Community Calendar
Music Theatre of Connecticut (MTC) MainStage, Fairfield County’s award-winning professional theatre company, concludes its 38th season with the Tony Award winning musical, La Cage Aux Folles. Glamorous, heartwarming, and full of show-stopping numbers, it’s a show you won't forget! The production runs from April 4th through the 19th with performances on Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm & 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm. There will be two Thursday performances at 7pm on April 10th and 17th.
La Cage Aux Folles tells the story of Georges and Albin, a couple who have shared 20 years of love and partnership. Their blissful life takes a chaotic turn when Georges’ son — the result of a brief fling — announces his engagement to the daughter of a staunchly conservative politician. The situation becomes even more complicated by their “family business”: a glamorous drag nightclub in St. Tropez, where Albin, under the stage name "Zaza," is the star performer. To appease the bride-to-be’s family, Georges agrees to play it straight — but Albin has a few outrageous plans of his own, leading to a cascade of hilarious and heartfelt moments.
La Cage Aux Folles
Filmmaker Gorman Bechard and editor Faith Marek have been
arguing about music and music documentaries since the day
they first met. She loves classic rock and old school
hip-hop, he loves indie guitar bands and sad girl music.
They both love David Bowie and Prince. They have a combined
many decades of listening and watching, and with the Secret
Music Documentary Society they bring their knowledge,
passion, and sarcastic barbs along, with a collection of
hand-selected favorite films, to the movie and music buffs
at Best Video.
Join us on the 4th Thursday of every month for a great
film that you probably haven’t seen, perhaps even by an
artist you don’t necessarily like. But we promise you will
be entertained!
Add to that pizza from Modern Apizza, and a beer from New
England Brewing Company (or another beverage of your choice,
if you prefer), and it’s a night out you just can’t miss.
The Secret Music Documentary Society
Shoreline Arts Alliance is hosting its 41st Annual Future Choices program, a Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition for High School Students in a new location with a new addition to the exhibit. This year’s juried art show will take place Flat Rock Gallery located at 314 Flat Rock Place in Westbrook, Suites F135 and F140 from March 28 – April 11 and April 16 – April 27. A new addition to this year’s art show will be a special exhibit of artwork submitted by art educators in our 24-town region.
Future Choices Art Exhibition
Shoreline Arts Alliance is hosting its 41st Annual Future Choices program, a Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition for High School Students in a new location with a new addition to the exhibit. This year’s juried art show will take place Flat Rock Gallery located at 314 Flat Rock Place in Westbrook, Suites F135 and F140 from March 28 – April 11 and April 16 – April 27. A new addition to this year’s art show will be a special exhibit of artwork submitted by art educators in our 24-town region.
Future Choices Art Exhibition
Shoreline Arts Alliance is hosting its 41st Annual Future Choices program, a Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition for High School Students in a new location with a new addition to the exhibit. This year’s juried art show will take place Flat Rock Gallery located at 314 Flat Rock Place in Westbrook, Suites F135 and F140 from March 28 – April 11 and April 16 – April 27. A new addition to this year’s art show will be a special exhibit of artwork submitted by art educators in our 24-town region.
Future Choices Art Exhibition
Shoreline Arts Alliance is hosting its 41st Annual Future Choices program, a Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition for High School Students in a new location with a new addition to the exhibit. This year’s juried art show will take place Flat Rock Gallery located at 314 Flat Rock Place in Westbrook, Suites F135 and F140 from March 28 – April 11 and April 16 – April 27. A new addition to this year’s art show will be a special exhibit of artwork submitted by art educators in our 24-town region.
Future Choices Art Exhibition
Call to Artists: Juried Art Show at Hygienic Art
Rotary Club of New London invites artists to participate in Opus for Peace, a juried exhibition at Hygienic Art exploring the theme of PEACE. In a world often divided, art has the power to unify, heal, and inspire. This exhibition is part of the Rotary district’s initiative, Opus for Peace—creating harmony, inspiring wellness, and embracing diversity through the fusion of the arts.
Submission Guidelines:
- Artists may submit one piece reflecting the theme PEACE.
