Charter Books will host a presentation and book signing by Nancy Rubin Stuart, author of Poor Richard’s Women: Deborah Read Franklin and the Other Women Behind the Founding Father. On Thursday, April 21 at 6:00 pm, Nancy Rubin Stuart will discuss her new book, a biography of the women in the life of Benjamin Franklin. […]
Arts & Culture
A look at What’s Up in arts and culture in Newport, Rhode Island, and beyond.
Posted inArts & Culture
One Man’s Artistic Journey along the American Coastline: Architect creates maps by hand with pen & ink and watercolors
“Men are a lost tribe,” says architect Joseph Tarella. “That’s why we need maps.” The artist has had a lifelong fascination with maps of all kinds, but his primary focus has been on the coastline of the continental United States. He has drawn maps of that coastline from Cape Cod down to Corpus Christi, Texas, […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: We meet cast members of PPAC musical ‘Ain’t Too Proud’
If you haven’t heard, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations is one of the season’s biggest hits. Running through Sunday at the Providence Performing Arts Center, the musical has earned enthusiastic reviews both nationally and locally. We met a couple of the stars of the show earlier this week at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
CCRI Players revisit the Glorious 1990s in their season-ending production of ‘Three Years from Thirty’
The Community College of Rhode Island Players are stepping back into the 1990s – the decade of family sitcoms, baggy jeans, and alternative rock – in their season-ending production of Three Years from Thirty. Opening night is next Thursday, April 21 at 7:30 at the Liston Campus Auditorium in Providence with additional shows Friday (7:30 pm), Saturday (2 and 7:30 pm) and Sunday (2 […]
Posted inThings To Do
Six Picks Events: What’s Up in RI this weekend (April 15-17)
The holiday weekend is here and we’ve got a few ideas for getting out there and enjoying the Spring weather. Check out “Six Picks Events” for April 15-17 below. Friday: Food Truck Fridays returns to the Roger Williams Park Zoo and Carousel in Providence this weekend. Over 20 trucks, beer and wine, live music, and […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Theater Review: Audience engaging “Ain’t Too Proud” a big hit a PPAC
If you already have tickets, “Get Ready” to have a great time at Ain’t Too Proud, the latest in a series of jukebox musicals playing at the Providence Performing Arts Center. And if you don’t have tickets, I suggest you pick some up fast, you won’t regret it! The lively musical tells the story of […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Island Moving Company announces details for its Spring Repertory & Family Series Performances
Island Moving Company (IMC), Newport’s contemporary ballet, released details today for their Spring Repertory & Family Series Performances. The company will present Resonant Visions, on May 6 & 7, and their Family Series production of The Tales of Mother Goose on May 7 & 8. Both performances will be presented at the Keats Theatre in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Narrows Center to offer $15 student tickets for most shows
The Narrows Center for the Arts, located on Anawan Street in Fall River, is pleased to announce a new discount ticket program for college students. The Narrows Center is steadfast in presenting music that matters, art that inspires, and a commitment to community. “We believe that art should be available to everyone, not just those […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jamestown Arts Center to host a film screening of ‘To Which We Belong’
With quiet courage, the farmers and ranchers featured in the award-winning documentary To Which We Belong are improving the health of our soil and sea to save their livelihoods—and our planet. On Friday, April 29 at 7 pm, the film’s Co-director, Producer, and Jamestown, RI, resident Lindsay Richardson will be joined by Jamestown farmers Bob […]
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What’s Up Interview: Rickie McKinnie of The Blind Boys of Alabama, playing RI April 27
Music fans … here’s a little test for you … What popular act is generally considered the longest-running band in America? The Beach Boys, The Four Tops, The Rolling Stones..? (yeah, we know they’re British). If you guessed “None of the Above,” you’d be correct. In fact, The Blind Boys of Alabama are the longest-running […]
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Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY coming to PPAC May 11-15
Providence, RI – The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) is pleased to present the North American tour of Lincoln Center Theater’s critically acclaimed production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY at PPAC as part of the Taco/The White Family Foundation Broadway Series. Directed by Bartlett Sher, the North American tour will play at PPAC from Wednesday, May 11 […]
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“Sakonnet Vineyards: a Farm-Founding Story” film will premiere on YouTube on April 13
The founding of the popular Sakonnet Vineyards will be told, by its founders, in “Sakonnet Vineyards: a Farm-Founding Story”. The film will premiere on the Little Compton Historical Society’s YouTube channel on Wednesday, April 13 at 7 pm. According to the Little Compton Historical Society, the film was created in partnership between Clarkshire Media and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
11 movies and TV shows that explore discrimination in the workplace
In 1964, following a 250,000-person march on Washington D.C. led by Martin Luther King Jr. and other Black leaders, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act. Among the many sections of the act was one that established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The EEOC is intended to prevent workplace discrimination and is responsible for investigating discrimination […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Providence Art Club to host new exhibitions, Middletown and Newport artists will be featured
