Tag: Connecticut Travel

Jam @ the Dam – July 15 – Tickets on Sale Now!

Many of us are fond of live music. The chills that go down our spine when we hear that one lyric live, that is meaningful to us, or when our favorite artist takes the stage is so exciting. There is nothing like that feeling! With that in mind, local businessman, George Zwally, owner of Z-Topia Entertainment has organized the state’s newest family-friendly extravaganza, Jam at the Dam. This event is taking place on Saturday, July 15 from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 1545 Monroe Tpke. at the site of the Old Stevenson Dam/lumber yard in Monroe.

The Dynamic Duo- Thompson Square

Zwally has always enjoyed giving back to the local community and thought that this massive piece of property would be the perfect spot for an event that offers fun for the entire family. “I want this to be one of the most fun and approachable festivals in the state. I wanted to create an event that offers audiences the chance to see world-class acts in a relaxed setting, and one that won’t break the bank,” said Zwally. “I want to offer folks a wide-ranging potpourri of music, food, and rides that will be uplifting. I think it is so special to be able to gather together in one place to celebrate music, our town, and our heritage with friends, new and old,” added Zwally.

Hitmaker- John Waite

In addition to performances by local bands, the star-studded entertainment line-up won’t disappoint. The Jam will kick off at 6 p.m. with a performance by John Waite who will be performing his catalogue of hits from his 40-year career as a solo artist. Get ready to get up and dance to some of the most loved songs from the 1980s and 1990s like #1 Worldwide hit ‘Missing You’, The Baby’s, ‘Isn’t It Time,’ “Bad English,” and ‘When I See You Smile.’ Waite’s impressive performance includes everything from power ballads to new-wave-styled pop that will have you rocking.

John Waite performs so many hits!

At 8 p.m., the headliner, Thompson Square, takes the stage. This famous Nashville, Grammy Nominated dynamic duo of Keifer and Shawna Thompson has won multiple awards and appeared on many primetime TV specials. They’ve been praised as “remarkable” by Taste of Country, “deeply personal and emotional” by Sounds Like Nashville, and “vivacious” by Rolling Stone. One thing that has resonated with audiences around the world is the connection that this husband and wife team has with each other. Their music radiates with an intensity that draws audiences in. Gorgeous vocals, and heartfelt lyrics that give the music a timeless quality and country feel are highlights of their performance which includes their hits like “Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not,” “If I Didn’t Have You,” and “Everything I Shouldn’t Be Thinking About.” Thompson Square’s openness with their audience makes them one of the most intimate acts today, and one that is hard to forget.

Come Join the Fun @ Jam at the Dam

In addition to the exciting music line-up, there will be a beer and wine garden for those that work up a thirst as well as a variety of food trucks that are sure to please almost any palate. Remember to bring your lawn chair and sit back and relax @ Jam at the Dam.

Tickets are going fast for this sell-out event and are now available online at https://www.jamatthedam.com and at the gate the day of the event. Tickets cost $45 and include full access to the concerts. Children 13 and under are free with one paying adult. Food trucks and the beer and wine garden are at an additional cost. Free parking is available at 421 Old Zoar Road in Monroe.

If you’re looking for great food, tasty brews, world-class music, and outdoor fun for the whole family, head to “Jam at the Dam” on Saturday, July 15th.

JanetLeave a comment

Gary LeVox Lead Singer for Rascal Flatts Headlines 45th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival

The Seaport Association is proud to announce that at the 45th Norwalk Oyster Festival Gary LeVox, Lead Singer for the contemporary country music band Rascal Flatts will Headline the 45th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival. This year the festival will take place on Friday, September 8, Saturday, September 9, and Sunday, September 10. On Saturday, September 9th, LeVox will perform countless #1 Rascal Flatts hits and some new music too.

“We are so excited to bring Gary LeVox, a world-class entertainer to the Norwalk Oyster Festival to help us celebrate our 45th annual Festival,” says, Mike Reilly, Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival, and President of the Norwalk Seaport Association. “Mr. Levox’s award-winning songs and legendary voice promise guests a show with all the hits that people love from Rascal Flatts plus some new stuff that they haven’t heard yet, making this performance one they will remember for years,” Reilly continued.

Gary LeVox along with bandmates Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney, founded Rascal Flatts in 2000, and they went on to enjoy one of the most successful careers in modern country music. Infusing the genre’s traditional sound with massive pop hooks, rock showmanship, and faithful positivity, they scored 17 No. 1 singles and sold over 23 million albums, while also selling more than 11 million concert tickets and earning 40+ awards-show trophies – making them the most awarded country group of the last decade.

