The Art Roundup 22/01/27

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

Witches and wizards: The Majestic Academy of Dramatic Arts presents the Young Performers’ Edition of The Wizard of Oz at the Derry Opera House (29 W. Broadway, Derry), with showtimes on Friday, Jan. 28, and Saturday, Jan. 29, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 30, at 2 p.m. Based on the book by L. Frank Baum and the 1939 film adaptation, the musical features classic songs like “If I Only Had a Brain,” “We’re Off to See the Wizard” and “Over the Rainbow.” Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for seniors age 65 and up and $10 for students age 17 and under. Call 669-7469 or visit majestictheatre.net.

The Epping Community Theater Youth Theater presents a junior production of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe at the Epping Playhouse (28 Ladds Lane, Epping), with showtimes on Friday, Jan. 28, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Jan. 29, at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets cost $10, cash only, at the door. Visit eppingtheater.org or call 608-9487.

Hannah’s story: Glass Dove Productions presents Irene Kelleher’s Mary & Me at the Hatbox Theater(Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord) from Jan. 28 through Feb. 13, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. The one-woman play, 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.

Natural elements: The New Hampshire Art Association has an exhibition, “Impressions: Nature,” featuring the work of Allenstown artist Daniela Edstrom, on view now through Feb. 17 at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St., Concord). 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.

Poetry and music: Local writer and poet Rob Azevedowill be at the Bookery (844 Elm St., Manchester) on Thursday, Feb. 3, at 6 p.m. to read from and discuss his new book of poems, Don’t Order the Calamari. Musicians Becca Myari and Todd Hearon will accompany Azevedo with live music. The event is free to attend. See “Author Event & Music with Rob Azevedo, Becca Myari, and Todd Hearon” on Eventbrite.

Natural squares

See the work of Hollis artist Ellen Fisher in “Translating Nature Into Fabric,” at the Nashua Public Library (2 Court St., Nashua) now through Feb. 26. It includes 15 art quilts featuring 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 earlier this month. “I have a real root system in traditional quilting that I have just interpreted in my own way.” Most quilts are for sale. Viewing hours 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.


ART

Exhibits

• “ARTFUL ESCAPES” Exhibition features works by multiple artists in a variety of media, including 2D and 3D, oil, acrylic, glass and ceramic. Art 3 Gallery (44 W. Brook St., Manchester). On view now through Jan. 31. Current gallery hours are Monday through Friday, from 1 to 4:30 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available by request. A virtual gallery is also available on the gallery’s website. Call 668-6650 or visit art3gallery.com.

• “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.

• “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.

• “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. 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

OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Jan. 29, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

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.

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.

THE LION KING JR. The Riverbend Youth Company presents. Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford). Fri., Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 5, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., Feb. 6, at 2:30 p.m. Visit amatocenter.org/riverbend-youth-company.

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 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.

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.

The Art Roundup 22/01/20

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

Prestigious exhibition at the League: The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen opens its triennial exhibit, “Setting the Standard,” at its headquarters gallery (49 S. Main St., No. 100, Concord) on Thursday, Jan. 20, featuring new works by League jurors in a variety of media, including wood, textile, clay and metal. “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,” Executive Director Miriam Carter said in a press release. The Concord Garden Club’s 19th annual Art & Bloom event will be held in conjunction with the exhibit during the opening weekend; artistic floral arrangements created by local amateur and professional floral designers, inspired by pieces featured in “Setting the Standard,” will be on display on Thursday, Jan. 20, from 1 to 6:30 p.m., and Friday, Jan. 21, and Saturday, Jan. 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular gallery hours for “Setting the Standard” will be Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 4 p.m. starting on Tuesday, Jan. 25. The exhibit will run through March 31. Admission is free and masks are required. Visit nhcrafts.org or call 224-3375.

Last chance to see Matilda: The Palace Youth Theatre, a group of performers in grades 2 through 12, will present its final performance of Matilda The Musical Jr. on Thursday, Jan. 20, at 7 p.m. at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester). The musical is based on the 1988 children’s novel by Roald Dahl and its 1996 film adaptation, with a book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. It tells the story of a clever young girl who uses her imagination and newly discovered psychokinetic powers to survive an abusive home life and cruel school headmistress. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

NHAA joins Dover’s growing arts scene: The New Hampshire Art Association, headquartered in Portsmouth, announced in a press release that it has formed a new partnership with The Art Center, a 6,000-plus-square-foot art space located in the Washington Mill in Dover (1 Washington St., Suite 1177). The space, owned by artist Rebecca Proctor, features 10 artist studios with a rotating monthly artist residency; a workshop space, a stage for music, theater pieces, poetry readings and other performance arts; and a large exhibition space for all kinds of art shows and installations. Additionally, The Art Center is home to a new space dedicated to printmaking, which includes a newly acquired printing press. “Now it seems that the timing is right for the relationship with them and their artists to collaborate with The Art Center as we have so many opportunities for artists to take advantage of,” Proctor said in the press release, adding that The Art Center’s exhibits, printmaking studio and artist-in-residence programs have won it an award from the state of New Hampshire for “Microenterprise Business of the Year.” The first exhibition to come out of the partnership is “Vehicular Narratives,” which features paintings by NHAA artist William Turner. Prior to becoming a full-time painter and earning BFA and MFA degrees in visual arts and painting from the New Hampshire Institute of Art, Turner worked in the auto body restoration business for 30 years. 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. The exhibition is up now through Feb. 28 alongside a separate printmaking exhibition. All of Turner’s works on display are for sale. 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. Visit nhartassociation.org or theartcenterdover.com, or call 978-6702.

