McGRATHPR.com – The warmer winds of summer usher in the finest arts, entertainment and cultural opportunities in the Greater Boston, South Shore, and Cape Cod regions, and beyond.
The James Library & Center for the Arts
Artist Marcia Ballou ~ Kaleidoscope
Exhibit On View: Through June 15
James Library & Center for the Arts, 24 West Street, Norwell
Admission is free, donations are gratefully accepted
On a sparkling summer day, Artist Marcia Ballou was sitting on a bench in her field enjoying the bright light and beautiful summer flowers, when a dance of nature appeared before her eyes. A swarm of dragonflies, diving, circling, and chasing each other, displayed wings sparkling in the sunlight. Monarch butterflies appeared, many of them, floating into the scene and joining the dance. It was enchanting. “This scene is held in my memory as a treasure. It is a scene I paint, always trying to portray the feeling I had of joy,” shares Ballou.
Collage is Ballou’s medium. She incorporates a palette of painted papers, cloth, paints, and threads. The process is slow, while she employs deliberate and spontaneous application. Her colorful gestures and intuitive patterns are accented by paint for atmosphere. She then assembles papers, cloth, and threads with acrylic mediums or by hand stitching, assembled like a jigsaw puzzle, enlivened by unexpected material and shape combinations. Occasionally a realistic painting of a favorite creature appears against the abstract dance of color. Ballou’s patterns always seem to create blossoms of texture on the surface of each finished piece, with a goal to evoke joy. Sponsored by Marshfield Cultural Council, a local cultural council supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
The James Library’s 150th Birthday Celebration Series
150th Birthday Party
Friday, May 17, 7 to 10 pm
24 West Street, Norwell
Admission is $10, cash bar, donations gratefully accepted
Imagine blowing out the candles on the James’ 150th birthday cake – what would you wish for? In honor of the James Library & Center for the Arts 150th birthday (the building was dedicated in 1874!), you are cordially invited to attend a birthday bash, and make a wish come true with your bid at the silent Auction of Wishes fundraiser. Embracing its culture of supporting the arts and literature, the evening unfolds with a live painting program with featured Artist Marcia Ballou (her works on exhibit in The James’ gallery through June 15), local “Nightwatching” book author Tracy Sierra, and musical entertainment by pianist Lenny Williams together with singing Executive Director Megan Ward. Truly a multifaceted night of entertainment on the time, all in the name of a great cause!
Girls Just Wanna Paint The James!
Silent Auction Fundraiser & Exhibition
Opening Reception Party & Fundraiser: Friday, June 16, 6 to 8 pm
On view: June 21 through August 9
James Library & Center for the Arts, 24 West Street, Norwell
Admission is free, donations gratefully accepted
The 150th Anniversary of the James Library & Center for the Arts celebrations comprise a Birthday Party & Opening Reception, special exhibition, and a silent auction fundraiser featuring the work from nine accomplished and award-winning artists that make up the group “Girls Just Wanna Paint.”
In keeping with the 150th Celebration, each artist of “Girls Just Wanna Paint” artist group will be creating a piece of art using their individual perspective and style to capture images from in and around the James. Each of these pieces will be offered up for auction during a Silent Auction from June 21, to August 9. All of the artists will also be exhibiting work of their own which will be on view and available for purchase.
“Girls Just Wanna Paint” was founded by Kelley MacDonald in July 2009 to create a supportive space for artists to share information, resources, opportunities, and support for one another. Since its inception, the group has featured a variety of artists fostering a strong sense of camaraderie, mutual respect, collaboration, courtesy, a unique openness, and an enthusiastic and vibrant sense of fun. The “Girls Just Wanna Paint” group describe themselves as “a group of Boston area painters who love to paint and have fun,” capturing the essence and well-earned reputation that these diverse artists embody, focused on artistic excellence and a whole bunch of fun!
“Girls Just Wanna Paint” members: Founder, Kelley Carey MacDonald of Providence RI, Victoria (Tori) Chesley Brega of Pembroke, Sally Dean of Marshfield, Margaret Farrell Bruno of Marshfield, Pamela Copeman of Scituate, Jeanne MacFarland of Hull, Page Railsback of Scituate, Jody Regan of Marshfield, and Mary Sheehan Winn of Marshfield.
2024 Featured Artist
Jake Basso
The James Library’s new public art project features new works created and installed monthly on The James’ grounds, viewable for the public. Throughout 2024, large scale sculptures created by local Artist Jake Basso will be installed monthly.
Jake Basso is an interdisciplinary artist living in Norwell, who creates sculptures, drawings, paintings, and poetry. His abstract and figurative sculptures are made from reused materials that he collects at construction and industrial sites.