After 20 years as frontman, Gary LeVox is embarking on a solo chapter. His debut single “The Distance” is one of five songs on LeVox’s debut solo collection ONE ON ONE (Big Machine Records), which includes multiple compelling collaborations. LeVox followed the release of ONE ON ONE with “We Got Fight,” a song featured as the coveted end credit in Netflix’s film The Ice Road. LeVox has recently released his first solo country single, “Get Down Like That,” and plans to release more new music this year.

Now in its 45th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the maintenance and care of Sheffield Island Lighthouse, a historic site on the National Register. The three-day Norwalk Oyster Festival which takes place on 42 Seaview Ave. in Veterans Park in Norwalk is held every September to celebrate the maritime heritage of Norwalk. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for its music, its wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village. The festival is taking place on Friday, September 8, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 9, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 10, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Rain or Shine. For tickets visit http://www.seaport.org

The Festival volunteer organizers would like to thank all those that sponsor this event, including First County Bank, the Presenting Sponsor that helps to make this fundraising event possible.

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Liz Callaway to perform Broadway Rhapsody on July 1 with Sherman Chamber Ensemble in New Milford

The Sherman Chamber Ensemble announces a special event that music lovers won’t want to miss! This unique concert will showcase the cultural richness and diversity of American music, bringing together two of the most beloved genres – the timeless melodies of Broadway tunes and the iconic sounds of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue – in a stunning performance. It will be an unforgettable evening.

BROADWAY RHAPSODY, a night filled with iconic and timeless Broadway hits featuring the incredible Liz Callaway will take place on Saturday, July 1 at 7 pm at the Maguire Auditorium at Canterbury School in New Milford.

The Ensemble’s Executive Director Liba Furhman said, “Get ready for an evening of unbeatable music! Liz is a superstar, and has a unique ability to captivate the audience and make them feel like they are a part of the experience.”

In addition, Furhman said that following the performance, audience members can “go down the hill from Canterbury and enjoy the fireworks in downtown New Milford to top off the night!”

Callaway is an award-winning actress, singer, and recording artist, who has graced Broadway stages in Miss Saigon, Cats, and Baby. She is well-known as the singing voice of Kiara in The Lion King II, Princess Jasmine in the Aladdin sequels, and Anya in the Oscar-nominated film Anastasia.

Callaway has an international following and is in demand, traveling extensively from coast to coast. Her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence is drawing in crowds and leaving them wanting more.

The concert will showcase George Gershwin’s masterpiece, Rhapsody in Blue from the Jazz Age of the 1920’s – one of the most recognizable and beloved compositions. The Ensemble is excited to give their audience the opportunity to experience noted pianist Ted Rosenthal’s unique take on its timeless magic.

Joining Callaway and Rosenthal are Susan Rotholz (flute), Michael Roth and Jane Chung (violin), Sarah Adams (viola), David Bailen (double bass) and Artistic Director Eliot Bailen (cello). Together, they’ll transport you to the world of Broadway with their renditions of some of the most beloved songs of all time.

General Admission tickets are $45, and include an After Concert Toast. Children ages 15 and under are admitted free.

In addition, premium tiers of seating including Patron and Maestro, start at $125 and $250 respectively and include Reserved Seating and a Pre-Concert Celebration, kicking off at 6 pm.
Tickets may be purchased online at www.SCEmusic.org. General Admission tickets will be available at the door. For information or reservations call 860-355-5930 or email info@SCEmusic.org.

Beethoven’s contributions to classical music are immeasurable, and his legacy is still felt today. The Ensemble will showcase some of his greatest works at a pre-season “All Beethoven” concert on Saturday, June 17, 7:30 pm at the JCC in Sherman. The program includes a Duet with Two Eyeglasses for viola and cello, Serenade for flute, violin and viola, and Trio in C Minor, Op. 9 No. 3. Performers are Susan Rotholz on flute, Doori Na on violin, Sarah Adams on viola, and Eliot Bailen on cello.

On August 11 at St. Andrews Church in Kent, and August 12 at the JCC in Sherman, at 7:30, the Ensemble will present “Lullabies and Dreams.” The program includes Lullaby for String Quartet by George Gershwin, Lyric for Strings, by George Walker, Quintet in A Major, Op. 51 For flute, violin, two violas and cello, by Friedrich Kulau and String Quartet in G minor, Op. 10, by Claude Debussy. Featuring Susan Rotholz (flute), Doori Na (violin), Lis Perry (violin), Richard Wolfe (viola), Eliot Bailen (cello)

The summer season ends with “Gone Fishing” on Friday, September 1, at St Andrew’s Church in Kent and Saturday, September 2, at the Lake Mauweehoo Club, at 7:30 pm. Selected works include Five Pieces for flute, violin and piano by Dmitri Shostakovich, A Fish Will Rise for flute, clarinet and piano by Chris Rogerson, Techno Parade for flute, clarinet and piano by Guillaume Connesson and Trout Quintet in A Major, D-667 by Franz Schubert. Performers are Susan Rotholz (flute), Alan Kay (clarinet), Doori Na (violin), Margaret Kampmeier (piano), Sarah Adams (viola), Eliot Bailen (cello), Peter Weitzner (bass)

Tickets for these concerts are $25 and children ages 15 and under are admitted free. A three-concert subscription is also available. To download the complete season schedule and purchase tickets, visit http://www.SCEmusic.org.