Multimedia exhibit

Art 3 Gallery (44 W. Brook St., Manchester) has an exhibition, “Artful Escapes,” on display now through Jan. 31. It features works by multiple artists in a variety of media, including 2D and 3D, oil, acrylic, glass and ceramic. Current gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 1 to 4:30 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available by request. A virtual gallery is also available on the gallery’s website. Call 668-6650 or visit art3gallery.com.


ART

Exhibits

• “ARTFUL ESCAPES” Exhibition features works by multiple artists in a variety of media, including 2D and 3D, oil, acrylic, glass and ceramic. Art 3 Gallery (44 W. Brook St., Manchester). On view now through Jan. 31. Current gallery hours are Monday through Friday, from 1 to 4:30 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available by request. A virtual gallery is also available on the gallery’s website. Call 668-6650 or visit art3gallery.com.

• “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.

• “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

OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Jan. 29, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

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.

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

OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Jan. 29, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

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

THE WIZARD OF OZ Young Performers’s Edition performed by The Majestic Academy of Dramatic Arts. Derry Opera House (29 W. Broadway, Derry). Fri., Jan. 28, and Sat., Jan. 29, at 7 p.m., and Sun., Jan. 30, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for seniors age 65 and up and $10 for students age 17 and under. Call 669-7469 or visit majestictheatre.net.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ready for Curtain?

Performers, playwrights and directors discuss preparing for shows in winter 2022

From familiar classics like The Lion King Jr. to new original works by local playwrights, New Hampshire theaters and theater companies are offering a little of everything this winter. Directors, musical directors, playwrights and actors talked about what it’s like working in theater right now and provided a look at some of the productions coming to local stages this weekend through early March. Contact the theaters or visit their websites for the latest updates on the shows and Covid safety requirements for audience members.

Phoebe Roberts

co-playwright

Gentlemen Never Tell, presented by Breaking Light Productions, in partnership with the Manchester Community Theatre Players, at the MCTP Theatre at the North End Montessori School (698 Beech St., Manchester) on Friday, Jan. 21, and Saturday, Jan. 22, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 23, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for children. A livestream will be available for each performance for $20 per streaming device. Visit manchestercommunitytheatre.com or call 327-6777.

Gentlemen Never Tell. Photo courtesy of Manchester Community Threatre Players.

What inspired you to write this play?

Our theater company [Breaking Light Productions] usually does a more dramatic take on the gaslamp Victorian adventure — more Sherlock Holmes-style adventure type stuff, but we thought everybody could use something a little lighter and more fun, so we decided to switch genres a little bit and do a spinoff. We took a character who had made one appearance as a comic relief sort of figure [in another Breaking Light Productions play], and we decided to send him off on his own little side story.

What was your experience writing it? What is your process like?

We initially wrote this play to be performed over Zoom … which meant that words were the primary [element] we could play around with, so we wanted to make the dialogue as snappy and funny and engaging as possible. It’s very word-based, with a lot of [focus on] wit, speed and timing. The challenge now is to keep the snap and the pop of it while adding in some more physical comedy now that we’re able to manifest that with actors who are physically present.

What do you hope the audience will take away from your play?

First, I hope they find it funny. I hope they get a genuinely good laugh and can enjoy poking fun at the Victorian period mores. But I also hope it’s a little thought-provoking … and that [the audience] notices that we brought a little more weight and humanity into it … and that the characters have actual growth and significance.

What are you looking forward to most about seeing your show on stage?

This will be the first time that it’s been performed on stage. We have the recording [of the Zoom performance], but this will be very different. I mean, there’s no good way to make people kiss over Zoom. Now, the romantic aspect of the show can be a bit more fully realized. So that’s what I’m most excited about — actually getting to incorporate the physicality of the story.

Carl Rajotte

director

The Full Monty, presented by the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) from 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.

What attracted you to this show?

When we were planning for our next season, we looked back at some of our more successful shows, and The Full Monty jumped out to us because of the heart that it has, the laughter and the good time that it provides.

How are you interpreting the show as a director?

We were fortunate enough to purchase a new video wall [that’s installed] on the back of our stage, so our scenic elements are totally different. … That’s going to be a lot of fun to work with, and it’s going to help with transitions and make things feel a little more real. … The actors just arrived today, and, as a director, it’s the actors you bring in that determine what type of feel the show is going to have. … It’s my job, then, to mold everything together with [the actors’] interpretations to make it cohesive.

What will rehearsals be like?

The performers have had their scripts for over a month. … When they get here, we jump right in; we have a very short [rehearsal] process here at the Palace — just about eight days — so we don’t have time to do a read-through or anything like that.

How does Covid affect rehearsals and the performance itself?