Jake is a graduate of Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design. His work has recently been featured at the Brickbottom Gallery in Somerville, the James Library’s gallery, and at South Shore Art Center in Cohasset. Follow @JakeBassoArt on Instagram.
Since 1874, The James Library has served the South Shore community as a warm gathering place. Housed in a landmark Victorian in historical Norwell Center, The James is dedicated to serving the community by providing high-quality programs, resources and materials through a concert hall, art gallery and the operation of a free lending library. As an independent, non-profit arts center we foster a mission for the creation, appreciation, and enjoyment of the arts for residents of all ages on the South Shore, while preserving the historic character of our home. The James Library is located at 24 West Street, Norwell and is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 pm and on Saturday from 11 am to 1 pm. For more information, please call 781-659-7100, visit jameslibrary.org or follow The James Library on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Cranberry Research Foundation
26th Annual Golf Tournament
Monday, July 15, 12 noon check-in begins, 1 pm shotgun start
Southers Marsh Golf Club, 30 Southers Marsh Lane, Plymouth
Foursome: $500 (including dinner), dinner reception only: $50, registration link TBA
Cranberry Research Foundation’s annual fundraising tournament welcomes the public to enjoy a day of golf, camaraderie, food, and fellowship while raising vital funds for cranberry research. Foursome teams welcome. Contests offer special prize gifts including hole in one, 50/50, raffles, and mulligan bundles are available. Banquet, recognition and awards presentation immediately follows. Sponsor packages available.
The Cranberry Research Foundation (CRF) was founded in 1996. It is a nonprofit, tax exempt organization that raises and invests funds for the future support of cranberry research projects in the Massachusetts growing region. These projects promote and protect the unique environment of the cranberry system and maintain the viability and heritage of cranberry farming.
The Company Theatre Center for the Arts
Rave On
Friday, June 7, 8 pm
The Company Theatre
30 Accord Park Drive, Norwell
Tickets: $30
Inspired by some of the most influential music of the 50’s & 60’s, Rave On will take you back in time when rock ‘n roll was emerging, and the jukebox and dance floor were all that was needed for a good time! Talented singers and musicians celebrate the music of Buddy Holly, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Etta James, Richie Valens, Bobby Darin, Johnny Cash, Dion, and other amazing artists. Dance in your seats and sing along!
Divas With A Twist
Tuesday, June 11, 7:30 pm
The Company Theatre
30 Accord Park Drive, Norwell
Tickets: $30
For a decade Divas with a Twist have been selling out shows in the Boston area. This band features five powerhouse female vocalists (who met at The Company Theatre!) backed by high energy, Grammy® nominated musicians. Performing with a unique blend of vocals combined with new arrangements to pop favorites, classic rock, Motown and originals, the Divas do not disappoint!
Head Over Heels the Musical – High School Edition
Thursday, July 11 through Saturday, July 13, 7:30pm
The Company Theatre
30 Accord Park Drive, Norwell
Tickets: $35 Premium, $28 Standard
“Head Over Heels” follows the escapades of a royal family on an outrageous journey to save their beloved kingdom from extinction – only to discover the key to their realm’s survival lies within each of their own hearts. Set to the iconic music from the all-female band the Go-Go’s including ‘’We Got the Beat,” “Vacation,” and “Our Lips are Sealed.”
Kinky Boots
Friday, July 26 through Sunday, August 18
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday performances, 7:30 pm; Sunday performances 3 pm
The Company Theatre, 30 Accord Park Drive, Norwell
Tickets: $58 Premium, $50 Standard
Charlie has reluctantly inherited his father’s shoe factory, which is on the verge of bankruptcy. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save the family business, he turns to Lola; a fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos!
As they work to turn the factory around, this unlikely pair find that they have more in common than they realized…and discover that when you change your mind, you can change your whole world.
Founded in 1979 by Zoe Bradford and Jordie Saucerman, The Company Theatre (TCT) is an award-winning regional theatre, a true treasure of Boston’s South Shore. The destination center for the arts produces 4 musicals, 1 play, 5 youth productions, and a concert and special event series annually, attracting more than 35,000 patrons. The Academy of Company Theatre (ACT) offers year-round technical training in voice, acting, dance, film and more to both youth and adults, and the heart of ACT – its renowned summer workshop.
The Company Theatre’s widely acclaimed integrity is rooted in presenting highly trained and dedicated actors, live music performances, lavish costuming, elaborate set work, as well as its outstanding educational programs. Its staff and artistic team are on a continuous quest for excellence by producing passionate, energetic, and professional quality performances. TCT attributes its success to its long-time dedicated staff and artisans who are proud to bring their craft to loyal patrons.
