Good Morning! Today is Tuesday, August 27, the 240th day of the year; 126 days remain in 2024. ⛳ On this day in 1995, Tiger Woods won the 1995 U.S. Amateur Championship at Newport Country Club. 🗳️ What’sUpNewp kicked off our 2024 live virtual video conversation series on Monday at noon when Hugo DeAscentis, one […]
Arts & Culture
A look at What’s Up in arts and culture in Newport, Rhode Island, and beyond.
Posted inNews
Concert recap and photos: 2024 Rhode Island Folk Festival a big hit down by the river
The Rhode Island Folk Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary on Sunday, August 26, with over 40 performers, dozens of vendors and food trucks, and a guitar giveaway at Crescent Park in East Providence. The free festival enjoyed its largest crowd yet, with an estimated 2,500 fans in attendance. Fans young and old filled the sprawling […]
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Tiverton Library Offers Adult Programs in September
Tech help, watercolor group, online learning, craft circle, and book walk & talk The Tiverton Public Library has announced a comprehensive list of programs for adults in September, with a focus on technology, education, and the arts. One-on-one tech help is available to everyone regardless of skill level. Tech help is available by calling 401-625-6796 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Italian Air Force jets to paint Newport skies in tricolor display
Italian Air Force jets will paint the skies over Newport with the colors of Italy’s flag today, commemorating the 500th anniversary of explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano’s landing in 1524. The Frecce Tricolori, the official aerobatic team of the Italian Air Force, will perform a historic flyover featuring nine jets trailing red, white and green smoke. […]
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What’s Up in Newport: Monday, August 26
Good Morning! Today is Monday, August 26, the 239th day of the year; 127 days remain in 2024. 🗳️ What’sUpNewp kicks off our 2024 live virtual video conversation series today at noon when Hugo DeAscentis, one of the three candidates for Newport City Council First Ward, will join us for a one-on-one conversation. Read More […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Michael Graham of the River Bend East Songwriters Festival coming to Pawtucket August 30-31
Looking for some free music to kick off the Labor Day Weekend? We’ve got you covered. The River Bend East Songwriters Festival returns to Slater Mill in Pawtucket from August 30-31, as part of the Pawtucket Arts Festival. Featured performers include Motif music award-winning singer-songwriter Allison Rose, Chris Monti, RI Music Hall of Famer Mark […]
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What’s Up in Newport: Sunday, August 25
Good Morning! Today is Sunday, August 25, the 238th day of the year; 128 days remain in 2024. We kick off this Sunday with a look at some of our most-read original stories from last week, August 18 – 24, 2024. Grab a cup of coffee and get caught up on the week’s news! Newport […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up in Newport: Saturday, August 24
Good Morning! Today is Saturday, August 24, the 237th day of the year; 129 days remain in 2024. 🐄 An emu, two donkeys, and three cows are out in a pasture together. That may sound like the start of a dad joke, but at West Place Animal Sanctuary in Tiverton, it’s simply reality. WUN’s Ruthie Wood recently […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘Material Matters’ opens at the Jamestown Arts Center on Sept. 20
The Jamestown Arts Center presents Material Matters, a multimedia exhibition featuring four nationally recognized artists—Michael Cochran, Lloyd Martin, Suzan Shutan, and Jason Travers—who explore how cross-cultural narratives and materiality reshape meaning. Drawing inspiration from influences as diverse as ancient Buddhist architecture, the Harlem Renaissance, and the Bauhaus movement, the work in Material Matters challenges traditional abstractionism and invites […]
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What’s Up in Newport: Friday, August 23
Good Morning! Today is Friday, August 23, the 236th day of the year; 130 days remain in 2024. 🗓️ On this day in 2000, Newport’s Richard Hatch won the first season of Survivor. 🚢 The City by the Sea was treated to the unveiling of a new cruise ship, the U.S.-themed American Liberty, which graced Fort […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The Jane Pickens Theater closes out summer with iconic films – Dirty Dancing, Jaws, and Top Gun: Maverick
The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) is set to close the summer with iconic films. From the passionate romance of Dirty Dancing to the suspense of Jaws and the adrenaline-fueled action of Top Gun: Maverick, The JPT’s upcoming screenings offer something for every movie enthusiast. “Ending the summer with these beloved films is our way of celebrating […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Movies and TV shows casting in Rhode Island
The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities’ Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of […]
Posted inNews
46th Annual Heritage Festival to take place at WaterFire Arts Center
The Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission is preparing for the 46th Annual Heritage Festival, which will take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the WaterFire Arts Center in Providence. The festivities will begin with a parade of international flags from over 30 countries, which will officially kick off the festival. Following the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, Things To Do
Final NIMFEst concert of the season will feature performances by Hush Club and Contrafact
The last days of summer are upon us, so why not celebrate with a free outdoor concert in one of the most beautiful waterfront parks in Rhode Island? Alasdair MacKenzie, Chris Haley, and Liz Kantor formed Hush Club after finding each other in college. These days they are based in Somerville, MA, making lush, melodic, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport in Bloom recognizes outstanding local gardeners at annual award ceremony
Last night, Newport in Bloom hosted its Annual Garden Competition Awards Ceremony at the historic International Tennis Hall of Fame. The eagerly anticipated event celebrated the dedication and passion of individuals and businesses who plant and nurture breathtaking flower gardens and containers across the city. This year’s competition saw an overwhelming response, with 131 entries […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Classical will present Grammy Award-winning pianist Emanuel Ax on October 8
Newport Classical presents GRAMMY® Award-winning pianist Emanuel Ax on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 7:30pm at Newport Classical Recital Hall (42 Dearborn St.). Hailed for his “thoughtful, lyrical, lustrous” playing by The Washington Post, the acclaimed American pianist will make his Newport Classical debut in a solo recital program of Beethoven and Schumann, entitled Fantasies. Paired with the intimacy of Newport Classical’s home venue, known for its […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Singer-Songwriter Michelle Malone, playing Rhode Island Folk Festival Sunday, August 25
The annual Rhode Island Folk Festival returns to Crescent Park in East Providence this Sunday, August 25. The free festival has grown from modest beginnings in Providence to a “not to be missed” event held annually on the last Sunday in August. This year’s headliners include folk legend Tom Rush and Atlanta-based singer-songwriter Michelle Malone, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The historic Newport Navy sex scandal of 1919 resurfaces in an immersive musical documentary experience
Newport, February 1919, Chief Machinist’s Mate Ervin Arnold is transferred to Naval Station Newport. Arnold has severe arthritis, and he almost immediately checks into the hospital for medical attention. There, he overhears snippets of a thriving underground subculture within the Navy: drinking, partying, drugs, cross-dressing, and queer sex. Enraged, Arnold “takes it upon himself to […]
Posted inArts & Culture, City & Government
Newport Historical Society to create a center for Black history
Today, the Newport Historical Society launched the Voices Campaign to raise $4.5 million to create a center for Black history in Newport. The campaign is off to a strong start thanks to a leadership gift from philanthropists and historic preservation champions Edward Kane and his wife, Martha Wallace. According to the Newport Historical Society, the center for […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jamestown takes center stage in the latest Rhode Island PBS “Our Town” documentary
Rhode Island PBS invites Jamestown residents to a special community screening of “Our Town: Jamestown Part I” on Sept. 3 at the Jamestown Arts Center. Registration for the event is available at ripbs.org. The documentary will have its broadcast premiere on Sept. 4 at 8 p.m. Earlier this year, Rhode Island PBS announced Jamestown as […]
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Norman Bird Sanctuary’s Summer Concert Series ends with Alexa Rose
The Norman Bird Sanctuary will host its final concert in its 2024 Summer Concert Series featuring Alexa Rose on Friday, August 23, at 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. There is a $35 general admission fee. Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic dinner to enjoy before or during the concert on Mabel’s […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up in Newport this week: Aug. 19 – 25
Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in and around Newport, Rhode Island, this week/weekend, Monday, August 19 – Sunday, August 25, 2024. Please note – weather and other circumstances may cancel or change the location of an event at any time. Please check with event organizers to confirm an event’s status. This story […]
Posted inNews
Free summer concerts continue throughout August on Second Beach
The Second Beach Music Series in Middletown continues, with events planned for Monday, August 19, and Monday, August 26. The series features a variety of live music, food trucks, and fire pits on the beach every Monday night in August. The series kicked off on Monday, August 5th, with a performance by The Z-Boys and […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Comedy Series completes summer series with triple-headliner show on Aug. 21
Newport Comedy Series closes summer with another triple-headliner show featuring Justin Hoff, Dan Crohn, and Kelly MacFarland at 8 p.m. on August 21 at Newport Blues Café. Dan Crohn has long been a prominent figure in the Boston comedy scene. A semi-finalist in both the Boston Comedy Festival and the Laughing Skull Festival, he gained […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘The Boatbuilders’ docuseries to premiere at The JPT
