Art, Dance, Music & Theater

West Shore Chorale Hosts Summer Sing

The West Shore Chorale invites singers of all skill levels to join them at Rocky River’s Memorial Hall on July 26 at 7:30 p.m. for a free Summer Sing of Faure’s Requiem and short choral works by Mozart and others. For those wondering what a Summer Sing is, it’s just like a traditional Messiah Sing where music lovers are invited to sing a choral masterwork together. The Chorale supplies the scores, accompanist and conductor. Singers can simply bring their voices and enjoy!

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Volume 4, Issue 1, Posted 4:58 PM, 07.05.2016

"Billy Elliot" Leaps to Beck Center Stage

Beck Center for the Arts is pleased to present the locally produced premiere of "Billy Elliot the Musical," July 8 through August 14, in the Mackey Theater. Showtimes are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays. Please note this production contains strong language. 

Based on the Academy Award® nominated film and winner of 10 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, "Billy Elliot" is the story of a young boy in a depressed mining town in England.

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Volume 4, Issue 1, Posted 3:52 PM, 07.07.2016

"Heathers: The Musical" Premieres at Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts proudly presents the regional premiere of "Heathers: The Musical". The production will run May 27 through July 2 in the intimate Studio Theater, with show times of 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7 p.m. on Sundays. This production contains strong language and content.

Based on the iconic 1989 cult film, "Heathers: The Musical" is adapted by Tony-nominee Laurence O’Keefe and Emmy-winner Kevin Murphy. This darkly delicious comedy follows Veronica Sawyer, a teenage misfit who hustles her way into the most powerful clique at Westerberg High - the Heathers.

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Volume 3, Issue 12, Posted 3:53 PM, 06.02.2016

Bay Village Theater Presents Staged Readings

Under the title "All the World's A Stage[d] Reading" the Bay Village Community Theater is performing staged readings at Mojo's Coffee & More on the second Sunday of each month, June through December.

Just you, the actors and the author's words in a cozy coffee shop. The free performances will take place at Mojo's, located at 600 Dover Center Road in Bay Village. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., giving patrons an opportunity to purchase coffee or other tasty treat before the performance at 6 p.m.

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Volume 3, Issue 12, Posted 4:45 PM, 06.03.2016

Gear Up for Annual Bike for Beck

Beck Center for the Arts is hosting its fifth annual Bike for Beck, a fundraising cycling event, on Sunday, May 22. Cyclists will take to the Cleveland Metroparks between 7 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., beginning and ending at Beck Center, located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood.

Participants may choose from 12-, 25-, or 60-mile rides. The community is invited to a free, family-friendly arts and music festival at Beck Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Volume 3, Issue 11, Posted 3:57 PM, 05.02.2016

Pianist Myer Returns to RR

The Rocky River Chamber Music Society is pleased to usher in spring with an evening of art song and piano with baritone Mario Diaz-Moresco and pianist Spencer Myer on Monday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m. at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, 20401 Hilliard Blvd. in Rocky River. 

The program will feature art songs by Schubert, Poulenc, and Schumann, as well as solo piano works by Ravel and Schumann. 

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Volume 3, Issue 10, Posted 4:25 PM, 04.05.2016

The Perfect Tea with the Perfect Nanny

Fairview Park Fine Arts and Theatre Association is kicking off its 2016 season with A Perfect Tea with the Perfect Nanny on Saturday, April 23 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the New Hope Church in Fairview Park. Bring a loved one for a traditional English Tea with the charming Mary Poppins.

All ages, boys and girls welcome! Your experience will include an etiquette lesson, small craft, live music, tea and lemonade and a selection of sandwiches and desserts. Three themed baskets will be up for raffle.

Limited tickets are available online at www.fpfata.org.

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Volume 3, Issue 10, Posted 3:58 PM, 04.05.2016

Regional Premiere of "Shining City" at Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts proudly presents the regional premiere of "Shining City" from April 1 through May 1 in the intimate Studio Theater. Show times are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. on Sundays.