The galleries of the historic Providence Art Club will play host to new exhibitions running Monday, April 18 to Friday, May 6, and featuring the work of five talented local artists, including Mark Fernandez of Newport and Jennie Huttler of Middletown. These shows will include celebratory receptions on Sunday, April 24 from 2-4 pm. In […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History
Where US first ladies went to college
Harvard. Princeton. Yale. These elite alma maters ooze a sense of ambitious intellect—and yet several women alumni who went on to become residents at the White House are remembered more for their fashion sense, flair for interior design, or holiday decorating. Despite the fact they are unelected officials, the wives of American presidents wield enormous […]
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Where all of Wes Anderson’s movies have been filmed
Instantly recognizable for their precisely composed shots, highly stylized (and detailed) set design, whimsical color palette, and recurring ensemble cast, Wes Anderson’s films merge playful, over-the-top absurdism with moments of emotional candor. Anderson is known for his fine attention to detail and sense of style, which has made his aesthetic a subject of analysis or […]
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This Day in RI History: April 2, 1952, Lynyrd Skynyrd Bassist Leon Wilkeson is born in Newport
Musician Leon Wilkeson was born on April 2, 1952, in Newport, RI. He grew up in Jacksonville, FL and went on to become the main bass player in the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd in the 1970s, the heydey of the band. Wilkeson was originally recruited by Ronny Van Zandt to play in the Van […]
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Six Picks Events: What’s Up in RI this weekend (April 1-3)
April Fools Day means comedy … and we’re leading off “Six Picks Events” with a couple of fun shows around the state this weekend. That, plus a fashion show, a garden party, and great deals at Newport area restaurants! Friday: This week’s comedy show at Rejects Beer in Middletown features New England’s #1 comic Mo […]
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‘Michelangelo – A Different View’ coming to the RI Convention Center May 12-June 12
The most famous fresco in the world will be on display at the Rhode Island Convention Center this spring from May 12 – June 12. Michelangelo – A Different View, is an exhibit that brings the original artwork of the Sistine Chapel to eye level, for art lovers to study close up. Ticket information here. […]
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FABRIC Arts Festival returns to Fall River for 3rd edition May 12-14
The third edition of the FABRIC Arts Festival will take place on May 12, May 13, and May 14, 2022in Fall River, Massachusetts. Presented by the Casa dos Açores de Nova Inglaterra, under the leadership of Michael Benevides in Fall River with the Portugal-based curatorial team of Jesse James and Sofia Carolina Botelho, the event is titled Where We Meet and will be an invitation to look at Fall […]
Posted inNews
Providence Performing Arts Center Announces 2022/2023 Broadway Season
Providence, RI – At a press conference held in the Providence Performing Arts Center’s (PPAC) Grand Lobby this morning, PPAC Board Chairman Joseph W. Walsh, Esq. made opening remarks, welcoming the attendees to PPAC, and President and CEO J.L. “Lynn” Singleton announced the theatre’s upcoming 2022/2023 Broadway Season. The press conference was livestreamed courtesy of WPRI 12 athttps://www.wpri.com/watch/live-streaming-special-coverage/“Thank […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Garden Club celebrates the bi-centennial of Frederick Law Olmsted
The year 2022 marks the bi-centennial of the birth of Frederick Law Olmsted, the “father of landscape architecture and the designer of countless parks, estates and civic landscapes throughout the United States”. Newport Garden Club this week announced that it will present a yearlong celebration of Olmsted in 2022, including lectures, an exhibit at the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Applications have opened for the Health and Human Services Artist in Residence program
The RI State Council on the Arts (RISCA) and the RI Department of Health (RIDOH) announced an open call for their second Artist in Residence program for artists 18 years old and older. The recipient of this six-month residence will be embedded in RI’s Executive Office of Health and Human Services (RI EOHHS), starting in July, and will have an opportunity to bring […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gamm Theatre announces its 2022-23 season
The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre (The Gamm), under the leadership of Artistic Director Tony Estrella and Managing Director Amy Gravell, this week announced its 2022-23 season of bold and compellingly human plays. Featuring five works for its intimate 185-seat theater, Season 38 starts in September with back-to-back Obie Award and Pulitzer Prize winners, followed by three more plays. The lineup also includes a limited run of It’s A […]
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What’s Up Interview: Theresa Caputo, coming to The Vets April 10
“What I do is absolutely crazy,” says Theresa Caputo. “It’s insane. I sense, feel, say things to people that freak me out.” We chatted on the phone recently, in advance of the Long Island Medium’s show on April 10 at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Providence. Caputo is arguably America’s best-known medium. “I can connect […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Tiverton Public Library offering programs, book clubs, and technology classes in April
The following is a list of library programs, book clubs, and technology classes that adults can enjoy at Tiverton Public Library in April. Patrons are encouraged to visit tivertonlibrary.org or call 401-625-6796 to learn more and to register. Programs Wednesday, April 6th, 6:00 pm Makers Meet-Up Knitters, quilters, and crafters: come craft with us in […]
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Six Picks Academy Award predictions – What’s your pick to win?
