During Black History Month, the Zebra Gallery will present, “Faces of Us,” a poignant exploration of humanity through the lens of human faces. Each piece in the show captures the subtle complexities of emotion, identity, and connection, inviting viewers to reflect on the shared experiences that unite us all. The show will open at a reception on February 14 from 5 to 7 p.m. and will be displayed through March.

Artists included in the show include Bondu Deji, Tobi Adebisi, Lana Frey, April Claggett, Quadri Afis Enitan, Victor Popoola, Adam Himoff, Susan Fay Schauer, Gabriel Lehman, Jack Knight, Adam Henderson, Ula Buka, and Joanna Jago.  These artists use diverse mediums and styles to depict faces that transcend individual boundaries, revealing universal expressions of love, longing, joy, and vulnerability. Whether abstract or realistic, these portraits remind us that behind every face is a story, and regardless of background or circumstance, all people are bound by the same fundamental humanity.

“In a world often divided by differences, this collection stands as a powerful testament to the enduring truth that love, compassion, and empathy are what truly define us as human beings. Through these intimate depictions, the show calls on us to see not only the faces in front of us, but the shared humanity within,” adds Susan Schauer John, owner of the Zebra Gallery.

Through the vibrant tapestry of emotions and experiences, Serene Reflections, by artist Tobi Adebisi, explores the quiet strength of looking inward. The radiant colors in this mixed media piece made with thread, sand, and acrylic paint celebrate self-discovery, while the gentle pose speaks to the tranquility of embracing one’s true essence.

The Zebra Gallery address is 5 N Harrison Street, Easton, MD (across the street from the Historic Tidewater Inn). For further information, visit https://www.thezebragallery.com.

Allegro Academy invites you to escape to an intimate evening of music and poetry this February by attending Where the Light Begins: A Winter Concert Experience.  

The concert fundraising event will feature the Allegra! Women’s Chorus performing Song of the Universal, a brilliant setting of the poem from Walt Whitman for choir, piano and string orchestra.  Walt Whitman’s unabashed optimism, exuberance, and unwavering confidence in our deeper humanity is beautifully portrayed through music in Ola Gjeilo’s setting of the text. The program will also include additional music from Gjeillo along with Hildegard of Bingen, Edward Elgar, Michael John Trotta, Elaine Hagenburg and Susan LaBarr including the title piece, Where the Light Begins.  A variety of styles will be represented from a cappella chant, to violin duets, and percussion accompaniments. 

Where the Light Begins will take place at the Academy Art Museum, 106 South Street, Easton on February 22 with performances at 5:30, 6:45, and 8 pm.  Guests are asked to purchase tickets for either performance time, and are encouraged to enjoy the complimentary champagne, lite fare, and student performances to take place throughout the evening.  Doors will open at 5pm and a cash bar will remain open for the duration of the performances. Tickets and information can be found at www.allegroacademyeaston.com.

Allegro Academy, a non-profit music conservatory located in downtown Easton, connects musicians through workshops, lessons, ensembles, and performances, and aspires to enrich the lives of music enthusiasts of all ages and incomes in our community. Academy Programs are supported in part by generous contributions from individuals, Talbot Arts, the Mid-Shore Community Foundation, and the Maryland State Arts Council.

 

Improv Easton is thrilled to announce two interactive evening workshops in Easton open to all members of the community. These free events are designed for individuals who are new to the world of improv and seek a fun and engaging environment to learn and grow.

No prior experience in comedy or theater is required. The workshops will be led by experienced improvisers who have direct experience applying skills from improv to their professional and volunteer roles. The instructors will guide participants through a series of group exercises and games. Participants can expect to laugh, learn, and connect with others in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.

On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, the troupe is offering Improv for People Who Work with People. This interactive session will explore how improv techniques can promote adaptability, improve active listening skills, and foster collaboration in various settings. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/Jan28TryImprov

Improv for Educators on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, will delve into how improv can be integrated into the classroom and other teaching spaces to boost engagement, encourage creative thinking, and create a more dynamic learning environment. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/Feb11TryImprov

Improvisational theatre is not only for performers— improv skills have been shown to have wide-ranging benefits beyond the stage, helping players in personal and work settings.  Participants will have the chance to practice skills like quick thinking, adaptability, and positive interaction through playful activities.

Spaces are limited! To secure a spot for either of the events, register at the links above.

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About Improv Easton

Improv Easton’s mission is to provide opportunities for creative connection in our community through the art of improv comedy. Since 2019, the troupe has been meeting weekly to play improv games, develop scenes, and hone their craft. Improv Easton is a fund of the Mid Shore Community Foundation.

For more information about Improv Easton or upcoming events, follow them on Facebook and Instagram, or email [email protected].