Written by the Tony® nominated and Olivier® winning playwright Conor McPherson, this haunting play begins when a guilt-ridden man reaches out to his therapist after seeing the ghost of his recently deceased wife. Wrestling with his own demons, the therapist can only do so much to help. Their sessions soon become a gripping struggle to survive through parallel journeys of self-discovery.  

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Volume 3, Issue 10, Posted 4:28 PM, 04.05.2016

It's Never Too Late to Learn

Life-long learners from the Rocky River Senior Center oil painting class under my direction have spent the past year learning the basic skills of oil painting. All started as novice oil painters last March. They culminated their year-long lessons by studying and painting works of art by "Master Artists" of the past.

We took a field trip to the Cleveland Museum of Art's show "Painting the Secret Garden: Monet to Matisse" to find inspiration.

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Volume 3, Issue 10, Posted 3:58 PM, 04.06.2016

RR Chamber Music Society Presents an Evening of Bach and Ravel

The Rocky River Chamber Music Society takes great pleasure in presenting Christopher Costanza, cellist from the St. Lawrence String Quartet, and his special guest, violinist Peter Otto, on Monday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. 

The venue for this concert, as it has been for the past 52 years, is the excellent acoustical environment at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, 20401 Hilliard Boulevard in Rocky River.     

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Volume 3, Issue 9, Posted 4:06 PM, 03.02.2016

Valentine's Day Benefit Concert

Make Valentine's Day special! The West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church and the Rocky River Chamber Music Society present Members of the Cleveland Orchestra and friends in a Valentine's Day Benefit Concert on Sunday, February 14, 4 p.m. The works to be performed include Franz Schubert's "The Shepherd on the Rock" and several selections from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, including excerpts from "The Magic Flute" and "Marriage of Figaro". 

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Volume 3, Issue 8, Posted 3:45 PM, 02.01.2016

Martinez E-B Exhibit at Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts is pleased to present Martinez E-B’s solo exhibition "So, Let Them Have Color"in the Jean Bulicek Galleria from February 5 to March 6. An Artist’s Reception will take place Friday, February 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  This exhibition will coincide with Beck Center’s production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s "In the Heights", the Tony Award® winning musical.

Martinez E-B’s exhibition at the Beck is a series of paintings and collages. This collection of work re-contextualizes signs, flags, mementos, color, and the notion of social belonging.

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Volume 3, Issue 8, Posted 3:38 PM, 02.01.2016

Chamber Music Society Hosts "Cabaret: Between Two World Wars"

The third concert of the Rocky River Chamber Music Society’s 57th season features Joshua Smith, principle flute of The Cleveland Orchestra, and his Ensemble HD on Monday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m., at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, located at 20401 Hilliard Blvd. The Ensemble’s program is entitled Cabaret: Between Two World Wars, spotlighting French and Central European music of the 20th century from 1910 to 1936. 

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Volume 3, Issue 7, Posted 4:30 PM, 01.05.2016

It's a Jolly Holiday at Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts is fully prepared for the rapidly approaching holidays this year. With plenty of opportunities to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year, Beck Center is here to help. From original gifts to gift cards, to theater tickets and more, there are numerous options to suit all styles and age groups.

After breaking all previous Beck Center box office records, the magic of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s "Mary Poppins" returns December 4 through January 3, 2016.

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Volume 3, Issue 6, Posted 3:01 PM, 11.30.2015

Never Too Late to Create at Beck Center!

The second session of visual arts classes at Beck Center is about to start. A variety of classes are offered through Beck Center's Visual Arts Education program, including drawing, painting, and mixed media classes. Classes begin throughout the week of November 9.

The complete Visual Arts catalog with full descriptions and easy online registration is available at beckcenter.org, or call Customer Service at 216-521-2540, x10.

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Volume 3, Issue 5, Posted 4:41 PM, 11.03.2015

Tri-C Theater Production by Rocky River Playwright

When Rocky River playwright Greg Vovos started researching the heroin epidemic, his expectations were immediately challenged. He expects audiences to leave his new play — "Well Beings" — with the same feeling. “I was blown away by how misguided my original conception of the user was,” said Vovos. “I was struck by how smart, caring, funny and self-aware these people were.”