ABOUT THE SHERMAN CHAMBER ENSEMBLE
World Class Music, Close to Home
Founded in 1982 by cellist Eliot Bailen, Artistic Director, and flutist Susan Rotholz, the Sherman Chamber Ensemble offers a year-round schedule of performances for all ages at venues in Connecticut and New York.

Guided by its mission to bring world class musicians to our communities and schools to perform a diverse range of music with an approach that is intimate and inclusive, the SCE has been described by The New York Times as “about as close as it gets to the Platonic ideal of a chamber music concert.”

SCE’s music spans from Baroque to contemporary classics, including a summer chamber music series, educational activities and a year-round slate of musical events showcasing the best of live musical performance, from classical to bluegrass to jazz – plus children’s and family concerts, school residencies and pop/rock coffeehouses.

In addition to concert subscription and ticket sales, support comes from private foundations, local businesses and many generous individual donors as well as the State of Connecticut Department of Community and Economic Development Office of the Arts, from CT Humanities and from the NW CT Arts Council.

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Wine, Cheese & Art Please @ the Glebe House in Woodbury

It is hard to resist a glass of fine wine in a beautiful garden on a perfect summer evening, but when you add the unique visions of local artists Cynthia M. Gillette and Viktoria Stockmal it becomes an event to delight all of the senses. The Glebe House Museum’s festive new fundraiser “Wine, Cheese & Art Please” in the Gertrude Jekyll Garden on Hollow Road in Woodbury on Saturday, June 3rd (Rain Date: July 8th) from 6:00 to 8:00 pm promises to be a pleasurable event.

Surrounded by bursts of summer flowers and local artists sharing their unique talents, guests can sample delectable chesses from New Curds on the Block and fresh hand-cut seafood from To the Gills. Hors d’oeuvres and wine, including Walker Road Vineyard’s Gertrude’s Garden, will also be served.

Guests will have the opportunity to purchase art pieces from the artists, as well as participate in a silent auction of very special items chosen for this event. The museum will be open for the evening.

Tickets for the garden party are $30 per person and all proceeds will support the Glebe House Museum & Gertrude Jekyll Garden.
For online ticket sales by credit card & more information see the website at www.glebehousemuseum.org . To reserve tickets by check/cash, please call or email the Museum Director at 203-263-2855 / office@glebehousemuseum.org

Set in the picturesque Litchfield Hills in historic Woodbury’s village center, the museum welcomes visitors for a glimpse of Revolutionary War-era Connecticut. The simple but elegant 18th-century farmhouse is furnished as the home of the Reverend John Rutgers Marshall and his family who lived in the “glebe” during the turmoil of the American War for Independence. The Glebe House was restored in 1923 under the direction of Henry Watson Kent, pioneer of early American decorative arts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. One of the early historic house museums in the country, The Glebe House opened its doors to the public in 1925 and is celebrating its 98th anniversary this season.

In 1926, the famed English horticultural designer and writer, Gertrude Jekyll, was commissioned to plan an “old-fashioned” garden to enhance the newly created museum. Ms. Jekyll had a profound influence on modern garden design and is widely considered the greatest gardener of the 20th century. Although a small garden, when compared with the 400 more elaborate designs she completed in England and on the Continent, the Glebe House garden includes 350 feet of classic English-style mixed border with sweeps of red, yellow, and gold and cool waves of lavender and blue hues. It is the only remaining example of her work in the United States today and is currently in year two of a full restoration.

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Join the Flock – Go On A Birding Safari with the Norwalk Seaport Association

There is nothing that says summer like a birding safari with the <a href="http://There is nothing that says summer like a birding safari with the Norwalk Seaport Association. Birding cruises are one of the most popular excursions operated by the Seaport Association because it brings adults and children up close to birds in their maritime natural habitat. Adding to the fun is the fact that Long Island Sound is a birding hot spot in Connecticut, a state that is rich in birdlife with more than 430 different species to spot.

Regardless if you are a veteran or novice birding enthusiast this cruise is an ideal way to add seabirds to your list. This year, the Seaport’s vessel, the C.J. Toth, a 49- passenger vessel will head out at 8 a.m. and return to the dock at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 28, and Sunday, June 4, 11, and 18. This guided bird cruise is ideal for adults and children because it is a fun and educational way to experience nature.