With the Academy Awards coming up on Sunday, it’s time to choose our favorites on the annual award show extravaganza. No doubt, it’s a competitive field this year with no obvious favorite in many of the major categories. Check out our picks and share your favorites on Facebook. Best Picture: There seem to be three […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up in Newport County this weekend: March 25 – 27
Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do this weekend in and around Newport County. Friday, March 25 Midtown Oyster Bar to host game watch on Friday for Providence College vs. Kansas Six Picks Events: What’s Up in RI this weekend – March 25-27 This Day in RI History: March 25, 1903, musician Frankie Carle born […]
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Asian Lantern Spectacular returns to Roger Williams Park Zoo April 13 – July 4
The Roger Williams Park Zoo will once again be transformed into a dazzling evening experience with interactive displays, delicious Asian-inspired cuisine, and performances. This enchanting multicultural experience is sure to delight all ages, according to Roger Williams Park Zoo. Photo provided by Roger Williams Park Zoo The lanterns are created by hand with silk fabric […]
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Six Picks Events: What’s Up in RI this weekend – March 25-27
All Weekend: August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean at Trinity Rep in Providence is playing to great reviews. The play is the first of Wilson’s cycle of ten plays chronicling the experiences of African Americans in each decade of the 20th century. “Gem” is set in Pittsburgh in 1904 and “offers a searing and mystical […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Performing Arts Center scraps re-design plans; focusing on fundraising
Faced with escalating costs, the non-profit Newport Performing Arts Center has abandoned plans to streamline its initial design, and instead is looking for ways to trim its budget, without sacrificing the audience’s experience. John Cratin, the organization’s board chair, said the contractor is “very focused” on infrastructure and utilities, hopeful of finding savings to offset […]
Posted inArts & Culture
PVDFest returning to Providence June 10-12
Organizers in Providence today announced the PVDFest is returning to the capital city June 10-12, 2022. The free outdoor arts festival was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. Artists and performers from “around the corner and around the globe” are expected to be a part of Providence’s world-renowned art and culture community […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Theater Review: ‘Oklahoma!’ fails to impress at PPAC
Here’s what you need to know about the touring production of Oklahoma! at the Providence Performing Arts Center running through Sunday. First, a good number of people did not return after the intermission. This is never a good sign. Second, on the way out, the question most often overheard was, “What the heck did I […]
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Newport County Youth Chorus ‘Broadway Showtunes’ class begins April 4
The Newport County Youth Chorus is welcoming students in grades 2 through 4 to join them for “Broadway Showtunes”. Classes are offered on Tuesdays from 3:30 – 4:30 pm at the MLK Center (20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd, Newport) and Thursdays from 5:15 – 6:15 pm at Calvary United Methodist Church (200 Turner Road, Middletown) […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Theater Review: ‘Ironbound’ features powerful performances
Set at a bus stop in front of a concrete wall – highway overpass, maybe – in a dangerous neighborhood in a rundown New Jersey town, “Ironbound” is bleak. While the latest production at the Gamm Theatre paints a pretty gray picture, there is some light too. We meet Darja (Donnla Hughes) at the bus […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Danielle Genest named Island Moving Company’s next Artistic Director
The Board of Directors for Island Moving Company (IMC), Newport’s contemporary ballet, announced today the appointment of Danielle Genest as the company’s next Artistic Director, starting September 1, 2022. Genest is IMC’s current Associate Artistic Director and will succeed founding Artistic Director, Miki Ohlsen following her retirement at the end of the company’s 40th Anniversary […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Arts & Cultural Alliance extends application period for 2022 Artist Award
The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Newport County (ACA) has extended the deadline for its 2022 Artist Award application to May 15, 2022. The award is given each year to a Newport County artist for the purpose of creating an art project to benefit the local community. Now in its fifth year, ACA’s Artist Awards […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Theater Review: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Jamestown Community Theatre
Jamestown Community Theater is back in business with its production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” their first show since the pandemic shut down the theater world in early 2020. Directed by Richard J. Martin, “Spelling Bee” is a bright and fun show to mark the company’s return. The cast is eclectic, featuring […]
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Newport Art Museum to host Call & Response 2022 Artist Talk
