England landscape. “Sunlight and its play of light and shadow is perceived as halos of vibrating strokes and bold minimalist shapes,” the artist said in a press release. “Elements such as leaves, trees — the organic aspects of the woodland environment — are seen in emphatic primary colors and highlighted by gestural marks of rich complementary hues.” Gallery hours at the Chamber are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All works are for sale. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

Two Villages Art Society has a new exhibition, “For the Love of Impression,” on view at the Bates Building (846 Main St., Contoocook) now through March 5. It features eight local artists who are members of the group New Hampshire Printmakers. Their work utilizes traditional techniques and materials, combined with contemporary aesthetics, new materials and new technology. “Printmaking is a time-honored artistic process in which images are transferred from a wooden, metal or glass matrix onto another surface, such as paper or fabric,” Two Villages Art Society president Alyssa McKeon said in a press release. All pieces are for sale. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 4 p.m. Visit twovillagesart.org or call 413-210-4372.

Greek tragedy modernized
The Winnipesaukee Playhouse Education Department presents Oedipus Rex at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse theater (33 Footlight Circle, Meredith), with showtimes Thursday, Feb. 17, through Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. The 2,000-year-old Greek tragedy by Sophocles is fitting for today’s times as it explores universal themes, like fate versus free will, throughout a story that’s set during a widespread plague. The Playhouse’s production will be an alternate version of the play with a contemporary spin, juxtaposing modern society with the backdrop of the ancient world. “Rehearsing, performing, and seeing Greek tragedy really is an experience like none other,” director Timothy L’Ecuyer said in a press release. “It has been rewarding to see the way this cast had dug into a 2,000-year-old text and found things that ring true to them.” The cast features nine local students ages 13 through 19. Tickets range from $11 to $20. Visit winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org.

• Theatrical adaptations: Jonesing for Theatre, in collaboration with Dive in Productions, presents I Love You Because at the Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 18, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 19, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 20, at 2:30 p.m. The musical is a gender-reversed retelling of Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice, set in modern-day New York City. “As a hopeless romantic, I love the idea of someone wanting you because of faults and idiosyncrasies rather than simply tolerating them,” performer Nicole Jones told the Hippo last month. “It’s hopefully happy, romantic and so funny — all things that everyone could use more of right now.” Tickets cost $28 for adults and $25 for seniors age 65 and up and students. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

The Windham Actors Guild presents The 39 Steps at Searles School and Chapel (3 Chapel Road, Windham), with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 18, and Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. The show is a humorous reimagining of an Alfred Hitchcock film that uses a small group of performers to perform a large number of different roles. “The sheer absurdity of the plot and the situations in which the characters find themselves and the way the story is presented on stage are fresh and fun and escapist in a time where everyone could use a complete departure from reality,” performer Jonathan Kaplan told the Hippo last month. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $12 for seniors, students and military. Call 247-8634 or visit windhamactorsguild.com.

Dancing through life
Manchester-based theater company Theatre KAPOW presents the New Hampshire premiere of Dance Nation at the Bank of New Hampshire Stage (16 S. Main St., Concord), with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 18, and Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. The Pulitzer Prize-finalist play by Clare Barron follows a group of pre-teen competition dancers as they navigate the challenges of growing up. “Just reading Dance Nation was like being struck by lightning,” director Wanda Strukus said in a press release. “It’s bold, intense, and fierce. It’s filled with an adolescent urgency, joy, and terror that truly feels like a force of nature.” A post-show panel discussion about the themes of the play will be held after the show on Sunday. Tickets cost $28 for adults and $23 for students. Visit ccanh.com/show/theatre-kapow-dance-nation.

• Musical journeys: The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performs its winter concert, “Winter Voyages,” on Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m., at the Seifert Performing Arts Center (44 Geremonty Dr., Salem). Featured pieces will include Wagner’s Prelude to Das Rheingold, Vaughn Williams’ Norfolk Rhapsody, Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations and Robert Schumann’s Rhenish Symphony. Tickets range from $5 to $30 and must be purchased in advance. Masks are required. The concert will also be available via livestream for $15. Visit nhphil.org or call 647-6476.