The Company Theatre’s box office is open Mondays from 10 am to 5 pm, Thursday from 11 am to 6 pm, and two hour before each performance. For more information, visit companytheatre.com, email boxoffice@companytheatre.com, call 781-871-2787, or follow The Company Theatre on social media.
Pilgrim Festival Chorus
Summer Songs: Tunes from Broadway and American Traditions
Featuring Pilgrim Festival Singers (an ensemble of Pilgrim Festival Chorus)
Saturday, June 22, 7:30 pm
The Church of the Pilgrimage, 8 Town Square, Plymouth
Sunday, June 23, 4 pm
St. Bonaventure Parish 803 State Road, Plymouth
Tickets: $15 for adults, children ages 14 and under, free admission
Available at: pilgrimfestivalchorus.org/tickets/ and at the door
Artistic Director William B. Richter, conductor, Artistic Director Elizabeth Chapman Reilly, piano accompanist
Long days. Sunshine. Gardens. Vacation. Time to relax. Pilgrim Festival Chorus’s (PFC) June concerts combine songs about summer with upbeat musical medleys from “Carousel,” “The Lion King,” and some of Irving Berlin’s best tunes, along with a special tribute to the late legendary Alice Parker. Make our concerts part of your summer entertainment this year!
PFC is proud to participate in the Card to Culture Program, a collaboration between Mass Cultural Council and the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Nutrition Program, and the Massachusetts Health Connector, by broadening accessibility to cultural programming. This program is supported in part by a grant from Plymouth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Since 1999, Pilgrim Festival Chorus, one of the region’s premier community choral ensembles, has been dedicated to presenting diverse choral works that educate, enrich, and engage both its members and South Shore audiences. PFC is comprised of 90 vocalists of all adult ages from 20 South Shore communities with diverse skillsets and backgrounds from amateur hobby and choir singers to music educators and professional choir directors. In addition to the summer concert, PFC presents a Christmas concert in early December, an annual Messiah Sing in mid-December, and a spring concert typically featuring a major work with orchestra and soloists. Members also perform in smaller volunteer groups engaging in community events.
To learn more about Pilgrim Festival Chorus, email PFC’s artistic directors at director@pilgrimfestivalchorus.org, visit pilgrimfestivalchorus.org, email info@pilgrimfestivalchorus.org, and follow Pilgrim Festival Chorus on Facebook and Instagram.
Americana Theatre Company
Murder on the Orient Express
By Agatha Christie, adapted by Ken Ludwig
Spire Center for the Performing Arts
Friday, July 5 through Sunday, July 21 Fridays and Saturdays, 7 pm; Sundays, 2 pm
Slated as a “fast-moving, powerful theatrical locomotive” by the Hartford Courant, Americana Theatre’s production of this classic thriller is bound to scintillate your summer. Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks, as it travels from Istanbul to Western Europe. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for occupancy in 1934, but by the next morning, it has one fewer passenger. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed eight times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated and with a killer in their midst, the passengers rely on detective Hercule Poirot to identify the murderer – in case he or she decides to strike again.
Americana Theatre Company (ATC) is a 501c3 nonprofit, professional theatre company serving the Greater Plymouth region. Founder and Executive Director Derek Martin, Managing Director David Friday, Artistic Director Jesse Sullivan, and Director of Education Erin Friday are the leadership team charged with continuing the founding vision of opening a professional theatre in America’s Hometown, a dream fulfilled in 2011. ATC’s audiences find that story is paramount. Stories entertain, teach, and thrill us … they can inspire us toward the betterment of humankind, and help reveal the hidden mysteries of life. ATC is committed to hiring directors, actors, and designers of the highest caliber, with an aim to enliven the cultural atmosphere of the Plymouth community by offering excellent, entertaining theatre and theatre education to residents and visitors alike. For more information, visit americanatheatre.org, or call 508-591-0282.
Sandwich Arts Alliance
Love, Loss and What I Wore ~ a play by Nora and Delia Efron
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, May 17 through 26
Matinees, 2 pm, Evening Performances, 7pm
Sandwich Arts Alliance, 130 Main Street, Sandwich
Admission: $25
“Love, Loss, and What I Wore” is a rare theatrical opportunity for women to commiserate and rejoice over shared experiences and for men to perhaps gain some insight into them. With its highly relatable vignette, ‘Love, Loss and What I Wore’ is a funny, touching, and insightful ‘everywoman’ piece that will connect with audiences in deeply personal ways. The show’s talented cast features actors Janet Geist Moore, Elizabeth Liuzzi, Cathy Ode, Kim Lajoie, and Karin Henderson.
