DANCE - FINE ARTS - MUSIC - THEATER - WRITING

ARTBITS by Richard B. Harper


VOLUME 25 * * All Arts News On the Web * * August 12, 2021

STUFF YOU SHOULDN'T MISS

      ArtBits always features a calendar of the goings on of Franklin County artists. Check out these events around Franklin County. Each issue includes the entire text of our weekly newspaper column.


     Franklin County's arts and music gatherings bring new opportunities, gossip, "show-and-tell" and occasional workshops. There are also booked and acoustic Open Mic Nights that feature music, readings, and more from the best new artists in Vermont.

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BIG MUSIC WEEKS

FRANKLIN COUNTY--The Big Music Weeks of Summer begins this week as some of our friends play multiple gigs. Summer Sounds celebrates 30 years of concerts in Highgate. There are shows in Burlington, East Fairfield, Essex Junction, Essex, Essex, Highgate, Milton, Morrisville, North Hero, Rouses Point, NY, St. Albans, Sheldon, and South Hero.


SAVE THE DATE!

HIGHGATE--Save August 29 for the Summer Sounds surprise. We have a lot to celebrate and it's time to throw a party!
      The All Arts Council and the Town of Highgate will wrap the 30th year of Summer Sounds concerts at home in Highgate with a Summer Blowout Bash on the new stage on the Highgate Arena lawn on Sunday, August 29. Lots of continuous music from Jenni Johnson, Carol Ann Jones, and a host of popular singers. Games. Fair food. More. It's going to be great!

ROMANCE and MARGARINE and MUSIC

HIGHGATE--Drummac Septic Service the All Arts Council, and the Town of Highgate continue the 30th year of Summer Sounds concerts at home in Highgate with the world famous Oleo Romeos traveling all the way from East Fairfield and points south on the new stage on the Highgate Arena lawn on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. The evening will be a throwback to the days when diners and swing joints covered Highgate with folk, blues, country, rock, and swing.
      Kids, be warned. Parental discretion is strongly advised for this concert so you may want to leave your tender parents at home for this one.
      I've been trying to land Vermont's most romantic, no, Vermont's most hilarious, no, Vermont's quirkiest band for nearly 20 years. Tyrone Shaw, Eric Belrose, Jerry Bowers, George Lewis, and Will Patton bring an off-kilter sensibility to modern roots Americana. Early birds may hear Mr. Shaw's famed opener, Tuning Up and he promises to end the concert with a serenade aimed squarely at me: Check, Please.
      Just before the concert, come to the Summer Sounds Social in the Park starting at 6 p.m.
      The Summer Sounds concerts are sponsored by the Town of Highgate and the All Arts Council, and underwritten by Chevalier Drilling Co. Inc, Desorcie's Market, Drummac Septic Service, Hampton Inn of St. Albans, O. C. McCuin and Sons, and Ray's Extrusion Dies and Tubing.
      The community based All Arts Council brings the performing arts to northwestern Vermont. The concerts are always on Sunday evenings, always at 7 p.m., always on the Highgate Arena Lawn, and always free. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair for the outdoor family music and festivities. The rain site is the Highgate United Methodist Church. Click here for more info.


RESTART NEWS

     Franklin County has reported 32 new COVID-19 cases in the last seven days. Vermont, the safest state in the nation, has reported 387 new cases. The state seven-day average test positivity rate jumped again to 2.6%.
      My own current advice hasn't changed. Get the shot(s) and take precautions. The vaccines are extraordinarily effective but nothing is 100% foolproof. Wash your hands. Wear a mask where you can't control the airflow around you until we reach the same herd immunity we have for smallpox and once had but lost for measles. Bonus: it will also help protect you from pollen, summer colds, and the winter flu.


      Area restaurants and venues are offering live music while other artists and venues continue live streaming online.


ART ON THE WALLS

ST. ALBANS--The Artist In Residence Gallery features different artists each month. This month, the spotlight is on the mixed media of printmaker Kristina Bolduc, the stained and fused glass of Jennifer Buckner, and the Dancers collection of photographer Wayne Tarr.
      The art and fine craft cooperative features paintings, fiber arts, stained glass, sculpture, lamps, pottery, folk art boxes, scarves, hats and more by 40 Franklin County and surrounding area artists. It is owned and operated by the artists and sponsors. The gallery on South Main Street is open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click here or find them on Facebook for more info.


ISLE LA MOTTE--Isle La Motte Vineyard holds its first Artist Market on the Vineyard on Saturday from 12 noon - 6 p.m. They will be open for art viewing and purchase, tastings and wine pours, along with light fare for purchase.
      "Our goal is to be a link between the Island community and the Arts, providing an opportunity for both new and established local artisans to show and sell their work." click here for more info.


BURLINGTON--David Stromeyer's sculpture Tango will be installed outside the STEM complex at the University of Vermont. Tango will be dedicated in honor of Tom Sullivan, president emeritus. Find Cold Hollow Sculpture Park on Facebook for a behind-the-scenes look at the sculpture being placed in its new home.