All performers have to be vaccinated and boosted in order to be part of the production. We have Covid tests and test the performers a bunch of times throughout the process. … We will all be in masks for the whole rehearsal [period]. … We’ve asked that everyone try to stay away from each other while off stage, just to reduce the risk as much as possible. … On stage, it’ll be pretty much the same as you would normally see the show, but the backstage crew is masked the whole time. …The performers won’t be taking off masks until they hit the stage, we have hand sanitizing stations off stage, so the performers will be sanitizing everytime they leave [the stage].

What is the biggest challenge of directing this show?

The show is such a fun show, and I’m so comfortable with the material; nothing about the show is stressful at all. The hardest thing is just making sure that everyone is healthy. … There’s anxiety [that comes with] producing theater during these times we’re in — waiting for an actor’s test results to come back, making sure we have a plan if someone is sick. … Understudies have always been a very important role in casting, but now even more so. … We have to make sure they’re ready to go so that the show can go on.

What are you looking forward to most about bringing this show on stage?

Working with these actors. For some of them, this will be the first time they’ve performed since the shutdowns. No one takes for granted the time that we can be on stage in front of an audience. It’s exciting for me, knowing that they’re so eager to get back on stage and perform for an audience.

Why do you think this is a show audiences will enjoy right now?

This show does a great job with capturing many different types of people and personalities, and I think that everyone in the audience likes to see a bit of themselves up on that stage — [a character] they can identify with. … It’s also hysterically funny and, for me, has one of the most-anticipated finales of any musical in history, and you can feel that [anticipation] within the audience.

Emily Karelitz

actor

Mary & Me, presented by Glass Dove Productions at the Hatbox Theater(Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord) from Jan. 28 through Feb. 13, with showtimes on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $22 for adults, $19 for students, seniors and members and $16 for senior members. Visit hatboxnh.com or call 715-2315.

What attracted you to this show?

I’ve met the playwright, Irene Kellehe … and we’ve remained friends. In 2018, I went to visit her in Ireland, and she told me about Mary & Me … and said she would love to have me act the play … and she wanted to grant me exclusive rights to perform it in the U.S. … It’s inspired by true events, a tragedy that occured with a 15-year-old girl in rural Ireland in 1984 who died of blood loss and exposure after giving birth alone in a grotto. … The town wouldn’t speak much about the circumstances, and it’s been shrouded in secrecy ever since. … Irene wanted to answer some of those questions, so she created this fictional character [based on the girl] and filled in the gaps of what we don’t know about what really happened. That was very compelling to me.

Mary & Me. Photo Courtesy of the Hatbox Theatre.

Describe the character you’re playing.

I play Hannah, a 15-year-old girl who lives in a rural Irish village in the 1980s. … As you watch the play, you really watch Hannah growing up. At the beginning she’s very lighthearted and bouncy and effervescent. … By the end of the play you see how she has changed both physically, because she is pregnant, and emotionally, and how those two [types of changes] are connected; she’s been pulled down to earth in every sense of the word.

What have you been doing to prepare? What have rehearsals been like?

It’s a one-woman show — just me. We have several rehearsals a week. … I’ve also been doing a lot of dialect work — a County Cork [Irish] dialect — with a dialect coach. It’s literally just memorizing all of the lines and [how to] speak them in that dialect. It’s been a really interesting process for me.

How does Covid affect your experience preparing for and performing in the show?

We have to remember to talk to people not only about the production but also about what we’re doing and what the theater is doing [in terms of] Covid safety and where people can find all the Covid safety information. It’s like an extra layer to the show that we never had to consider until 2020. We also have a professionally recorded video version of the show, just in case [of cancellation].

What are you looking forward to most about bringing this show on stage?

Mary & Me is a very personal story, and, as a performer, it’s a very deeply personal experience to perform this play. I’m excited to share Hannah’s story with the audience and have them get to know Hannah and, hopefully, get to love Hannah. I’m also looking forward to reconnecting with audiences again … and having conversations with audience members after the show.

Why do you think this is a show audiences will enjoy right now?

Despite the dark subject matter, it’s not 75 minutes of misery. The first half of the play is actually very light and funny; there’s fun and playfulness and laughter as you get a look into this lighthearted teenage existence. … I also think it’s important to bring people’s attention back to social issues and things that aren’t Covid-19. We tend to get consumed with [Covid], and we have to remember that the world keeps turning; there’s a lot more going on out there than just Covid that is also important to think about and talk about.

Kimberly Vars Whitehead

musical director

The Lion King Jr.,presented by Riverbend Youth Company at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford) 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. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $8 for children and seniors. Visit amatocenter.org or call 672-1002.

Describe the music. What does it add to the show?

Like any good musical, Lion King Jr. has a great depth of different musical styles that add much to the experience of the show. Whether it’s a ballad like ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’ or the fun of ‘Hakuna Matata’ … each song sets important dialogue to music so the audience hears the story in a different way.

What appeals to you about the music in this show?

I enjoy the mixture of songs that have been enjoyed worldwide since the original movie came out, like ‘Hakuna Matata,’ ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’ and ‘I Just Can’t Wait to be King,’ mixed with lesser-known but powerful songs like ‘They Live in You’ and ‘Shadowland.’