---

ART

Auctions and sales

• NEW HAMPSHIRE ART ASSOCIATION PERMANENT COLLECTION AUCTION Fundraiser auction features 75 pieces acquired by NHAA over the last 40 years, including pieces by former and current NHAA members. Pieces will be on view starting Wed., Feb. 16, at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth). Online bidding will run Fri., Feb. 18, through Sat., Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Masks are required indoors. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230 to learn more.

Exhibits

• “TRANSLATING NATURE INTO FABRIC” Exhibition features nature-inspired artistic quilts by Ellen Fisher. Nashua Public Library, 2 Court St., Nashua. On view now through Feb. 26, during library hours. Visit nashualibrary.org.

• “AS PRECIOUS AS GOLD: CARPETS FROM THE ISLAMIC WORLD” Exhibit features 32 carpets dating from the 15th century to the 19th century. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view now through Feb. 27. 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 under age 13 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.

• “VEHICULAR NARRATIVES” Exhibit features New Hampshire Art Association artist William Turner, whose narrative realism oil paintings have depicted distressed vehicles and machinery, vintage toys and stories from Greek and Roman mythology and folklore told through imagery of automobiles. All works are for sale. The Art Center (Washington Mill, 1 Washington St., Suite 1177, in Dover). On view now through Feb. 28. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with private appointments available by request. The exhibition can also be accessed via an online gallery. Call 978-6702 or visit nhartassociation.org or theartcenterdover.com.

• “SETTING THE STANDARD” Exhibit features new work from League jurors in all media areas. League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters, 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. Now through March 31. Regular exhibition hours are Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 4 p.m. Visit nhcrafts.org.

• “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 view April 14 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 under age 13 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.

• “ECHOES: ABSTRACT PAINTING TO MODERN QUILTING” Exhibit features abstract paintings inspired by the bold colors, asymmetry, improvisational layout, alternate grid work and negative space in composition of modern quilting. Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). April 22 through May 14. Visit twovillagesart.org.

“NATURE AT NIGHT: PAINTINGS BY OWEN KRZYZANIAK GEARY” Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). May 27 through June 18. Visit twovillagesart.org.

• ART ON MAIN The City of Concord and the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce present a year-round outdoor public art exhibit 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.

• “NEW HAMPSHIRE NOW” A collaborative photography project presented by the New Hampshire Historical Society and the New Hampshire Society of Photographic Artists, on display in eight exhibitions at museums and historical societies across the state. Nearly 50 photographers participated in the project, taking more than 5,000 photos of New Hampshire people, places, culture and events from 2018 to 2020 to create a 21st-century portrait of life in the Granite State. Exhibition locations include Belknap Mill Society in Laconia; Colby-Sawyer College in New London; Portsmouth Historical Society; Historical Society of Cheshire County in Keene; the Manchester Historic Association; Museum of the White Mountains at Plymouth State University; and the Tillotson Center in Colebrook; with the flagship exhibition at the New Hampshire Historical Society in Concord. Visit newhampshirenow.org and nhhistory.org

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.

Workshops and classes

• PASTEL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Feb. 26, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

• WINTER 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.

• 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.

THEATER

Shows

• LIFESPAN OF A FACT Produced by Lend Me a Theater. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Feb. 18 through March 6. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

• DEADLY Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents an original movement-based theater piece by Crystal Rose Welch. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., March 4, through Sun., March 6. Visit cztheatre.com.

• LITTLE WOMEN The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents. Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin). Thurs., March 10, through Sat., March 12, 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 13, 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org or call 934-1901.

Classical

• WINTER MAINSTAGE CONCERT The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra performs. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. Sun., March 13, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $25 to $35 for adults, $20 for students and $25 to $30 for seniors age 60 and up. Call 436-2400 or visit themusichall.org.

Multimedia art exhibition gives voices to immigrants

Pieces of New Hampshire immigrants’ stories are being expressed through images and written and spoken words in Kimball Jenkins’ latest exhibition, “Finding Home: Photos, Artwork, Stories & Voices of Immigrants.”

“We are making spaces to intentionally hold a diverse and inclusive [selection of artwork],” said Yasamin Safarzadeh, Kimball Jenkins Programming Coordinator. “[We want] to make spaces for people who have been historically marginalized.”