On Thursday, September 12th at 7PM, Purple Turtle Productions and event co-sponsors, IYRS School of Technology and Trades, will host the premiere of Episode 1 of The Boatbuilders at The JPT Film and Event Center. The Boatbuilders is a documentary series that explores the rich legacy and present-day impact of the boatbuilding community in the northeastern United States. The premiere episode highlights […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, News
Jack Russell, lead singer of band Great White who was onstage during horrific ’03 concert fire, dies
By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Jack Russell, the lead singer of the bluesy ’80s metal band Great White whose hits included “Once Bitten Twice Shy” and “Rock Me” and was fronting his band the night 100 people died in a 2003 nightclub fire in Rhode Island, has died. He was […]
Posted inNews
‘Wild Imagination: Art and Animals in the Gilded Age’ opens at Rosecliff on Aug. 30
A new exhibition at Rosecliff will explore the changing relationship between Americans and animals during the late 19th century and the early 20th century. The exhibition, titled “Wild Imagination: Art and Animals in the Gilded Age,” will feature over 100 objects from the Preservation Society of Newport County’s collections, as well as 15 lending institutions. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
77th reading of Washington’s letter at Touro Synagogue to honor religious freedom
On August 18, Touro Synagogue Foundation will partner with Congregation Jeshuat Israel to host the George Washington Letter Reading, an event honoring our nation’s heritage of religious freedom. This year marks the 77th anniversary of the reading of the famous letter. George Washington’s 1790 letter to “To the Hebrew Congregation in Newport” was written after his […]
Posted inBusiness
Movies and TV shows casting in Rhode Island
The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities’ Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of […]
Posted inNews
Learn ‘how to talk to your dog’ at Middletown Public Library on Aug. 24
The Middletown Public Library is hosting a new event that will teach people how to better communicate with their pets. The event, How to Talk To Your Dog, is free and open to ages 6 and up. The event, which held on Saturday, August 24 from 11 am to 12 pm in the meeting room […]
Posted inNews
Newport Sings offers choral singing opportunities for youth and adults in Newport County
Newport Sings offers free or very low-cost chorus program opportunities for youth and adults. All programs are open to the public and do not require an audition. Newport Sings offers three distinct programs for singers of all ages and backgrounds: – The Newport County Youth Chorus is open to grades 1-6 students. – Aquidneck […]
Posted inNews
246th Anniversary of the Battle of Rhode Island to be commemorated with a ‘Sunset Salute’ on Aug. 29
A musket salute and a wreath-laying ceremony will be held at Butts Hill Fort to commemorate the 246th anniversary of the Battle of Rhode Island on Thursday, Aug. 29. The ceremony, hosted by the Butts Hill Fort Restoration Committee of the Battle of Rhode Island Association, will take place at 7 p.m. at the fort […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Ocie Elliott, Canadian duo on playing the Newport Folk Festival
By Ken Abrams and Anna Lofgren The 2024 Newport Folk Festival is fondly remembered for headliners like Joan Baez, Conan O’Brien, and Gillian Welch. But as always, first-time artists serve to steer the historic festival in new directions, keeping things fresh while honoring the folk tradition. One of the standout acts at the July festival […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Norman Bird Sanctuary invites the community to celebrate 50th Anniversary Harvest Fair in October
The Norman Bird Sanctuary has much to celebrate in 2024, including the 75th anniversary of the organization’s founding and the 50th anniversary of its beloved Harvest Fair on October 5 and 6. Norman Bird Sanctuary’s Harvest Fair is a family-friendly weekend full of traditional New England games, crafts, competitions, and seasonal fare. Attracting more than 10,000 attendees […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Wet Paint was a fun affair, a complete celebration of the area’s passionate art community
Newport Art Museum’s (NAM) Wet Paint celebrated its 31st anniversary over the weekend and it was a marvelous celebration of art pieces from the area’s notable artists. It’s also an egalitarian event, with artists of all levels participating in the big fundraiser for the museum. On the one hand, some of New England’s renowned artists […]
Posted inNews
Newport Classical to host two fall community concerts
Newport Classical has announced that it will host two free community concerts this fall, featuring Fulton Chamber Players and Bridge & Wolak. A concert with Fulton Chamber Players will occur at 2:30 pm on September 8, 2024, at Newport Craft Brewing, and Bridge & Wolak will perform on October 6, 2024, at Newport Classical Recital […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport’s legendary NEE Jam takes over the King Park Gazebo for NIMFest on Sunday
