
Drumming 101 with Don Karsky will take place on Saturday, May 24th, from 10:00 – 11:30 am in the street-level Elbow Room. No previous experience is necessary to enjoy this class. Don offers years of experience in drumming to those interested in learning a new skill. For years Don had performed as a percussionist in numerous bands and drum & bugle corps before picking up hand drumming. He now plays a variety of world hand drums, including djembes, doumbeks and congas for drum circles and other events in the region.
Curious about what a drum circle is? Come find out. Drumming is a self-rewarding tactile activity one can perform either alone or in a group. It is a mode of expression, providing both release from and connection to forces greater than oneself. Cost is $10 per person and drums are provided. Don also restores and sells instruments, for those eager to continue playing at home.
Next is “Ole and Lena’s 50th Wedding Anniversary and Vow Renewal,” showing during the Wannigan Days celebration in St. Croix Falls. Two performances will take place on Saturday, June 14th, at 2:00 and 7:30pm.
Lena sees a couple renew their vows on Dr. Phil and decides that’s what she and Ole are going to do for their 50th wedding anniversary; but the only thing on Ole’s mind these days is the Lodge’s ice fishing tournament, and how he and his neighbor, Sven, are going to win the “whole deal.” Will Lena get Ole to the altar to renew his vows? Will Ole talk Sven into covering for him so they can both fish in the tournament? Find out in this comedy about love, marriage, and growing old together.
Stop in to Festival Theatre during Wannigan Days for this down home comedy, taking place in the street-level Elbow Room. To celebrate Ole and Lena’s special event, traditional wedding fare will be offered in the Act II Lounge. Tickets for this touring production are $20 and space is limited.
A second Wine & Canvas event is set for Saturday, September 13th, 1:00 – 4:00 pm. “Autumnal Palette: Wine & Canvas at Festival Theatre” follows the first one held last Friday, May 9th.
No previous painting experience is necessary to participate. Come and enjoy a beautiful evening of painting and wine. This workshop is for adults interested in learning to paint with acrylics, following a step by step process culminating in a ready-to-hang work of art. Even if you’ve never held a paintbrush in your life, learn to paint and enjoy the company of friends old and new at this popular event.
The cost is $40 per person and reservations are required. The Act II Lounge will feature Chateau St. Croix wines and appetizers available for purchase during the session.
Just announced is a fall addition to the Music Series featuring Colleen Raye and friends, called “Sinatra and Company – Music from the Rat Pack Era.” On Friday, September 26th, beginning at 2:00 pm, Colleen Raye, Debbie O'Keefe, Tim Patrick and the 10-piece Blue Eyes Band bring a totally entertaining presentation featuring iconic music from the '50's and '60's crooners – both guys and gals. Patrons will hear songs from Sinatra, Garland, Ella, Marilyn, Dino, Sammy, Dinah, Rosemary and more - all with the spontaneous feel of a Rat-Pack concert. Tickets are $21 in advance, $26 at the door, and this concert is Flex Pass eligible. Group rates are also available, and group reservations can be made by calling the box office at 715.483.3387.
Reservations for all these events can be made online. Watch the website and the weekly emails for more ticket promotions and events to be added this year. Stay connected by signing up for the email list through the website, www.festivaltheatre.org. Other social media links can be found on the website home page, including Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.
Plus, here’s a sneak peak at the 2015 Music line up: Jay Ungar and Molly Mason, the Johnny Cash Tribute Band, and the return of singer/songwriters John Gorka and Michael Johnson!