“Finding Home” is two separate but complementary exhibits. One, located in the Carriage House Gallery, contains Concord photographer Becky Field’s work. She has been capturing the journeys of local immigrants for about a decade — ever since she heard about four immigrant families whose Concord homes were graffitied.

“It made me very mad that we would treat somebody like that. … They encountered anger and hate right here in Concord,” Field said. “We should welcome them and we should recognize how much they add to our community.”

To better understand these immigrants, Field started what she expected to be a temporary project, capturing their images and listening to their stories.

“I thought I would do it for a year and then I’d go back to photographing butterflies,” she said.

Instead she published her first book of photographs and filled it with what she calls “journey stories,” which gave her subjects an outlet to share what life was like in their home countries and why they came to New Hampshire.

“I made sure the words were the words of the immigrants — I’m not the immigrant, and I’m not the one who went through it,” she said. “People came for all kinds of reasons; some came for education, some came for job opportunities and some came because they fell in love with an American.”

After that book was released, Field kept going. She just released her second book on which the Kimball Jenkins exhibition is based, Finding Home: Portraits and Memories of Immigrants. Her exhibit in the Carriage House Gallery includes large framed portraits of immigrants, a story panel with an excerpt from their journey story, and a QR code that will allow viewers to download an mp4 audio file and listen to a sound bite of the immigrant telling their story.

Field is very aware that her perspective is still one of an outsider.

“What I show is the view of a photographer [seeing] immigration and diversity in our communities … and that’s my truth, that’s my story,” she said.

But she wanted another voice in this exhibition, and that’s where the second exhibit comes in. Located in the Victorian Mansion Gallery, it contains the work of fine art painter Jozimar Matimano, who came to New Hampshire from Uganda about six years ago through the refugee resettlement program with the International Institute of New England.

“It’s about what immigrants are trying to contribute, their voices,” Matimano said of his artwork, which comprises mainly portraits. “We have the perspective that we can try to contribute to the society. We appreciate things in America, our new home.”

Field has been working with Matimano for years, in part to help him be the model for his own paintings; he’ll set up scenes in his family’s Manchester apartment, Field will photograph him, and he’ll use those photos as inspiration for his paintings.

“Art is a powerful tool that can spark something in someone’s life and change the course of history,” said Matimano, who is studying fine art at the Institute of Art at New England College.

It’s important to him, he said, that people can look at his art and form their own opinions or connect to it in some way.

“Different people have different ways of looking at things,” he said. “I leave it to the audience to relate it to what’s going on in their lives … and appreciate the beauty. … “It’s not like every [work of] art is political.”

Another part of Matimano’s exhibit includes handcrafted goods that were made by people living at Promise Hub in the refugee camp in Uganda where he used to live.

“They want to put their voices out there, and their craftsmanship, [while] making a little bit of money,” Matimano said. “It’s another way of trying to empower youth [and help them] stay productive and create.”

The purpose of displaying those items isn’t to sell them — those items were gifted to him — but to raise awareness of the Promise Hub and the work they’re doing, he said.

Matimano and Field approached Kimball Jenkins together with the idea for this exhibit.

“We’ve had a wonderful partnership,” Field said of her work with Matimano. “We are both lifting each other up with this double exhibit. … It’s a great privilege on my part to have Jozimar join me.”

“I think the show is really solid,” Safarzadeh said. “I really enjoy these cross-pollinating shows. … A lot of people like to polarize and [these exhibits] meld into each other and uplift each other. … It’s complex and it’s intertwined.”

“Finding Home: Photos, Artwork, Stories & Voices of Immigrants”

Where: Kimball Jenkins, 266 N. Main St., Concord
When: Throughout February and March. An opening reception for both exhibits will be held at Kimball Jenkins on Saturday, Feb. 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and will feature comments by the artists, music and refreshments.
More information: Call 225-3932 or visit kimballjenkins.com.
For more on the artists, visit fieldworkphotos.com and jozimarmatimano.com, or find them on Facebook and Instagram.

Featured Photo: Solidarity, 36”x48” Oil on Canvas by Jozimar Matimano.

