Celebrate the Holidays with 3 Festive Productions

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) celebrates the holidays with three festive productions. Ring in the season with Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet The Nutcracker, FPAC’s original musical Humbug!, and A Glass Slipper Christmas, a holiday panto with a twist on the Cinderella fairy tale.

FPAC’s magical journey of The Nutcracker will be presented at the Franklin High School auditorium on December 3 at 7:30 p.m. and December 4 at 2:00. A popular FPAC holiday tradition for more than 20 years, the production features guest artists Vilia Putrius and Mindaugas Bauzys, company dancers with Festival Ballet Providence, as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Rosario Guillen, a student of the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, will dance the part of the Nutcracker/Prince, with Aaron Andrade of Lincoln, Rhode Island, playing the role of Dr. Drosselmeyer. Set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, the world-famous ballet showcases more than 100 area dancers and features a 27-piece professional orchestra under the direction of Peter Cokkinias. 

 FPAC’s magical journey of The Nutcracker

FPAC’s original panto, A Glass Slipper Christmas, will be staged at THE BLACK BOX on December 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. with a Sunday matinee on December 11 at 2:00. Based on the story of Cinderella, the production follows in the British tradition, retelling a well-known fairy tale in an exaggerated style filled with audience participation, popular music, slapstick comedy, jokes, dances, and more. Audiences are invited to cheer for the hero, boo at the villain, and sing along to favorite songs. The panto also entertains with double entendre, references to modern culture, and open satire of other works.

FPAC’s large-cast holiday musical, Humbug!, will be presented on December 17 at 7:30 p.m. and December 18 at 2 p.m. at the Franklin High School auditorium. A family favorite since debuting as part of the company’s 2008 season, Humbug! is an original musical retelling of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. With musical hits of every genre and live accompaniment by a 10-piece band of professional musicians, Humbug! transports audiences from Dickensian England to contemporary America as the novel’s iconic characters and storyline are cleverly reimagined with modern setting and dialogue. Humbug! stars the script’s writer, Nick Paone, as Ebenezer Scrooge. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com.

Tony Award winner Beth Leavel - November 19

Tony Award winner Beth Leavel performs a one-night-only show at THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s theater, music and event venue, on Saturday, November 19. Beginning at 8 p.m., the event launches THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series, sponsored by Childs Engineering. 

Leavel recently finished an Atlanta run of the new Broadway-bound musical The Prom. In Franklin, she will be accompanied by acclaimed musical director Phil Reno, who is currently conducting Something Rotten on Broadway. Seating options for THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series feature general admission, preferred table seating, and VIP tickets, which include an exclusive reception with the Broadway stars.

Tony Award winner Beth Leavel

Beth Leavel’s extensive Broadway credits include 42nd Street (Anytime Annie, original cast; Dorothy Brock, revival), Crazy for You (Tess), Show Boat (Ellie, revival), The Civil War (Mrs. Bixby), Young Frankenstein (Frau Blucher), Mamma Mia! (Donna), and Elf the Musical (Emily). She received a Tony Award nomination for her portrayal of Florence Greenberg in Baby It’s You! 

Leavel’s Tony Award-winning performance in the title role of The Drowsy Chaperone also earned her Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards. TV and film credits include ER, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and The Unusuals. Leavel headlined FPAC’s 2012 Gala at Gillette Stadium, as well as the grand-opening 2014 Gala at THE BLACK BOX. 

A suburban hub for great music, THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 West Central Street. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

FPAC’S THE ADDAMS FAMILY Awarded NETC Moss Hart Awards Honorable Mention

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) received Honorable Mention recognition from the New England Theatre Conference (NETC) 54th Annual Moss Hart Awards for FPAC’s 2015 production of The Addams Family. Presented at the 65th annual NETC Convention on October 29, the 2016 Moss Hart Awards honored eight productions from across New England. FPAC’s The Addams Family was one of two theatrical productions recognized in the Community Theatre Division. The prestigious awards honor the life of celebrated Broadway playwright, director, and producer Moss Hart. As stated by the NETC, the annual honor “seeks to encourage artistic growth and the highest standards of excellence in theatre.”