One of Newport’s best-kept musical secrets over the past two years has been The NEE Jam at the Firehouse Theater on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. Hosted by North End Entertainment and the New England Music Organization, the NEE Jam is a celebration of live music featuring an amazingly talented house band […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Lobby Muddy Fest celebrates 5th Anniversary in Newport
Lobby Muddy Fest is thrilled to celebrate its 5th anniversary this year. This beloved local event is New England’s only lobster roll and mudslide festival for charity. What began as a casual Sunday ritual at O’Brien’s Pub has transformed into a powerful community gathering and official 501c3 nonprofit since 2021, raising significant funds for mental […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Judy Collins coming to Jane Pickens August 15-16 – We revisit our 2022 interview with legendary singer-songwriter
Note: This interview was originally published in July 2022. It has been updated. Click here for tickets to see Judy Collins at Jane Pickens Film and Event Center. So what do you ask a folk music icon who inspired one of the greatest love songs of all time? That was my challenge recently as I […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The Breakers: A Tribute to Tom Petty is coming to The Historic Park Theatre & Event Center
The Historic Park Theatre & Event Center will present The Breakers: A Tribute to Tom Petty on Thursday, April 3, at 8 pm. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 16 at 10 am www.theparkri.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774. Debuting the band in August of 2019 in Newport, RI, to an emotional and packed house, the Breakers proved to […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Malcolm Bruce, of Sons of Cream, playing the Greenwich Odeum Sunday, August 18
They were one of the great bands of the 1960’s, a supergroup that continues to influence the direction of modern music. Cream was a groundbreaking power trio featuring three rock legends – Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker. Now, a new band comprised of two children and a grand-nephew of the original members is […]
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Livingston Taylor returns to Newport, will perform at The JPT on December 20
Livingston Taylor, the esteemed singer-songwriter from Boston, is coming to The JPT Film & Event Center in Newport. Mark your calendars for Friday, December 20, at 7:30 pm, as Taylor returns to delight audiences with his captivating music. Spectacle Live, which will present Livingston Taylor, provided the following background on Mr. Taylor; Boston local, Livingston […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The JPT will celebrate the 25th anniversary of ‘The Heart of Hip Hop’ on Aug. 20
The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) celebrates the 25th anniversary of the acclaimed documentary The Heart of Hip Hop on August 20. The film features Newport’s first and only hip-hop dance troupe, Off The Curb. Founded by Jackie Henderson in 1992, Off The Curb was a youth outreach program dedicated to using hip-hop dance to inspire self-expression […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Art Trolley and Gallery Night: An exciting, but developing initiative
On Thursday night, I checked out Art Trolley and Gallery Night in Newport, a fairly new event with the purpose of providing a platform for the many galleries throughout the City by the Sea. Managed by the Newport Artists Collective, the effort is meant to bolster the thriving Newport art scene in ways that artists […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up this week in Newport County: August 12 – 18
Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in and around Newport, Rhode Island, this week/weekend, Monday, August 12 – Sunday, August 18, 2024. Please note – weather and other circumstances may cancel or change the location of an event at any time. Please check with event organizers to confirm an event’s status. This story […]
Posted inNews
RI Women’s Choreography Project tp present ‘Here & Now’ in Providence
The Rhode Island Women’s Choreography Project’s annual performance series will be back in Providence this August, and it will feature new work from six local choreographers. Here & Now will take place at the Ballet RI Black Box Theater on August 24 at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. and on August 25 at 2:30 pm. […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Interview: Meet Mark Stickney, Founder of Historic Music of Newport
Newport’s contemporary summer music scene is dominated by three internationally known festivals: Newport Folk, Newport Jazz, and Newport Classical. But the city’s musical heritage runs deep. Live music on the island is a tradition going back almost two hundred years, when classical musicians and military bands entertained summer visitors and year-round residents. One organization working […]
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Audubon Society of RI to present “Landscaping for Birds and Insects” at the Tiverton Public Library
The Audubon Society of Rhode Island will host a presentation on Saturday, August 24, 2024, in Tiverton about how to create healthy habitats for birds and insects in our own backyards. The free event, titled “Landscaping for Birds and Insects,” will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the Tiverton Public Library, located at 34 Roosevelt […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Families In Motion: Free family music event coming to Newport on Aug. 25
