<p><strong>Get Ready for&nbsp;Elf&nbsp;JR.&nbsp;The Musical!</strong></p><p>Saxe Intermediate School’s 5th and 6th graders are bringing holiday magic to the stage with&nbsp;Elf&nbsp;JR., a musical based on the beloved Christmas movie. Follow Buddy the&nbsp;Elf&nbsp;as he leaves the North Pole for New York City, discovering his true identity and spreading Christmas cheer along the way.</p><p>Performance dates are Friday, December 6th at 7:30pm and Saturday, December 7th at 1pm &amp; 4pm. Both performances will take place at the Saxe Middle School Auditorium.</p><p><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/saxe-middle-school-theatre-35391346303" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var( --e-global-color-primary ); background-color: transparent;"><strong>TICKETS</strong></a></p><p><strong>Location:</strong></p><p>Saxe Middle School Auditorium</p><p>468 South Ave, New Canaan, CT 06840</p>

<p>The Exchange Club of New Canaan will kick off its annual Christmas Tree sale at Kiwanis Park on Friday, November 29th. This year marks the Club’s fifty fifth year running the annual event, which raises funds for a variety of charitable organizations in New Canaan and nearby communities.</p><p>The tree lot in Kiwanis Park, on Old Norwalk Road, will be open every day. Hours are from 9 am until 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and 11 am to 6 pm Monday through Friday, from November 29th through December 22nd.</p><p>The Club sells trees (Balsam and Fraser firs), wreaths and various Christmas merchandise.</p><p>Learn more <a href="https://newcanaanchamber.com/2024/11/03/exchange-club-of-new-canaan-kicks-off-its-annual-christmas-tree-sale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>

<h2><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Why Small Businesses Matter: </strong><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Local Business Champion: NC Dance Clinics</span></h2><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Meet Karlie Reitano, founder of </span><a href="https://www.ncdanceclinics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">NC Dance Clinics</a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Why did you start your business?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I’ve always loved teaching and performing dance, but the inspiration for my business came when I noticed the excitement around dance tied to pop culture moments, like Taylor Swift’s music. I thought, “What if there was a way to harness that enthusiasm and create a fun, supportive environment where kids could dance to their favorite songs, learn new skills, and even perform for their community?” That idea quickly turned into reality with the launch of the Swiftie Dance Clinic in January 2024, and within six months, over 100 kids had participated!</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">As the clinics grew, I realized how much parents appreciated having a dance program that didn’t require a long-term commitment. That’s how </span><a href="http://www.ncdanceclinics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">NC Dance Clinics</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> was born—a space where kids can experience the joy of dance on their own terms. This fall, we expanded into cheerleading, bringing on a collegiate cheerleading veteran to lead the program. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the excitement from families. Adding spirit during the halftime of a New Canaan High School football game this fall was a highlight, showcasing what our program can offer to students, families and our community.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Whether it’s first-time dancers and cheerleaders or those looking to try something new, our focus is on fun, teamwork, and skill-building in a welcoming and flexible environment.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">What is your best-selling product/service?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Our inaugural dance program, the </span><em style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Swiftie Dance Clinic</em><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, was a huge hit! Tapping into the universal love for Taylor Swift, we created a space where young fans could not only listen to their favorite songs but also channel this passion into something productive – learning dance – while making memories with friends. We took it further with fun extras like bracelet swapping, Swiftie-themed class t-shirts, performances, and more.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">As we approach a full year in business, we continue innovating with unique programs that fill gaps in our community. Two of our most popular offerings are </span><em style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Mini Rams: Introduction to Dance Team</em><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> and </span><em style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Mini Rams: Introduction to Cheerleading.</em></p><ul><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Mini Rams Cheerleading</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;"> focuses on sideline cheer, inspiring the next generation of cheerleaders who may one day perform at the high school level.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Mini Rams Dance Team</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;"> introduces three core disciplines: Dance, Kick, and Pom. These styles are perfect for halftime performances, helping students build foundational skills while having fun as part of a team.</span></li></ul><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Both programs emphasize teamwork, skill-building, and fun, making them a fantastic alternative or complement to traditional team sports.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For our youngest dancers (grades K-2), we offer a Jazz/Hip Hop combo class designed as an introduction to different dance styles. These classes allow students and parents to explore what type of dance fits best while teaching fundamental techniques, across-the-floor exercises, and even small performances. It’s a wonderful way for kids to discover their passion while developing confidence and having fun with friends!</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We continue to offer new programs and styles as we continue to grow. The best place to keep updated is our website </span><a href="http://www.ncdanceclinics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">www.ncdanceclinics.com</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">How many local businesses do you use to support your business (products and services) and can you name them?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">We have forged partnerships with several local businesses and organizations.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Our groups have performed at the Waveny LifeCare Network and New Canaan High School football game, bringing energy, spirit, and joy to these occasions while fostering a sense of camaraderie and community pride. Additionally, we recently joined the Chamber of Commerce, and we are excited to expand our collaborations and continue strengthening ties within the local community. We’ll be performing at the Holiday Stroll on Elm Street this December and have a New Canaan High School Varsity basketball game on the horizon, too.</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Have you "reimagined" your small business?</strong></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">What began as a </span><em style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Swiftie Dance Clinic </em><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">has evolved into a comprehensive Cheer &amp; Dance program, shaped by the needs and interests bubbling up in our community. By listening to what parents and students are looking for, we’ve been able to design programming that fills gaps without taking away from the fabric of our vibrant dance community and other youth activities. Instead, we aim to add something new that enhances it all.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Forging partnerships with the New Canaan Athletic Department - and performing at hometown games - has been an incredible step in this journey. Beyond these short-term performances, we hope to create a foundation of cheerleaders and dancers who will continue to build and sustain programs at the high school level. I’m so excited to see how this initiative grows and contributes to the overall spirit and pride of our community!</span></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Visit NC Dance Clinics website to learn more and register for upcoming classes: </strong><a href="https://www.ncdanceclinics.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>https://www.ncdanceclinics.com/</strong></a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Follow along on Instagram </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ncdanceclinics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>@ncdanceclinics</strong></a></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">HamletHub thanks</strong><a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong> </strong></a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Fairfield County Bank </strong></a><strong style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!</strong></p>

