Posted inArts & Culture

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 […]

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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 […]

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The Newport Show has raised more than $4 million for the Newport Historical Society and Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County

Over three days showcasing some of the most exquisite and one-of-a-kind art and antiques in the region, The Newport Show has now raised more than $4 million to benefit the Newport Historical Society and Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County. This year’s successful event was attended by over one thousand people. “Once again, the […]

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The Jane Pickens Theater kicks off August with a diverse array of films and events

The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) is kicking off August with a diverse array of films and events that spotlight film classics, renowned authors, award-winning theater productions, and local businesses. “We are thrilled to present a vibrant lineup of films and events at The Jane Pickens Theater! From classic films and captivating […]

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Salve Regina launches Cliff Walk Ambassadors program with community collaboration and support

Salve Regina University has collaborated with the Newport Cliff Walk Commission to build a student “Cliff Walk Ambassadors” program, a year-round initiative that integrates academic and practical experience so students can both learn about and contribute to Newport’s cherished National Heritage Trail. One of Rhode Island’s most famous attractions, the Newport Cliff Walk draws 1.3 million visitors a year […]

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Patriots sign safety Jabrill Peppers to a contract extension, head coach Jerod Mayo says

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The New England Patriots signed safety Jabrill Peppers to a contract extension, head coach Jerod Mayo said before Friday’s practice. The 28-year-old Peppers is entering his third season with the Patriots. Last year, he recorded two interceptions and made 78 tackles in 15 games. “I am very happy for Peppers and […]

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Newport Classical announces 2024-2025 Chamber Series

Following its record-breaking 55th summer festival, Newport Classical today announced that it will present its fourth full-season Chamber Series held on select Fridays at 7:30 pm, newly expanded to twelve concerts held between September 2024 and June 2025, at the organization’s newly air-conditioned home venue, Newport Classical Recital Hall. Newport Classical Executive Director Gillian Fox says, “This year’s Newport Classical Music Festival […]

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Newport Classical closes out summer Music Festival series with pianist Lara Downes at The Breakers

Classical pianist Lara Downes returned to Newport to conclude the 55th Newport Classical Music Festival. The closing night concert took place at The Breakers on Sunday, July 21. Attendees who came for the finale of Newport Classical’s summer music series were treated to the glitz and glamor of Gilded Age architecture, expansive ocean views, and […]

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“Six Picks” Newport Folk Festival Edition – Don’t miss these sets at the annual festival this weekend

The Newport Folk Festival is back! Founded 65 years ago, the annual event begins on Friday, July 26, at Fort Adams State Park and runs through Sunday, July 28. With over 50 performances on the schedule, every fan has their favorite. Below are “Six Picks” for 2024 with an important reminder – you can’t go […]

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The Jane Pickens Theater to highlight women filmmakers, actors, and business owners this summer

The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) is presenting a selection of films and discussions that celebrate the creative talents and professional achievements of women filmmakers, actors, and business owners throughout the summer. “The JPT is thrilled to showcase an extraordinary collection of films highlighting the creativity and accomplishments of women filmmakers, actors, […]

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Illiterate Light returning to the Newport Folk Festival with a bicycle-powered stage 

Illiterate Light—the duo of singer-guitarist Jeff Gorman and drummer Jake Cochran—is very excited to continue hosting The Bike Stage for the third year in a row at the Newport Folk Festival, which takes place July 26-28. The Bike Stage is a pop-up stage powered by bicycle and solar energy. You can read Gorman’s piece, A Very […]

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The Preservation Society of Newport County will celebrate the 50th anniversary of ‘Monumenta’ on August 17

On August 17, 1974, the opening of a groundbreaking exhibition called Monumenta showcased 54 outdoor sculptures across the Newport landscape by 40 artists, including Willem de Kooning, Louise Nevelson, Henry Moore, Barnett Newman, Richard Fleischner, David Smith and Christo.In celebration of this pioneering event, The Preservation Society of Newport County will host a symposium at […]