Tred Avon Players is thrilled to kick off its 2025 season with Neil Simon’s classic comedy, PLAZA SUITE. Directed by Ed Langrell, Angel Perez and Maureen Curtin, the production runs from February 13-23, 2025 at the Oxford Community Center. Season passes and individual show tickets are available at www.tredavonplayers.org.

Set in the luxurious Suite 719 of New York City’s iconic Plaza Hotel, PLAZA SUITE unfolds across three acts, each featuring a different couple navigating the complexities of love, life, and relationships.

In the first act, Karen and Sam, a long-married couple, revisit the suite where they spent their honeymoon, only to find their relationship may be on the rocks. Act two follows Muriel and Jesse, former high school sweethearts who reconnect in Suite 719, seemingly rekindling old flames. The final act introduces Norma and Roy, frazzled parents of the bride, desperately trying to coax their daughter out of the bathroom on her wedding day. Each story delivers its own unique blend of humor, heartache, and surprising revelations about love, reminding audiences of the unpredictable nature of relationships.

The talented cast includes new and returning actors to the TAP stage: Melissa Barcomb-Doyle (Karen Nash), Dean Goodwin (Sam Nash), Joseph Spain IV (Bellhop/Borden Eisler), Michelle Spain (Waiter), Leigh Marquess (Jean McCormack), Charles Ulveling (Jessie Kiplinger), Mary Ann Emerson (Muriel Tate), Susan Patterson (Norma Hubley), Brian McGunigle (Roy Hubley) and Jackie Royer (Mimsey Hubley).

PLAZA SUITE opens on Thursday, February 13 and runs for seven performances through Sunday, February 23. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday afternoons are at 2:00 p.m. at the Oxford Community Center, 200 Oxford Rd in Oxford. Tickets are adults $25 / students $15 (fees included). Preview Night (February 13) and Sunday matinees sell out quickly!

Stay out of the cold and enjoy this warm-hearted comedy that promises to captivate and entertain with its sharp dialogue, relatable characters, and timeless themes! Seating is limited—buy your tickets now! www.tredavonplayers.org

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About Tred Avon Players

Founded in 1982, the Tred Avon Players is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to enrich, educate and entertain its community by providing a high-quality theater experience. Hundreds of local performers, stagehands, audience members and donors have been the backbone of its success throughout the decades. To learn how you can get involved and to purchase tickets for upcoming shows, visit www.tredavonplayers.org and follow Facebook and Instagram.

CARPE DIEM!  ARTS ALIVE!

SECOND TUESDAYS: FREE LUNCH-TIME PERFORMANCE SERIES

Talbot County Senior Center at Brookletts Place

400 Brookletts Ave., Easton, MD

Kicking Off the Arts Alive Series: January to May 2025

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

12:15-1:00pm

Glenn Pearson and Jeff Cooper:

Favorites from the American Songbook!

 

Glenn Pearson (piano and vocals) and Jeff Cooper (bass) will present popular swing and jazz standards, and favorite show tunes.  The two have been friends and professional musicians for over 40 years. After meeting in high school they formed a band and later attended Peabody Conservatory. Jeff focused on musical theater while Glenn concentrated on piano performance. Their true passion is engaging audiences with their talent, wit, and style, and sharing their love for iconic American music. Performance highlights include the Kennedy Center, National and Ford’s theaters, Wolf Trap, the Smithsonian, and on Broadway. Glenn has also performed at the White House for many Presidents over the past four decades, as well as countless embassies, galleries and museums. 

Carpe Diem Arts is pleased to join forces again with the Talbot County Senior Center to present the popular free lunch-time concert series at Brookletts Place in Easton (400 Brookletts Ave.)

Performances are scheduled on the Second Tuesdays of the month–through May 2025. Mark your calendars for a stellar winter and spring line-up.  Check out the flyer and list below.

The lunchtime concerts take place at Brookletts Place, 400 Brookletts Ave., Easton, Maryland and are free and open to the public. The program is welcoming of all ages: seniors and families, home-schoolers, community groups, retirees. It’s also the perfect lunchtime break for local office workers.  A lovely venue for a memorable 45-minute mid-day concert.

NOTE: Lunch is available at 12 noon for $2.75 with reservations two weeks in advance.

RSVP: Makayla Cisco– 410-822-2869 / [email protected]

Winter/Spring 2025 Concert Schedule

Jan 14–Glenn Pearson and Jeff Cooper: From the American Songbook

Feb 11–Karen Somerville Trio: Tribute to Billie Holiday

Mar 11– Song Riot: Gabe Hutter, Paul Oorts, Christopher Brown 

Apr 8–Veronneau: Lynn Veronneau and Ken Avis

May 13–Janie Meneely and Rob Van Sante with Chris Noyes

Tred Avon Players (TAP) invites actors of all experience levels to audition for THE MAN FROM EARTH, a thought-provoking drama by Richard Schenkman. Based on the book by Jerome Bixby and directed by Cecile Storm, the production will run for seven performances from April 17–27, 2025, at the Oxford Community Center.