WORKSHOPS & CLASSES

MORRISVILLE--River Arts hosts Wednesday Night Live at Oxbow park on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. Facilitators help all ages complete art projects while local musicians play the stage. Admission is free.


MILTON--The Milton Artists' Guild will host Business Planning for Creatives with instructor Corrina Thurston as part of their ongoing series of Art as a Business seminars next Thursday, August 19, at 6 - 8 p.m. This workshop will cover how to create a simple business plan to help you create AND reach your artistic and business goals. Learn what questions to ask, how to determine what is a good goal, how to make a reasonable timeline, and ways to adapt your plan when changes need to be made as opportunities or misfortunes arise unexpectedly.
      The cost is $30 for members or $35 for non-members. Click here to reserve a space.


AUGUST ART DEADLINES

COMMUNITY YOUTH MURAL PROJECT (Deadline extended to August 13)--Natalie LaRocque created the original mural at Marble Mill. Now it's time to update it.
      Swanton Arts Council seeks designs with the theme "One Swanton" for the Marble Mill wall. All designs will be reviewed by the youth-led creative team and SPAN. Community paint events will complete the mural in the Fall.
      Email for more info.


ON STAGE LIVE

     Vermont has lifted all remaining statewide COVID-19 restrictions.
      Here's my own current advice, updated to today. Get the shot(s) and take precautions. The vaccines are extraordinarily effective but nothing is 100% foolproof. Wash your hands. Wear a mask where you can't control the airflow around you until we reach the same herd immunity we have for smallpox and once had but lost for measles. Bonus: it will also help protect you from pollen, summer colds, and the winter flu.


Thursday, August 12
ROUSES POINT, NY--Center Stage presents the Nobby Reed Project on the Rouses Point Civic Center Grounds this evening at 6 p.m.
      The Center Stage hosts a variety of acts throughout the summer with performances of the Adirondack Regional Theater, soloists, dancers, magicians, hypnotists, and various bands. All entertainment is performed on the stage. In case of inclement weather, performances may be rescheduled. All entertainment is free and open to the public. Click here for the remaining summer schedule.


SOUTH HERO--The Snow Farm Summer Concert Series has Blues for Breakfast at the Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery this evening at 6:30 p.m. Playing mostly "Grateful Americana," the group will mix in classic rock, reggae, Motown and originals.
      The live summer series offers a variety of music, from classical to jazz to swing to bluegrass to classic rock. Concerts are held every Thursday evening into September, weather permitting. Picnicking begins at 5 p.m. Wine and a local craft beer are available for purchase. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Click here for more info.


Thursday-Sunday, August 12-16
SOUTH HERO--The Blue Paddle on the Bay continues a summer of live music nights live music nights with Jason Lee on the Bay this evening, Troy Millette and the Fire Below on the Bay on Friday, Amerikana Blue live on Saturday on the Bay, and Jeff Shelly in the Bistro and Rik Palieri on the Bay on Sunday. Music begins at 6 p.m. each evening.
      Call 802.372.4814 for reservations or find them on Facebook for more info.


ESSEX JUNCTION--On Tap has Duncan Macleod tonight at 5:30 p.m., two shows Friday night, Chris & Erica at 5 p.m., and then the Phil Abair Band with Keeghan Nolan for late night music starting at 9 p.m., and the Trevor Ryan Duo live on Saturday night at 6 p.m. Call 802.878.3309 or email for more info. And to confirm. Click here to reserve a table.


Friday, August 13
MORRISVILLE--River Arts and Music on Main presents Chimie Bangoura and Company at the Union Bank gazebo on Friday at 5:30 p.m.
      The downtown music series is a partnership of River Arts and the Morristown Alliance for Culture and Commerce (MACC). Bring a chair, get a bite to eat from a local restaurant, and enjoy the downtown while listening to local musicians. Admission is free. Click here for more info.


MILTON--The Friday Night Live Music and Buffet at Arrowhead Golf Course presents Nobby and Slim--Scott Dubois and Nobby Reed--on the deck on Friday at 6 p.m. The tacos buffet starts around 7 p.m. Both run until 9 p.m.
      The buffet costs $12 per person ($5 for each child). You don't have to be a member; the public is welcome. Be sure to come early, usually around 6, to get a good seat.


SHELDON--The Abbey 2021 Summer Music series continues with John Gratton on the Back 40 Farm Wagon on Friday at 6:30 p.m., weather permitting or in the Pub if it rains. Find them on Facebook for more info.


ST. ALBANS--The Clothier presents the Bob Gagnon Duo next door to Twiggs for a Late Night Performance on Friday at 9 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.


Friday-Sunday, August 13-15
ST. ALBANS--Twiggs hosts Dave Miller on Friday and the Flycatchers live on Saturday night. Music starts about 6:30 p.m.
      Call 802.524.1405, find them on Facebook, or click here for more info.


Saturday, August 14
BURLINGTON--Shake will compete in the Battle of the Bands at Citizen Cider on Saturday, August 14 starting at 1 p.m. Chittenden and Franklin County favorites will battle it out for the Pine Street prize package and a year long residency as the Citizen Cider house band.
      Find them on Facebook for more info.