- Artwork must be 24x36 inches.
- One piece per artist $20 submission fee.
- Receiving Dates: April 24 & 25, 12-7 PM at Hygienic Art, 79 Bank St, New London, CT.
Prizes:
1st Place: $1,000
2nd Place: $500
3rd Place:$250
Juror: Esteemed Artist and Rotary Member Marvin Espy.Exhibition
Opening: 📅 Saturday, May 3rd | 6-9 PM at Hygienic Art Free to attend.
Join us in using art as a catalyst for peace and connection. Let’s create a visual dialogue that inspires harmony and understanding. Throughout the month of May, there will be more events that unite communities, art installations that spark reflection, and performances that honor our shared humanity.
Opus for Peace; Call for Artists
May 13, 2025 · 7 p.m.
Zoom
Free
Rescheduled from January, this month's Taproom Tastings episode concludes our season.
Join co-hosts KTM&HC Chief Curator Catherine Prescott and Hendrick I. Lott House Executive Director Mary Tsaltas-Ottomanelli for a lively discussion of historic trends in food, drink, and culture.
Food has always been connected to the health and wellness of the human body—used as medicine, or as an explanation for illness. In the 19th century, there was a boom in health trends and diet fads associated with food: vegetarianism, avoidance of spices, and water-cures, to name a few. Catherine and Mary will explore why the 19th century saw such a focus on diet and wellness and look at some of the fads of the age.
Registration for Taproom Tastings is free, with a suggested donation of $10/person.
Taproom Tastings: 19th-Century Health and Wellness
Experience the gripping power of Anthony Davis's opera Amistad, a masterpiece that revives the true story of the 1839 Amistad uprising—a courageous fight for freedom that ignited a landmark legal battle in Connecticut, resonating through history. Presented by Connecticut Lyric Opera in collaboration with Harlem Opera Theater and Discovering Amistad, this visually and musically compelling production combines music, theater, and multimedia elements to bring this pivotal story to life. Join us as we explore themes of racial justice, resilience, and the enduring quest for human dignity, underscoring opera's ability to spark dialogue and reflection in today's world.
"Amistad" Opera and Community Discussion
Born in the diverse and vibrant nation of the USA, where every opportunity felt endless on one hand and yet impossible to grasp on the other, Luis Reyes has had “the privilege of living what all immigrant parents dream of for their children, and that is paving the pathway to freedom.”
His journey was uniquely shaped by the fact both of his parents were immigrants. As he was growing up, his understanding of “feeling safe” evolved beyond its dictionary definition — in addition to the challenges and triumphs of his immigrant heritage, he also faced the personal obstacle of hearing loss at an early age. While he learned to deal with this condition, he did not let him define him. Instead, it became a catalyst for personal growth and inner strength.
He transcended the challenges of being a minority, growing up in poverty, and having a hearing disability to become the first in his family to attend college, graduating with a Physical Therapist Assistant degree. He learned to embrace his unique perspective on the world and found new ways to connect with others, drawing on empathy, resilience, and the power of self-preservation to overcome adversity. Luis joined the Peak Physical Therapy team on Chase Ave in Waterbury in 2023.
Immigrant Stories: Luis Reyes
Experience the gripping power of Anthony Davis's opera Amistad, a masterpiece that revives the true story of the 1839 Amistad uprising—a courageous fight for freedom that ignited a landmark legal battle in Connecticut, resonating through history. Presented by Connecticut Lyric Opera in collaboration with Harlem Opera Theater and Discovering Amistad, this visually and musically compelling production combines music, theater, and multimedia elements to bring this pivotal story to life. Join us as we explore themes of racial justice, resilience, and the enduring quest for human dignity, underscoring opera's ability to spark dialogue and reflection in today's world.
"Amistad" Opera and Community Discussion
Rotary Districts 7950 & 7980 | May 30 – June 1, 2025 | Southbridge, MA
Step aboard the Magical Mystery Tour, Rotary’s most exhilarating and immersive experience of the year — a three-day celebration of Rotary’s impact, powered by music, peace, innovation, and human connection.