<p><strong>Silvermine Arts Center</strong> invites you to discover the timeless allure of marine painting with their latest course, <em>Artists Ahoy! The Magic of Seascapes</em>. Perfect for artists of all experience levels, this inspiring class delves into the techniques and principles needed to bring vibrant seascapes to life.</p><p>The course is taught by <strong>Dennis Lyall</strong>, an accomplished artist and illustrator with more than 40 years of professional experience. Dennis has created artwork for prestigious clients such as the <strong>U.S. Postal Service</strong>, <strong>National Geographic Society</strong>, and <strong>Reader's Digest</strong>, and has painted over 40 postage stamps for the U.S. Postal Service. His career spans multiple genres, with a focus on oil painting and marine art, making him the perfect guide for this exciting journey.</p><p>Under Dennis’s expert instruction, students will learn:</p><ul><li>The interplay of design, perspective, and space</li><li>Techniques to convey depth, tone, and atmosphere</li><li>Methods to capture the dynamic beauty of waves and sails</li></ul><p>With professional reference materials provided—or the option to use personal photographs—students will have the tools to craft their unique seascape masterpieces.</p><p><strong>Course Details</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Dates:</strong> January 6 – March 10</li><li><strong>Day/Time:</strong> Mondays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM</li><li><strong>Instructor:</strong> Dennis Lyall</li><li><strong>Ages:</strong> 18 &amp; up</li></ul><p>This exciting course is your chance to capture the beauty and energy of the sea while enhancing your artistic skills. With only 12 spots available, early registration is recommended.</p><p>For more details and registration, visit <a href="https://www.silvermineart.org/school" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.silvermineart.org/school</a></p>