What have rehearsals been like?

Rehearsals are broken down into songs for full cast, smaller ensembles and leads. [For performers] at this age, there is more of an emphasis on repetition as many in the cast are not music readers yet. With this particular show we have worked especially hard on learning the correct way to pronounce the African text.

What is the most challenging thing about the music in this show?

Teaching and learning music with masks makes the whole process more challenging, but for this show in particular, the challenge is singing in a second language, [the] African [language.]

What are you looking forward to most about bringing this show on stage?

I’m particularly pleased about the new, young talent we have in this show. Also, for adults in particular, there are some very poignant lessons in life represented in this story. In fact, it’s a fun way of being reminded of living into who you truly are, despite the doubts and fears we sometimes try to run away from.

Mike McKnight

director

The Lion King Jr., presented by Riverbend Youth Company at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford) 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. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $8 for children and seniors. Visit amatocenter.org or call 672-1002.

What attracted you to this show?

It’s a great show. It has the excitement of the story, the love interest and the struggles of Simba and Nala … and the music — all the warmth of a Disney classic.

How are you interpreting the show as a director?

It’s a traditional approach. We’re sticking to the Disney Jr. script, pretty much. It’s packaged in a kids’ production-friendly way, and it works well for this age group.

What have rehearsals been like?

We’ve been rehearsing two or three times a week since November. The process has been pretty traditional as well, breaking up [rehearsals] into music, dance and blocking segments, then we come together as the whole cast and try to mesh all those areas into one collective performance. As kids learn their lines, choreography and musical numbers, it then comes down to repetition and tweaking areas that need work. … A team of experienced high school and middle school [students] will run the [tech for the] show. [The show] is a great training ground for lighting and sound.

How does Covid affect rehearsals and the performance itself?

Masks need to be worn at all times, and social distancing is a priority when not on stage. … That’s a hard thing for many adults to do, let alone 50 kids in fourth through eighth grade. However, I have to commend our cast on their compliance with protocols and their overall positive attitude. They get it. … They’ve learned how to project, even [while wearing] a mask.

What is the biggest challenge of directing this show?

Putting on a show with 50 kids is always challenging. … Our kids range in age from 9 to 14; that’s a big age span. Their attention levels aren’t the same, their interests are diverse, and after a long school day, having them work through a two-hour rehearsal is a lot to ask, but they’ve done an exceptional job.

What are you looking forward to most about bringing this show on stage?

We have a lot of kids who have never been in a show before; watching them grow throughout the process has been rewarding. I can’t wait for them to experience what applause feels like … and to see them … [as well as] the kids who have been on stage before … get to embrace their parents and families after the show.

Why do you think this is a show audiences will enjoy right now?

Our cast has put in a great deal of time and effort under difficult circumstances, and they’ve risen to the occasion. I think the audience will like the … production because it’s kids doing what they truly enjoy … and because they’ll know the story, relate to the struggles that the characters endeavor through and enjoy the great music and warmth of The Lion King Jr.

Nicole Jones

actor

I Love You Because, presented by Jonesing for Theatre in collaboration with Dive in Productions at the Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) from 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.

What attracted you to this show?

I’ve always loved this show because, as a hopeless romantic, I love the idea of someone wanting you because of faults and idiosyncrasies rather than simply tolerating them. That, plus the Jane Austen fan in me loves telling a modern gender-reversed version of Pride and Prejudice, which also gives the women the power positions in the couplings, which is always refreshing to see. The story is uplifting and hopeful, which is something that’s important to share, right now especially, so I was excited to do something that could bring joy to an audience when it’s needed most.

Describe the character you’re playing.

Marcy is a free-spirited artist who’s also ready to find her person after she gets over a recent breakup. As an actor, I like to focus on similarities between myself and the characters I play, so I like to think she’s a little quirky and sarcastic, but caring above all else. Focusing on those qualities makes it easier for me to pull from my own experiences.

What have you been doing to prepare? What have rehearsals been like?

There’s been a lot of working at home. This show has a lot of complex harmony and rhythms to it. Our music director is a rock star and made us all tracks to rehearse with so we can focus more on staging and character work when we come together.

How does Covid affect your experience preparing for and performing in the show?

We’ve been masking for rehearsals since before the holidays and will continue to do so until shortly before the show opens. We’ve also been encouraging boosters and doing virtual rehearsals for any cast or crew that have potentially been exposed and requiring negative tests to return to rehearsals.

What are you looking forward to most about bringing this show on stage?

I’m excited to be in front of an audience. Those opportunities are less frequent with Covid, and the energy is something that’s truly exciting.

Why do you think this is a show audiences will enjoy right now?

Because it’s hopefully happy, romantic and so funny — all things that everyone could use more of right now. Theater is a means of escape, and this is a great opportunity to escape into a world where things just aren’t as heavy as they are for everyone right now.

Jonathan Kaplan

actor

The 39 Steps, presented by the Windham Actors Guild at Searles School and Chapel (3 Chapel Road, Windham) on Friday, Feb. 18, and Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, 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.

What attracted you to this show?

The show is a unique reimagination of a Hitchcock film that uses a small group of performers to play a vast number of roles. It’s outrageously funny.