FPAC’s The Addams Family

The commendation represents back-to-back honors for FPAC, having been awarded an Honorable Mention last year for Peter Pan, which launched the company’s first season at THE BLACK BOX. FPAC also received an Honorable Mention for West Side Story by the 2004 Moss Hart Awards. FPAC’s devilishly delightful The Addams Family was presented at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue in downtown Franklin, as part of the company’s milestone 25th anniversary season. 

FPAC’s The Addams Family - panorama

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit FPAC brings together professional artists, community performers and students of the arts in a collaborative and creative environment. With a special focus on youth development and a commitment to live music, FPAC supports educational arts experiences, quality entertainment and outstanding performance opportunities. For more information, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com or www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

The Kennedys with Nalani and Sarina Nov 19

THE KENNEDYS with Nalani and Sarina Nov 19th 8PM $20 The Kennedys will be returning to The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse on Saturday, Nov 19th, at 8PM.  Even after more than ten years, over a thousand gigs and 500,000 miles of touring as a married, music-making couple, singer-guitarists Pete and Maura Kennedy still savor each instant in life and in each others company, and it shows in their music. The Kennedys have been charming audiences, record buyers and critics for the past decade with their exuberant mixture of folk, rock, country, pop and their own brand of secular gospel, a philosophical depth in their lyrics, and joyful, kinetic performances and recordings. The Kennedys use a full palette of vocal and instrumental colors to bring their songs to glowing life. Maura's lead vocals range from comforting to yearning, from girlish to womanly, from exuberant to delicate. Multi-instrumentalist Pete provides a vibrant tapestry of chiming, jangling and twanging guitars, as well as mandolin, electric sitar, and ukulele, interwoven with Maura's sturdy acoustic rhythm guitar.  http://www.kennedysmusic.com/ Twins Nalani and Sarina will be opening the show.   They are young, but they've already displayed an impressive social conscience. "We'll Be Free" is a bold statement made on behalf of sexual equality, and it's won the duo the applause of the LGBT community. "Scattered Girl" is a generational anthem that addresses the difficulties of young adulthood in frank, immediately identifiable language. In a pop landscape largely bereft of Asian-American voices, the twin sisters' perspective is welcome. Their songs are catchy AND meaningful, their look is dazzling, their message is courageous, and the sky is the limit. http://www.nalanisarina.com/ "In addition to being charismatic and confident singers and musicians, rotating among guitars, keyboards and ukuleles, their secret weapon is their songwriting."                ~ David Bianculli, TV Critic for NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available. Admission is $20. Please call (508)528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information.  Upcoming Shows Dec 3     Ellis Paul Dec 10   A Celtic Christmas with Robbie O'Connell and Rose Clancy Jan 7      Christine Lavin and Don White Jan 28    Peter Mulvey

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

New England Irish Harp Orchestra - Dec 4

NEW ENGLAND IRISH HARP ORCHESTRA

Under the direction of Regina Delaney

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4th ~ 7:00 pm

237 Pleasant Street, Franklin MA

There is nothing quite as magic as the sound of 6 or 12 harps playing together in harmony, with some fiddle, whistle and perhaps bodhran (Irish drums ) thrown in for good measure. 

New England Irish Harp Orchestra will share a wonderful medley of holiday music that will put you in the perfect mood for Advent !! 

This is a fundraiser for the church - tickets are $ 10 at the door and will be available in the office after November 1.

Free to Dean College students with student ID.

New England Irish Harp Orchestra - Dec 4

This was shared from Franklin Matters
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/11/new-england-irish-harp-orchestra-dec-4.html

LiveARTS presents Ina Zdorovetchi, harp - Nov 13

Sunday, November 13, 2016 LiveARTS Franklin presents Ina Zdorovetchi and her music with harp. Scheduled for performance are music by Hindemith, Faure, Glinka and Joplin.