Puddingstone Music Series is set to host its first-ever free family event, “Families in Motion,” on Aug. 25 at St. Columba’s Chapel in Middletown, Rhode Island. The event, scheduled for 3 p.m., promises an exciting blend of music, dance, and acrobatic performances suitable for all ages. Weather permitting, activities will take place both outdoors on […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
New exhibit at IYRS School of Technology & Trades showcases America’s Cup history in Newport
A new exhibit at the IYRS Maritime Library showcases the rich history of America’s Cup races in Newport from 1930 to 1983. “The America’s Cup and Newport, 1930-1983” features photographs, films, blueprint plans, documents, flags and more, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s life during the 12 times these prestigious races came to Newport. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport landmarks honored with Rhody Awards for Historic Preservation
Three Newport-based projects and individuals are among the recipients of the 2024 Rhody Awards for Historic Preservation, celebrating excellence in safeguarding Rhode Island’s architectural heritage. Preserve Rhode Island announced 10 awardees spanning from Newport to Pawtucket, recognizing efforts that strengthen communities and address social challenges through historic preservation. The Newport honorees include the Preservation Society […]
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Middletown Library to host Monday Book Club Series
The Middletown Public Library has announced it will host the Monday Book Club series with free admission on Monday, September 23rd to December 16th. The series features a variety of genres and authors, with titles including Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane, The Measure by Nikki Erlick, Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange, The Adventures of Amina […]
Posted inNews
Middletown Library to host crafting and educational events
The Middletown Public Library will be hosting a series of Monday Fun Days for Adults in August, featuring crafting and educational activities. The events will be held in the library’s meeting room on Monday, August 5:30-6:30 p.m. The craft offered on August 19 is a stamped dish towel craft program, while the August 26 event […]
Posted inNews
Summer fun awaits at Aquidneck Night Out on August 8
It’s time to get ready for some summer fun at the Aquidneck Night Out event on August 8, 2024. This event is for children under 12 and their families and will be held down at Easton’s Beach from 5 to 7 p.m. This is a free event where children can learn about safety, face painting, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Movies and TV shows casting in Rhode Island
The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities’ Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rhode Island International Film Festival kicks off at PPAC
The Rhode Island International Film Festival kicked off last night at the Providence Performing Arts Center. The festival takes place through August 11 at different venues across the state and features films from around the world. Opening night included attendees from South Africa, Belgium, and Spain, with many guests visiting Rhode Island for the first […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
R&B band “The 40” to headline Newport’s NIMFest Concert Series
Newport’s NIMFest Concert Series is set to rock King Park Gazebo this Sunday with headliner “The 40,” a New England R&B band known for their electrifying performances. The free outdoor concert, scheduled for Aug. 11 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., promises an afternoon of rhythm and blues that will have fans dancing and singing […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, Things To Do
Jesse Cook to perform at The JPT Film & Event Center
Jesse Cook, a renowned Nuevo Flamenco guitarist, is set to perform at The JPT Film & Event Center in Newport on Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets for the event, presented by Spectacle Live, go on sale Aug. 9 at 10 a.m. Cook’s upcoming performance showcases his 25-year career as a guitarist, composer, producer, arranger, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gerald Dickens will bring ‘A Christmas Carol’ to life at Historic Park Theatre
Gerald Dickens, great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, is bringing his one-man adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” to The Historic Park Theatre & Event Center in Cranston, Rhode Island on Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. The performance starts the holiday season with Dickens’ spirited rendition of his ancestor’s classic tale. Tickets go on sale Aug. 9 at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Artists explore new frontiers in PIVOT Exhibition at Jamestown Arts Center
The Jamestown Arts Center is set to host a virtual conversation with internationally acclaimed artists Lesley Dill and Joan Hall on Aug. 14, offering insights into their creative processes and recent artistic transformations. The online event, scheduled from 1-2 pm, will feature Dill and Hall discussing their artistic practices and the pivotal shifts in media […]
Posted inNews
What’s up in Newport this week: Aug. 6 – 11
Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in and around Newport, Rhode Island, this week/weekend, Tuesday, August 6 – Sunday, August 11, 2024. This story will be updated throughout the week as we learn of events, meetings, and listings, so please check back often. Do you have something to add to this list or […]