The Writers’ Critique Group
Thursdays, June 6 and 20, July 18, August 1 and 15, 1 to 2 pm
Sandwich Arts Alliance Center, 130 Main Street, Sandwich
This group of writers meets on the first and third Thursdays of each month. A chapter of a current project is emailed to members of the group, read, and critiqued, and brought to the meeting where it is read aloud and further discussed. Supportive, encouraging, and informative. All are welcome.
Your Daily Practice Writers Group
Wednesdays, June 12 and 26, July 10 and 24, August 14 and 28, 11 am to 12 noon
Sandwich Arts Alliance Center, 130 Main Street, Sandwich
This popular new group meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. For writers desiring to establish a daily practice, encouragement, and accountability.
Contemporary Big Brush Painting ~ with Joe Gallant
Saturday, June 15, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Sandwich Arts Alliance
130 Main Street, Sandwich
Fee: $90 members/$100 non-members
Contemporary painting thrives on the fusion of abstract and traditional styles, allowing artists to explore new territories on the canvas. This approach often results in intriguing compositions that blend realism with abstract elements, creating visually captivating artworks.
The freedom to push boundaries in terms of colors, shapes, and compositions is a hallmark of contemporary painting, enabling artists to express their imagination in unique and innovative ways. You will complete a contemporary seascape or landscape painting during this fun three-hour workshop.
A Gathering of Poets
Tuesdays, June 18, July 16, August 20, 1 to 2 pm
Sandwich Arts Alliance Center, 130 Main Street, Sandwich
A supportive and informative poetry critique group, meeting monthly on third Tuesdays, All are welcome. Attendees read their poems aloud each session, consider suggestions, and make observations.
Children’s Book Writers
Thursdays, June 27, July 25, August 22, 1 to 2 pm
Sandwich Arts Alliance Center, 130 Main Street, Sandwich
If you have a children’s book concept in mind and would like to get it published, this is the group for you!
We will bring our latest work to read aloud and receive comments and suggestions.
Sandwich Arts Alliance’s featured events at
Cape Cod
Hydrangea Festival
July 5 through 14, details at capecodchamber.org
C.L. Fornari’s Private Garden Tour
Tuesday, July 9, 10 am to 4 pm
Admission: $5 per person, address provided at purchase, supports Sandwich Arts Alliance
Recognized as the “Garden Lady of Cape Cod,” C.L. Fornari has one of the most visited gardens during the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival. As a Master Gardener, she has written many books, including Sand & Soil: Creating Beautiful Gardens on Cape Cod and the Islands, A Garden Lover’s Cape Cod, and The Cape Cod Garden. Here is a message from C.L. who will be onsite to greet you and answer questions as you roam through the beautifully landscaped gardens on Lawrence Pond. “I’m a plant geek who fell into garden communications because of my desire to introduce others to the joys of plants and gardening. My garden path led me into becoming a writer, speaker and radio host and I’m working on a second novel.”
Diane and Frank Dileo’s Private Garden Tour
Tuesday, July 9, 10 am to 4 pm
Admission: $5 per person
address provided at purchase
Proceeds support Sandwich Arts Alliance
See what happened when an English country woman and a ‘rock loving’ Italian gentleman designed and created an exquisitely-landscaped property. The topography of Diane and Frank Dileo’s gardens flows with flowering plants and shrubs, changing with the seasons, all positioned to capture the sun. Don’t miss the ambiance and the romance of their hidden al fresco sitting areas. Embracing their family heritage in the love for gardening and stonework, Diane and Frank will be on site sharing their story and answering questions.
Hydrangea Festival Historic Walking Tour ~ Sandwich Village Historic Homes & Gardens
Wednesday, July 10, 10 am to 4 pm
Tickets: $25 per person
Join Sandwich Arts Alliance on a fascinating walking tour of Sandwich Village showpiece historic houses and buildings, each with a beautiful view. Pick up a map at the Sandwich Arts Alliance, located in the community’s prior 1834 Town Hall. While there, view the restored ballroom, and continue into the yards of featured homes where costumed docents will greet visitors. Stroll around the ancient miller’s house sold by John Dexter in 1699 to Seth Pope, Esq., purchased for his son. Bendora, a gorgeous and fanciful Carpenter’s Gothic Victorian (Painted Lady) with beautiful gardens was built by Ben Bartley upon his 1888 marriage to Dora Newcomb. An impressive 1850 Victorian mansion built by Edward Swann is accessed through beach stone arches to a porte-cochere where guests alighted from carriages. The John Jarves house is surrounded by extensive plantings, secreted by a hedge. Contemplate a 1972 home on Shawme Pond, charmingly sited with views of swans and geese. Its owner illustrated the cover of “Fur, Feathers, Scales, and Tails,” a book about pets published by SAA. Meet Bob King and Tobin Wirt, millers at Dexter’s 1654 gristmill. Tour the Hoxie House, built for Rev. John Smith in 1675. Visit the Sandwich Glass Museum, and the artists painting on the green across from SAA. Plan a delightful day in historic Sandwich Village – a day you will always remember.