Newport Art Museum today announced that it will present a Call & Response 2022 Artist Talk with exhibiting artists Diane Barceló, Emily Belz, and On-Kyeong Seong on Wednesday, March 30, 2022, at 5:30 pm. The talk will be followed by an informal Q&A with artists in the galleries. The event is free and open to all and can be enjoyed in person […]
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Six Picks Events: What’s Up in RI this weekend – March 18-20
Welcome to the March Madness edition of “Six Picks Events.” As always, it’s a busy weekend around RI, with theater, music, art, and of course, basketball taking center stage for many. Have a great weekend! Friday: The Jamestown Arts Center has an Opening Night reception for RAW, a new exhibition from curator Danielle Ogden. Learn […]
Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do
Lecture on March 23 will spotlight Newport’s first Irish mayor, Patrick J. Boyle
The Museum of Newport Irish History announces the fifth and final talk in its 20th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series, to be presented “virtually,” via Zoom, and in-person, at the Wayfinder Hotel, on Wednesday, March 23 at 6:00 p.m. Guest speaker, Steve Marino, local historian and tour guide, will present a lecture with Q&A to follow […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Celebrating Florence K. Murray on this St. Patrick’s Day and Women’s History Month
As we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day today, and as we celebrate Women’s History Month, no one exemplifies the accomplishments of women and the Irish more than Florence K. Murray, who distinguished herself in the military, in government, and in the courtroom. During this month, we have been highlighting women who have played significant roles in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rhode Island State Police Trooper, a Salve alumnus, and his K-9 are the inspiration for a new Netflix movie
Rhode Island State Police Trooper, who is also a Salve Regina University alumnus, Dan O’Neil, and his K-9 companion Ruby are the inspiration for the new Netflix movie, “Rescued by Ruby.” The film, which premieres on Thursday, March 17, depicts the story of Cpl. O’Neil and his partner Ruby who was adopted from RI Society […]
Posted inArts & Culture
More than one million daffodils are ready to bloom for the return of Newport Daffodil Days in April
With well over one million daffodils planted in the past fourteen years, Newport has become the self-proclaimed Daffiest City in New England. To celebrate the blazing yellow bounty that will soon flourish, a roster of daffodil-themed activities is planned throughout April. First up? For a yappy good time, join the Daffy Dressed Doggy “Paw-rade” marching from Bannister’s Wharf to historic […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: RI guitar great Duke Robillard releasing new album ‘They Called It Rhythm & Blues’ Friday March 18
Legendary guitarist and RI native Duke Robillard is not one to slow down. He’s been celebrated for his skills and has played with many of the all-time greats over the course of his 50+ year career, recording around 100 albums as leader and sideman. Robillard’s talents were recognized when he won the coveted W.C. Handy […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations coming to PPAC April 12-17
Providence, RI – The First National Tour of AIN’T TOO PROUD – THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS, the new Broadway smash hit musical, plays the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) April 12 – 17, 2022 as part of the Taco/The White Family Foundation Broadway Series. Tickets are on sale now at the PPAC Box Office (220 Weybosset Street in downtown […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Muralists celebrating the relationship of beer and farming at Exeter’s Tilted Barn Brewery
Bringing nature indoors and celebrating the importance of farming in the development of … BEER!! That’s the goal of two California muralists who will be at Exeter’s Tilted Barn Brewery beginning Monday March 14 through Wednesday March 16. They will be painting a 200 square foot mural that they say will capture the essence of […]
Posted inThings To Do
Six Picks Music: The best in local music this weekend (March 11-13)
The pre-St. Patrick’s Day weekend is a busy one on the local music scene. We’ve got the lowdown of some good shows below. Have a great weekend! Friday: The Amish Outlaws are one of the most unlikely bands ever. Four out of the original six members were born and raised under strict Amish rules in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rhode Island PrideFest and Illuminated Night Parade returning June 18
PROVIDENCE, RI, – Rhode Island PrideFest and Illuminated Night Parade returns to the creative capital on Saturday, June 18, 2022. After a two-year pause without an in-person festival or parade due to the pandemic, we are looking and planning that 2022 will allow the return of traditional programming, like the vendor exhibition area, community resource hub, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Six Picks Events: What’s Up in RI this weekend – March 11-14
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, the upcoming weekend should be a lot of fun around Rhode Island. With heavy rain in the forecast for Saturday, plan indoors, unless of course you’re headed to the Newport St. Patrick’s Day parade, which will go on, rain or shine! Have a great weekend. Friday: You won’t want to […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Theater Review: ‘The Prom’ overcomes audio issues and bigotry at PPAC