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What’s Up Interview: Billy Bragg, singer and activist, playing the Newport Folk Festival on July 27

English folk singer, songwriter, and activist Billy Bragg is no stranger to the Newport Folk Festival. He first played the annual gathering at Fort Adams State Park in 1993, returning most recently in 2017 as part of the “Speak Out” sessions, where he shared the stage with Jim James, Margo Price, and Nathaniel Rateliff. Bragg […]

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The Jane Pickens Theater to host Ocean-Themed film events featuring Water Brother and Jaws

The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) is celebrating the summer season with two ocean-themed film events: the new documentary Water Brother starring Newport legend Sid Abbruzzi, and The JPT’s annual Jaws Summer Party, a tradition that brings the thrill of the classic film Jaws back to the big screen.  Jaws Summer Party (July 18 and 19): Hosted by The JPT […]

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Newport Secret Garden Tour cancels September Tour due to weather

According to organizers, September’s Secret Garden Tour has been canceled due to various weather factors. “The Secret Garden Committee of the Benefactors of the Arts has listened to Mother Nature, the Farmers’ Almanac, Father Time as well as the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)… “This year’s Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be extremely active, […]

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July Lectures Illuminate Renewal at The Frick,The Life and Work of Jules Allard

By The Preservation Society of Newport County The Frick Collection in New York City is a renowned museum undergoing its first major renewal in 90 years.On Thursday at 6 p.m. at Rosecliff, The Frick director, Ian Wardropper, will discuss the details of this significant story in the David W. Dangremond Lecture, “The Frick Renewed.” One of the […]

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Cranston’s Park Theatre introduces staff and announces the 2024 Fall line-up

At a press conference held earlier today, Park Theatre staff and local officials announced the re-opening of the historic Cranston venue. Officials also shared the first round of concerts, including five events scheduled for the fall, with more to be added soon. Media and community members welcomed Brandon Caron, Chief Operating Officer of Lexington, MA-based […]

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Living history left an indelible mark in Newport with Lafayette, Rochambeau, and several re-enactors representing the French contribution to America’s independence

Costumed re-enactors took over Washington Square Park and the Colony House in downtown Newport over the weekend. Despite the dismal weather, the rain cleared up by the afternoon, allowing plenty of locals and visitors to experience living history thanks to the Newport Historical Society, National Park Service Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail, and the Alliance Française, […]

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Dan Burke And The Royal Treatment to headline Newport’s NIMFest Concert Series on July 21

Dan Burke and the Royal Treatment, known for their dynamic blend of funk, R&B, and soul, will bring their electrifying sound and captivating stage presence to Newport on Sunday, July 21, for an unforgettable evening of music and community celebration. Fronted by the charismatic Dan Burke, the group’s powerful vocals and tight instrumental arrangements have […]

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What’s Up Interview: Tommy Gardner, aka Tommy Buoy of Yachtley Crew, playing PPAC July 27

Yacht Rock enthusiasts, prepare “sail away” with Yachtley Crew, a band guaranteed to “make your dreams come true.” The band cruises on into the Providence Performing Arts Center where they’d “really like to see you tonight,” (well, July 27), and even better, you don’t have to be a “Rich Girl” or boy to attend. Appearing […]

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French musical sensation La Méchante Et Le Connard to perform at King Park on July 19

La Méchante et le Connard are a franco-american duo of ukulele, double bass and voice… did you say ukulele? Yes, ukulele. Unique arrangements and fresh takes on jazz age standards, French classics and modern hits. Casey grew up in Middletown and moved to Paris to study classical saxophone at the conservatory. About 2 seconds after […]

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Newport Energy & Environment Commission hosting a summer educational series on climate change and resilience

By Newport Energy and Environment Commission The Newport Energy & Environment Commission is hosting a summer educational series on climate change and resilience. Join us to learn what environmental impacts Newport county and Aquidneck Island are facing and how we can work to address them.  There will be three opportunities this summer to hear from […]

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‘Arcadia’ ready to shine at Jamestown Community Theatre