Plein Air in the Park
Wednesday, July 10, 11 am to 4 pm
Mill Creek Park, 135 Main Street, Sandwich, admission is free
Sandwich Arts Alliance’s Plein Air Painters create interpretive works of art of the Historic District live at easels in Mill Creek Park. Watch as they sketch the scene, and paint in acrylics, oils, watercolors, or create with colored pencils. Ask questions and browse the artists’ finished works, available for purchase on site.
Hydrangea Afternoon Tea ~ A Sandwich Arts Alliance Fundraiser
Wednesday, July 10, seatings at 11 am and 3:30 pm
Presented by The Dunbar House, 1 Water Street, Sandwich
$60 per person
Enjoy a traditional three-tier, chef-inspired menu at the Cape’s destination tearoom. Delight in sweet scones, authentic tea and croissant sandwiches, tarts, hydrangea cupcakes, French macarons, and bonbons, enjoyed with all the traditional condiments and a warming pot of tea or soft drink. Secure tickets early as seating will be limited!
Mixed Media Hydrangea Workshop ~ with Jacqui Hawk
Saturday, July 13, 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Fee: $55 members/$65 non-members; $10 materials fee due to instructor before class
Enjoy the therapeutic process of creating a mixed media vase of hydrangeas using quality collage papers, beads, gems, and special personal items. There are no set design rules – the instructor encourages independent, intuitive thought, and unique, personal touches. All materials provided, with 16”x 20” canvas.
Exhibits:
Exhibits by SAA Members in a gallery, gift shop, and at community venues
on view during business hours, also viewable at sandwichartsalliance.org
Sandwich Arts Alliance Gallery, 130 Main Street, Sandwich
Business hours: Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11 am to 4 pm
Sandwich Public Library, 142 Main Street, Sandwich
Through June 4 ~ Valerie Leri
June 4 through July 2 ~ Mark Wiklund
July 3 through September 3 ~ TBA
Fishermen’s View Restaurant, 20 Freezer Road, Sandwich
SAA artists exhibit works for sale on a rotating basis
Founded in 2015, Sandwich Arts Alliance (SAA) is an artist-driven nonprofit organization supporting the arts and artists – serving as a platform for new works, cultivating the creative economy, and culturally enriching the Sandwich and greater Cape Cod communities.
Sandwich Arts Alliance is comprised of four groups that meet regularly: Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Literary Arts and Friends of the Arts. Membership is open to all artists and friends residing in Sandwich and beyond. As part of its mission, SAA collaborates with other nonprofit and community-based organizations to help promote a wide variety of cultural programming. SAA’s goal is to identify and support all local artists through a resource database, providing greater exposure and opportunities for fellow artist networking.
The Sandwich Arts Alliance Center’s offerings include a gallery of original art, art classes for artists of all ages, books by local writers, a gift shop for year-round shopping, and performances throughout the year. SAA’s Gallery, located at 130 Main Street, Sandwich, is open to the public weekly from Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am to 4 pm. For membership, class, exhibit, performance and exhibit information, call 774-338-5201, email info@sandwichartsalliance.org, or visit sandwichartsalliance.org, where an online store is also available. For the latest on Sandwich Arts Alliance, follow its social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram.
The Kerry Jon Walker Fund
End of Summer Jamboree
Saturday, August 24, 4 to 8 pm, rain or shine
Sunset Point Camp, 2 10th Street, Hull
Tickets: $35 advance, $40 at the door
Children under 12 attend for free
Includes catered buffet with cash bar available
Entertainment by World Music Award winners Kalifa & Koliba
The Kerry Jon Walker Fund (KJWF), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping humanity and supporting those affected by poverty, presents its annual benefit event as an “End of Summer Jamboree” in 2024. All proceeds support the fund’s mission, including mission service trips for teens supporting sustainable programs to improve health, education, and economic opportunity for those in need.
A family friendly evening of delights awaits where attendees can shop for one-of-a-kind African and Navajo gifts at an International Market, bid on unique art, goods, and fun things to do an auction in a festive atmosphere. Purchases make wonderful gifts, support a great cause and may be taken home the same night. Children’s activities, including a petting zoo, live entertainment by “World Music Award” winners Kalifa & Koliba, catering by Mae’s of Marshfield, and a beer and wine bar are highlights.
