mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It is a shared experience with others all seeing it through their own lens which is so similar and yet unique compared to ours. There’s nothing quite like it. Recently, I got tickets to see Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper at Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg. I’m typically the event planner for our small family, and I told the gang we were headed to a show but did not provide much context beyond that. I knew that Michael was a Grammy award-winning bluegrass fiddler but I was blown away seeing him perform live. It was an epic show and my husband and I had a wonderful time. Our teenage son was also present and did not complain, so that’s about as good as it gets on that. (I just remind him that this builds “character” and “memories” and someday he can do this to his own children.) The thunderous applause and standing ovation from everyone at the end of two hours that felt like two minutes said it all. The level of talent right here in my own backyard was astonishing, and sadly it’s often overlooked. If you missed that show – don’t despair: there’s plenty of others coming up! And again – it all takes place inside. Big plus for me. EMN’s Hip Hop Orchestra is coming up March 1 - a part dance party, part classical mash up. There’s the Reduced Shakespeare Company for light-hearted fun that everyone can enjoy, learning while laughing is always enjoyable. The Aaron Diehl Jazz Trio in April is perfect for setting the stage for date night. Just across the river at Bucknell, the Weis Center for the Performing Arts is a great venue for world class shows – I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Paula Poundstone perform her side-splitting comedy there. This season welcomes acts like the Henhouse Prowlers on February 14, the bluegrass inspired group from Chicago. The visually stunning Houston Ballet will perform acts from Don Quixote and Sleeping Beauty on March 28. I have to admit, I’ve never seen a ballet performance and Texas is not what I would associate with the 4th largest ballet company in the United States. But that’s what I love about these options in the arts in this area; we are always afforded an opportunity to learn. Performers from Ukraine to Germany to Brazil are all part of the Weis Center’s world class 2025 lineup. Our last member of the trio is Susquehanna University, just downriver a bit in Selinsgrove. Their strong Theater Department brought such plays as
The Henhouse Prowlers will perform at Bucknell’s Weis Center on Valentine’s Day, February 14.
Equus and Jesus Christ Superstar to life this past year and this spring’s line up looks just as great. Upcoming shows are Blood Relations - a look the infamous Lizzie Borden - and stories of strength and determination in These Shining Lives. In April, Michelle Cann and Imani Winds will grace the stage. Michelle is one of the most sought-after pianists of our time and Imani Winds is a 3-time Grammy nominated group of talented and dedicated artists embracing traditional chamber music and new voices. And if being outside in the cold is something you do enjoy, there’s plenty to do around here! By all means, strap on your skis, drill a hole in the ice and go fishing, build a snowman or take up ice climbing. I envy people whose joints still allow them to keep up with their inner child. But I’m taking my actual child and my inner child to go see Mutts Gone Nuts in February!
DON’T MISS IT! turn the page to check out our digital magazine’s special“box office” section, where you can take a look at the upcoming shows in our area!
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