Posted inBusiness
The Stadium at Tidewater Landing partners with Grand Rising Curations for event programing
The Stadium at Tidewater Landing announced today a long-term partnership with Grand Rising Curations that will transform Rhode Island FC’s future home into a multi-purpose venue. Upon its completion at the start of the 2025 USL Championship season, the state-of-the-art development will be able to host concerts and festivals. “The Stadium at Tidewater Landing will be the […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Music & Entertainment
Middletown’s DeBlois Gallery celebrated 40 years: Fortyssimo
Situated in a prime location right at the entrance into Newport, on Aquidneck Avenue near Easton’s Beach, the DeBlois Gallery just celebrated 40 years with champagne toasts and lots of great conversation among Aquidneck Island’s and Southern New England’s artists. Previously located on Bellevue Avenue, DeBlois weathered the move to the accessible location next to […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Tickets for ‘Hamilton’ at PPAC go on sale on August 13
The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) has announced that tickets for the highly anticipated ‘Hamilton’ musical will go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. The tickets for the 11 Tony Award winning musical will be available for performances at the PPAC box office and online via pp lacri.org. When the […]
Posted inNews
‘Music At The Fort’ returning to Fort Adams in August and September
Music at the Fort, a series of free music nights held at Fort Adams, is returning in August and September. “We are expecting some great acts this year with the Ravers performing twice, Those Guys, and other local artists,” Fort Adams Trust shared in a press release. “This series is put on by the Fort […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Jazz Festival 2024: Jazz is alive, well, and thriving – Day 3 recap and photos
Jazz music as a popular art form has been declared dead more than once. But America’s original art form has endured, resurrected on several occasions, each time characterized by a slight change in direction. The core essence of the genre – improvisational music played collaboratively among a group of well-trained musicians – remains at the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, News
Thousands brave the heat for 70th anniversary of Newport Jazz Festival
NEWPORT, R.I. (AP) — A capacity crowd of about 10,000 people braved heat and humidity to witness the 70th anniversary of the Newport Jazz Festival, one of the largest music festivals in New England. The festival, which ends Sunday, is also one of the biggest multi-day jazz festivals in the world. It has brought legions […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
From Weekly Gig to Newport Jazz: Sunday Jazz’s remarkable journey
Leland Baker and his Sunday Jazz ensemble performed at the Newport Jazz Festival, featuring musicians he met through various configurations in the New England area. All members of the ensemble have played with Baker at the Courtland Club, a Providence cocktail bar. “We’re definitely so honored and grateful to be here on this sacred ground,” […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Trumpeter Riley Mulherkar talks about Newport experience and debut album
Riley Mulherkar is a trumpeter, community activist, and 2020 recipient of Lincoln Center’s Emerging Artist Award who played Newport Jazz on Saturday, August 3. His debut album, Riley, has been described by DownBeat Magazine as “über hip, modern yet timeless.” What’sUpNewp spoke with Mulherkar after his set on the Harbor Stage. “This place is really […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Jazz Festival 2024: Classic jazz and new beats – Day 2 recap and photos
Day two at the 2024 Newport Jazz Festival saw a continuation of a trend that began on Day one. That trend saw both new and veteran acts bringing their A-game to the historic happening at Fort Adams State Park. The 70th annual festival saw another banner day, with rising stars blending in brilliantly alongside several […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Celebrate Ukraine’s Independence Day with the Sunflower Family Festival in Jamestown on Aug. 24
The 3rd Annual Sunflower Family Festival in Jamestown, R.I., will honor Ukraine’s Independence Day while marking the end of summer in southern Rhode Island. The event, scheduled for Aug. 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., promises a day filled with live music, food, crafts, and activities for all ages. Held at Lawn School on […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Jazz Festival 2024: This is not your grandfather’s festival – Day 1 recap and photos
The 70th Anniversary of the historic Newport Jazz Festival kicked off on Friday August 2 at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, RI. A sellout crowd saw a warm summer day usher in cool vibes that rained down on musicians and attendees. Good feels were abundant. There was great jazz of course, but there was […]
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Newport Jazz Festival opens doors to Newport’s youth
The Newport Jazz Festival is expanding its student outreach program, offering free tickets to Rogers High School seniors for the second consecutive year. Dan Swain, Director of Development and Programs for Newport Festivals Foundation, says the initiative aims to cultivate lifelong jazz fans among the younger generation. “We started last year offering any senior student […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Folk & Jazz Festival’s Family Tent evolves with local nonprofit partnerships