Here’s the bad news: Tuesday night’s performance of “The Prom” was plagued with sound problems from the start. Here’s the good news: Despite that, “The Prom” is a flat-out fun and entertaining show. Let’s talk about the show. It opens with a post-show Broadway celebration. Dee Dee Allen (Courtney Balan) and Barry Glickman (Patrick Wetzel) […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The Prom arrives at PPAC – Meet the stars with RI connections
The Prom is the latest Tony Award-nominated musical comedy to stop at the Providence Performing Arts Center. The hit show is thrilling audiences at PPAC through Sunday, March 13. (Ticket information here.) We met cast members Olivia-Rose Cece and Emily Borromeo at PPAC Wednesday morning and learned more about their lives in Rhode Island. Cranston […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘The Gilded Age’ returns to Newport for filming in May, extras needed
HBO’s The Gilded Age is preparing to begin filming for Season 2. According to a casting call from Grant Wilfley Casting Inc., filming will take place in Newport sometime between May 9 – 13. The show is looking for skilled tennis players to play in an 1880s match and Newport locals to be extras. Scenes for season one […]
Posted inBusiness
Newport Playhouse will reopen in July, following long closure due to flooding
The Newport Playhouse & Cabaret Restaurant today announced that they will reopen to the public on July 10. The popular spot in Newport was forced to close in August 2021 due to flooding caused by Hurricane Ida. Since November 17, Newport Playhouse has been hosting shows and events at the Wyndham Hotel and Johnny’s Restaurant. “The Newport […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Women’s History Month: RI’s greatest female musicians
Rhode Island female musicians have contributed significantly to the national music scene over the years. This Women’s History Month, we’re introducing you to a few RI artists who’ve stood out among their peers. For more, check out the videos below and visit the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame website here. Eileen Farrell Eileen Farrell (1920-2002) […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Artists selected for the Jamestown Arts Center 2022 Outdoor Arts Biennial
The Jamestown Arts Center (JAC) announced the 13 artists and artists’ collectives who will exhibit their artwork in outdoor sites throughout Jamestown. Outdoor public art enables rediscovery of familiar landscapes and creates new ways of seeing and connecting with others. The artists selected to exhibit in the 2022 Outdoor Arts Biennial hosted by the Jamestown […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Theater Review: ‘Exit Laughing’ at the Arctic Playhouse
As board members at the Arctic Playhouse in West Warwick, Lloyd Felix and Jim Belanger did the curtain speech prior to “Exit Laughing” last Friday night. They chatted up the audience and reminded us about the shows coming up this season. And then they talked about the show we were there to see. “I’m sure […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Steven Feinberg, Executive Director of RI Film and TV Office
You may have already heard the good news. HBO’s The Gilded Age, partially filmed in Newport, has been renewed for a second season. But that’s not the whole story when it comes to the film industry in Rhode Island. Earlier this week, I spoke to Steve Feinberg, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Film and […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Six Picks Music – The best in local music this weekend: Schemers, Nakeds, Roomful, and country legends
It’s a “Best of RI” weekend on “Six Picks,” along with a country music legend or two. Here’s our weekly column of some of the best live music from around the region. This week, we include several bands who are enshrined in the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame. Happy weekend! Friday: RI’s best straight-ahead […]
Posted inThings To Do
Six Picks: St. Patrick’s Day 2022 – Best parades around Rhode Island
Like parades? Feelin’ a little Irish, are ya? Well, we’ve got a month’s worth of festivities all in one place – check out “Six Picks St. Patrick’s Day Parades” from all around Rhode Island. The first is happening Saturday, March 5 in Pawtucket with events running through the month of March. The granddaddy of them […]
Posted inNews
Six Picks Events – What’s Up in RI this weekend: March 4-6
As Covid continues to retreat, now is a great time to go out and do the things you used to do, pre-pandemic. Like going to the movies, checking out live comedy, or shopping at a vintage market. A quick reminder, many venues and businesses still have vax and/or mask requirements. Check ahead of time and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Comic – Sour Grapes: Meltdown
Here’s this week’s Sour Grapes, enjoy! About Tim Jones / Sour Grapes Tim Jones is the creator, artist and writer of the widely popular, self-syndicated comic strip, “SOUR GRAPES”; a comic about “Aesop”, a miserable flying dog and his odd friends, all living in a problematic and troubled world. Sour Grapes is currently published in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Concert Photos: Don Felder soars at the Narrows Center
Guitarist and former member of The Eagles Don Felder brought his band and a set of legendary songs to Fall River’s Narrows Center for the Arts on Tuesday, March 1. It was a special night for the near-capacity crowd who heard timeless Eagles classics in the confines of one of the best music venues in […]
