It is back to Freeport this month for exploration of another exceptional Freeport Conservation Trust project: the Calderwood Tree Farm loop trails. This winter we have been trying to be a little greener and have been seeking out recreational opportunities nearer home. Our town happens to be Freeport, but whether you live in […]

Whenever we have a cold snowy day, I might enjoy speeding downhill on my ancient Flexible Flyer or skating until the twilight turns the sky pink and the snow blue, but my favorite snowy day activity is creating a comforting dinner, something simple and warm to contrast with the outdoor snow and ice. This snowy […]

Saint Patrick’s Day is looming on the calendar, and two quality Irish acts are heading into Portland. First up is a duo headed by Irish fiddle virtuoso Martin Hayes, an artist who has been proclaimed one of the Emerald Isle’s most influential cultural figures. For years Hayes has been teaming up with American guitarist Dennis […]

Boy meets girl, etc. Thus begins the commonplace story line that underlies many of the most popular Broadway musicals. But two decidedly offbeat shows in the Portland area this weekend break the stereotypical romantic mold in many ways, and both won a slew of Tony Awards. Top billing goes to “Sweeney Todd,” the notorious Stephen […]

Did you make a New Year’s resolution? I did. It’s going to be an easy one to keep, because it doesn’t involve improving my character, shedding pounds, doing jumping jacks or saving money. None of the seven deadly sins is implicated, with the exception of a bite of gluttony. The idea for it came to […]

Maybe you’re not smiling over your snow plowing bills, but here’s a mid-winter treat that will keep you laughing despite the white stuff: One of the most successful musical comedies in Broadway history is currently running at the St. Lawrence Arts Center. Good Theater’s professional production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to […]

By Scott Andrews As we approach the end of January, we’re still waiting for the Big Winter Storm of 2009, but there’s a blizzard of music and musical theater heading our way this weekend. Traditional fiddling phenom Lissa Schneckenburger gives a concert at Empire Dine and Dance in Portland this Saturday. She’s a native of […]

It’s over. The annual onslaught of holidays – and the associated hiatus on the regular arts and entertainment calendar – is now behind us, and the normal levels and types of activities are beginning to resume after nearly six weeks of dormancy. Among the first up is the Jan. 11 concert by Carlene Carter, scion […]