An MLK Celebration and an Audition Opportunity

Ah, the January thaw! Isn’t it funny how fifty degrees in the middle of winter feels practically balmy, while the same temperature in June has us shivering? It’s all a matter of perspective.

And while the warmish weather certainly brings more people outdoors, I’ve been really amazed at the number of people who continue to ride their bikes in the coldest weather of the season. I think I’ve seen more bikers this winter than the last three combined. I like to bike, but honestly, I like it quite a bit warmer before I’m willing to expose myself to wind chill factors and spraying ice.

Good news is, most of the bikers seem warmly clad and well equipped with lights and flashers, so at least they’re playing it safe.

Onto the fun stuff…

In case you didn’t know, we’ll be celebrating Martin Luther King Day next Monday, Jan. 21. In honor of Dr. King and his special day, there’s a celebration happening this Wednesday evening, Jan. 16, over at the Fenn School, 516 Monument Street. It’s the 20th such celebration brought to life by the Concord-Carlisle Human Rights Council, and it’s totally free.

Choruses of all ages will join together to sing folksongs, spirituals, and gospel songs, including the Fenn Treble Chorus, Willard fifth-grade chorus, the CCHS Patriettes A Capella Chorus, the Boston Children’s Chorus, and the Holy Tabernacle Church Gospel Chorus. I haven’t heard any of them, but I’m guessing they’ll raise the roof with some glorious music. There is nothing quite so uplifting as choral music, and this is choral music times five.

It runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m., but you might want to get there early -- I think this may be a popular one.

And if that’s not enough singing for you… 

The Concord Players generally do one musical a year. This year it’s the ever-popular Sound of Music. What’s nice about this is that there are several quite excellent parts for children, and it’s the kind of musical you’re happy to have your child involved with.

Auditions are happening on Saturday, Jan. 26 from 1:30 to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 27 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., over at the Trinitarian Church on Walden Street.

You do need an appointment, which you can get by emailing your child’s name, age, gender, telephone number, and preferred audition day to SOM-info@concordplayers.org. You’ll get an email back with the exact time of your audition, and you should plan to get there a half hour early in order to register and have a photo taken.

And if your child is a little shy, don’t worry: these preliminary auditions are being scheduled in groups, so it’s only a given number per time slot.

This is a great way for kids with a flair for the dramatic to try their acting chops on a big stage, with the comfort of the nurturing local community theatre members there to support them.

Break a leg!

Do you have something you would like to share? Contact me at stefanieac@comcast.net and I will be happy to help you spread the good news. And follow me on Twitter: @stefanie3131