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On this day in history: March 2, 1956, John Cowsill born in Newport
Newport’s favorite family band added a boy on March 2, 1956 when keyboardist/drummer John Cowsill was born. Jonh played with The Cowsills in their first incarnation in the 1960s and early 1970s, recording hit singles and making frequent television appearances. Based in Newport, The Cowsills achieved national success in the 1960s, behind hits like “The […]
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Newport Classical to present Geneva Lewis on March 11
Continuing its new commitment to ongoing year-round programming, Newport Classical will present its next spring Chamber Series concert at the Recital Hall at Emmanuel Church on Friday, March 11, 2022 at 7:30pm. 2021 Avery Fischer Career Grant recipient, violinist Geneva Lewis, will perform a program with pianist Evren Ozel that contrasts music of sadness, darkness, and despair with evolutions into light, including […]
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What’s Up Interview: Alex MacLeod of Rock Hearts, bluegrass band playing BRT in Cumberland March 12
Here’s your chance to see an up-and-coming RI-based band before they hit it big. Although their name might imply rock and roll, the Rock Hearts are all about classic bluegrass harmony, anchored by veteran musicians at the top of their game. The band is playing the Blackstone River Theatre in Cumberland Saturday, March 12 at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
10 Rhode Island high school students will compete in the 17th Poetry Out Loud competition on March 6
The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) announced today that 10 RI high school students will participate in the Poetry Out Loud state finals on March 6 in a private ceremony at The Greenwich Odeum at 11 am. At the Rhode Island State Finals, contestants will recite works they selected from an anthology of more […]
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Concert Photos: Mdou Moctar rocks the Columbus Theatre in Providence
The desert blues sounds of Mdou Moctar and his band were felt deep in the oasis of music known as the Columbus Theatre in Providence Thursday, February 24. An enthused crowd packed the downstairs theater to hear the “Hendrix of the Sahara,” as Moctar, a native of Niger in North Africa is known. The band […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Six Picks Music: The best in local music this weekend February 25-27
It’s a Woonsocket to Westerly weekend on the music scene as some of our favorite local artists play at your favorite spots around town. Check out “Six Picks Music” for the best in local tuneage this weekend. Friday: When the snow ends, head to Nickanees for RI Rockabilly greats The Teledynes who will certainly rock […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘Six Picks Events’ this Weekend: Comedy, Trinity, GS Cookies and Beer
With a few more weeks of winter left, we’re highlighting some indoor activities scheduled for the upcoming weekend. Check out “Six Picks Events” around Rhode Island for this weekend, February 25-27. All Weekend: Don’t miss August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean opening Thursday, February 24 at Trinity Repertory in Providence. The play is part of […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Jane Pickens Film and Events Center to present ‘Oscar Shorts’ Feb. 25-March 2
Want to be among the cool kids who actually know what’s going on in the first hour or two of the Academy Awards show? Well here’s your chance… With about a month to go before the televised awards are held, the Jane Pickens Film and Events Center in Newport continues the tradition of presenting “Oscar […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Iconic rocker Bruce Cockburn, coming to Narrows Center March 2
One of rock and roll’s most interesting artists is coming to the Narrows Center in Fall River on Wednesday, March 2. Bruce Cockburn is not an easy musician to classify, with a range of songwriting credits from the folksy “Wonderin’ Where the Lions Are,” to the forceful peace anthem, “If I Had a Rocket Launcher.” […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Concert Preview: Allysen Callery and Avi Jacob headed to Stone Soup Coffeehouse Saturday, February 26
A pair of the region’s top singer-songwriters are coming to the renowned Stone Soup Coffeehouse in Providence Saturday, February 26. Allysen Callery and Avi Jacob are dual headlining a 7PM show at the Music Mansion, the current home of Stone Soup, at 88 Meeting Street on the East Side of Providence. It’s the first show […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Happy Twosday! Why numbers like 2/22/22 have been too fascinating for over 2,000 years
Barry Markovsky, University of South Carolina This Feb. 22, the world hits an unprecedented milestone. It’s the date itself: 2/22/22. And this so-called “Twosday” falls on a Tuesday, no less. It’s true the number pattern stands out, impossible to miss. But does it mean anything? Judging by the thousands of commemorative products available for purchase […]
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Comic – Sour Grapes: Partly Cloudy
Here’s this week’s Sour Grapes, enjoy! About Tim Jones / Sour Grapes Tim Jones is the creator, artist and writer of the widely popular, self-syndicated comic strip, “SOUR GRAPES”; a comic about “Aesop”, a miserable flying dog and his odd friends, all living in a problematic and troubled world. Sour Grapes is currently published in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gamm Theatre to present Martyna Majok’s ‘Ironbound’ March 17- April 10,