KJWF provides financially challenged urban teen students the opportunity to create global objectivity and travel abroad in charitable service. KJWF provides student service trips to Rwanda, where they have assisted 500 orphaned teens at the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village, and to the Navajo Reservation in Arizona. While providing service to these communities, the Boston teens, most never having never traveled far, gain a new understanding of the developing world.
Admission and auction purchases may be paid for by cash, check and credit card on site. To learn more or support the Kerry Jon Walker Fund, visit thekerryfund.org.
Deertrees Theatre
Artist Reception
Saturday, June 15, 6:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre’s Salt Lick Art Gallery, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Admission is free, donations gratefully accepted
A gathering honoring Deertrees Art Gallery’s local exhibiting artists. This night of food and artistic beauty welcomes attendees to engage with and honor our exhibiting visual artists. Live music entertainment features Dan Fox, saxophone, and Gail Phaneuf, piano, in Deertrees’ cozy Salt Lick Art Gallery – a great, social event to kick off the 2024 summer season.
On Golden Pond
Friday June 28, 7:30 pm, Saturday June 29, 7:30 pm and Sunday, June 30, 4 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $30
“On Golden Pond,” the beloved 1979 play by Ernest Thompson, explores the story of Norman and Ethel Thayer (featuring actors Phil Thompson and Barb Stauble, respectively), a couple on the “far end of middle age” who have once again returned to their vacation home on Golden Pond in Maine, for their 48th summer. Norman is in the early stages of memory loss, but Ethel is determined to have a wonderful summer, knowing this may be their last. A visit by daughter Chelsea, her fiancé Billy Ray and his son Billy Ray Jr. prompts the play’s exploration of the turbulent relationship Chelsea shared with her father growing up, and the difficulties experienced in the family. The characters withstand challenging moments of the family cycle, as old scars are laid bare for the audience to grapple with, and the fraught relationships that explore the human condition.
“On Golden Pond” strongly resonates with Deertrees’ Lakes Region community, many of whom have cherished their families’ multi-generation lake homes – that special place where they’ve gathered for years, enjoying the beauty and relaxation of Maine summers. Deertrees is a perfect setting for this cherished story, nestled in a tiny Maine town between Long and Crystal Lakes. This 1979 “time capsule” play may contain a few references that challenge our modern sensibility, nonetheless, it is an honest snapshot in time and a portrayal of a family and a couple nearing the end of their chapter in a precious place. Directed by Gail Phaneuf.
Tartan Terrors – a Celtic Invasion
Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 6, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $35
Sponsored by Relaxen’ Manor
Tartan Terrors bring their Celtic Invasion to the stage, blending the energy of a rock show with humor, stepdance, and a fantastic sound that will inspire the audience to jump out of their seats! With a distinctive sound and a proud tradition of making Celtic music fun and accessible to any audience, the Terrors have played big stages across North America, including The Iridium, New York City, Daryl’s House Club, New York, Freeman Arts Pavilion, Delaware, Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival, Massachusetts, and The Celtic Music & Craft Beer Festival in Florida. The Terrors will tear up the stage, a perfect way to celebrate 4th of July weekend in Maine!
Tacos and Trivia
Tuesday, July 9, 6:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $25
Indulge in delicious tacos while testing your knowledge at Deertrees’ trivia night. Bring your appetite and your A-game for an evening filled with fun, food, and friendly competition in Deertrees’ cozy Salt Lick Café. Place your ticket order by July 5 to secure limited table seating. Don’t miss out on this spicy, scintillating experience – a true taco-filled fiesta and trivia showdown! Let’s taco ’bout it and have a great time together, prizes will be awarded!
Sebago Long Lake Music Festival
Tuesdays, July 16 through August 13, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $35 per concert, season passes are $145
Deertrees plays host to Sebago Long Lake Music Festival’s 52nd annual season, offering five Tuesday evening indoor classical music concerts that astound audiences as the signature series of the Festival’s season. Deertrees’ picturesque, historic setting at the tip of Long Lake in Harrison, Maine, complements the Festival’s stunning chamber music performed under the summer stars.
Donor/Sponsor Dance Party ~ featuring The Cobblestones Band
Saturday, July 13, 6:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Suggested $10 donation, free admission for all sponsors, donors, and volunteers
Sponsored by Deertrees’ Board Members Jane Curran and Gail Bowen
Dance the night away in honor and appreciation of the generous donors, volunteers, and sponsors that support Deertrees Theatre year in and out. The popular Maine-based Cobblestones Band performs tunes to sway and dance to all night long. Enjoy complimentary buffet and a cash bar, mingle with friends, listen to great music, and explore Deertrees’ Art Gallery, Salt Lick Café and Cabaret, and the welcoming back porch through its historic barn doors, under the Maine stars!