AUDITION DATES AND TIMES

• Tue, Jan 14 at 6:30 pm
• Wed, Jan 15 at 6:30 pm

AUDITION LOCATION
Avalon Theater
40 E. Dover Street, Easton, MD

PLAY SUMMARY
After history professor John Oldman unexpectedly resigns from the University, his startled colleagues impulsively invite themselves to his home, pressing him for an explanation. But they’re shocked to hear his reason for premature retirement: John claims he must move on because he is immortal, and cannot stay in one place for more than ten years without his secret being discovered. Tempers rise and emotions flow as John’s fellow professors attempt to poke holes in his story, but it soon becomes clear that his tale is as impossible to disprove as it is to verify. What starts out as a friendly gathering soon builds to an unexpected and shattering climax. Acclaimed science fiction writer Jerome Bixby, writer of the original ‘Star Trek’ and ‘The Twilight Zone’, originally conceived this story back in the early 1960’s. It would become his last great work.

 

CASTING

TAP will be casting 10 roles. All ages, genders, ethnicities, body types, abilities, and skill levels are welcome to audition and will be considered for roles.

• John: A history professor who resigns from his job to move to a new home. He claims to be immortal and must move every ten years to avoid being discovered.
• Harry: A biology professor.
• Edith: An art history professor.
• Dan: An anthropologist.
• Sandy: A historian who is in love with John.
• Art: An archaeology professor.
• Linda: A young student.
• Will: A psychiatrist and physician.
• Two Movers that will double as our orchestra.

Readings will be selected scenes from the script provided during the audition. You can reach director Cecile Storm by emailing [email protected] for any special accommodations.

 

PRODUCTION CREW

TAP also needs a production crew – sets, lights, sound, costumes, and stage crew. If you are interested, come to any audition to find out more information or send an email to [email protected].

ABOUT TRED AVON PLAYERS

Founded in 1982, the Tred Avon Players is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to enrich, educate and entertain its community by providing a high-quality theater experience. Hundreds of local performers, stagehands, audience members and donors have been the backbone of its success throughout the decades. To learn how you can get involved and to purchase tickets for upcoming shows, visit www.tredavonplayers.org and follow Facebook and Instagram.

The Bookplate is concluding their 2024 season of author events with Maryland author Josh Pons on Wednesday, December 18th. Guests are welcome to join Josh and the Bookplate staff for a reading and book signing at 6pm at The Kitchen at the Imperial Hotel. 

In 2016, Josh Pons discovered thousands of letters from his grandfather Adolphe Pons’ life in the Thoroughbred horse business. The son of a French cook in the Gilded Age mansions of banker August Belmont II, Pons immigrated to New York City at the age of five in 1888. In time, he became Belmont’s personal secretary and played a major role in Belmont’s breeding and sale of the most famous horse in history: Man o’ War. During the Great Depression, Adolphe left New York and bought a hundred-acre horse farm in Maryland, naming it Country Life.  

  In expanded form, Josh Pons draws upon the popular column he wrote for three years for BloodHorse magazine, inviting readers along as he unearths long-lost voices of Gilded Age tycoons, their voices speaking out of century-old letters, telegrams, their images in never-before-seen photos. What results is an epic story set against the backdrop of World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II.  This is a fascinating chronicle and fresh look at the Golden Age of Horse Racing and how the past influences our present.

“Letters from Country Life is an essential read for anyone who enjoys Thoroughbred racing, farm life, horses, and fascinating American history.” – Brien Bouyea

“A horseman and writer with the soul of a poet.” – Edward L. Bowen

Josh Pons won two Eclipse Awards for his journalism in BloodHorse, presented for best stories of the year in the sport of Thoroughbred racing. He is the author of three books published by Eclipse Press: Country Life Diary: Three Years in the Life of a Maryland Horse Farm, which sold 10,000 copies; Merryland: Two Years in the Life of a Thoroughbred Training Farm (available now in its second printing) and the just-released Letters from Country Life: Adolphe Pons, Man o’ War, and the Founding of Maryland’s Oldest Thoroughbred Farm. 

 
Pons joined BloodHorse upon graduation from the University of Virginia, where he majored in English. After three years as a journalist, he entered the University of Kentucky Law School, graduating in 1982, then he returned to his family’s Country Life Farm. Professionally, he is president of the Maryland Horse Library and Education Center and Vice President of the Maryland Horse Breeders Association. He along with his brother Mike operate Country Life Farm, a full-service Thoroughbred farm specializing in breeding and racing partnerships. He and his wife, Ellen, live in Fallston, Maryland, on Country Life, together with an extended Pons family of all ages. 

For more event details, or to reserve your seats, contact The Bookplate at 410-778-4167 or [email protected]. These events are free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended. The Kitchen at The Imperial is located at 208 High Street in Chestertown. The Bookplate will continue their author event series in 2025.