LiveARTS presents Ina Zdorovetchi, harp - Nov 13

All Concerts on Sundays, 3:30 pm at the Meetinghouse of the First Universalist Society, 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin, MA

Doors open at 3 pm. Open Seating. Handicapped accessible

For additional information on LiveARTS please visit their webpage   http://www.liveartsma.org/

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse - Three Rising Stars- Nov 5

View this email in your browser Three Rising Stars Matt Nakoa, Rachael Kilgour, and Kirsten Maxwell Nov 5th 8PM $20 The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse show on Saturday, November 5th, at 8PM features three young rising stars, Matt Nakoa, Rachael Kilgour, and Kirsten Maxwell.  You may not have heard their names yet,  but  each is an excellent award-winning performer.  Here is a video of them performing "Time After Time" together: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_-ufEMWRgY&index=4&list=PLYu4o_RjkzkyBpbOu-XLkp8vDCcoDsPQZ MATT NAKOA is an internationally touring singer/songwriter recently appearing at The White House, throughout India, and regularly with folk icon Tom Rush. He has won awards at many prestigious music festivals.  Last May he opened our Susan Werner concert and received a standing ovation. http://www.mattnakoa.com/ "Between his piano chops, charismatic stage presence, and heartfelt originals on guitar, [Matt Nakoa] drops jaws." - The Boston Globe Duluth, MN, singer-songwriter RACHAEL KILGOUR has built a devoted following over the last ten years, captivating audiences with a balance of provocative, topical lyrics, passionate musical delivery, and a charmingly witty stage presence. She was chosen as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2015 NewSong Music Contest, a win that earned her a performance Lincoln Center in NYC.  http://www.rachaelkilgour.com/ KIRSTEN MAXWELL is a versatile 23 year-old vocalist, guitarist and songwriter who has quickly become a recognized fixture on the Long Island singer-songwriter scene. She was the winner of the 2016 South Florida Folk Festival Singer-Songwriter Competition and performed at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival this summer. http://www.kirstenmaxwell.com/ "... Kirsten Maxwell's clear soprano rings out in a way that would make Judy Collins and Joan Baez approve. She backs that up with skillful guitar playing and a growing collection of well-crafted songs. It's exciting to imagine what the future holds for her." — John Platt, "Sunday Supper" WFUV-NYC The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available. Admission is $20. Please call (508)528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information.  Upcoming Shows Nov 19      The Kennedys Dec 3         Ellis Paul Dec 10       A Celtic Christmas with Robbie O'Connell and Rose Clancy Jan 7         Christine Lavin and Don White Jan 28       Peter Mulvey

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

Tony Award winner Beth Leavel performs a one-night-only show - Nov 19

Tony Award winner Beth Leavel performs a one-night-only show at THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s theater, music and event venue, on Saturday, November 19. Beginning at 8 p.m., the event launches THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series, sponsored by Childs Engineering. 

Leavel recently finished an Atlanta run of the new Broadway-bound musical The Prom. In Franklin, she will be accompanied by acclaimed musical director Phil Reno, who is currently conducting Something Rotten on Broadway. Seating options for THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series feature general admission, preferred table seating, and VIP tickets, which include an exclusive reception with the Broadway stars.

Beth Leavel’s extensive Broadway credits include 42nd Street (Anytime Annie, original cast; Dorothy Brock, revival), Crazy for You (Tess), Show Boat (Ellie, revival), The Civil War (Mrs. Bixby), Young Frankenstein (Frau Blucher), Mamma Mia! (Donna), and Elf the Musical (Emily). She received a Tony Award nomination for her portrayal of Florence Greenberg in Baby It’s You! 

Leavel’s Tony Award-winning performance in the title role of The Drowsy Chaperone also earned her Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards. TV and film credits include ER, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and The Unusuals. Leavel headlined FPAC’s 2012 Gala at Gillette Stadium, as well as the grand-opening 2014 Gala at THE BLACK BOX. 

A suburban hub for great music, THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 West Central Street. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.
 

Leaveel at the grand-opening 2014 Gala at THE BLACK BOX

Big Band Brunch with Kenny Hadley Big Band on Sunday, November 13

THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s theater, music, and event venue, presents a Big Band Brunch with the renowned Kenny Hadley Big Band on Sunday, November 13. 

The critically-acclaimed 16-piece ensemble, led by drummer Kenny Hadley, boasts masterful musicians with performance ties to Big Band legends Woody Herman, Count Basie, Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich and more. The Kenny Hadley Big Band has shared the stage with such notables as the Count Basie Orchestra and the Duke Ellington Orchestra and has hosted guest soloists including Clark Terry and Louie Bellson. 

Combination tickets for brunch and music are $45; tickets for the concert alone are $20. THE BLACK BOX, home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), is located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin. Brunch begins at 11:30 a.m., with music beginning at noon. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.