From the opening notes of a live peace-inspired keynote to the vibrant rhythm of hands-on service, this is your invitation to be inspired, ignited, and transformed by the Magic of Rotary.
🔮 What to Expect on the Tour: A Detailed Look
🎶 Friday, May 30: Discovery, Dialogue, and David LaMotte
- 3:00 – 5:00 PM — Deep Dive Workshops
- Start your weekend with a powerful series of 8 dynamic sessions designed to expand your mind and fuel your purpose. Topics include:
- Opus for Peace & Positive Peace
- Fundraising Strategies for the Future
- Artificial Intelligence & Technology in Service
- Membership Growth & Innovation
- Public Image and Impact
- Club Culture & Collaboration
- These sessions will feature thought leaders, Rotarians, and global innovators.
- 6:00 – 9:00 PM — Welcome Reception, Dinner & Keynote
- Kick off the celebration in style with a festive cocktail reception and dinner, followed by our featured keynote speaker, David LaMotte — Rotary Peace Fellow, award-winning musician, and global changemaker. Be moved by his message of peace and the power of art to transform the world.
- 9:00 – 11:00 PM — Late Night Vibes: Hospitality & Music
- Cap off the night with casual conversations, creative connections, and live music from the District 7980 Opus for Peace Band.
🕊️ Saturday, May 31: Inspiration, Interact, and Impact
- 7:30 – 9:00 AM — Community Breakfast
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fellow Rotarians before a full day of adventure.
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM — Youth Arrive & Morning Keynote
- The Parallel Interact Youth Conference kicks off!
- David LaMotte returns for a special keynote shared with both youth and adult attendees — exploring the deep intersection of music, peacebuilding, and youth leadership.
- 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM — District Breakouts
- Each district convenes separately to celebrate achievements, present awards, and build unity within their unique communities.
- 12:00 – 1:30 PM — Youth & Diversity Celebration Lunch
- Gather for a vibrant lunch honoring our youth leaders and their global perspectives. A powerful panel will discuss how young voices are shaping peace in today’s divided world.
- 1:30 – 4:00 PM — The Magical Mystery Tour in Southbridge
- Step outside for a curated experience of Southbridge’s artistic, historic, and cultural magic — plus a hands-on peace workshop focused on healing and hope through community dialogue.
- 5:30 – 6:30 PM — Cocktail Hour & PDG Gathering
- Mingle with Rotarians across districts and eras, including a special toast to our Past District Governors.
- 6:30 – 9:00 PM — Gala Awards Night & Peace Concert
- Get ready for an unforgettable evening!
- Celebrate Rotary excellence with major district awards.
- Hear from our Rotary International President’s Representative, PDG Sam Movva, on peacebuilding from District 3020, India.
- Then be blown away by the electric talent of rock violinist Daisy Jopling as she and her band ignite the night in a spectacular performance weaving music, storytelling, and Rotary’s global mission.
- 9:00 – 11:00 PM — Hospitality Suites Reopen
- More music, more mingling, more Rotary magic.
🌅 Sunday, June 1: Reflection and Renewal
- 8:30 – 9:15 AM — Memorial Service
- A quiet moment of reverence as we remember the Rotarians we’ve lost and honor their legacy of service.
- 9:15 – 10:00 AM — Breakfast & Fellowship
- Reconnect and reflect over breakfast with newfound friends.
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM — Master Service & Peace Project
- Before heading home, join together in service — supporting the Southbridge community through a meaningful, hands-on project that embodies Rotary’s heart: Service Above Self.
💫 Don’t Miss Your Seat on the Tour!
Whether you're a club leader, a new member, or a young changemaker, this weekend will connect your heart to Rotary’s purpose in bold, new ways. Space is limited — register now and experience the Magic of Rotary!
🌀 Register Today
📍 May 30 – June 1, 2025
📍 Southbridge, Massachusetts
Embark on a Weekend of Wonder: The Magical Mystery Tour District Conference
Rotary Districts 7950 & 7980 | May 30 – June 1, 2025 | Southbridge, MA
Step aboard the Magical Mystery Tour, Rotary’s most exhilarating and immersive experience of the year — a three-day celebration of Rotary’s impact, powered by music, peace, innovation, and human connection.