EAST FAIRFIELD--The live Meeting House on the Green Summer Concerts continue with Jenni Johnson and the Jazz Junketeers on Saturday at 5 p.m.
      If Ms. Johnson offered nothing more than her voice, smooth and sweet as honey, it would be plenty. But with a heart as big as that voice, she takes us on joyous world-wide musical tour with Glendon Ingalls, bass; Gus Zeising, horns, Felix Anderson, drums; and Chuck Miller, keys; the Junketeers provide impeccable support.
      Admission is by suggested donation of $10 at the door with those under 16 admitted free. Concerts are held outdoors. In case of rain, concerts are either canceled or moved indoors with mask required and limited seating available. "Grab and go" light fare will be available for sale or bring your own picnic. Call 802.827.6626 or click here for more info.


ST. ALBANS TOWN--The St. Albans Bay Farmers Market hosts Saturday Night Live with the Phil Abair Band and BonFireVT in the Town Bay Park on Saturday starting at 5 p.m. There will be food vendors and a beer tent.
      Admission is $20. Find them on Facebook for more info.


NORTH HERO--Texas singer-songwriter Shane Murley plays live in the Steamship Bar and Grill for an evening of Americana, country-folk, and alternative rock with a twist of soul-funk at North Hero House on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info. NHH has live music on Wednesday and Friday or Saturday evenings.


ST. ALBANS--Music in the Biergarten presents Troy Millette and the Fire Below at Mill River Brewing on Saturday at 6 p.m. Call to make a reservation (802.582.4182) or find them on Facebook for more info.


ST. ALBANS--Comedy at 14th Star presents Mike Fahey, Trevor Dion, and Brieana Woodward hosted by Mark-Anthony Lewis for a night of laughs in The Room on Saturday at 8 p.m. Admission is $15 with tickets available via Facebook.


Sunday, August 15
ST. ALBANS--Dennis O'Hagan's national solo/acoustic Great Brewery Tour rolls into Music in the Biergarten at Mill River Brewing on Sunday at 2 p.m. Call to make a reservation (802.582.4182) or find them on Facebook for more info.


HIGHGATE--Drummac Septic Service the All Arts Council, and the Town of Highgate continue the 30th year of Summer Sounds concerts at home in Highgate with the world famous Oleo Romeos traveling all the way from East Fairfield and points south on the new stage on the Highgate Arena lawn on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. Click here for more info.


Wednesday, August 18
ESSEX--The Essex Experience presents Trucks Taps and Tunes with family-friendly live music, cold beer, and food on the Essex Green each Wednesday at 5 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info.


NORTH HERO--The Hubcats play live in the Steamship Bar and Grill for at North Hero House on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. Find them on Facebook for more info. NHH has live music on Wednesday and Friday or Saturday evenings.


ST. ALBANS--The St. Albans Summer Concert Series presents the Old Man Garage Band in the E.A. Loomis Bandshell in Taylor Park on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. There will be no food or beverage sales this summer. Admission is free.


SOUTH HERO--The Blue Paddle Bistro continues a summer of live music with Rik Palieri on Wednesday at 6 p.m. No cover charge. Enjoy outdoor tent seating by reservation. Find them on Facebook for more info.


ESSEX--The Hubcats continue their summer residency at the Tavern at the Essex Resort on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. "Folk music without borders," the local group plays covers and original music. The evenings continue through September 1.


HUMANITIES

     The Vermont Humanities Council presents Words in the Woods with poet Sarah Audsley on the Vermont Humanities Digital Channels on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Ms. Audsley visits Taconic Mountain Ramble in Hubbarton.
      Ms. Audsley, an adoptee born in South Korea and raised in rural Vermont, lives in Johnson and works for the Vermont Studio Center. She holds an MFA in poetry from the Warren Wilson College. Admission is free. Click here or find them on Facebook or YouTube for the VHC Digital Programs content.


TRADITIONAL

     The Young Tradition-Vermont Youth Commission has finished Banish Misfortune, an EP recording with a mix of songs and instrumentals, and has started a Kickstarter campaign to pay for the recording project. They need to sell at least 100 EPs. Click here to pledge or find them on Facebook for more info.
      Save the date for their final project concert at Hotel Vermont on Saturday, August 28.


ON THE BOOKSHELF

      ArtBits features a quick weekly peek at library events in and around Franklin County. That popular feature has a page of its own at the Franklin County Bookshelf here on the AAC site at AllArtsCouncil.org/books. We also take an occasional peek at the bookshelf or night stand of the folks you know in and around Franklin County. Those reviews can be found on the ArtBits Bookshelf.


Good News!

There are so many events around the region that we miss some of them.
Be sure to check these calendars for what's happening near you ...
All Arts Council of Franklin County
Cambridge Arts Council
Franklin County Regional
Chamber of Commerce
Island Arts
St Albans Community Arts
Swanton Arts Council
Young Tradition Vermont

Music!

Links to the Summer Music series in Franklin County
Summer Sounds
Summer Music at Grace
Downtown Summer Concert Series
Music at the Meeting House
Citizens Band
Wednesday Night Live
Enosburg Town Band


SUPPORT LIVE ARTS IN YOUR TOWN!


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