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

• Art for bid: The New Hampshire Art Association is holding an auction from its permanent collection, with pieces on view at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth) starting on Wednesday, Feb. 16, and online bidding starting on Friday, Feb. 18, and continuing through Saturday, Feb. 26. There will be 75 pieces acquired by NHAA over the last 40 years, including pieces by former and current NHAA members. “Over the years, NHAA has been home to some very talented artists, and we are pleased to be able to offer some of their pieces to the public at very reasonable prices,” NHAA board president Renee Giffroy said in a press release. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Masks are required indoors. Visit nhartassociation.org.

• One-woman play: It’s the final weekend for Glass Dove Productions’ run of Mary & Me at the Hatbox Theater (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord); showtimes are on Friday, Feb. 11, and Saturday, Feb. 12, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. The one-woman play written by Irene Kelleher, performed by Emily Karel and directed by Peter Josephson follows a pregnant 15-year-old girl named Hannah and her search for understanding while growing up in 1986 Ireland. “Mary & Me is a very personal story, and, as a performer, it’s a very deeply personal experience to perform this play,” Karel told the Hippo earlier this month. “I’m excited to share Hannah’s story with the audience and have them get to know Hannah and, hopefully, get to love Hannah.” Tickets cost $22 for adults, $19 for students, seniors and members and $16 for senior members. Visit hatboxnh.com or call 715-2315.

Erik Larson visits
The Music Hall presents an in-person author event with Erik Larson on Wednesday, Feb. 16, at 7 at p.m., at its Historic Theater (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth) as part of its Writers on a New England Stage series. Larson will discuss his new book, The Splendid and the Vile, a saga of Winston Churchill that draws on Churchill’s own diaries, original archival documents and once-secret intelligence reports. Tickets cost $13.75, and for each one to two tickets sold, the purchase of a book voucher for $20 is required. Vouchers can be redeemed the night of the event for signed copies. Visit themusichall.org or call 436-2400.

• Teen writers published: The first issue of the New Hampshire-based teen creative writing magazine Under the Madness is now available on its website. Designed and managed by an editorial board of New Hampshire teens under the mentorship of New Hampshire State Poet Laureate Alexandria Peary, the magazine features creative writing by teens ages 13 to 19 from all over the world, including poetry and short fiction and creative nonfiction. “It speaks to the confusing whirlwind faced by teenagers [due to the] pandemic, political polarization, global warming, inequity and unrest,” Peary told the Hippo earlier this month, “[and to] writing and creative expression as a way to set a foot on the ground when the adult-made sky seems to be spinning.” Submissions are open for future issues on an ongoing basis. All writing must be written in or translated into English and must be previously unpublished. Visit underthemadnessmagazine.com for full submission guidelines and to read the first issue.

Hitchcock humor
The Windham Actors Guild presents The 39 Steps at Searles School and Chapel (3 Chapel Road, Windham), with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 18, and Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. The show is a humorous reimagining of an Alfred Hitchcock film that uses a small group of performers to perform a large number of different roles. “The sheer absurdity of the plot and the situations in which the characters find themselves and the way the story is presented on stage are fresh and fun and escapist in a time where everyone could use a complete departure from reality,” performer Jonathan Kaplan told the Hippo last month. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $12 for seniors, students and military. Call 247-8634 or visit windhamactorsguild.com.

• Last call for Tomie dePaola exhibit: Catch “Tomie dePaola at the Currier” at the Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester) before it’s gone on Sunday, Feb. 13. The exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of the beloved New Hampshire children’s author and illustrator through a collection of his original drawings. Tomie dePaola, who died in March 2020 at the age of 85, wrote and illustrated more than 270 children’s books during his 50-plus-year career, including the popular Strega Nona series. Nearly 25 million copies of his books have been sold worldwide. The Museum recently established a new fund in dePaola’s name to support art education for young people. 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 under age 13 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. Masks and proof of Covid vaccination are required for entry. Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org.

Pride and Prejudice in NYC
Jonesing for Theatre, in collaboration with Dive in Productions, presents I Love You Because at the Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) now through Feb. 20, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. The musical is a gender-reversed retelling of Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice, set in modern-day New York City. “As a hopeless romantic, I love the idea of someone wanting you because of faults and idiosyncrasies rather than simply tolerating them,” performer Nicole Jones told the Hippo last month. “It’s hopefully happy, romantic and so funny — all things that everyone could use more of right now.” Tickets cost $28 for adults and $25 for seniors age 65 and up and students. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• Valentine’s laughs: The Majestic Theatre presents A Funny Little Thing Called Love at The Majestic Theatre Studios (80 Page St., Manchester), with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 11, and Saturday, Feb. 12, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. The Jones Hope Wooten play includes four comedic tales about love. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for seniors age 65 and up and youth age 17 and under. Visit majestictheatre.net.