From the opening notes of a live peace-inspired keynote to the vibrant rhythm of hands-on service, this is your invitation to be inspired, ignited, and transformed by the Magic of Rotary.
🔮 What to Expect on the Tour: A Detailed Look
🎶 Friday, May 30: Discovery, Dialogue, and David LaMotte
- 3:00 – 5:00 PM — Deep Dive Workshops
- Start your weekend with a powerful series of 8 dynamic sessions designed to expand your mind and fuel your purpose. Topics include:
- Opus for Peace & Positive Peace
- Fundraising Strategies for the Future
- Artificial Intelligence & Technology in Service
- Membership Growth & Innovation
- Public Image and Impact
- Club Culture & Collaboration
- These sessions will feature thought leaders, Rotarians, and global innovators.
- 6:00 – 9:00 PM — Welcome Reception, Dinner & Keynote
- Kick off the celebration in style with a festive cocktail reception and dinner, followed by our featured keynote speaker, David LaMotte — Rotary Peace Fellow, award-winning musician, and global changemaker. Be moved by his message of peace and the power of art to transform the world.
- 9:00 – 11:00 PM — Late Night Vibes: Hospitality & Music
- Cap off the night with casual conversations, creative connections, and live music from the District 7980 Opus for Peace Band.
🕊️ Saturday, May 31: Inspiration, Interact, and Impact
- 7:30 – 9:00 AM — Community Breakfast
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fellow Rotarians before a full day of adventure.
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM — Youth Arrive & Morning Keynote
- The Parallel Interact Youth Conference kicks off!
- David LaMotte returns for a special keynote shared with both youth and adult attendees — exploring the deep intersection of music, peacebuilding, and youth leadership.
- 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM — District Breakouts
- Each district convenes separately to celebrate achievements, present awards, and build unity within their unique communities.
- 12:00 – 1:30 PM — Youth & Diversity Celebration Lunch
- Gather for a vibrant lunch honoring our youth leaders and their global perspectives. A powerful panel will discuss how young voices are shaping peace in today’s divided world.
- 1:30 – 4:00 PM — The Magical Mystery Tour in Southbridge
- Step outside for a curated experience of Southbridge’s artistic, historic, and cultural magic — plus a hands-on peace workshop focused on healing and hope through community dialogue.
- 5:30 – 6:30 PM — Cocktail Hour & PDG Gathering
- Mingle with Rotarians across districts and eras, including a special toast to our Past District Governors.
- 6:30 – 9:00 PM — Gala Awards Night & Peace Concert
- Get ready for an unforgettable evening!
- Celebrate Rotary excellence with major district awards.
- Hear from our Rotary International President’s Representative, PDG Sam Movva, on peacebuilding from District 3020, India.
- Then be blown away by the electric talent of rock violinist Daisy Jopling as she and her band ignite the night in a spectacular performance weaving music, storytelling, and Rotary’s global mission.
- 9:00 – 11:00 PM — Hospitality Suites Reopen
- More music, more mingling, more Rotary magic.
🌅 Sunday, June 1: Reflection and Renewal
- 8:30 – 9:15 AM — Memorial Service
- A quiet moment of reverence as we remember the Rotarians we’ve lost and honor their legacy of service.
- 9:15 – 10:00 AM — Breakfast & Fellowship
- Reconnect and reflect over breakfast with newfound friends.
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM — Master Service & Peace Project
- Before heading home, join together in service — supporting the Southbridge community through a meaningful, hands-on project that embodies Rotary’s heart: Service Above Self.
💫 Don’t Miss Your Seat on the Tour!
Whether you're a club leader, a new member, or a young changemaker, this weekend will connect your heart to Rotary’s purpose in bold, new ways. Space is limited — register now and experience the Magic of Rotary!
🌀 Register Today
📍 May 30 – June 1, 2025
📍 Southbridge, Massachusetts
Embark on a Weekend of Wonder: The Magical Mystery Tour District Conference
Rotary Districts 7950 & 7980 | May 30 – June 1, 2025 | Southbridge, MA
Step aboard the Magical Mystery Tour, Rotary’s most exhilarating and immersive experience of the year — a three-day celebration of Rotary’s impact, powered by music, peace, innovation, and human connection.