The Newport Festivals Foundation is enhancing the family experience at its Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals with a revamped Family Tent featuring local nonprofits and hands-on activities for children. Dan Swain, Director of Development and Programs for the Newport Festivals Foundation, says the idea for the new format emerged about two or three years ago […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Chase Ceglie to perform his latest album at King Park on August 9
The Friends Of The Waterfront, New England Music Organization, and North End Entertainment today announced that they will host a “thrilling evening” of original music with pop singer/songwriter and award-winning saxophonist Chase Ceglie at King Park in Newport on Friday, August 9, from 5 to 7 pm. Chase and his full pop band will perform […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gallery Sitka to host an exhibition featuring 15 National Association of Women Artists—MA Chapter artists
Gallery Sitka has announced that it will host an “Art with Intention II” exhibition featuring 15 National Association of Women Artists—MA Chapter artists. The opening reception and celebration on Sunday, August 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. is free and open to the public. The show features multi- and mixed mediums, such as varnish, pigment […]
Posted inNews
Peggy Guggenheim’s influence will be explored in Preservation Society of Newport County lecture
The Preservation Society of Newport County will present a lecture by Dr. Philip Rylands, President, and CEO of the Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach, Florida, on Thursday, August 8, 2024, titled “Peggy Guggenheim: Heiress and Collector.” The event, which takes place at 6 p.m. in the Rosecliff ballroom, will feature a presentation […]
Posted inNews
New York ensemble to bring ‘Symphony of Laughter’ to Westerly
A New York-based ensemble will perform at the United Theatre in Westerly on August 24. Parlando, and conductor Ian Niederhoffer, are expected to entertain audiences with a concert titled, “Symphony of Laughter.” The concert, described as, “an unforgettable evening of laughs, wittiness, and harmony,” will feature a number of works, including some by the late […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Michael Corrente produced film ‘The Tributaries’ to screen at the Rhode Island Film Festival August 8
Note: The film The Tributaries contains mature subject matter. The Tributaries, a new film produced by longtime RI filmmaker Michael Corrente, is screening as part of the Rhode Island Film Festival on Thursday, August 8 at 6:30 PM in the RISD Auditorium in Providence. The movie is the first full-length feature directed by Kat Gueli, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Aquidneck Land Trust to host a wild bee walk and talk at Spruce Acres on August 3
The Aquidneck Land Trust is hosting a walk and talk event at Spruce Acres Farm all about wild, native bees and other pollinators. The walk, which takes place on Saturday, August 3 at 10 a.m., will be led by Casey Johnson, a research associate at the University of Rhode Island Bee Lab. George Christie from […]
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The Street Project: Film screening and panel to address safer streets in Newport
A film screening and panel discussion aimed at promoting safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists is coming to Newport on Aug. 13. The event, organized by Ride Island, will feature “The Street Project,” a documentary examining unsafe street designs across the United States. The screening will take place at 6 p.m. at the JPT Film […]
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Playful Husky pup seeks experienced owner for new adventures
Meet your new best friend, Uce – this week’s adoptable dog of the week. Uce, an 8-month-old Siberian Husky, is currently available for adoption at the Potter League for Animals Animal Care and Adoption Center in Middletown. “Meet Uce, a young, playful, and curious dog who is full of life and energy. His smart and […]
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Young actors sought for Trinity Rep’s Annual ‘A Christmas Carol’
Rhode Island’s Tony Award-winning theater, Trinity Repertory Company (Trinity Rep), is currently seeking young actors to participate in the company’s 48th annual production of A Christmas Carol. The production runs November 23 through December 29, 2024 and is open to children ages 8-12. Auditions for A Christmas Carol will be held on Saturday, August 24, […]
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Legendary folk hero Joan Baez made several stops in Newport recently
Joan Baez made several appearances in Newport as of late. The folk icon touched down among familiar ground at the Newport Folk Festival over the weekend, starting out with a lowkey poetry reading of her newly released debut poetry book, When You See My Mother, Ask Her to Dance, which had released this past April. […]
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NIMFest will celebrate Jazz at King Park on August 4