Camp Encore Coda’s Faculty and Student Ensemble Concert
Monday, July 15, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $10, donations gratefully appreciated
The talented staff and students of Camp Encore Coda, a music-centered summer camp experience located in Sweden, Maine, present a 20-piece chamber orchestra concert. Camp Encore Coda’s unique combination of incredible students, faculty, and teachers in a traditional camp setting makes it a true masterpiece for musicians. Performance benefits Lake Environmental Association (LEA), protecting the waters and watersheds in the Greater Sebago Lake Region.
SLANE – U2 Tribute Concert
Saturday, July 20, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $20
Maine’s own U2 tribute band SLANE will rock Deertrees’ stage with favorite U2 songs. SLANE brings a broad and ever-growing musical catalog from the legendary band from Dublin, recreating a little bit of the magic in a live U2-style performance. Enjoy big hits and deep cuts, from “Sunday Bloody Sunday” to “Bullet the Blue Sky,” from “With or Without You” to “Stories for Boys.”
The Producers
Fridays and Saturdays, July 26 through August 3, 7:30 pm
Sundays, July 28, and August 4, 7 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $26
Musical comedy at its finest – Mel Brooks’ adaptation of his 1968 film, hailed as one of the funniest musicals ever written. Failing producer Max Bialystock and his accountant Leo Bloom scam a group of elderly women out of their nest eggs by convincing them to invest in a horrendously offensive Third Reich-themed musical secretly intended to bomb the moment it opens. When high-brow Broadway audiences mistakenly assume “Springtime for Hitler” is a satire, Bialystock finds himself with the critical acclaim that has long eluded him – and the biggest hit of his career! Heinous hijinks artfully directed by Zack Balkcom with music direction by Mary Bastoni and choreography by Kristen McBride.
Lobster Roll Fundraiser
Pickup on Friday, August 2, 11 am to 1 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
$25 each
Preorder through Sunday, July 28 at deertrees-theatre.org
Enjoy a meal of delicious lobster rolls (chock full of tail, knuckle, and claw meat), a bag of chips, and a cookie, all in support of Deertrees Theatre.
Susie Pepper Sings DIVAS!
Friday, August 9, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $38
Susie Pepper & Mixology present a one-of-a-kind, original concert featuring your favorite divas’ iconic songs, including Beyonce, Aretha, Whitney, Mariah, and Celine. This thrilling lineup delivers music that soars to Deertrees’ star-filled sky, where this artist is loved! A dynamic and highly sought-after vocalist throughout the region, Susie Pepper’s talents led to her win Fox23’s “Maine Idol” competition and win Miss Maine, 2009. Most recently she and her twin sister Ali Butler were featured on the hit show “I Can See Your Voice.” She has been featured in Portland Symphony Orchestra’s Magic of Christmas series, and appears in Maine State Music Theatre’s current season, among countless other performances.
Yesterday Once More ~ Music of The Carpenters
Sunday, August 11, 4 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $22
Sponsored by Bob and Carol Phaneuf
Back by popular demand! Performing artists Katie Connor, Gail Phaneuf, and Patti Hathaway sing your favorites in a performance of The Carpenters’ most famous hits, and suddenly it’s “yesterday once more!” Guest singer Bill Spera joins in on the fantastic harmonies that made the Carpenters so beloved, for a perfect Sunday afternoon show to kick back and “Sing a Song” at Deertrees.
MONSTERS! A Midlife Musical Meltdown
Friday August 16, Saturday, August 17
Sunday August 18, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets $32
Sponsored by Karin Phaneuf and Dave Wagner, and Wailea Point Realty
Committed to fostering original theatrical works, Deertrees presents the wacky, fast-paced musical comedy, “Monsters! A Midlife Musical” delves into the life of a woman who unshackles her inner monsters on her 40th birthday, with help from her mother, of course! This hysterical work, written by Deertrees Artistic Director Gail Phaneuf and Broadway lyricist Ernie Lijoi, makes its decade reprise at Deertrees, starring Katie Connor (Patsy – Always… Patsy Cline) as 40-year-old protagonist Samantha. Experience uproarious laughter as Samantha attempts to put her inner monsters in their place! But can she really? A fabulous score begs the question “Have you faced your Monsters?” Cast includes actors Gail Phaneuf, Patti Hathaway, Bill Spera, Teresa Dyer, and Rylee Doiron. Directed by Gail Phaneuf.