WARWICK, RI (February 21, 2022) – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre (The Gamm) continues Season 37 with Martyna Majok’s Ironbound, a heartrending and also humorous drama about the dreams and realities of the American immigrant experience. Set in a gritty stretch of New Jersey, the play spans 22 years in the life of Darja, a Polish immigrant getting by on cleaning […]
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Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will perform at IYRS Summer Gala in July
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will be the featured entertainment at the 25th Annual IYRS Summer Gala on Saturday, July 9. The Summer Gala is the biggest and most important fundraiser of the year for IYRS School of Technology & Trades, a private nonprofit school. The Gala reportedly raises about 40% of their annual operating costs, […]
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Concert Recap and Photos: Bonny Light Horseman at the Berklee Performance Center
(Review by Gavi Elkind) Transcendent singer, songwriter, and musician Anaïs Mitchell took the stage at Berklee Performance Center on Friday, February 18th alongside her multi-instrumentalist Bonny Light Horsemen bandmates, Eric Johnson and Josh Kaufman along with drummer JT Bates and bassist/saxophonist Michael Lewis. The first set of the show was entirely Bonny Light Horsemen tunes, […]
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Theater Review: PPAC’s ‘An Officer and a Gentleman,’ delivers predictable fun
Perhaps you’ve heard the term “jukebox musical.” Typically, it’s a show that takes a group of well-known songs from a particular artist or genre and stitches them together with a new story. For instance, there’s MAMMA MIA!, taking a group of songs by Abba and building them into a story about a young girl about […]
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What’sUpNewp and The JPT will present ‘Goodfellas’ on Feb. 23
What’s Up Newp and JPT Film and Event Center are teaming up once again this year to bring some of the most iconic and definitive classic films to the big screen. On Wednesday, February 23 at 7:30 pm, we’ll present a special screening of the 1990 classic Goodfellas. Starring Ray Liotta, Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci, […]
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Paul McCartney added to Fenway Park Concert Series
Paul McCartney today announced a summer concert swing through the United States with a stop at Fenway Park in Boston on June 7. The show is his first at Fenway since 2016 and will be his fifth show at the historic ballpark. The tour comes on the heels of the enormously successful Disney+ series “Get […]
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Six Picks School Vacation Edition: Go karting, fly a kite, and outdoor skating
Here’s my roundup of some fun family activities to do over the upcoming February vacation. Keep the kids busy… and parents from going crazy … with these ideas for winter break. Add your favorites in the comments below! Go Karting. Take the kids go-karting at RI Indoor Karting in Lincoln which features a 1/3 mile […]
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Museum of Newport Irish History lecture spotlights Irish women in the American Labor Movement
Mother Jones in 1902 (source: Library of Congress) The Museum of Newport Irish History today announced the fourth talk in its 20th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series, to be presented “virtually” on Tuesday, February 22 at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom. Dr. Elizabeth Stack, executive director of the Irish American Heritage Museum, located in Albany, New York, will present […]
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Portsmouth’s Michael Sheehan stars in “She Loves Me” musical at College of the Holy Cross
Michael Sheehan of Portsmouth, a Class of 2025 student at College of the Holy Cross, is performing in “She Loves Me,” a musical presented by the College’s Department of Theatre and Dance. Sheehan’s major is Undeclared. The in-person production, directed by Meaghan Deiter, professor of practice in music theatre, is set for Thursday, Friday and Saturday, February 17-19 at 7:30 PM […]
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“Six Picks” Events: What to do in RI this weekend – Trolls, Burgers and Bruins
It’s another busy winter weekend out there with lots to do in and around RI. Check out a few happenings around the state in our weekly feature “Six Picks Events.” All Weekend: Don’t miss An Officer and a Gentleman at the Providence Performing Arts Center this weekend. The producers of the 1982 Richard Gere, Deborah […]
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Beach Road Weekend Music Festival inks contract extension through 2024
(Vineyard Haven, MA) The Tisbury Town Select Board on Martha’s Vineyard unanimously approved permits to allow Innovation Arts and Entertainment to operate the Beach Road Weekend music festival through 2024. Beach Road Weekend 2022 is a three-day music festival, August 25 – 28, at Veterans Memorial Park, just a short walk from the Vineyard Haven Ferry […]
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Redwood Library & Athenæum acquires a clock sculpture by contemporary artist Nari Ward
