From Manhattan to Merryall… Spoken Word Poet Kane Smego opens the season with a performance that has rocked theaters from the Ford in LA to NY’s Joyce setting the stage for a star-studded season from Hip Hop to Jazz, film to folk beginning May 20.
Says Merryall’s Executive Director, Dean Gray, “Poet Smego joins a cast of luminaries such as Marian Anderson, Frederic March, and Isaac Stern that have graced our stage over the years, all pioneers in the arts. We want to continue that tradition … to showcase and nurture regional artists while attracting global performers to our intimate venue. We’re introducing our audiences to the unique and the iconic underscoring our message: “Come Curious, Leave Inspired. And poetry is the perfect start for the season.”.
Throughout the season, Gray invites theater guests to view the auto portraiture of Merryall’s artist-in-residence, Chris Osborne, one of New Milford’s own. Admire her paintings of James Dean behind the wheel of his white sports car or Elvis revving up his ‘54 Cadillac and Janis Joplin leaning lazily on the door of her beloved ’66 Porsche. And many more.
In June, Merryall hosts a trio of performers in honor of Gay Pride month including: a return performance by singer and songwriter Namoli Brennet, four-time Outmusic nominee; comedian Sam Morrison, author of Sugar Daddy, recently named best new play by the Daily Beast and songwriter, singer and guitarist Jill Sobule whose “I kissed A Girl”, made Billboard’s top 20.
The season continues with Merryall’s Singer Songwriter Series in July/August featuring New Milford singer and guitarist John John Brown with his very personal comics and iconic photographs titled Songs, Stories & Art-Lessons from Strangers. Then, more unique songs and off-beat observations by songwriter David Roth and a return engagement by guitarist and dulcimer musician Rob Brereton. August features Boston-based singer Antje Duvekot and later in the month, don’t miss Ellis Paul and his musical medley celebrating folk heroes and his zest for the open road.
Later in September, the leaves will fall to the classic sounds of a Chamber Concert performed by oboist Anna Hendrick and guitarist Kenneth Meyer. Be there when composer Gregory Mertl premieres a duet written especially for the duo. This special autumn evening is made possible by the New Milford Commission of the Arts with no admission charge. So, reserve early. And come back later in the month for the return engagement of Intuitive Medium Patti Sinclair who is predicting a fabulous season.
The season climaxes with The Dog Doc, a documentary directed and written by Cindy Meehl of Sundance Film Festival fame (Buck and Trapped) This inspirational film documents the life, times, dedication and rewards of veterinarian, Dr Marty Goldstein and his colleagues who offer care and hope to animals in need (and their owners.) Both Dr Goldstein and Director Meehl will be available after the performance for a post film talkback.
Merryall is a non-profit arthouse and community center located at 8 Chapel Hill Road in the heart of Litchfield Hills. For membership, sponsor or ticket info, visit the Center's website at merryallcenter.org.