"Well Beings" will have an 8-day run at Tri-C's Western Campus Theatre, located at 11000 Pleasant Valley Road in Parma. The play will be presented on November 13, 14, 18, 19, 20 and 21 at 8 p.m. and on November 15 and 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for Tri-C faculty and staff, and free for Tri-C students.  For more information, call 216-987-5536.

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Volume 3, Issue 5, Posted 4:56 PM, 11.03.2015

RR Chamber Music Society Welcomes a Spanish Quartet

The Rocky River Chamber Music Society welcomes Cuarteto Quiroga, which hails from Spain and takes its name from esteemed Galician violinist Manuel Quiroga. The Quartet, recently appointed quartet-in-residence in charge of the Royal Collection of decorated Stradivariuses at Madrid’s Royal Palace, will perform a concert of Mozart, Webern, and Brahms on Monday, November 16, 7:30 p.m. at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, 20401 Hilliard Blvd. 

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Volume 3, Issue 5, Posted 4:42 PM, 11.03.2015

Piano Recital by Baolu Chen

On Sunday, October 11, at 3 p.m., the Rocky River Presbyterian Church will present the distinguished Chinese pianist Baolu Chen. He is the Principal of the Music School and Director of Music Performance at The First Congregational Church in Twinsburg. 

Mr. Chen has performed in many prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and Steinway Hall in New York, Drinko Hall in Cleveland, Weigel Hall in Columbus, and The China National Center for the Performing Arts and Poly Theatre in Beijing. Currently, he is a doctoral candidate in Piano Performance in the School of Music at Ohio State University.

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Volume 3, Issue 4, Posted 4:05 PM, 10.06.2015

Expect the Unexpected at Beck's Spotlight Gala

Beck Center for the Arts will celebrate its 82nd anniversary while raising vital funds with its 2015 Spotlight gala. In its third year, the benefit will take place on Saturday, October 24, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.  For the first time, Spotlight will venture from the Beck Center campus to Hyland, creator of OnBase – Building 3 at 28105 Clemens Road in Westlake. All proceeds benefit Beck Center’s programming and its student financial assistance program.

While the Spotlight dinner and program are sold out, tickets remain for the Spotlight After Party, which takes place at Hyland from 9:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

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Volume 3, Issue 4, Posted 10:45 AM, 10.06.2015

Poem: Ring Bells of Saint Christopher

Ring bells of Saint Christopher
Bearer of Christ
Over the horns of the traffic and trains
Over the business of every day.

Call us to prayer, call us to Mass
Call us to weddings, funerals, births
Call us. Remind us.
Ring bells of Saint Christopher, ring!

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Volume 3, Issue 4, Posted 1:37 PM, 10.11.2015

Annual Greek Festival at Kamm's Corners

See, taste, and hear Greek culture at the 5th Annual Kamm’s Corners Greek Festival hosted by the George Varouh Cretan Club of Cleveland. West 168th Street from Lorain Avenue south to Albers Avenue will be closed for festival use. The festival takes place over the Labor Day weekend, from Friday, September 4 through Monday, September 7, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Live music, Greek folk dancers in traditional costumes, and plenty of food highlight the festival weekend.

Amazing Greek food may be purchased inside the Cretan Center, a 200-seat banquet hall located at 3853 West 168th Street. In addition, the grill outside features gyros, shish kabob, and lamb on the spit, along with calamari, saganaki, and french fries.

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Volume 3, Issue 3, Posted 3:24 PM, 08.31.2015

Rocky River Fall Arts Festival

The first Rocky River Fall Arts Festival took place in 2009.  Mayor Pamela Bobst wanted to celebrate the talents of Rocky River residents and highlight the merchants in the Old Detroit Shopping Area.

This festival has now become a fall tradition. The 2015 Festival is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 12, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 

About 60 artists will be showing their wares, while Jazz bands and musical soloists perform throughout the day.  Local organizations will also be represented at the festival. 

