Student Blog: Performing Arts Is Alive In the Community!

The summer is kicking into full gear as we continue to soak in the warmth of the weather and try to relax during the break. Now, performing is a full year job, but I like to think Summer is when the arts really shine. When I go see a show somewhere of course I am always excited to go in so when you add in a beautiful sunshine and great weather it’s perfect. Not sure if that makes sense for some, but I do love when everything makes for a perfect day! 

For my town's community we have a ton of performing arts events. There is always someone performing in the multiple gazebos placed strategically where people love to take in the views of my town (and where the ice cream is!). These events can either be a singer or an instrumentalist and it’s always a joy to watch such moving pieces. Bands are usually there too and those are great because it can be different genres of music to explore! Along with gazebo performances, my town loves to take advantage of nice weather and put on shows outside. I have been to a few in the past however I am always away on vacation when they happen. The town will have children theater performances or fun “Shakespeare in The Park” events as well. I never think about it, but in the moment these events can bring such a sense of community and it’s so sweet.

The best events come from the performances that are just at the right time. When sunsets happen. Sunsets can match the mood of a show or even make the mood. If you are ever lucky to see a show outside, having it placed where the sun goes down is perfect. Whether it be the person at the gazebo or A Midsummer Night’s Dream in a tent, a melted sun can most likely bring emotion to the scene in front of you. A lot of my outdoor events have occurred somewhere the Hudson River can be seen, so that also makes for good company!

Along with outside events, there are several small companies around me. I have seen theater camp performances and the community theater ones as well. In summer, these groups put on some of the best shows and while of course summer is for relaxing, not everyone has the break, so these shows can help a person destress! I am also lucky to be so close to New York City, so performances in Bryant Park and even Broadway shows are technically community events for me that I love to participate in! 

I think it’s also fun to note the community events I see on vacation. The Arts are not just for music, so I’d like to bring up that there’s a town near where I stay that has lovely Whale Art designs surrounded on the grass for all to see. You can go around and observe whales made out of stain glass or maps which is super cool. They do movie screenings outside and they also have the gazebo performances (I really do love those!). One I have yet to see if the summer season for a Playhouse there. I’ve heard that they pull out all the stops and I can’t wait to watch a show from them one day!

If you ever have free time during this summer, take a look at the community events near you! Take the time to support the arts (maybe even participate if you can!) and enjoy a fun filled day or evening! I’m going to probably search for more activities soon so until then, see you all soon!