Redwood Library & Athenæum today announced that it has acquired a clock sculpture by contemporary artist Nari Ward. Entitled Anchoring Escapement; Ithaca, the work is from a limited series of tall case clocks radically transformed by Ward not only to address race, the repressed histories of slavery, and the reframing of Western time but also […]
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What’s Up Interview: Jazz pianist Greg Murphy coming to the Narrows Center Saturday Feb. 19
When it comes to jazz music, Chicago native Greg Murphy isn’t too concerned about being constrained by genre. He’s perfectly comfortable leading his band on classics like the Coltrane-inspired “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” while also adept at jazz takes on popular hits from his youth, like Seals and Croft’s “Summer Breeze.” Murphy’s trio, including bassist Paul […]
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Newport Historical Society announces completion of Gilded Age Digitization Project
The Newport Historical Society today announced that it has recently completed a digitization project in partnership with UK-based publishers Adam Matthew, to scan materials for their e-textbook: The Gilded Age and Progressive Era. The Newport Historical Society says that over 16,000 images of its collections were captured, including the Newport Casino Bulletin (1899-1910), Newport Directories […]
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Comic – Sour Grapes: Snowcial Distancing
Here’s this week’s Sour Grapes, enjoy! About Tim Jones / Sour Grapes Tim Jones is the creator, artist and writer of the widely popular, self-syndicated comic strip, “SOUR GRAPES”; a comic about “Aesop”, a miserable flying dog and his odd friends, all living in a problematic and troubled world. Sour Grapes is currently published in […]
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HBO renews ‘The Gilded Age’ for a second season
The Gilded Age, the HBO drama series that was partly filmed in Newport, has been renewed for a second season. From creator Julian Fellowes (“Downton Abbey”), The Gilded Age debuted on January 24 with episodes currently streaming on HBO Max. Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming said in a statement, “Julian Fellowes and the entire GILDED […]
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Concert Photos: Doug Woolverton and Groove Merchants at Greenwich Hotel
RI native Doug Woolverton brought his A-game to the Miles Davis tribute show at the Updike Room at the Greenwich Hotel February 12-13, in a pair of Valentine’s weekend performances. His band, consisting of Mike Tucker on Tenor Sax, Chase Ceglie on Alto Sax, Rusty Scott on piano, Keala Kaumeheiwa on bass, and Chris Rivelli […]
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Concert Recap and Photos: Daughtry rocks Mohegan Sun
Rock and roll was the order of the day at the Mohegan Sun Arena Saturday night, February 12. Two bands, openers Plush and Grammy-nominated Daughtry played their hearts out before a near-capacity crowd. Plush, an all-female band on their way up, set the tone for the more well-established Daughtry, who worked through a setlist of […]
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Black History Month: RI’s Greatest African American Musicians
From Opera to Doo-Wop to Jazz, African-American artists have contributed enormously to Rhode Island’s musical heritage. To celebrate Black History Month, we’re introducing you to a few Rhode Islanders who paved the way. For more, check out the videos in the story below and visit the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame web site here. […]
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Josh Groban’s “Harmony” Tour Coming to Mohegan Sun April 3
UNCASVILLE, CT (February 11, 2022) – Multi-Platinum, award-winning singer, songwriter, and actor Josh Groban hits the road for his first tour since releasing his latest album, Harmony, in November 2020. Groban returns to Mohegan Sun Arena at 7:00pm on Sunday, April 3rd. Tickets are $79, $59, and $49 and go on sale Monday, February 14th at 10:00am […]
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PPAC presents Next Stop BROADWAY: Where YOU Create the Magic on Stage
Providence, RI – The Next Stop BROADWAY® program, presented by the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), will take place at PPAC (220 Weybosset Street in downtown Providence), Monday through Friday, July 18 – 22, 2022. Next Stop BROADWAY® registrations and scholarship applications open tomorrow, February 9; visit ppacri.org/nextstopbroadway to learn more. This full-day, week-long immersive performing arts program transports participants (“cast members), […]
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What’s Up Interview: Choreographer Patti Wilcox of “An Officer and a Gentleman” – at PPAC Feb 18-20
Patti Wilcox was pretty cheery when we chatted recently. “I’ve just arrived in Detroit and it’s great.” When I pointed out that “Detroit” and “great” don’t often appear in the same sentence, she laughed. “It’s a good tour city, and it is the home of Motown, so…” Wilcox is part of the creative team that […]
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“Six Picks” Music: The best in local music this weekend – Atwater-Donnell, Ali McGuirk and Daughtry
There’s a lot more than football going on this weekend. Who needs lip-synched halftime shows bound to stir controversy anyway? We’ve got a few music picks below of some of the best in local music this weekend. Friday: A twin bill of Pure Prarie League and the Atlanta Rhythm Section rolls into the Stadium Theatre […]