 

Kenny Hadley Big Band on Sunday, November 13

FPAC presents "The Odd Couple"

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents Neil Simon’s hilarious The Odd Couple on November 4 and 5 at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on November 6 at 2:00. Directed by Aaron Andrade, FPAC’s production will be staged at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin as part of the company’s 26th season.

A classic American comedy by one of the most produced playwrights of the twentieth century, The Odd Couple is an epic mismatch of personalities, as an incompatible pair of suddenly single pals becomes roommates. Thrown out by his wife, the fastidious and uptight news writer, Felix Unger, moves in with the slovenly sportswriter, Oscar Madison, recently divorced. Unsure why their marriages fell apart, the friends repeat the same mistakes with each other – with hysterical results. The Odd Couple won the 1965 Tony Award for Best Author of a Play and was a Best Play nominee. The renowned buddy tale is the original play behind the hit TV sitcom and film.

Tickets are $24. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com. The Odd Couple is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.

THE BLACK BOX at 15 West Central St, Franklin

November Colors 2016 Art Exhibit: Oct 29 - Nov 29

The Franklin Art Association welcomes you to view their fall member exhibition titled "November Colors 2016 Art Exhibit." The show will be on display from October 29th through November 29th at the Norfolk Library, 139 Main Street in Norfolk, MA. The library is open Mon-Thurs. from 10AM -7:30PM, Friday and Saturday 10AM to 4PM

A Cheese and Cider Reception will take place on Saturday, November 5, 2016 from 4PM until 7PM. Works in oil, water media, acrylic, pastel, photography, pottery, collage, charcoal, drawing, calligraphy and mixed media will be available for sale. This event is free and open to the public.

Franklin Art Association - November Colors 2016 Art Exhibit

LET'S LAUGH TODAY in Franklin is on Wednesday, November, 2nd!

Trade all your Election Day stress and upcoming holiday stress for laughter on Wednesday, November 2nd from 7:30pm to 8:30pm (and every first Wednesday of the month) at the Meetinghouse of the First Universalist Society in Franklin, 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin. 

Come and enjoy this unique exercise of guided laughter exercises combined with gentle breathing that brings more oxygen to the body's cells. This oxygen boost gives enhanced vitality, energy and a feeling of real well-being. Any age and any level of physical ability can participate in this uplifting experience! 

New laughers are always welcomed! $5 donation to the church, $10 maximum per family. Please bring your water bottle because laughing is dehydrating. 

Led by Certified Laughter Yoga Teachers, Linda and Bill Hamaker. www.letslaughtoday.com. If you have any questions, just call them at 508-660-2223 or e-mail billandlinda@letslaughtoday.com.

Kaye Kelly at the 2016 Franklin Cultural Festival (video)

Turning back time (or #TBT) to that Saturday in July when THE BLACK BOX had two stages going for a full day of musical performances.

Here is a sample of Kaye Kelly's performance at THE BLACK BOX on the indoor stage. 

Kaye Kelly (photo by Jake Jacobson)

• Kaye Kelly

http://www.kayekelly.com/     https://www.berklee.edu/people/kaye-kelly

Hockomock Area YMCA Celebrates 10 Years of Theatre Excellence

On Saturday, October 29th the Hockomock Area YMCA invites the community to attend a performance that celebrates the past 10 years, in which a truly special youth theatre program has grown. The show will take place at 2:00 p.m. at the Guidrey Center at Dean College, 109 West Central Street, Franklin, MA. Since 2006, the Hockomock Area YMCA has produced over 55 musicals and 10 plays featuring full costume and professional sound/lights, and they have presented dozens of concerts, showcases and cabarets.

Join us as past and present performers and original director, Andrea Champagne, return to the local stage. All ages will be tapping their toes and singing along as highlights from the past decade come alive on stage. “We are excited to reunite with some of the over 600 families that have been part of our theatre community,” says Heather Utsler-Smith, the current performing arts director at the Mansfield YMCA Arts & Education Center. 

YMCA photo from seussical the musical

A survey of alumni was used to help select numbers for the upcoming anniversary show, which will feature 20 songs, piano accompaniment, karaoke tracks, and high school and college students playing drums, guitar, and bass. The show will open with You’ve Never Had a Friend Like Me from Aladdin, the troupe’s first ever full production number. Other numbers include Consider Yourself (Oliver), songs from The Wizard of Oz, Sound of Music, and more.