Four years after it was supposed to be produced, Jamestown Community Theater presents “Arcadia” by Tom Stoppard. The play “was initially planned to be part of JCT’s 30th anniversary season,” said Ricky Martin, JCT’s artistic director, “in summer 2020, when the world shut down.” Stoppard’s play is hard to explain. It’s a modern-day exploration of […]

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Newport Restoration Foundation announces 18th Annual Doris Duke Historic Preservation Award honorees

The Newport Restoration Foundation (NRF) is announcing the recipients of its annual Doris Duke Historic Preservation Awards for exemplary projects of historic preservation in Newport County and the annual President’s Award for lifetime achievement in historic preservation advocacy.  This year’s President Awardees are Mrs. Hope “Happy” H. van Beuren and Mr. Charles A. Dana, who […]

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11th Hour Racing returns as Environmental Awareness Sponsor of Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals

Newport Festivals Foundation, producer of the Newport Folk and Newport Jazz Festivals, today announced that Newport-based 11th Hour Racing is returning as the Environmental Awareness Sponsor of the festivals for the third consecutive year, continuing its longstanding support for sustainability initiatives at these landmark events in Newport. According to Newport Festivals Foundation, the following initiatives will be supported […]

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Extreme heat waves broiling the US in 2024 aren’t normal: How climate change is heating up weather around the world

Mathew Barlow, UMass Lowell and Jeffrey Basara, UMass Lowell Less than a month into summer 2024, the vast majority of the U.S. population has already experienced an extreme heat wave. Millions of people were under heat warnings across the western U.S. in early July or sweating through humid heat in the East. Death Valley hit […]

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2024 Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week to host Emory ‘Outlaw Reunion’ and seminar

The Audrain Newport Concours Motor Week today announced that they will host the ‘Outlaw Reunion’ and seminar “with renowned car builders Rod Emory and Gary Emory and famous entertainer and proud Emory ‘Outlaw’ owner John Oates (of Hall & Oates fame)”. The Seminar will take place on Friday, October 4th, at 12:20 pm in the Casino Theater at the International Tennis Hall of Fame.  According to […]

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newportFILM’s Summer Benefit raises more than $300,000

Hundreds gathered at newportFILM’s annual Summer Benefit celebration on Saturday, July 6th, at IYRS’s Restoration Hall in Newport. The Presenting Sponsor was the Stratus Foundation/FlyAdvanced.  The Summer Benefit, raising over $300,000, is NewportFILM’s biggest fundraiser of the year. It supports Outdoor screenings, year-round programming, and the educational initiatives Edu, Documentary Unbound, and the Cinematography Lab.  […]

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French in Newport Weekend returns this weekend to Washington Square

The Newport Historical Society’s French in Newport–a living history weekend featuring reenactments, exhibits, and free family fun–will return to Washington Square on Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14. Visitors can explore the role of French soldiers and sailors who fought for America’s independence and enjoy exciting learning opportunities like fife and drum corps performances, […]

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Music Review: Phish rock out with energy and urgency on their 16th studio album, ‘Evolve’

By DAVE CAMPBELL Associated Press There might never be a more apt title for a Phish album than “Evolve,” the jam masters’ 16th studio album and first in over four years. Just as this boundary-pushing quartet has progressed over four-plus decades by fusing rock, jazz, bluegrass and other freewheeling sounds, “Evolve” has a familiarly amorphous feel. Because […]

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Newport in Bloom’s Annual Garden and Container Display Competition returns for its 42nd year

By Newport In Bloom Newport in Bloom is delighted to announce the highly anticipated 42nd Annual Garden and Container Competition, celebrating the passion and dedication of individuals who cultivate stunning flower gardens and containers throughout the City of Newport. The competition invites residents, businesses and civic focused organizations to participate, embracing the spirit of community engagement. […]

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The Pocasset Tribe of the Wampanoag Nation to host ‘Meet the Pocassets’ program at the Tiverton Public Library