---

ART

Auctions and sales

• NEW HAMPSHIRE ART ASSOCIATION PERMANENT COLLECTION AUCTION Fundraiser auction features 75 pieces acquired by NHAA over the last 40 years, including pieces by former and current NHAA members. Pieces will be on view starting Wed., Feb. 16, at NHAA’s Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery (136 State St., Portsmouth). Online bidding will run Fri., Feb. 18, through Sat., Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through 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. Masks are required indoors. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230 to learn more.

Exhibits

• “TOMIE DEPAOLA AT THE CURRIER” Exhibition celebrates the illustrator’s life and legacy through a collection of his original drawings. On view now through Feb. 13. Currier Museum of Art, 150 Ash St., Manchester. 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 under age 13 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. See the museum’s website for the most up-to-date Covid policies for visitors. Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org.

•“IMPRESSIONS: NATURE” The New Hampshire Art Association presents an exhibit featuring the work of Allenstown artist Daniela Edstrom. Edstrom’s art explores the abstract qualities of light, form and color found in the New England landscape. On view now through Feb. 17. Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St., Concord). Gallery hours at the Chamber are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All works are for sale. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

•“TRANSLATING NATURE INTO FABRIC” Exhibition features nature-inspired artistic quilts by Ellen Fisher. Nashua Public Library, 2 Court St., Nashua. On view now through Feb. 26, during library hours. Visit nashualibrary.org.

• “AS PRECIOUS AS GOLD: CARPETS FROM THE ISLAMIC WORLD” Exhibit features 32 carpets dating from the 15th century to the 19th century. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view now through Feb. 27. 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 under age 13 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. See the museum’s website for the most up-to-date Covid policies for visitors. Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org.

• “VEHICULAR NARRATIVES” Exhibit features New Hampshire Art Association artist William Turner, whose narrative realism oil paintings have depicted distressed vehicles and machinery, vintage toys and stories from Greek and Roman mythology and folklore told through imagery of automobiles. All works are for sale. The Art Center (Washington Mill, 1 Washington St., Suite 1177, in Dover). On view now through Feb. 28. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with private appointments available by request. The exhibition can also be accessed via an online gallery. Call 978-6702 or visit nhartassociation.org or theartcenterdover.com.

• “SETTING THE STANDARD” Exhibit features new work from League jurors in all media areas. League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters, 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. Now through March 31. Regular exhibition hours are Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 4 p.m. Visit nhcrafts.org.

• “FOR THE LOVE OF IMPRESSION” Exhibit features prints created using traditional techniques and materials, combined with contemporary aesthetics, new materials, and technology. Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). Feb. 11 through March 5. Visit twovillagesart.org.

• “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 view April 14 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 under age 13 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. See the museum’s website for the most up-to-date Covid policies for visitors. Call 669-6144 or visit currier.org.

• “ECHOES: ABSTRACT PAINTING TO MODERN QUILTING” Exhibit features abstract paintings inspired by the bold colors, asymmetry, improvisational layout, alternate grid work and negative space in composition of modern quilting. Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). April 22 through May 14. Visit twovillagesart.org.

“NATURE AT NIGHT: PAINTINGS BY OWEN KRZYZANIAK GEARY” Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). May 27 through June 18. Visit twovillagesart.org.

• “1,000 CRANES FOR NASHUA” Featuring more than 1,000 origami paper cranes created by hundreds of Nashua-area kids, adults and families since April. On display now at The Atrium at St. Joseph Hospital, 172 Kinsley St., Nashua. Visit nashuasculpturesymposium.org.

• “NEW HAMPSHIRE NOW” A collaborative photography project presented by the New Hampshire Historical Society and the New Hampshire Society of Photographic Artists, on display in eight exhibitions at museums and historical societies across the state. Nearly 50 photographers participated in the project, taking more than 5,000 photos of New Hampshire people, places, culture and events from 2018 to 2020 to create a 21st-century portrait of life in the Granite State. Exhibition locations include Belknap Mill Society in Laconia; Colby-Sawyer College in New London; Portsmouth Historical Society; Historical Society of Cheshire County in Keene; the Manchester Historic Association; Museum of the White Mountains at Plymouth State University; and the Tillotson Center in Colebrook; with the flagship exhibition at the New Hampshire Historical Society in Concord. Visit newhampshirenow.org and nhhistory.org.