Passengers on this eco-styled guided bird cruise are being led by birding enthusiast, James Leone, who has been birding for six-plus years. Leone is extremely knowledgeable about the identification status and distribution of birds in Connecticut and, specifically in Long Island Sound. “I am looking forward to helping people spot as many birds as they can and sharing my knowledge about their habitat, needs, and importance to the eco-system. I have identified 330 species of birds in Connecticut, and 300 birds in Fairfield County alone,” says Leone. It is exciting to be out on the water this time of year because you never know what will fly by – which makes every cruise different and exciting at the same time,” Leone added. In addition to birding in Connecticut, Leone has birded in Thailand and Costa Rica as well as all over the United States, spotting more than 1,200 birds. He has attended the prestigious birding program at Arizona’s Camp Chiricahua, where he developed a greater understanding of birds and their habitat, which he will be sharing with the lucky passengers on this cruise.

Egret Up Close With Fish Michael Brinkley

A special highlight of this cruise is the chance to spot birds at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island. Because of the shape of the boat, you can really get close to the shoreline. Here you will see a variety of habitats that support nesting and wading birds. This spot is known for its small population of herring and great black-backed gulls that nest along Sheffield Island’s rocky shoreline. The importance of the Norwalk Islands to wildlife, especially migratory birds is enormous, and the special Bird Cruises hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association give nature enthusiasts the chance to spot these magnificent seabirds up close with the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide.

Passengers are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to the 8 a.m. departure. The vessel leaves from the Seaport Dock located on 4 North Water Street adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge at the corner of Washington and Water Streets in South Norwalk. Parking is available at the adjacent lot or at the Maritime Center Parking Garage. Tickets are available online in advance by clicking here and are $25 for children and $35 for adults. The Seaport Association advises reserving your Bird Cruise early because these popular excursions sell out. Make sure you include your email when reserving your ticket. If the tour is canceled due to inclement weather the Norwalk Seaport Association will contact you via your email.

Seagull with Crab Michael Brinkley

About the Norwalk Seaport Association
The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.”>Norwalk Seaport Association. Birding cruises are one of the most popular excursions operated by the Seaport Association because it brings adults and children up close to birds in their maritime natural habitat. Adding to the fun is the fact that Long Island Sound is a birding hot spot in Connecticut, a state that is rich in birdlife with more than 430 different species to spot.

JanetLeave a comment

Gear – Up for 2023 Summer Camp @ Institute for American Indian Studies

This summer the Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington, Connecticut is offering six weeks of summer camp where Native American history will come alive through fun activities offered by the Educational Department of the Institute. Hiking in the woods, mock archaeological digs, educational games, listening to traditional Native American stories, learning new crafts, and working together to complete a group project are just some of the highlights. This year’s summer camp program encourages children to connect with nature, and appreciate culture more than 10,000 years old while enhancing their teambuilding skills and, making new friends. For more information https://www.iaismuseum.org/summer-camp/

Six weekly camps with different themes are offered from June 26 – August 11, for children six–twelve, Monday – Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is available online. For questions call 868-0518 ext. 453 or email gbenjamin@iaismuseum.org

Children that love archeology and wonder what tools archaeologists use to uncover clues will enjoy Puzzles of the Past: Putting it All Together, from June 26- June 30. Mock archaeological digs and learning how to use a variety of tools are part of the discovery in solving riddles from the past! If your child is curious about how to survive in the great outdoors, Take Shelter! One of Your Five Basic Needs runs from July 10 – July 14 and promises to be as fun as it is informative. This week’s programs show campers how important it is to understand the environment and how to construct shelters from it, just as Indigenous inhabitants of the Americas did centuries ago.

For children that think technology is just a modern concept, the July 17-21 session, Learning the ABC’s of Traditional Tech, might change their minds! This week, campers will learn about ancient technologies that were critical to survival and had nothing to do with computers or cell phones. Perfect to encourage the budding ecologist and children that love the environment, Stories of Survival: Native Lifeway’s in the Eastern Woodlands, from July 24-28, shows children how Native cultures have used their understanding and knowledge of the natural world to thrive for thousands of years.

Ideal for curious campers, Being Resourceful: Gifts of the Natural World, from July 31 – August 4, shares the ecological lessons from Native cultures that are inspiring and timely. This week’s highlights include learning animal tracking skills, identifying plants, and much more. If your child is creative and inquisitive don’t miss the final camp, August 7 – August 11, Etuaptmumk: A Different Way of Thinking. Through traditional Native American stories, mock archeological digs, and group projects, campers will learn the benefits of looking at things from two different perspectives – traditional Indigenous knowledge and Western Scientific thought.

About The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have a 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

JanetLeave a comment