The people of the Pocasset Tribe of the Wampanoag Nation will host a “Meet the Pocassets” program at the Tiverton Public Library on July 13, 2024, from 11 am – 2 pm. More details from Tiverton Public Library; The program will include Native American crafts and storytelling and is presented by Tribal Historian Ellie Page, […]

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Newport Mansions to host fun and create activities for children this summer

The Newport Mansions will welcome families for fun and creative activities on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout July and August. Traveling Tuesdays will occur every Tuesday from July 9 through August 20 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Each program will take place at a different Newport Mansions property and will have a different theme, from wildlife conservation to Colonial-era […]

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It’s considered the first American novel, but this 1789 book isn’t quite summer beach reading

By HILLEL ITALIE AP National Writer NEW YORK (AP) — In the winter of 1789, around the time George Washington was elected the country’s first president, a Boston-based printer quietly launched another American institution. William Hill Brown’s “The Power of Sympathy,” published anonymously by Isaiah Thomas & Company, is widely cited as something momentous: the […]

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61st Wickford Art Festival set for July 13 – 14

The Wickford Art Festival returns to Wilson Park for its 61st annual celebration. This year’s festival promises an immersive experience of art, culture, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. This annual event supports the Wickford Art Association’s mission dedicated to promoting the arts in the community – specifically through its scholarship program that awards Rhode Island high […]

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100 life-sized Indian elephant sculptures embark on symbolic U.S. journey in “The Great Elephant Migration”

Newport is in for a great treat with the arrival of The Great Elephant Migration beginning July 4, 2024. Newport Restoration Foundation (NRF) President and Director of Rough Point, Frankie Vagnone welcomes this installation and its exquisite craftsmanship as “symbols of a commitment to sustainability, livability and resiliency, the core components of the work we’re […]

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Rhode Island Society of the Sons of the Revolution to host Independence activities in Newport

Rhode Island Society of the Sons of the Revolution will host its annual Independence Day celebration on Thursday, July 4, throughout Newport. Schedule Of Events 9:00 am: Colony House on Washington Sq. will be open for inspection. The Rhode Island Society of the Sons of the Revolution will join the Daughters of the American Revolution […]

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Sundance Film Festival hit, and a ‘Blockbuster Blast’ series headed to The JPT

The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (the JPT) is kicking off the summer season with Sundance Film Festival favorite, Thelma, and a “Blockbuster Blast” series featuring some of the greatest movie hits from the 1980’s.  Thelma (Friday, June 28 – Thursday, July 11): Inspired by a real-life experience of first-time director Josh Margolin’s own grandmother, Thelma puts a clever spin […]

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Kingston Chamber Music Festival returns for 36th Season

The Kingston Chamber Music Festival will return to the University of Rhode Island for its 36th season this August, featuring a lineup of international musicians and a roundtable discussion on the relationship between Native American music and classical music. “We challenge musicians,” says Artistic Director Natalie Zhu. “Many of them are playing together for the […]

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What’s in Season: From bulbs to herbs to salad greens, Long Lane Farm in Warren offers a full summer bounty at their local farm stand

Traveling to farmer’s markets is an excellent way to support small, local farms while getting fresh, in-season produce. The bigger the farmer’s market, the larger the variety of fruits and vegetables available. But traveling to markets is not always feasible for everyone. Other ways to achieve the same results are signing up for CSA programs […]

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Portsmouth Library to host Circus Dynamics

The Portsmouth Free Public Library is gearing up for a big event with a new production from Circus Dynamics. The company is known for its jaw-dropping tricks, amazing stunts, and interactive performances that delight audiences of all ages. The production, titled ” Circus Dynamics,” is set to take place on July 12, 2024, at 10:30 […]

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Book Review: An unarmed game warden tracks a killer through the Maine wilderness in ‘Pitch Dark’

By BRUCE DESILVA Associated Press Heavy storms have made much of northern Maine impassible. Streams and rivers are overflowing their banks, and logging roads and forest trails are crisscrossed with toppled trees. It’s no time to go exploring or hunting, so why has a heavily armed stranger rented an ATV and disappeared into the wilderness? […]

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