• GALLERY ART A new collection of art by more than 20 area artists on display now in-person and online. Creative Ventures Gallery (411 Nashua St., Milford). Call 672-2500 or visit creativeventuresfineart.com.

• ART ON MAIN The City of Concord and the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce present a year-round outdoor public art exhibit 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.

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.

Workshops and classes

• PASTEL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Feb. 26, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com to learn more.

• WINTER 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 for 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.

THEATER

Shows

• THE FULL MONTY A mainstage production presented by the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester). Now through Feb. 20, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon. Tickets cost $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• MARY & ME Produced by Glass Dove Productions. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Now through Feb. 13. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com or call 715-2315.

• I LOVE YOU BECAUSE presented by Jonesing for Theatre, in collaboration with Dive in Productions. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). Now through Feb. 20, with showtimes 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 $28 for adults and $25 for seniors age 65 and up and students. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• THE 39 STEPS presented by the Windham Actors Guild. Searles School and Chapel (3 Chapel Road, Windham). Fri, Feb. 18, and Sat., Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $12 for seniors, students and military. Call 247-8634 or visit windhamactorsguild.com.

• LIFESPAN OF A FACT Produced by Lend Me a Theater. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Feb. 18 through March 6. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com or call 715-2315.

• DEADLY Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents an original movement-based theater piece by Crystal Rose Welch. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., March 4, through Sun., March 6. Visit cztheatre.com.

• LITTLE WOMEN The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents. Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin). Thurs., March 10, through Sat., March 12, 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 13, 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org or call 934-1901.

• BYE BYE BIRDIE Mainstage production by The Palace Theatre. 80 Hanover St., Manchester. March 11 through April 3. Tickets range from $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• CHICKEN LITTLE Original musical adaptation presented by Upside Arts. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). The show runs March 12 through March 20, with showtimes on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $18 for adults and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• PUFFS! OR SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC A comedy presented by Cue Zero Theatre Co. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). The show runs Fri., April 29, through Sun., May 1. Visit cztheatre.com.

• MUSICAL MOM Produced by the Community Players of Concord. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). The show runs May 5 through May 15. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com or call 715-2315.

• LAST GAS Produced by the Community Players of Concord. Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St., Concord. The show runs Fri., May 6, through Sun., May 8. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $16 for youth ages 17 and under, $16 for seniors age 65 and up. Visit communityplayersofconcord.org.

Classical

• “WINTER VOYAGES” The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performs. Seifert Performing Arts Center, 44 Geremonty Drive, Salem. Sat., Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Feb. 20, 2 p.m. Visit nhphil.org.

• WINTER MAINSTAGE CONCERT The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra performs. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. Sun., March 13, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $25 to $35 for adults, $20 for students and $25 to $30 for seniors age 60 and up. Call 436-2400 or visit themusichall.org.

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

• High standards: The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s triennial exhibit “Setting the Standard” is on view now through March 31 at its headquarters gallery (49 S. Main St., No. 100, Concord). The exhibit features new works by 45 League jurors, master craftsmen who volunteer to work with League hopefuls and review their work to uphold the League’s standard of artistic excellence. A variety of media is represented, including wood, textile, clay and metal. “These works … will reflect the spirit of the maker,” League executive director Miriam Carter said in a press release. “Given the difficulties faced during the past several months, the work of our members takes on an almost indomitable nature, mixing the strength and resilience of the artists with the vulnerability that we have all experienced,” Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 4 p.m. Pieces are for sale and can be picked up when the exhibit closes. Visit nhcrafts.org or call 224-3375.