Describe the character you’re playing.

My role is Clown 2. I play over a dozen different characters during the course of the show, sometimes multiple characters in the same scene. It’s a unique challenge in that I’m using multiple accents, tone of voice and physicality. Clown 1 is performed by Keith Strang, and he is similarly playing a variety of characters.

What have you been doing to prepare? What have rehearsals been like?

The script stage directions play such an important part in this show, which is very different from most plays in which I’ve performed in the past. The director has a clear vision for the show, and to make it work we need to make sure that our comedic timing is precise and clear to bring out the audience reaction we’re looking for. Memorizing lines is a special task as it seems I need to remember a different vocalization and physical approach at every turn.

How does Covid affect your experience preparing for and performing in the show?

Everyone in the cast must be vaccinated, and we’ve been rehearsing with masks. We’re carefully reviewing our plans for audience and cast mask requirements for the performances.

What are you looking forward to most about bringing this show on stage?

We’ve been laughing so much during rehearsals. I just can’t wait to see the audience reaction to this unique and truly hilarious show.

Why do you think this is a show audiences will enjoy right now?

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.

Joshua Goldberg

playwright and composer

Chicken Little, presented by Upside Arts at the Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) from 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.

What inspired you to write this play?

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. It’s a pretty simple story: Chicken Little gets hit with an acorn, thinks the sky is falling, gets his friends into a frenzy, sets out to tell the king and meets a fox on the way. There’s a lot of room for expansion. 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. I’ve also combined the king and fox characters, so there’s a little bit of ‘don’t meet your heroes’ going on.

What was your experience writing it? What is your process like?

Most of the shows Upside Arts does are written or edited to fit the specific group of kids we’re working with, and this one is no different. I’ve written all the songs, and the general outline with some dialogue ideas … but the script itself will take shape after auditions and over the first few weeks of rehearsals. Musical theater is such a structured medium, so writing the songs first helps me make sure that each one is furthering the story.

What do you hope the audience will take away from your play?

I hope they’ll be inspired to have confidence in themselves and to speak out when they see something wrong.

What are you looking forward to most about seeing your show on stage?

Seeing how much fun the kids are having on stage and how much they grow as actors from show to show … and getting to hear my work and [see] audiences enjoying it.

Featured Photo: The Full Monty. Photo courtesy of the Palace Theatre.

The Art Roundup 22/01/13

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

Art by Daniela Edstrom, featured in “Impressions: Nature.” Courtesy photo.

Nature-inspired art: See the work of Hollis artist Ellen Fisher in “Translating Nature Into Fabric, an exhibition at the Nashua Public Library (2 Court St., Nashua), on view now through Feb. 26. It includes 15 art quilts featuring 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 earlier this month. “I have a real root system in traditional quilting that I have just interpreted in my own way.” The exhibit is the first to be held in the library’s gallery since it closed amid the Covid shutdowns in March 2020. Most of the quilts are for sale. Viewing hours are whenever the library is open, which is 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.

The New Hampshire Art Association has an exhibition, “Impressions: Nature, featuring the work of Allenstown artist Daniela Edstrom, on view now through Feb. 17 at the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center (49 S. Main St., Concord). 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.

Calling young writers

Submissions are being accepted now for Under the Madness, a new magazine 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 must be written in or translated into English and must be previously unpublished. The deadline for the first issue, which is set to be published in February, is Thursday. Jan. 20. Visit underthemadnessmagazine.com for full submission guidelines.

Wizards wanted:Manchester-based Cue Zero Theatre Co. is looking for actors for its April production of Puffs! Or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic, a comedy about students at a magic school. Auditions will be held on Sunday, Jan. 16, and Monday, Jan. 17, from 7 to 10 p.m., with callbacks on Tuesday, Jan. 18, from 7 to 10 p.m., and will take place in person at Granite State Arts Academy (19 Keewaydin Drive, No. 4, Salem). All performers must be at least 18 years old and must fill out an audition form online and sign up for a time slot in advance. Visit cztheatre.com or email [email protected].

Crafts and blooms

The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen opens its triennial exhibit “Setting the Standard” at its headquarters gallery (49 S. Main St., #100, Concord) on Thursday, Jan. 20. The exhibit features new works by League jurors in a variety of media, including wood, textile, clay and metal. “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,” executive director Miriam Carter said in a press release. The Concord Garden Club’s 19th annual Art & Bloom event will be held in conjunction with the exhibit during the opening weekend; artistic floral arrangements created by local amateur and professional floral designers, inspired by pieces featured in “Setting the Standard,” will be on display on Thursday, Jan. 20, from 1 to 6:30 p.m.; and Friday, Jan. 21, and Saturday, Jan. 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular gallery hours for “Setting the Standard” will be Tuesday through Thursday, from noon to 4 p.m., starting on Tuesday, Jan. 25. The exhibit will run through March 31. Admission is free, and masks are required. Visit nhcrafts.org.

Illustrator’s legacy: The Currier Museum of Art (150 Ash St., Manchester) presents “Tomie dePaola at the Currier” now through 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.