From the opening notes of a live peace-inspired keynote to the vibrant rhythm of hands-on service, this is your invitation to be inspired, ignited, and transformed by the Magic of Rotary.
🔮 What to Expect on the Tour: A Detailed Look
🎶 Friday, May 30: Discovery, Dialogue, and David LaMotte
- 3:00 – 5:00 PM — Deep Dive Workshops
- Start your weekend with a powerful series of 8 dynamic sessions designed to expand your mind and fuel your purpose. Topics include:
- Opus for Peace & Positive Peace
- Fundraising Strategies for the Future
- Artificial Intelligence & Technology in Service
- Membership Growth & Innovation
- Public Image and Impact
- Club Culture & Collaboration
- These sessions will feature thought leaders, Rotarians, and global innovators.
- 6:00 – 9:00 PM — Welcome Reception, Dinner & Keynote
- Kick off the celebration in style with a festive cocktail reception and dinner, followed by our featured keynote speaker, David LaMotte — Rotary Peace Fellow, award-winning musician, and global changemaker. Be moved by his message of peace and the power of art to transform the world.
- 9:00 – 11:00 PM — Late Night Vibes: Hospitality & Music
- Cap off the night with casual conversations, creative connections, and live music from the District 7980 Opus for Peace Band.
🕊️ Saturday, May 31: Inspiration, Interact, and Impact
- 7:30 – 9:00 AM — Community Breakfast
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fellow Rotarians before a full day of adventure.
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM — Youth Arrive & Morning Keynote
- The Parallel Interact Youth Conference kicks off!
- David LaMotte returns for a special keynote shared with both youth and adult attendees — exploring the deep intersection of music, peacebuilding, and youth leadership.
- 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM — District Breakouts
- Each district convenes separately to celebrate achievements, present awards, and build unity within their unique communities.
- 12:00 – 1:30 PM — Youth & Diversity Celebration Lunch
- Gather for a vibrant lunch honoring our youth leaders and their global perspectives. A powerful panel will discuss how young voices are shaping peace in today’s divided world.
- 1:30 – 4:00 PM — The Magical Mystery Tour in Southbridge
- Step outside for a curated experience of Southbridge’s artistic, historic, and cultural magic — plus a hands-on peace workshop focused on healing and hope through community dialogue.
- 5:30 – 6:30 PM — Cocktail Hour & PDG Gathering
- Mingle with Rotarians across districts and eras, including a special toast to our Past District Governors.
- 6:30 – 9:00 PM — Gala Awards Night & Peace Concert
- Get ready for an unforgettable evening!
- Celebrate Rotary excellence with major district awards.
- Hear from our Rotary International President’s Representative, PDG Sam Movva, on peacebuilding from District 3020, India.
- Then be blown away by the electric talent of rock violinist Daisy Jopling as she and her band ignite the night in a spectacular performance weaving music, storytelling, and Rotary’s global mission.
- 9:00 – 11:00 PM — Hospitality Suites Reopen
- More music, more mingling, more Rotary magic.
🌅 Sunday, June 1: Reflection and Renewal
- 8:30 – 9:15 AM — Memorial Service
- A quiet moment of reverence as we remember the Rotarians we’ve lost and honor their legacy of service.
- 9:15 – 10:00 AM — Breakfast & Fellowship
- Reconnect and reflect over breakfast with newfound friends.
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM — Master Service & Peace Project
- Before heading home, join together in service — supporting the Southbridge community through a meaningful, hands-on project that embodies Rotary’s heart: Service Above Self.
💫 Don’t Miss Your Seat on the Tour!
Whether you're a club leader, a new member, or a young changemaker, this weekend will connect your heart to Rotary’s purpose in bold, new ways. Space is limited — register now and experience the Magic of Rotary!
🌀 Register Today
📍 May 30 – June 1, 2025
📍 Southbridge, Massachusetts