Shadow Riders – Tribute to Marshall Tucker Band
Friday, August 23, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $26
Shadow Riders is a 6-piece New England band, performing the music from the original Marshall Tucker Band. Singer and guitarist Bruce Marshall has assembled an all-star lineup of musicians that faithfully create this timeless music. Marshall notably played with Toy Caldwell, the lead guitarist, primary songwriter and co-founder of the Marshall Tucker Band, lending unique insight to how this music was first played, arranged and produced.
The stellar ensemble performs hits like “Can’t You See,” “Take the Highway,” “Fire on the Mountain,” and other popular tunes like “Heard it in a Love Song,” “Blue Ridge Mountain Sky,” and “This ‘Ol Cowboy,” in addition to some “deep cuts.” The Marshall Tucker Band is known for innovatively melding Country Blues, Southern Rock, Western Swing and Jazz genres, captured in Shadow Riders’ enthusiasm for this music. The engaging stage show pays homage in tribute to this iconic American ensemble.
The Dark Side of Somewhere Dance Immersion
Friday, August 30, 7:30 pm, and Saturday, August 31, 7:30 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $26
Back by popular demand, “The Dark Side of Somewhere” reprises its wildly successful 2023 world premiere at Deertrees. Sisters Nettie and Hannah Gentempo bring a unique and immersive multimedia dance and circus arts experience to vibrant life. This evolving production marks the 51st anniversary of the legendary Pink Floyd album “Dark Side of the Moon.” Themes of conflict, greed, time, money, life, death, and a deep dive into the imagination are explored through a full cast of dancers, flow/circus artists, puppets, costumes, and a stunning, large-scale video backdrop with explosive lighting, an immersive experience not to be missed!
Downeasters Chorus
Saturday, September 7, 4 pm
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison, Maine
Tickets: $20
Celebrating 75 years of incredible music-making, the Downeasters, originating from Maine, promise a night of unforgettable acappella performances. Featuring a dynamic mix of classic and contemporary tunes, our ensemble of talented men and women will serenade you with rich vocal harmonies. Be sure to catch standout champion quartets like “The Maine Idea” and “Port City Sound” as they add their unique flair to the evening. Audiences and members give to our community through performances, fundraising events, and charitable donations to worthy causes. Come marvel at their voices as they fill Maine’s acoustically perfect enchanting playhouse.
~ The Salt Lick Cabaret ~
The Salt Lick Cabaret is Deertrees’ cozy, intimate backstage space, that opens up to a spacious deck and the Maine woods through the large wooden doors featured in the 1954 movie “White Christmas.” The cabaret space accommodates up to 65 patrons for its intimate performances. Salt Lick Café opens two hours before each event, offering beer, wine, canned cocktails, and a variety of sweet and savory snacks. This comfy destination is also home to Deertrees’ Art Gallery, curated by Deertrees’ Board member, Artist Karen Pettengill. This season’s schedule features a late evening piano bar and open mic nights on select Thursdays. For the complete schedule, visit deertrees-theatre.org, and check back often for event additions.
Founded and built in 1936 as an opera house by prominent opera singer/director Enrica Clay Dillon, Deertrees Theatre has long been home to countless Broadway stars and local actors, world-acclaimed musicians, and aspiring students. Nestled in the beautiful foothills of Southern Maine’s Lakes Region in the community of Harrison, the picturesque property has historically served as a secluded retreat and cultural center for artists. The acoustically perfect theatre, set in its idyllic location, boasts a wood structure built from rose hemlock harvested on the property, featuring hand-carved beams, doors, trim, and light fixtures. The building, abundantly restored since 1990, is prominently featured on Maine’s State Register of Historic Landmarks and is a National Historic Landmark property.
Situated on an old deer run site, Deertrees Theatre enhances the beautiful forest set above the quaint Harrison village nestled between Long Lake and Crystal Lake. The certified nonprofit presents an eclectic summer season of theatrical productions, comedies, family entertainment, and a variety of musical concerts from late June through early September. Deertrees has been home to the Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival (SLLMF) on Tuesday evenings in July and August for 52 years.
Deertrees Theatre is located at 156 Deertrees Road, in Harrison, Maine. The theatre’s ticket prices include a $2 Heritage Fee that supports the ongoing restoration and improvements to the historic building. To purchase tickets or a season subscription, or for more information, visit deertrees-theatre.org, email gail@deertrees.org, or follow Deertrees Theatre on Facebook and Instagram.
Michelle McGrath PR | Media Relations provides visibility for arts and culture, nonprofit, and small business sectors. mcgrathpr.com