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Volume 3, Issue 3, Posted 3:20 PM, 08.31.2015

Concert by Harpist Cecilia McKay

You are invited to a concert by Cecilia McKay, harpist, on September 13 at 3:00 p.m. at Rocky River Presbyterian Church, located at 21750 Detroit Road, about one mile east of the Detroit-Clague intersection. Celia will be performing a varied mix of well-known music.

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Volume 3, Issue 3, Posted 3:32 PM, 08.31.2015

Youth Theater Season at Beck Center

Founded in 1948, Beck Center Youth Theater is considered to be one of the longest continuously running youth theater programs in the country. This year marks the 67th anniversary of the program, and the 2015–2016 season is filled with just the right balance of titles that allow teaching opportunities and draw community interest. Ranging from family favorites to a twisted take on "Macbeth" for teens, this upcoming season is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

With such a spectacular season in store, it is important to note that students must be enrolled at Beck Center in the semester in which the show goes live. By enrolling in any art form, children and teens may participate in the productions.

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Volume 3, Issue 3, Posted 3:12 PM, 09.01.2015

While the Seasons Change, the Arts Remain at Beck Center

As summer unwinds and autumn gets closer, Beck Center continues to provide numerous arts experiences for the whole family. It’s not too late to register for August summer camps, and now is the perfect time to enroll in the fall semester. There are also plenty of exciting events, including Bike for Beck, Super Saturday, the Red Stage Summer Music Series, and the opening of the greatly anticipated 2015-2016 Theater Season.

The final camps of the summer will take place August 17 through August 20. These include the Arts Sampler for ages 7 to 12, and the new Ballet/Contemporary Sampler for ages 12 to 18.

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Volume 3, Issue 2, Posted 12:20 PM, 08.04.2015

Strike Up the Band...

...for all the participants in the 24th Annual Art Exhibit at the Rocky River Senior Center!

See list of winners!

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Volume 3, Issue 2, Posted 12:45 PM, 08.05.2015

Much to Enjoy at St. Mary's Romanian Festival

The women of St. Mary Romanian Orthodox Cathedral are hard at work finalizing the food preparations for the 10th annual St. Mary Romanian Festival, to be held on August 21-23 at the cathedral, 3256 Warren Road, in the Westpark/Kamm's Corners neighborhood.

Festival hours are Friday, August 21, from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, August 22, from 2:00 p.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, August 23, from noon to 10 p.m.

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Volume 3, Issue 2, Posted 6:09 PM, 08.03.2015

If You Film It, They Will Come

The Rockport community welcomed Hollywood artists and neighbors Kevin Costner and Jennifer Garner during the filming of Draft Day, a sci-fi fantasy set in the distant future during which the Cleveland Browns contend for a playoff spot.

The actor and Academy Award-winning director's (Dances with Wolves) Cleveland roots extend back to his playing of Cleveland's own Elliot Ness (of Great Lakes Brewery fame) in the Brian DePalma film, The Untouchables.

Rockport Observer publisher LuAnn Leonard and Board of Advisor member John O"Brien were on hand to capture the moments and serve as ambassadors.

Draft Day is an Ivan Reitman production, due in theaters in 2014. For more information on Draft Day, click here.

To view Draft Day photogallery, click here.

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Volume 3, Issue 1, Posted 2:35 PM, 05.20.2013

SHUTTER STEPS | Take this space on the right - our carousel gallery, make it your own, and become a member of the Rockport Photo Factory

Jessie Roberts became a member by taking a walk down the valley, around the Rocky River reservation. And the results are an impressive debut of her aesthetic and her work on our carousel gallery to the right on our front page.

You can likewise do so, too. Claim the carousel for yourself.

This photo carousel presented by TARTINE BISTRO

Attending a track meet or baseball game of a child or a friend? Going to the Fairview High or Rocky River graduation? See some inspiring gardens on your morning route?

View Jessie's Gallery

Then take a few photos. Become a member of the Rockport Observer Upload photos. Write up a gallery title and perhaps a couple of captions. And share your eye and artistry with the rest of the neighborhood.