• Disney classic: The Riverbend Youth Company presents The Lion King Jr. at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford), with showtimes on Friday, Feb. 4, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 5, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 6, at 2:30 p.m. Based on the 1994 Disney animated film, the coming-of-age musical follows a lion cub named Simba as he struggles to find his inner strength to confront his evil uncle so he can claim his rightful place on the throne in his beloved Pride lands. It features classic numbers like “Hakuna Matata,” “Circle of Life” and “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.” “Like any good musical, Lion King Jr. has a great depth of different musical styles that add much to the experience of the show,” musical director Kimberly Vars Whitehead told the Hippo last month. “Each song sets important dialogue to music so the audience hears the story in a different way.” The show is performed by a cast of 50 young performers, ranging in age from 9 through 14, with stage tech and lighting run by a team of high school and middle school students. “Our cast has put in a great deal of time and effort under difficult circumstances, and they’ve risen to the occasion,” director Mike McKnight told the Hippo last month. “I think the audience will like the … production because it’s kids doing what they truly enjoy.” Tickets cost $12 for adults and $8 for children and seniors. Visit amatocenter.org or call 672-1002.

• Auto art: The paintings of New Hampshire Art Association artist William Turner are on display in an exhibit, “Vehicular Narratives,” now through Feb. 28, at The Art Center (located inside the Washington Mill, 1 Washington St., Suite 1177, Dover). Turner worked in the auto body restoration business for 30 years before becoming a full-time painter, earning BFA and MFA degrees in visual arts and painting from the former New Hampshire Institute of Art (now the Institute of Art and Design at New England College). His oil paintings, which he describes as “narrative realism,” have depicted distressed vehicles and machinery, vintage toys and stories from Greek and Roman mythology and folklore told through imagery of automobiles. All works are for sale. “Vehicular Narratives” is the first NHAA exhibit to be installed at The Art Center as a result of a newly formed partnership between the NHAA and the 6,000-plus-square-foot art space. Gallery hours at The Art Center are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with private appointments available by request. The exhibition can also be accessed via an online gallery. Call 978-6702 or visit nhartassociation.org or theartcenterdover.com.

---

ART

Exhibits

• “TOMIE DEPAOLA AT THE CURRIER” Exhibition celebrates the illustrator’s life and legacy through a collection of his original drawings. On view now through Feb. 13. Currier Museum of Art, 150 Ash St., Manchester. 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 under age 13 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.

• “IMPRESSIONS: NATURE” The New Hampshire Art Association presents an exhibit featuring the work of Allenstown artist Daniela Edstrom. Edstrom’s art explores the abstract qualities of light, form and color found in the New England landscape. On view now through Feb. 17. Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St., Concord). Gallery hours at the Chamber are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All works are for sale. Visit nhartassociation.org or call 431-4230.

• “TRANSLATING NATURE INTO FABRIC” Exhibition features nature-inspired artistic quilts by Ellen Fisher. Nashua Public Library, 2 Court St., Nashua. On view through Feb. 26, during library hours. Visit nashualibrary.org.

• “AS PRECIOUS AS GOLD: CARPETS FROM THE ISLAMIC WORLD” Exhibit features 32 carpets dating from the 15th century to the 19th century. The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester). On view now through Feb. 27. 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 under age 13 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. Visit currier.org.

• “FOR THE LOVE OF IMPRESSION” Exhibit features prints created using traditional techniques and materials, combined with contemporary aesthetics, new materials, and technology. Two Villages Art Society (46 Main St., Contoocook). Feb. 11 through March 5. Visit twovillagesart.org.

Workshops and classes

• PASTEL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Feb. 26, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

THEATER

Shows

• THE FULL MONTY presented by the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester). Jan. 28 through Feb. 20, with showtimes on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at noon. Tickets cost $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

• MARY & ME Produced by Glass Dove Productions. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Jan. 28 through Feb. 13. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com or call 715-2315.

• I LOVE YOU BECAUSE presented by Jonesing for Theatre, in collaboration with Dive in Productions. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). Feb. 4 through Feb. 20, with showtimes 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 $28 for adults and $25 for seniors age 65 and up and students. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

• THE 39 STEPS presented by the Windham Actors Guild. Searles School and Chapel (3 Chapel Road, Windham). Fri, Feb. 18, and Sat., Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Feb. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $16 for adults and $12 for seniors, students and military. Call 247-8634 or visit windhamactorsguild.com.

• LIFESPAN OF A FACT Produced by Lend Me a Theater. The Hatbox Theatre (Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord). Feb. 18 through March 6. Showtimes are 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. Visit hatboxnh.com.