The NIMFest Concert Series will celebrate Jazz on Sunday, August 4, with performances by the John McKenna Quartet and Bill Killian. John McKenna, a notable saxophonist, composer & teacher at the University of Rhode Island, Umass Dartmouth, Roger Williams University, and CCRI, has toured major festivals in the U.S. & Europe with artists like Joe […]
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Park Theatre to host Ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro
The Historic Park Theatre & Event Center will present Jake Shimabukuro on Saturday, October 5, at 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale on Friday, August 2, at 10 a.m. at the link below. Since gaining popularity in the early 2000s, Jake Shimabukuro has reached new heights as an ukulele player. He has released over a […]
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“Six Picks” Newport Jazz Edition – Don’t miss these sets at the historic festival this weekend
The Newport Jazz Festival is back! Founded 70 years ago, the historic festival at Fort Adams State Park begins Friday, August 2, and runs through Sunday, August 4. With over 50 performances on the schedule, every fan has their favorite. Below are my “Six Picks” for 2024 with an important reminder – like last weekend’s […]
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Inaugural Newport Design Week was a glorious tribute to Newport’s enchanting architecture
You would never have guessed that Newport Design Week was in its first year. Even with the packed crowds at the Newport Folk Festival, Newport Design Week managed to sell out, with fans of interior design attending events among the architecturally stunning buildings of Salve Regina University. Headlined by legendary names in design such as […]
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Isaac Bell House opens for guide-led tours on the weekend after extensive restoration work
After a multi-millionaire renovation project, Preservation Society of Newport County opened up the Isaac Bell House, one of the best surviving examples of Shingle Style architecture in the country. We joined a guide-led tour on Sunday on the opening weekend for the elegant landmark home, designed by the firm of McKim, Mead and White for […]
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Preservation Society honors five with Antiquarian and Laurel Awards
The Preservation Society of Newport County honored five individuals for their outstanding contributions to the organization’s success during its Annual Meeting on June 13 at The Elms. Bernard Gewirz, a philanthropist for an array of causes and steadfast supporter of the Preservation Society for more than three decades, was presented with the Antiquarian Award, the […]
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Comedian Juston McKinney coming to The JPT on November 2
Spectacle Live today announced that they will present Juston McKinney on Saturday, November 2 at 8 pm at The JPT Film & Event Center in Newport. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 2 at 10 am at JanePickens.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774. Juston has multiple appearances on “The Tonight Show”, one-hour specials on “Comedy Central” and “Amazon […]
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Portsmouth author explores grief and transformation in ‘Leah Is A Dragonfly Now’
A new picture book from Portsmouth author Sarah McLean will tell the story of a friendship that was built after a tragic accident. “Leah Is A Dragonfly Now” is a moving story that deals with grief and loss. The book is based on the award-winning short film “Dragonfly,” and it follows the story of two […]
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What’s Up Interview: Folk Festival artists Steve Poltz and John Craigie reflect on their Newport Folk Festival experience
John Craigie is an L.A.-born singer-songwriter who infuses comedic storytelling into his performances. He’s been compared to Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, and he has collaborated with artists like Jack Johnson, Gregory Alan Isakov, and the Shook Twins. Seattle Newspaper The Stranger has called Craigie “…the lovechild of John Prine and Mitch Hedberg with a […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Metallica returns to Gillette Stadium this weekend
The legendary band Metallica will return to Gillette Stadium for the first time since 2017, and third and fourth overall performances at the venue this Friday, Aug. 2 and Sunday, Aug. 4. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers will bring their “No Repeat Weekend,” featuring two completely different setlists and two different bands opening the show […]
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MAMMA MIA! coming to PPAC in November
The smash hit musical “MAMMA MIA!” will be in Providence, R.I., this November, the Providence Performing Arts Center announced Monday. “MAMMA MIA!” will be performed at the Providence Performing Arts Center from Nov. 12 to 17, 2024. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Aug. 4, at 10 a.m. A box office window […]
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What’s Up Interview: Kamasi Washington, headlining the Newport Jazz Festival on Friday, August 2
NOTE: Portions of this story were originally published in May 2023. Kamasi Washington exists on the cutting edge of jazz. He is the avant-garde, who along with a group of fellow visionaries, is setting the tone in the jazz world. Like Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Ornette Coleman, Washington’s music transcends what came before, pushing […]