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Volume 3, Issue 1, Posted 4:32 PM, 05.02.2013

Cleveland Rocks with Green Day’s "American Idiot" at Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts is pleased to present the locally produced premiere of Green Day’s "American Idiot," July 10 through August 16, 2015 on the Mackey Main Stage. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are now on sale. Buy early and save with promo code: GREENDAY to receive $5 off each adult/senior ticket purchased by July 9. Beck Center has established a PG-13 rating for this piece.

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Volume 3, Issue 1, Posted 3:31 PM, 06.29.2015

Honoring Vincent Price

We are honoring Vincent Price with two special Cleveland events. He made an enormous impression on the world through his movies, his very recognizable voice, his love of art, and his passion for cooking. Vincent was classically handsome, with an elegant demeanor and well-known gentle spirit.

Monday, June 22, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.   Enjoy an intimate and formal Vincent Price Wine Dinner at the Luxe Kitchen & Lounge in Gordon Square (6605 Detroit Rd., Cleveland).

Tuesday, June 23, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.   Join us at the good goat gallery (17012 Madison Ave., Lakewood) for a private preview of Six Degrees of Vincent.

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Volume 2, Issue 11, Posted 4:19 PM, 06.03.2015

"The Young Man from Atlanta" arrives at Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts is pleased to present the 1995 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, "The Young Man from Atlanta", May 29 through June 28, in the intimate Studio Theater. Show times are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are now on sale. Buy early and save with promo code: ATLANTA to receive $5 off each adult/senior ticket purchased by May 28.

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Volume 2, Issue 11, Posted 4:17 PM, 06.03.2015

Join the Fun at The Hooley™

Tagged “West Park’s Homecoming Celebration,” the 6th annual The Hooley on Kamm’s Corners™ kicks off at noon on Saturday, May 9, and runs until 8 p.m. on Lorain Avenue in the Cleveland neighborhood of Kamm’s Corners. Lorain Avenue will be closed to traffic from West 165th Street to Rocky River Drive.

“Hooley” is Irish slang for party or celebration. This one started out as a celebration of the new streetscape installed six years ago. Today, The Hooley™ remains an annual event for all ages.

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Volume 2, Issue 10, Posted 3:33 PM, 05.05.2015

Season Ends with Famed Violist

For the final concert of its 56th season, Rocky River Chamber Music Society is honored to present Cleveland Orchestra Principal Violist Robert Vernon in a concert featuring highlights of the viola repertoire.  Six of Mr. Vernon’s colleagues and friends will also be participating in this concert on Monday, May 18, at 7:30 p.m. at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, 20401 Hilliard Blvd. in Rocky River. 

Joining Mr. Vernon on stage will be Katherine Bormann, violin; Amy Lee, violin; Daniel McKelway, clarinet; Lembi Veskimets, viola; Mark Kosower, cello; and Jee-Won Oh, piano.  Five of these six musicians are members of The Cleveland Orchestra. 

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Volume 2, Issue 10, Posted 3:35 PM, 05.05.2015

"Oliver!" at Beck Center

Beck Center Youth Theater closes its 66th season with "Oliver!" on May 15–24 on the Mackey Main Stage. Featuring 56 Beck Center students, the musical will have audiences following the adventures of the young orphan, Oliver Twist, as he explores the streets of London.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. A special student matinee performance will take place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 21. Tickets are on sale now.

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Volume 2, Issue 10, Posted 3:46 PM, 05.05.2015

Mozart Opera Comes to Rocky River

Rocky River Chamber Music Society is excited to bring opera to its stage at West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church in Rocky River on Monday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m.  The concert will feature Baldwin Wallace Conservatory’s production of concert selections from Mozart’s rarely heard madcap opera "La Finta Giardiniera" (The Pretend Garden Girl).  Seven cast members will perform in this concert version under the direction of Benjamin Wayne Smith, with Jason Aquila on the piano.  

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Volume 2, Issue 9, Posted 3:53 PM, 03.31.2015

Chamber Music Society Presents Vienna Piano Trio

It is not every day that the Vienna Piano Trio comes to Rocky River!  The Rocky River Chamber Music Society is hosting  the Trio on Monday, March 9 at 7:30 p.m. in the acoustically excellent sanctuary of West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church at 20401 Hilliard Blvd. As is true of all concerts presented by the Society, there is no admission charge and all are welcome.