• DEADLY Cue Zero Theatre Co. presents. Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). Fri., March 4, through Sun., March 6. Visit cztheatre.com.

• LITTLE WOMEN The Franklin Footlight Theatre presents. Franklin Opera House (316 Central St., Franklin). Thurs., March 10, through Sat., March 12, 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., March 13, 2 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for students and seniors. Visit franklinoperahouse.org.

• BYE BYE BIRDIE Presented by The Palace Theatre. 80 Hanover St., Manchester. March 11 through April 3. Tickets cost $25 to $46. Visit palacetheatre.org.

Classical

• “WINTER VOYAGES” The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performs. Seifert Performing Arts Center, 44 Geremonty Drive, Salem. Sat., Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Feb. 20, 2 p.m. Visit nhphil.org.

• WINTER MAINSTAGE CONCERT The Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra performs. The Music Hall Historic Theater, 28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth. Sun., March 13, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $25 to $35 for adults, $20 for students and $25 to $30 for seniors age 60 and up. Call 436-2400 or visit themusichall.org.

Abstract images of nature captured in mixed media collages

Seeing goldenrod, touching tree bark, feeling lichen underfoot — those are the kinds of sensations that Daniela Edstrom is hoping you’ll experience when you walk into her “Expressions: Nature” exhibition.

Currently on display at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, the exhibition is made up of the Allenstown artist’s abstract mixed media collages, which combine digital images with traditional collage done by hand.

“The images aren’t literal,” Edstrom said. “I feel that they let the viewer wonder about what it’s like to be in that place. … I want it to be an experience of revelation and discovery where each time they look at the piece their interest is renewed, [that there’s] a constant visual discovery.”

Edstrom said she enjoys using both collage methods, with the traditional form of collage being more tactile with textured papers and the digital method offering an endless stream of non-copyrighted images that can be printed using archival inks and photographic paper.

“I love the computer,” Edstrom said. “I think it’s a wonderful free method of doing art.”

Edstrom takes her own photos too, finding inspiration close to home.

“I’m often in my yard photographing irises, tulips…,” she said. “I [also] spend a lot of time photographing the gardens around Allenstown. ”

In her neighborhood, Edstrom has photographed century-old lilac bushes, and throughout town she’s taken pictures of stone walls that date back to the colonial period and old passageways through the forests.

“There are paths that people have walked for centuries, or at least a hundred years, through Bear Brook [State Park],” she said. “[I like to capture] man’s presence in nature.”

Edstrom said it can take months to create a collage, often waiting for the right season or the right weather to get a photo that inspires her. She said she typically takes hundreds of photos during the spring and summer — but exploring nature to get those photos is one of her favorite parts of the artistic process.

“It’s very therapeutic, meditative, noticing lichens and mushrooms and looking for tracks of the animals,” she said. “It’s quite poetic.”

Edstrom uses a standard point-and-shoot camera, then downloads the images, combs through them to find the ones that most intrigue her, color-enhances them in Photoshop if she thinks it will add vibrancy to the collage, then prints them and starts working with cut papers.

One of the pieces in her show, “Boppin’ Blossoms,” features a printed photo of an iris.

“Then, inspired by the colors of the iris, I printed colored papers … and collaged them onto the surface, trying to feel the sensation of the flower, the feelings of spring, using color to express emotion,” she said. “I’m fascinated by the emotions that nature is capable of producing in ways that no … technology can.”

A member of the New Hampshire Art Association, graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts of Naples and graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a B.A. in art history, Edstrom has been creating for decades. She has shown her paintings, collages, mixed media and other art in solo, juried and group exhibitions locally, nationally and abroad.

She’s currently working on her next solo show, planned for this summer; “Fantastical Flora” will feature 18×24 mixed media collages. And Edstrom is also trying to get into encaustic art.

“It’s a nice challenge,” she said. “It’s freeing because you can use found objects, found paper … [you can] create from scratch using what is available to you.”

“Expressions: Nature”

Where: The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center, 49 S. Main St., Suite 104, Concord
When: Now through Feb. 14
Visit: danielaedstrom.com

Featured Photo: Blossoms light Bound. Collage by Daniela Edstrom.Courtesy photo.