The Y’s Theatre Institute, added in 2013 to provide high quality theatrical education to high school students, will also be featured. The Institute prepares students for collegiate theatre programs and the foundational skills and experiences in the arts that they receive will be highlighted in songs from past shows including Little Women, The Wedding Singer, and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

“It’s a great time to celebrate the quality and quantity of shows that we are able to put up every year,” says Utsler-Smith, noting that the Hockomock Y serves families in 15 communities and with 10-12 full productions per year, the opportunity to include youth is impactful. “We have created a special community because the YMCA is intentional about including students of all abilities. Anyone can audition and then be welcomed on stage.”

The cost for tickets is $25 adults; $20 students; $10 youth ages 12 and under. To purchase advance tickets, visit hockymca.org/celebrate-theatre-10year. Tickets will also be available at the door on 10/29.

The Y wishes to thank staff and former participants involved in the success of YMCA Theatre. Recognition will be given at the performance to Mansfield Bank, the Marilyn Rodman Theatre for Kids Program, and Dean College for their commitment to the program.

YMCA photo of wedding singer ensemble

About Hockomock Area YMCA:

Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information, visit hockymca.org.

FPAC’S Fiddler On The Roof to Feature Violinist Irina Fainkichen

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) opens its 26th season with the musical theater masterpiece Fiddler on the Roof. The production plays at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin this coming weekend, with performances on October 21 and 22 at 7:30, and October 23 at 2:00. 

Actor/director Nick Paone leads FPAC’s cast as Tevye; however, the show’s title role belongs to classical musician Irina Fainkichen, who performs the iconic violin solos. Concert violinists have traditionally performed the Fiddler music, including the 1971 film, which featured the renowned Isaac Stern.

“I put my heart and soul in each and every note the Fiddler is playing, telling his story,” Fainkichen says.

Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Irina Fainkichen received degrees from Rachmaninoff Music College (Novgorod, Russia), St. Petersburg State Conservatory, and Rubin Academy of Music and Dance (Jerusalem, Israel). She was concertmaster of San Francisco’s Russian Chamber Orchestra for many years, appearing as soloist numerous times. Currently, she is a member of Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra, assistant concertmaster of Brockton Symphony Orchestra, and co-founder of “Flying Hearts” duo, which performs in a number of musical genres including jazz, Klezmer, and classic American tunes. Fainkichen is a busy freelance violinist in the Greater Boston area.

classical musician Irina Fainkichen

“Fiddler on the Roof is particularly dear to me,” she says. “Living part of my life in Russia and in Israel brings so much connection with the story itself and culture, Jewish traditions, history and music. I hope audiences will fall in love with the beauty of every song that is so familiar to all of us.”

Winner of nine Tony Awards when it debuted in 1964, the classic musical is the brainchild of Broadway legends Jerome Robbins and Harold Prince, songwriters Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick, and book writer Joseph Stein. Set in the small village of Anatevka, the story centers on Tevye, a poor milkman, and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and hold onto traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Tzarist Russia. 

Fiddler on the Roof’s universal theme of tradition has won the hearts of audiences with its celebration of life and family. Full of humor, warmth, and honesty, Fiddler on the Roof features the cherished songs “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Miracle of Miracles,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Tradition,” and “Matchmaker.”

Tickets are $34. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370. THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue, is located at 15 West Central Street. Fiddler on the Roof is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Lori Diamond and Fred Abatelli at 2016 Franklin Cultural Festival (video)

Turning back time (or #TBT) to that Saturday in July when THE BLACK BOX had two stages going for a full day of musical performances.

Here is a sample of the performance by Lori Diamond and Fred Abatelli at THE BLACK BOX under the tent on the outdoor stage presented by the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse.




For more about Lori Diamond and Fred Abatelli visit http://loridiamond.net/

 

Lori Diamond - Fred Abatelli performing (photo by Jake Jacobson)

FPAC presents Fiddler on the Roof - Oct 15, 16

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) proudly presents the musical theater masterpiece Fiddler on the Roof. The beloved classic opens FPAC’s 26th season. 

Performances are October 15 at 7:30 p.m., October 16 at 2:00, October 21 and October 22 at 7:30, and October 23 at 2:00. 

FPAC's Fiddler on the Roof

The production will be staged at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue, located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin.