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Volume 2, Issue 8, Posted 3:43 PM, 03.02.2015

Let Your Inner Artist Grow at Beck Center!

It’s finally time to think spring (and summer!) so let your creativity grow with a class or workshop at Beck Center for the Arts. Whether you are interested in one-day music or pendant-making workshops, or an eight-week visual arts class, our dedicated faculty looks forward to getting creative with you.

First in line of our new music workshops is Rhythm Jams with Dave Brewer. Held on Saturdays, March 14, April 18, and May 9 (save $5 when you sign up for all three), this opportunity is open to drummers, percussionists, and hand drummers who want to explore the connection between rhythm and other art forms.

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Volume 2, Issue 8, Posted 10:20 AM, 03.04.2015

Poem: Bain Park Cabin After Snow

Unbroken by footfall or other track
As one might find deep in the woods
A cabin that in such snow once stood
Alone, here marks a neighborhood

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Volume 2, Issue 8, Posted 3:40 PM, 03.14.2015

Poem: Thank You

A boy of seven, almost eight
Who couldn't wait, he rushed
His bicycle to the street, didn't
Check lest he meet a vehicle
And nearly meet it, he did.

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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 2:40 PM, 12.12.2014

Beck Center Dance Education Offers Festive Events

Beck Center Dance Education brings in the holiday season as it presents A Journey with Clara to the Land of Sweets and its popular biannual Holiday Tea Party.

A Journey with Clara to the Land of the Sweets takes place on Sunday, November 23, in the Recital Hall of Beck Center’s Music & Dance building. This dance workshop offers 90 magical minutes of fantasy fun for children ages 4 to 8 years. Students may select from two class times - 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Cost is $15 per student. Class size is limited, so enroll today!

The Dance Alliance of Beck Center is inviting children and their families to a Holiday Tea Party on December 6 and 7 in the Recital Hall of the Music & Dance building at Beck Center. Guests will enjoy entertainment by the Beck Center Dance Workshop and select dancers as they perform excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, "The Nutcracker".

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 4:18 PM, 11.11.2014

"The Pajama Game" Comes to Magnificat

Grab your favorite blanket and a pillow, and head to the Magnificat Center for the Performing Arts on November 22-23 and 28-29, as Magnificat High School presents "The Pajama Game".

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and at 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens and $10 for students, and can be purchased by visiting www.magnificat.tix.com or by calling 440-331-1572, ext. 261. Magnificat is located at 20770 Hilliard Blvd. in Rocky River.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 3:01 PM, 11.12.2014

Dance Alliance of Beck Center Hosts Social Event

The Dance Alliance of Beck Center invites you to Afternoon Reception & Acoustic Concert with Dolinar Spahija on Sunday, November 23. This social event will take place at 3 p.m. in the intimate Studio Theater at Beck Center. Tickets, which include one drink ticket, are $25. Appetizers and beverages will be served as a concert featuring the internationally and classically trained Spahija takes place. All proceeds benefit the Dance Alliance of Beck Center.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 2:50 PM, 11.12.2014

Chamber Music Society's 56th Season Begins

The Rocky River Chamber Music Society is pleased to announce its 56th season of presenting high-quality professional chamber music concerts for the Northeast Ohio community.  Concerts take place at 7:30 p.m. on Monday evenings in the outstanding acoustical environment of the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church.  In addition to its five evening concerts, the Society presents its second children’s concert on Sunday, December 7 at 2:30 p.m.  This performance will feature stories and music from Cleveland's West Side, composed and conducted by former Lakewoodite Max Mueller.

The first concert, on October 6, features pianists Thomas Labé and Hyunsoon Whang performing music for "one piano, 4 hands."  

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Volume 2, Issue 4, Posted 11:45 AM, 10.04.2014

Aquarelle Art Show at Fireside Room Gallery

The West Shore Aquarelle Watercolor Society is displaying an art show from September 20 through October 24 in the Fireside Gallery at the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church located at 20401 Hilliard Boulevard, Rocky River.