Exhibits at the Estate

Catch two exhibitions currently on view at the Kimball Jenkins Estate (266 N. Main St., Concord) before they close on Friday, Jan. 14. “Salon 2021,” displayed in the Carolyn Jenkins Gallery in the Mansion’s Carriage House, features a curated collection of offbeat and experimental small works in a variety of media by regional artists with diverse studio practices and artistic approaches. “The Dysfunction of Social Practice,” located in the Jill C. Wilson Gallery in the Kimball Jenkins Mansion, is a collaboration between Kimball Jenkins and Manchester art gallery Kelley Stelling Contemporary, featuring paintings, sculpture and performance works by New Hampshire artists Zach Dewitt, Emmett Donlon, Rosemary Mack, Heather Morgan and Meghan Samson. Weekday gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit kimballjenkins.com or call 225-3932


ART

Exhibits

• “THE DYSFUNCTION OF SOCIAL PRACTICE” Kelley Stelling Contemporary presents an exhibition featuring paintings, sculpture and performance works by five New Hampshire artists. Kimball Jenkins Estate (266 N. Main St., Concord). Now through Jan. 14. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with evening and weekend visits available by request. Visit kelleystellingcontemporary.com.

• “SALON 2021” Exhibition features offbeat and experimental works in a variety of media by regional artists with diverse studio practices and artistic approaches. The Kimball Jenkins Estate (266 N. Main St., Concord, 225-3932, kimballjenkins.com). Now through Jan. 14. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with evening and weekend visits available by request.

• “ARTFUL ESCAPES” Exhibition features works by multiple artists in a variety of media, including 2D and 3D, oil, acrylic, glass and ceramic. Art 3 Gallery (44 W. Brook St., Manchester). On view now through Jan. 31. Current gallery hours are Monday through Friday, from 1 to 4:30 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available by request. A virtual gallery is also available on the gallery’s website. Call 668-6650 or visit art3gallery.com.

• “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 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.

CONCORD GARDEN CLUB 19TH ANNUAL “ART & BLOOM” Exhibition features floral interpretations of pieces in the “Setting the Standard” exhibition at the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters. 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. Thurs., Jan. 20, 1 to 6:30 p.m.; Fri., Jan. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sat., Jan. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit concordgardenclubnh.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. Jan. 20 through March 31. Co-exhibit with the Concord Garden Club 19th annual “Art & Bloom” show on Thurs., Jan. 20, 1 to 6:30 p.m.; Fri., Jan. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sat., Jan. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular exhibition hours starting Jan. 25 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. 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 [email protected].

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

OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Sat., Jan. 29, 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

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

MATILDA THE MUSICAL JR. The Palace Youth Theatre presents. The Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester). Wed., Jan. 12 and Jan. 19, and Thurs., Jan. 13 and Jan. 20, at 7 p.m. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

AND THE WINNER IS DoGo Productions presents. The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth). Now through Jan. 23, 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 $25 for adults, $22 for students and seniors age 65 and up and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123.

THE WIZARD OF OZ Young Performers’s Edition performed by The Majestic Academy of Dramatic Arts. Derry Opera House (29 W. Broadway, Derry). Fri., Jan. 28, and Sat., Jan. 29, at 7 p.m., and Sun., Jan. 30, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for seniors age 65 and up and $10 for students age 17 and under. Call 669-7469 or visit majestictheatre.net.

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.

THE LION KING JR. The Riverbend Youth Company presents. Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford). Fri., Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 5, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., Feb. 6, at 2:30 p.m. Visit amatocenter.org/riverbend-youth-company.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

SPRING POPS BROADWAY AND MORE The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performs. Seifert Performing Arts Center, 44 Geremonty Drive, Salem. Sat., May 21, 7:30 p.m., and Sun., May 22, 2 p.m.

The Art Roundup 22/01/06

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

Whimsical musical: The Palace Youth Theatre, consisting of student actors in grades 2 through 12, presents Matilda The Musical Jr. at the Palace Theatre (80 Hanover St., Manchester) on Wednesdays, Jan. 12 and Jan. 19, and Thursdays, Jan. 13 and Jan. 20, at 7 p.m. The musical is based on the 1988 children’s novel by Roald Dahl and its 1996 film adaptation, with a book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. It tells the story of a clever young girl who uses her imagination and newly discovered psychokinetic powers to survive an abusive home life and cruel school headmistress. Visit palacetheatre.org or call 668-5588.

Multimedia exhibit: Art 3 Gallery (44 W. Brook St., Manchester) has an exhibition, “Artful Escapes,” on display now through Jan. 31. It features works by multiple artists in a variety of media, including 2D and 3D, oil, acrylic, glass and ceramic. Current gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 1 to 4:30 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available by request. A virtual gallery is also available on the gallery’s website. Call 668-6650 or visit art3gallery.com.

New year, new art classes

Weekly art classes return to Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester), starting on Thursday, Jan. 6. 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. 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. A three-week-session pastel class for adults starts on Wednesday, Jan. 12, and will be held on Wednesdays, from 6 to 8 p.m. Classes are held with small groups of three to eight to five students. Tuition is pay-as-you-go at $20 per student per class, due upon arrival. Additionally, there are two one-day workshops for adults coming up, including an oil painting workshop on Saturday, Jan. 29, from 1 to 4 p.m., and a pastel paint workshop on Saturday, Feb. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. The cost for workshops is $40. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com.

Four-artist panel: Kelley Stelling Contemporary will host an artist panel discussion with four artists at The Kimball Jenkins Estate (266 N. Main St., Concord) on Wednesday, Jan. 12, with doors at 5:30 p.m. and the discussion starting at 6 p.m. The artists — Zach Dewitt, Emmett Donlon, Heather Morgan and Meghan Samson — have their work featured in an exhibit, “The Dysfunction of Social Practice,” which is on view now through Jan. 14 in the Jill C. Wilson Gallery at the Estate and includes paintings, sculpture and performance works. Colin Callahan, a Kimball Jenkins Board member and the director of the Crumpacker Gallery at St. Paul’s School in Concord, will moderate the discussion. The event is free to attend. Visit kelleystellingcontemporary.com and kimballjenkins.com, or call 225-3932.

Final week for Emily Noelle Lambert exhibit: The Dana Center for the Humanities at Saint Anselm College (100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester) has a special exhibition featuring the paintings and sculpture of New York City artist Emily Noelle Lambert on view now through Jan. 9. Lambert has shown her work nationally and internationally in solo exhibitions in New York City, Chicago and South Korea as well as a number of group exhibitions. “I love swimming in a kind of visual mystery of things between abstraction, landscape and figuration,” Lambert said of her work in a press release from Saint Anselm. “I search for interactions between materials, colors and forms and often switch things up to keep my curiosity fresh.” The exhibition was curated by Fine Arts Professor Kimberly Kersey-Asbury, with assistance from fine art students on the layout and installation process. Visitors must wear masks inside the gallery. Visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities or call 641-7700.

Storytelling stream

The New Hampshire Theatre Project in Portsmouth has a recorded live show from 2018, The Winter Solstice in Story and Song, available to stream on demand via Vimeo on Demand now through Sunday, Jan. 9. It features professional storyteller Diane Edgecomb, presenting tales, myths, legends and timeless stories behind winter traditions. The Scandinavian Legend of the Mistletoe, The Legend of the Christmas Rose and the Cherokee tale of Evergreen are just a few of the stories told. The performance includes musical accompaniment, with instrumental melodies and traditional songs played by Celtic harper Margot Chamberlain and multi-instrumentalist Tom Megan. Tickets to stream the show cost $10. Visit nhtheatreproject.org or call 431-6644.

Mitch Albom book on stage: DoGo Productions presents And the Winner Is at The Players’ Ring Theatre (105 Marcy St., Portsmouth) from Jan. 7 through Jan. 23, 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. Based on the 2008 book by Mitch Albom, the play follows Tyler Johnes, a self-centered movie star who is nominated for an Oscar but dies the night before the awards. In the afterlife, he bargains with a heavenly gatekeeper to send him back to earth for the awards ceremony so that he can find out if he wins, dragging his agent, rival actor, girlfriend and ex-wife along for the ride. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $22 for students and seniors age 65 and up and $15 for kids under age 12. Visit playersring.org or call 436-8123. — Angie Sykeny


ART

Exhibits

EMILY NOELLE LAMBERT Solo exhibition by New York City artist Emily Noelle Lambert. Dana Center for the Humanities at Saint Anselm College (100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester). On view now through Jan. 9. Masks required inside the gallery. Visit anselm.edu/dana-center-humanities or call 641-7700.

• “THE DYSFUNCTION OF SOCIAL PRACTICE” Kelley Stelling Contemporary presents an exhibition featuring paintings, sculpture and performance works by five New Hampshire artists. Kimball Jenkins Estate (266 N. Main St., Concord). Now through Jan. 14. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with evening and weekend visits available by request. Visit kelleystellingcontemporary.com.

• “SALON 2021” Exhibition features offbeat and experimental works in a variety of media by regional artists with diverse studio practices and artistic approaches. The Kimball Jenkins Estate (266 N. Main St., Concord, 225-3932, kimballjenkins.com). Now through Jan. 14. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with evening and weekend visits available by request.

• “BIG GIFTS IN SMALL PACKAGES” The Seacoast Artist Association’s annual holiday exhibit, featuring a variety of small works of art priced under $100 for gift buying. Now through Jan. 7. 130 Water St., Exeter. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, from 1 to 4 p.m. Visit seacoastartist.org or call 778-8856.

• “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.

• “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.

CONCORD GARDEN CLUB 19TH ANNUAL “ART & BLOOM” Exhibition features floral interpretations of pieces in the “Setting the Standard” exhibition at the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen headquarters. 49 S. Main St., #100, Concord. Thurs., Jan. 20, 1 to 6:30 p.m.; Fri., Jan. 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sat., Jan. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit concordgardenclubnh.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. Jan. 20 through March 31. Co-exhibit with the Concord Garden Club 19th annual “Art & Bloom” show on Thurs., Jan. 20, 1 to 6:30 p.m.; Fri., Jan. 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sat., Jan. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular exhibition hours starting Jan. 25 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. 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 [email protected].