<p><em style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;Discover the 22 holiday movies filmed in Connecticut — and see how you can visit each festive destination</em></p><p>In a celebration of cinema and the holiday season, Connecticut proudly unveiled the nation’s first-ever&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-u/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Christmas Movie Trail</strong></a>&nbsp;today. This unique journey lets movie lovers experience the quaint towns, bustling cities, and festive settings that have captivated millions of viewers through these beloved Christmas classics. From Hallmark to Netflix to Lifetime, a curated map featuring 22 filming locations, invites visitors to step into the cozy inns, intimate cafes, charming shops, and iconic attractions where their favorite holiday stories were brought to life.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The unveiling event, held at the historic&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-o/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"><strong>Silas W. Robbins House</strong></a>&nbsp;in Wethersfield – a setting in Hallmark’s&nbsp;<em>Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane</em>&nbsp;– featured actors Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Michael Rady, and Producer Andrew Gernhard, who together revealed the map to an enthusiastic audience. This trail captures the charm of Connecticut’s communities and hidden gems that have become the backdrop for some of the most timeless holiday movies.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>A New Way to Experience Connecticut</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Connecticut’s Christmas Movie Trail invites visitors to explore a side of the state that typically shines on screen: snow-dusted main streets adorned with lights, historic inns decked for the holidays, and vibrant town squares. The trail taps into the growing travel trend of “set-jetting,” where fans travel to real-life locations featured in their favorite movies and TV shows to relive memorable scenes and connect with the stories they love.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail showcases the state’s unique role as a holiday destination, not just for movie sets but for real-life memories,”&nbsp;<strong>Ellen Woolf Rubrich, Connecticut’s state brand director, said</strong>. “Our communities – brought to life with the spirit, beauty, and joy audiences experience on screen. Now, with the growing trend of set-jetting, visitors can step into these holiday scenes themselves and experience every aspect of what make these movies so magical.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Highlights of the Trail</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify">The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail is a curated guide, connecting travelers with the accommodations, dining spots, and attractions that play a role in 22 films from Hallmark, Lifetime, Netflix, BET, and Universal Studios. Highlights include:</p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Historic inns and cozy accommodations</strong>: Experience the warmth and holiday decor of inns that have served as both real and fictional backdrops, perfect for a seasonal getaway.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Iconic holiday scenes</strong>: From bustling main streets to picturesque town greens, each stop on the trail has been thoughtfully selected for its role in holiday movies, providing a full immersion into Connecticut’s holiday spirit.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Local dining and unique attractions</strong>: Fans can enjoy locally-owned restaurants and charming cafes that feature in the films, and unique attractions that offer a complete holiday movie experience.</li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify">Featured films include:</p><ul><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Trivia at St. Nick’s</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Where Are You, Christmas?</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Mystic Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Ghosts of Christmas Always</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Sugar Plum Twist</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>A Holiday in Harlem</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Next Stop, Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>One Royal Holiday</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Holiday for Heroes</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Christmas at Pemberly Manor</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Romance at Reindeer Lodge</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Wally Lamb’s Wishin’ &amp; Hopin’</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The 12 Days of Christmas Eve</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The Holiday Fix Up</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The Noel Diary</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Soul Santa</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>My Adventures with Santa</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>A Very Nutty Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>A Very Merry Toy Store</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>Broadcasting Christmas</em></li><li class="ql-align-justify"><em>The Santa Con</em></li></ul><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>A Celebration of Tradition, Innovation, and Economic Impact</strong></p><p class="ql-align-justify">“This trail is an innovative approach to travel that connects Connecticut’s picturesque towns and vibrant cities with the magic of holiday cinema,”&nbsp;Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s chief marketing officer, said. “We’re giving visitors an immersive experience that brings their favorite holiday films to life. This trail isn’t just about celebrating the movies themselves – it’s about celebrating Connecticut’s unique ability to blend tradition with fresh, creative travel experiences that drive economic growth and showcase the best of what our state has to offer.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">As part of the festivities, 12 lucky Connecticut residents were chosen to attend the event and meet their favorite holiday film stars in person. Adding an extra layer of holiday magic, Hallmark actress Erin Cahill surprised one of the winners by drawing their name for a special opportunity – to be an extra in an upcoming Hallmark movie being filmed right here in Connecticut.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information, including access to the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail map, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://officeofthegovernor.cmail20.com/t/j-l-gkrkddy-tlluktttuu-f/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 113, 187);"><strong>www.CTvisit.com</strong></a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p><br></p>

<p><strong>Patricia Chadwick Presents&nbsp;<em>Breaking Glass: Tales from the Witch of Wall Street</em></strong></p><p>Wall Street legend Patricia Walsh Chadwick comes to New Canaan Library to present her recently published memoir,&nbsp;<em>Breaking Glass.</em>&nbsp;At 49, Walsh was named a Global Partner at Invesco, marking the culmination of a career that began with her first job as a receptionist at a brokerage firm at 19. For over 30 years, she was a rarity: a woman in the high-pressure, high-stakes finance business. The event takes place on Tuesday, November 19 at 7 pm in the Library’s Jim &amp; Dede Bartlett Auditorium.</p><p>Despite being branded a "witch" by some, Chadwick has no regrets about pursuing a career with drive, grit, perfectionism, and impatience. "I was also lucky that for much of my career on Wall Street, I had the wind at my back," she reflects. "In the end, I will be forever grateful to have been blessed with the grace of optimism, resilience, gratitude, and joy."&nbsp;</p><p>Patricia Walsh Chadwick's memoir,&nbsp;<em>Breaking Glass,</em>&nbsp;is a tribute to her mentors and a source of inspiration for all. It is a compelling read for women, and for anyone striving to overcome significant obstacles and achieve their goals.&nbsp;</p><p>To learn more and register to attend, visit <a href="https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/event/hold-chadwick-author-talk-100968" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/event/hold-chadwick-author-talk-100968</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>