 Most of the paintings in the show are for sale. The Gallery is open most weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the Fireside Room is not scheduled for meetings. Please call the Gallery at 440-333-2255 for times when viewing is available.

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Volume 2, Issue 4, Posted 10:37 AM, 10.01.2014

"Forever Plaid” Opens New Season at Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts proudly opens its 2014-2015 theater season with the hit musical production, "Forever Plaid", on the Mackey Main Stage, September 12 through October 12. Show times are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays.

Written and originally directed and choreographed by Stuart Ross, "Forever Plaid" is a deliciously goofy musical comedy about four eager singers whose dreams of making it big end with a bus collision on the way to their first big concert. Miraculously revived from the afterlife, they fulfill their dreams and perform the show that never was.

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Volume 2, Issue 3, Posted 7:39 PM, 09.03.2014

Early Childhood “Super Saturdays” Return to Beck Center

Beck Center’s popular “Super Saturdays @BeckCenter” returned on August 23. It was a morning of fun, creativity and excitement as young aspiring artists explored music, dance, theater, and the visual arts at this free, interactive event.

Mark your calendars for future Super Saturdays @BeckCenter: December 6, featuring string instruments; January 17, featuring brass instruments, including the alp horn; and April 25, the percussion family of instruments.

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Volume 2, Issue 3, Posted 7:45 PM, 09.03.2014

Art Show at the Rocky River Senior Center

The 23rd Annual Art Show at the Rocky River Senior Center will be held July 11 through July 25.  Seventy-eight area artists are presenting one to three pieces of art. The RRSC hosts many art classes throughout the year. This is a chance for senior artists to show what they’ve created. 

There will be an artist reception on opening day—Friday, July 11, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. This is a chance to meet the artists and view their works—while Ken Aufmuth plays the piano. Admission is free and dessert is available for $3.

On Saturday, July 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the art exhibit and sale will be a part of River Days. Leigh Eastman will provide piano music, and there will be a free Matisse lecture by popular art historian Felicia Zavarella Stadelman in the auditorium, at 11:00 a.m.

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Volume 2, Issue 1, Posted 3:59 PM, 07.02.2014

“Seminar” Brings Big Laughs to Beck Center

Beck Center for the Arts is proud to present the regional premiere of "Seminar," May 30 through June 29, in the Intimate Studio Theater. Nominated as Best Play by the Outer Critics Circle and the Drama League, "Seminar" is a new provocative comedy from Pulitzer Prize nominee Theresa Rebeck.

This play tells the story of four aspiring novelists who sign up for private writing lessons with Leonard, an international literary figure. Wordplay is not the only thing that turns vicious in this biting comedy.

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Volume 1, Issue 12, Posted 6:10 PM, 06.04.2014

Local Music Legends Help Blues Icon, Mr. Stress

No one cares about me, No, I ain't even got a friend...when will my troubles end. Black night is falling. Oh how I hate to be alone.

So sings Bill "Mr. Stress" Miller on an unreleased 1970s version of the Charles Brown classic. This song and many others can be found on the newly released "STRESS RELIEF" CD created to assist the Cleveland blues legend after he suffered a mild stroke in December 2013.

 “STRESS RELIEF” is a collection of music from more than 58 of Northeast Ohio's finest artists. The DVD-style box is accompanied by a 20-page booklet containing the history of Mr. Stress and rare photos from his personal archives. It is a testament to the way in which the music community in Cleveland bands together to take care of its own.

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Volume 1, Issue 11, Posted 4:25 PM, 04.30.2014

Eleven River Townhomes Featured in "Draft Day"

When Hollywood came to Cleveland looking for an idyllic world-class home for A-lister Kevin Costner, only one place fit the bill. The Eleven River Luxury Townhomes of Rocky River. Nestled within a private enclave along the Cleveland Metroparks on the Rocky River, this architectural triumph of modern design epitomized the home of leading man Kevin Costner.

For three days in May 2013, Ivan Reitman and the cast and crew of "Draft Day" worked on staging the set of Sonny Weaver's home at Eleven River. Visionary real-estate developer Andrew Brickman (an acclaimed movie producer himself) along with his partner Creative Director and Brand Developer Justin Campbell had met with Ivan months in advance to prepare for the filming.

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Volume 1, Issue 11, Posted 4:10 PM, 05.01.2014

A "Gran" Concert for Rocky River

What could be grander than members of The Cleveland Orchestra, a world premiere, a tribute to Marianne Mastics, AND Mozart's "Gran Partita"!  It will all be here in Rocky River on Monday, May 12, at 7:30 p.m.  At no charge.  The place is the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, 20401 Hilliard Boulevard.  All are welcome!   

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Volume 1, Issue 11, Posted 4:34 PM, 04.30.2014

Upcoming STARRS Programs

Rocky River Senior Center continues its highly entertaining STARRS series of free programs. On Wednesday, March 12 at 1:30 PM, Michael Roy will present Cirque du Papier, One Square of Paper- Magical Possibilities. His presentation is not your grade school teacher's origami, but Michael Roy's mind-bending, paperfolding, dazzling, digital dexterity.

And mark your calendars for the April STARRS program to be held on Thursday, April 10 at 1:30 PM. Outback Ray will host his Amazing Animal Show! Outback Ray has been doing animal shows since 1987.

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Volume 1, Issue 9, Posted 3:38 PM, 03.04.2014

Rock Out at Summer Camp

The School of Rock offers summer camp geared to provide existing students with new challenges and new students with chance to experience the Rocky River School of Rock.

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Volume 1, Issue 8, Posted 1:29 PM, 02.18.2014

Girls' Skate

 
The rink is smooth, white, and silver with pale
Hockey lines and spots for the intense boys
The girls are wearing pink, rose, and scarlet
Sky and baby blues, orange, and maroon

Plus pale, rich, and deep purples, but all
Their skates are white. They're wearing jackets
And sweaters, jeans, T-shirts, sports gears
Of nylon, lycra, cotton, laminates, or wool

Loose sweats or tight-fitting pants and tops
Striped, plaid, swirled, rainbowed, printed
Shimmering, sparkled, and not flat black
Like the instructors and waiting hockey players

Who are too big to jump, turn, hop, twirl
Flop, slide, laugh, and help each other up

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Volume 1, Issue 8, Posted 4:19 PM, 02.05.2014

Verve Chamber Players Present Free Concert

The Rocky River Chamber Music Society is delighted to present the exciting new ensemble, Verve Chamber Players, at the third concert of its 55th season on Monday, February 10, at 7:30 p.m. This concert takes place in the superb acoustical environment of the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, 20401 Hilliard Boulevard in Rocky River.

There is no admission charge for this concert.  All are welcome!

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Volume 1, Issue 8, Posted 4:08 PM, 02.05.2014

Snowfall

Everywhere white snow erases
And the quiet dazzle of winter sun
Crowns unrecognized places

Measures bare, in perfect grace
The lifeless labors of the frozen air
This overlay of empty space

We lose, understand, and unlearn
Things and traces, turn unobserved
To the silences of uncreation

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Volume 1, Issue 7, Posted 12:59 PM, 01.07.2014

Rocky River Senior Center Wins Grant for STARRS

Rocky River Senior Center applied for the Cuyahoga Arts and Culture grant and was awarded $3,880 to be used toward no-fee programs for seniors. The center will match this grant through donations. To date, donations have been made by Rocky River Seniors Council, Inc., The Welsh Home, Bradley Bay and Gloria Hardington (the SaleMaker), among others. The STARRS - Second Thursday At Rocky River Seniors - kicks off in January.

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Volume 1, Issue 7, Posted 4:11 PM, 01.08.2014

CIA’s Sketchbooks on Display at RRPL

A traveling exhibition of Cleveland Institute of Art student sketchbooks will be on display at the Rocky River Public Library from December 16 through January 31.

The CIA Traveling Sketchbook Project started when the college’s incoming freshmen were provided with identical sketchbooks over the summer. The students were instructed to complete them during their first month at college. Library visitors can interact with these 65 graphic memoirs and vicariously experience the life of a student in the first month of art school.

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Volume 1, Issue 7, Posted 4:34 PM, 01.08.2014