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.

GENERAL ART CLASSES In-person art classes for all levels and two-dimensional media. held with small groups of two to five students. Private classes are also available. Diane Crespo Fine Art Gallery (32 Hanover St., Manchester). Students are asked to wear masks in the gallery. Tuition costs $20 per group class and $28 per private class, with payment due at the beginning of the class. Call 493-1677 or visit dianecrespofineart.com for availability.

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.

THEATER

Shows

THE WIZARD OF OZ Young Performers’s Edition performed by The Majestic Academy of Dramatic Arts. Derry Opera House (29 W. Broadway, Derry). Fri., Jan. 28, and Sat., Jan. 29, at 7 p.m., and Sun., Jan. 30, at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for seniors age 65 and up and $10 for students age 17 and under. Call 669-7469 or visit majestictheatre.net.

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.

THE LION KING JR. The Riverbend Youth Company presents. Amato Center for the Performing Arts (56 Mont Vernon St., Milford). Fri., Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 5, at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., Feb. 6, at 2:30 p.m. Visit amatocenter.org/riverbend-youth-company.

LAST GAS Produced by the Community Players of Concord. Concord City Auditorium, 2 Prince St., Concord. Feb. 11 through Feb. 13. Tickets cost $18 for adults, $16 for youth ages 17 and under, $16 for seniors age 65 and up. Visit communityplayersofconcord.org.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

SPRING POPS BROADWAY AND MORE The New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra performs. Seifert Performing Arts Center, 44 Geremonty Drive, Salem. Sat., May 21, 7:30 p.m., and Sun., May 22, 2 p.m.

Planting a new exhibit

Art quilts bring nature to Nashua Public Library

Ellen Fisher’s background in landscape design and conservation is at the heart of her artistic quilts, which will be on display during her upcoming “Translating Nature Into Fabric” exhibit at the Nashua Public Library starting Saturday, Jan. 8.

Fisher, who lives in Hollis, learned to sew from her mother when she was young and picked it up again about 20 years ago. But Fisher’s work isn’t like her mom’s; she was a more traditional quilter, making practical items like bedquilts.

“I was very interested in her work but not in doing it myself until a certain kind of quilting came across my radar [that’s] more improvisational,” Fisher said.

Watercolor quilting, as it’s known, reminded her of the kind of pictures that are made up of little squares that work together to make a larger picture you can see only when you stand back far enough.

“It was that sort of image that grabbed my interest,” she said. “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. I have a real root system in traditional quilting that I have just interpreted in my own way.”

Jamie’s Tomatoes quilt. Courtesy photo,

The designs on her quilts are based in nature, featuring things like streams and trees — most are elements that Fisher worked with in her career as a landscape designer and conservationist.

Her art quilts — not to be confused with soft, cuddly quilts, like the ones she makes for her grandchildren — have been even more in line with her nature-centric career ever since Fisher discovered a few years ago that she could get a different effect if she dyed her fabric with plants.

“The colors in nature, they tend to be on the more neutral side, more subdued,” she said.

She grows many of the plants she uses — goldenrod, sumac, wild rose and raspberry, for example — in her own garden and gathers the rest locally.

But Fisher said plant dyes aren’t always conducive to her work, and she still uses traditional fabrics as well.

“I love commercial printed fabrics … as much as anyone else, and I’m a kid in a candy store when I go to a fabric store,” she said.

“Translating Nature Into Fabric” will be the first exhibit at the library’s gallery since it closed in March 2020.

“This is sort of like the art gallery reopening,” assistant librarian Holly Klump said.

Fisher applied to have her work displayed in the space and said the library is very generous in what it allows artists to do.

“It’s my responsibility to design the exhibit and hang the quilts, but that is not normal — usually management is very involved,” she said. “Here I have a lot of autonomy, and I consider that to be a huge advantage.”

“We really see the art gallery as the artist’s space for that two months that they have their art up,” Klump said. “I’m not a curator. … [We want artists] to take ownership of the space.”

Klump said they typically have a call for artists in the fall; this year, a library committee chose the artists. They prefer artists who are local or “local-ish,” she said.

“This year we have quite a variety of people [including an] oil painter, a spray painter, a photographer,” Klump said. “I’m really proud. … I think it’s a great way to promote local artists, and it’s great for people who maybe don’t go [to see art at traditional] art galleries.”

Most of the 15 quilts in Fisher’s exhibit will be for sale, and there will be an information sheet with pricing and contact details. She had planned to have an artist’s reception shortly after the opening, but the surge in Covid cases has put that plan on hold. She said if the surge diminishes a lot by the end of the exhibit, she might try to have one, but for now, the exhibit will be available for general viewing any time the library is open.

“It’s a great way for the public to happen upon art, and it’s free, and it’s really beautiful stuff,” Klump said.

See “Translating Nature into Fabric”

Where: Nashua Public Library, 2 Court St.
When: Saturday, Jan. 8, through Saturday, Feb. 26. Library hours are Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m.
Visit: nashualibrary.org

Featured Photo: Beaver Brook quilt. Courtesy photo.

Stay in the loop!

Get FREE weekly briefs on local food, music,

arts, and more across southern New Hampshire!