Winner of nine Tony Awards when it debuted in 1964, the iconic musical is the brainchild of Broadway legends Jerome Robbins and Harold Prince, songwriters Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick, and book writer Joseph Stein. Touching audiences worldwide with its humor, warmth and honesty, Fiddler on the Roof is a staple of the musical theatre canon. 

Set in the small village of Anatevka, the story centers on Tevye, a poor milkman, and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and hold onto traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Tzarist Russia. 

Fiddler on the Roof’s universal theme of tradition has won the hearts of audiences with its celebration of life and family. The musical features the cherished songs “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Miracle of Miracles,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Tradition,” and “Matchmaker.”

Leading the cast are Nick Paone (Tevye) of Franklin and Kellie Stamp (Golde) of Westport. The production also features Jason Barney (Motel), Greg Dutton (Lazar Wolf), Aaron Frongillo (Perchik), Anna Grasso (Bielke), Shauna Martin (Yente), Debra Packard (Grandma Tzeitel), and Katharine Waples (Tzeitel) of Franklin; Colie Vancura (Hodel) of Medfield; Katie Gray (Fruma Sarah) of Milford; Griffin Wilkins (Fyedka) of Walpole; and Jenna McDermott (Chava) and Susauna Wickstrom (Shprintze) of Wrentham. Nick Paone directs FPAC’s production, assisted by Raye Lynn Mercer, with musical direction by Hallie Wetzell and choreography by Mercer and Kellie Stamp.

Tickets are $34. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com or www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com. Fiddler on the Roof is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Abbie Gardner and Jim Henry Oct 15

Oct 15 Abbie Gardner and Jim Henry Nov 5  Three rising stars -              Matt Nakoa, Rachael Kilgour, & Kirsten Maxwell View this email in your browser Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Abbie Gardner and Jim Henry Oct 15 Abbie Gardner and Jim Henry October 15th 8PM $20 Abbie and Jim have both appeared at the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse many times, but not together. You loved Abbie when she performed at the coffeehouse as a part of Red Molly.  Jim has appeared with Tracy Grammer, Eliza Gilkyson, and his own band The Surly Temple. This will be a magical night and we hope you can join us.   Abbie Gardner, the fiery Dobro player with an infectious smile has been touring with Americana darlings Red Molly for the past eleven years. After gracing stages from Denver to Denmark, from Australia to Austin, the band decided to take an indefinite hiatus in 2015, so Abbie is striking out on her own!  No stranger to solo performing, she has three CDs to draw from, each with award-winning songs.  Tales of love and loss, both gritty and sweet, ride the back of her by-now familiar, formidable slide guitar licks. She channels Lucinda and Bonnie, but remains pure Abbie.  "With a confidence that can only be earned, Gardner bursts out with a national steel guitar and a ballsy blues on the opening cut "Break It Slow." It's an unprecedented romp, fully of gnarly guitar lines and lyrics reminiscent of Lucinda Williams or Bonnie Raitt.." – Eli Peterson, Twangville Jim Henry is an American folk singer/songwriter and world-class multi-instrumentalist. At center stage, whether as a solo artist or leading a band, Jim delivers his finely crafted original songs with a smooth, rich baritone voice and engaging story telling and humor. As a sideman, on a variety of electric or acoustic guitars, or on mandolin or dobro, Jim can render emotional sensitivity in one moment then tear into a rock or country solo with such fire it's hard to catch your breath. He is a master of adding whatever is needed at any musical moment. He has produced, recorded, played and traveled the world with Mary Chapin Carpenter, Paula Cole, Shawn Colvin, Alison Krauss, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Los Lobos, Alseep at the Wheel, Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings, The Weepies, Deb Talan, Eliza Gilkyson, Tracy Grammer, Susan Werner, The Boxcar Lilies...the list goes on and on. Here is a video of them together. "Sad Farewell" Jim Henry and Abbie Gardner double dobro duo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTRmr9qfeO4 The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available. Admission is $20. Please call (508)528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information.  Upcoming Shows Nov 5     Three rising stars - Matt Nakoa, Rachael Kilgour, and Kirsten Maxwell Nov 19   The Kennedys Dec 3      Ellis Paul Dec 10    A Celtic Christmas with Robbie O'Connell and Rose Clancy

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA