At its annual members’ meeting on June 17, Church Hill Theatre reviewed a successful year, elected four new board members and announced an exciting roster of productions for the 2026 season. And, in an exciting new twist, the meeting concluded with live performances of several songs from the current and upcoming season.

Board Chair Kathy Jones and committee representatives shared lots of good news about financial vitality, the near completion of a major campaign for new stage lights, growing audiences, an incredibly strong youth program, and plans for ongoing improvements. The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Carrie York for years of dedicated service and outgoing board members Rory Flood, Shelagh Grasso and Christopher Wallace were thanked for their many contributions.  All will be recognized with nameplates on the new theater seats.

Four new and very talented members were then elected to the board for three-year terms: Tom Blackiston, Sharon Herz, Tess Jones and JW Ruth.  All have strong backgrounds in multiple aspects of on-stage and back-stage theatre experience. Since CHT has only two part-time paid employees, all the board members serve on several committees and share front-of-house assignments. As always, willing volunteers are encouraged to become part of the immediate Church Hill Theatre family.

The main event of the evening was the revealing productions for the 2026 season followed by the surprise of short musical performances.

January          A star-studded cabaret fundraiser

February        A commemoration of the 1963 March on Washington and Black History Month

March            Lend Me A Soprano, a mad-cap comedy about an opera performance gone very, very wrong

April               A 2-weekend musical show featuring our teen performers

June               Chicago, the high-energy, much-loved musical

September     Something’s Afoot, a witty musical spoof of a classical British mystery in a remote British mansion

November      The Transylvanian Clockworks, a terrifyingly spooky vampire tale set in the time of Jack the Ripper

December      A Christmas Carol, a classic CHT holiday offering

 

The annual meeting concluded with short performances by Erin Bradley and Matt Rein from The Bridges of Madison County, by Jane Copple from next year’s Something’s Afoot, and by JW Ruth, who brought the house down with “When You’re Good to Mama,” from Chicago.

Allegro Academy invites all to attend its annual Summer Sing Choir Festival, July 26, 2025 at 7pm.  Each year, nearly 100 community musicians alongside professional soloists and instrumentalists come together to present a major choral work for this highly attended event.  This year’s performance will take place at Easton’s Waterfowl Festival building, 40 South Harrison Street, and will feature Dan Forrest’s Jubilate Deo — a global, celebratory setting of Psalm 100. 

“Dan Forrest’s Jubilate Deo brings to life the global aspect of the traditional Psalm 100 text, “O be joyful in the Lord, all ye lands,” by setting it in seven different languages and drawing from a wide spectrum of musical influences. Each movement combines some characteristics of its language-group’s musical culture with the composer’s own musical language. Movements include liturgical Latin, intertwined Hebrew and Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Zulu, Spanish, Song of the Earth (untexted), and a closing movement combining several of these languages with English. The result is a stunning global celebration of joy, as all the earth sings as one, “omnis terra, jubilate!””

The Summer Sing Choir Festival welcomes singers from across the Mid-Shore area to join the non-auditioned choir and participate at no cost. Conducted by Allegro Academy’s founder and Artistic Director Amy Morgan, performances are typically met with a full house.  Audience members are not required to pay, but encouraged to give a suggested donation of $20, as it is the mission of Allegro Academy to make superior music performance and education opportunities available to all.  

Other programs of the Academy include the Allegra! Women’s Chorus, Allegro Youth Choirs, private music lessons, group classes, and the student scholarship fund.  Thanks to generous support from the community, the Academy is able to provide scholarships for lessons and student ensembles, host superb free or low-cost performances, and foster a welcoming environment where musicians from all backgrounds can thrive. 

For more information about the Summer Sing Choir Festival and other programs, please visit www.allegroacademyeaston.com or call 410-603-8361. Programs of Allegro Academy are funded by generous community members, Talbot Arts, the Mid-Shore Community Foundations, The Women and Girls Fund, and the Maryland State Arts Council.

Mixed-media artist Caryn Martin will be presenting her work in the solo exhibition Unanchored from July 1–August 29, 2025, at the Adkins Arboretum Gallery. The public is invited to a reception on Saturday, July 12, from 2–4 pm, with the artist in attendance. Martin’s works on panel, made from unused and repurposed artworks by the artist, as well as paper and acrylic paint, explore the transient and vulnerable elements of nature. The layered textures and shifting nuances in color seek to capture the momentary essence of these elements, such as water, fire, mist, and air. Martin’s practice employs diverse mediums, spanning from large-scale site-specific sculptural installations made from paper materials to monotypes. In her practice, the artist often uses the remnants of these monotypes to create new works, churning previous explorations into new forms. The artist approaches mark-making as a process rather than a gesture, changing the traditional structure of paper and pulp over time and in cumulation.

In her works on view at the Adkins Arboretum Gallery, Martin harkens to forces of nature, both soft and hard, nurturing and shaping – all of which can be observed just beyond the Arboretum’s Visitor Center. Martin states that her interest in dualities, whether found in weather patterns and shifting pressure or the very process she uses to create her works, drives her aesthetic and compositional decisions. The resulting pieces contain contrasting elements that draw the viewer in and invite a close look at the individual currents, which make up the composite whole. Martin’s subtly-percolating colors and forms represent interesting reprises to a wide variety of experiences in nature. The artist encourages us to think not only of serene moments that ground us but also the more complex reality of climate change and human and industrial impact.

Martin is a Baltimore-based artist, educator, and creative coach. She received her MFA and MAT degrees from Maryland Institute College of Art and her BA in Studio Art from University of Maryland College Park. Her work has been featured in solo and group exhibitions at Creative Alliance Baltimore, Kohl Gallery at Washington College, Delaplaine Arts Center, Institute of Contemporary Art Baltimore, Maryland Art Place, the Mitchell Gallery at St. John’s College, and others. She is represented by Catalyst Contemporary in Baltimore.

This exhibition is part of Adkins Arboretum’s ongoing series highlighting regional artists whose work engages with natural themes. The Arboretum is located at 12610 Eveland Road in Ridgely, Maryland. For gallery hours or more information, contact Adkins Arboretum at 410-634-2847, or visit adkinsarboretum.org. A 400-acre native garden and preserve, Adkins Arboretum provides exceptional experiences in nature to promote environmental stewardship.

In 2025, the Academy Art Museum will take a thoughtful pause from its annual Craft Show. This is a moment of transformation for the Museum as we build a new five-year strategic plan, focus our energy on breaking ground on the Freeman Annex and Hormel Research Center and give our new team the time and space to acclimate and establish a sustainable annual cadence. This pause will allow us to do important internal work and plan thoughtfully for the future.

We know this news will come as a disappointment, especially to those who have been part of this tradition for many years. As an artist myself — traditionally trained in glassblowing — I understand the time, labor, and love that go into an artistic practice. Please know this decision was not made lightly. This show holds deep significance for artists, collectors, volunteers, families, and supporters of handmade work, and this pause is our way of honor that dedication while we continue to grow with thoughtfulness and care.

We are grateful for the support our members have given to the Craft Show over the years. While we are pausing the show this fall, we remain committed to celebrating craft through our related current and upcoming exhibitions, including Anne Lindberg’s seen and unseen, Piper Shepard’s Field, Voids and Translations: Works on Paper, and the upcoming More Clay.

There are many reasons to visit the Academy Art Museum — from our free admission to world-class exhibitions, or perhaps you’ll consider taking one of our hands-on classes. Additionally, we are excited to announce our major exhibition opening later this year: Rauschenberg at 100, celebrating the centennial of his birth and his connection to this region.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time of transition. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out, and we invite you to participate in the survey, via the button below to help shape the museum‘s future.

The Trippe Gallery will be opening a particularly unique exhibition on July 11.  This year marks the 4th iteration of this popular show. “Variations 4.0: 1 Photograph, 14 Paintings” will feature the work of 14 gallery artists-Olena Babak, Jill Basham, Beth Bathe, David Diaz, Vlad Duchev, Stephen Haynes, Charlie Hunter, Christine Lashley, Len Mizerek, Elise Phillips, Crista Pisano, Cynthia Rosen, John Brandon Sills and Mary Veiga.

The subject of inspiration for this year’s exhibition of variations is a black and white image reflective of Trippe’s photographs of the natural beauty of the eastern shore. The resulting 14 paintings show an incredible diversity of interpretation, style and vision. Some are quite realistic, some impressionistic, abstract, several have other features added, or are simply a variation on the theme of a serene and pastoral landscape. No guidance, no rules-paint as you will.

Opening reception is Friday July 11 from 5-8pm.  Many of the artists will be on hand to meet collectors and discuss their other paintings in the gallery. During the reception, visitors will have an opportunity to vote for their favorite painting as well as test their knowledge of Plein Air Easton artists by matching the artist to the correct painting! The reveal will occur at 7:30pm.

The Trippe Gallery is located at 23 N Harrison St. For more information, please call 410-310-8727.

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s waterfront campus will come alive with Bluegrass on the Bay, featuring The High & Wides, on Saturday, July 26, beginning at 5:30pm.

This inaugural concert event invites guests to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to enjoy an evening of Eastern Shore bluegrass overlooking the Miles River at the historic Tolchester Beach Bandstand. The doors open at 5pm before The Folk Villains take the stage 30 minutes later to kick off the evening, leading into the headlining performance from The High & Wides, a four-piece string band whose high-energy, bluegrass-inspired sound has entertained audiences around the region since 2015.

Tickets are available now at cbmm.org/BluegrassOnTheBay and can also be purchased at the door.

Food vendors, including Hot Off the Coals BBQ, and a beer truck will be on site. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to the concert, which will be held rain or shine.

Bluegrass on the Bay promises a lively evening of great tunes amid a stunning backdrop at CBMM.

With roots on the Eastern Shore and in Baltimore, The High & Wides have been called “The Apostles of Hillbilly Boogie” by The Washington Post. Band members Marc Dykeman (guitar, vocals), Sam Guthridge (banjo, mandolin, vocals), Nate Grower (fiddle), and Mike Buccino (bass) draw on bluegrass backgrounds and weave in influences from new wave to old time to make music that defies boundaries while evoking the era when country, bluegrass, western swing, and early rock ‘n’ roll mingled freely.

A sibling trio from nearby Tyaskin, Md., in Wicomico County, The Folk Villains will be the evening’s opening act. Elijah, Isabel, and Guinevere Cockey grew up admiring their father’s band The Folk Heroes, and today, they honor that family tradition with a folk style all their own featuring standards, originals, covers, and improv.

Bluegrass on the Bay admission is set at $25 for adults, $24 for seniors (65+) and students (17+), $14 for active and retired military members, and $6 for children ages 6-to-17, with all children 5-and-younger admitted free.

CBMM members receive discounted pricing for Bluegrass on the Bay and other events throughout the year. Adult members receive $5 off their concert tickets, and all children of members (17-and-younger) receive free admission. To support CBMM’s mission as a member and discover all the terrific benefits of membership, visit cbmm.org/memberships or contact Membership Services Coordinator Debbie Ruzicka at 410-745-4991 or [email protected].

Please note that the concert will be ticketed separately from CBMM general admission on Saturday, July 26.

CBMM is also excited to offer a Summer Concert Pass that also includes Big Band Night, featuring the Shades of Blue Orchestra, on Saturday, July 5. For CBMM members, these ticket packages are $25 for adults, $23 for seniors (65+) and students (17+), $9 for active and retired military members, and free for all children of members (17-and-younger). For non-members, they are $35 for adults, $33 for seniors (65+) and students (17+), $14 for active and retired military members, $9 for children ages 6-to-17, and free for children 5-and-younger.

For safety reasons, non-service dogs must be kept home during CBMM’s events, including Bluegrass on the Bay.

Learn more about CBMM’s full slate of upcoming events, including Watermen’s Appreciation Day coming on Sunday, Aug. 10, at cbmm.org/Festivals.

 It’s murder, mystery, and mayhem this August as Tred Avon Players (TAP) brings the wildly funny CLUE: On Stage to life at the Oxford Community Center. Running August 14-24, this fast-paced farce by Sandy Rustin is based on the 1985 cult classic film and the infamous Hasbro board game that has kept us guessing for generations.

Directed by Jess Newell, CLUE: On Stage opens on a dark and stormy night at Boddy Manor, where six suspicious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party. When their host winds up dead, everyone becomes a suspect—and the hunt is on to discover who did it, with what, and where!

“This show is a blast,” said Newell. “It’s fast, it’s ridiculous, and it’s full of surprises. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or brand new to Clue, you’re going to have a great time.”

The colorful cast of characters includes both new and returning TAP actors:

• Bruce Grove as Wadsworth

• Natalie Page Laney as the Cook

• Zachary Schlag as Colonel Mustard

• Dena Transeau as Mrs. White

• Lynn Sanchez as Mrs. Peacock

• Mike Sousa as Mr. Green

• Erik Fair as Professor Plum

• Cecile Storm as Miss Scarlett

• Ben Milone as Mr. Boddy

• Matt Kimball as the Motorist

• David Cherry as the Cop

• Rob Sanchez as the Chief

The show is produced and stage managed by Sammie Adams-Mercer, with sets, lighting, costumes, and sound conjuring the eerie elegance of a murder mystery dinner party gone terribly wrong—brought to life by TAP’s talented and dedicated all-volunteer crew.

Performances run August 14-24 at the Oxford Community Center, with evening shows Thursday through Saturday and Sunday matinees. Tickets and full show details are available at www.tredavonplayers.org.

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About Tred Avon Players

Tred Avon Players is a nonprofit organization committed to providing high-quality theatrical experiences for the Eastern Shore community. Founded in 1982, TAP produces four mainstage shows each year at the Oxford Community Center and offers opportunities for local actors, directors, and volunteers to participate in all aspects of live theater. For more information, visit www.tredavonplayers.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Identical twins Peter and Will Anderson, Juilliard-trained jazz  virtuosos known for their fresh interpretations of swing-era greats, return to the Eastern Shore  on Friday, August 1 for a 7:30 PM performance at the Oxford Community Center. Their show, A Tribute to Duke Ellington, is part of the ongoing Jazz on the Stage at OCC series.

Praised by The New York Times as “virtuosos on clarinet and saxophone,” the Andersons don’t  just perform jazz—they bring its story to life. “We love to incorporate an educational element  into the shows themselves,” said Peter Anderson. “Audiences love learning about the  composer while absorbing the music.”

Their Ellington tribute will feature classic arrangements, live storytelling, and the wit and charm  that have made them favorites at venues like Blue Note, Birdland, and the Kennedy Center.  “Ellington’s music is just beautifully written,” Peter said. “It’s hard to screw up Duke.”

Executive Director Liza Ledford says, “We’re thrilled to welcome the Anderson Twins back to  Oxford. Their connection to this music is deep, their artistry is world-class, and their  performances are always unforgettable.”

Ticket options include:

General Admission Seating: $65

VIP Experience: $150, includes front cabaret seating, two complimentary drinks, a meet-and greet with the artists, and an elegant post-show dessert and bubbly reception created by Chef Mark Salter.

The Andersons last appeared on the Shore at the Monty Alexander Jazz Festival and previously  performed at OCC. “We love the area—we’re from Maryland originally,” said Will Anderson. “It feels like coming home.”

Tickets for the August 1st performance are available now at(http://www.oxfordcc.org/jazz or by  calling 410-226-5404. Doors open at 7:00 PM; a cash bar will be available.

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On Friday, July 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., the Zebra Gallery will open two new shows featuring artists Gabriel Lehman and Evan Fitzgerald.

Gabriel Lehman’s show, “A Bird’s Eye View,” will feature his fanciful, dreamlike landscapes with a particular emphasis on clouds, imbuing a sense of joy and wonder into his art. Lehman is a self-taught artist who started painting in 2009 after a career in construction with a focus on flooring for 14 years. Despite not having any formal training, Lehman’s unique perspective and whimsical style quickly gained him a following.

Lehman is also offering painting classes from July 14 to 19 to learn his secrets to gorgeous clouds and fantastic creatures.  Classes offered include “Three-Color Clouds,” where students will learn the secrets of capturing the softness, depth, and movement of clouds while transforming three simple colors into breathtaking skyscapes. The “Sunset Skies” class offers students an enchanting journey through the colors of dusk as they learn to paint breathtaking sunsets on 16” by 20” canvases. In this immersive class, students learn how to capture the delicate gradients, vibrant hues, and ethereal beauty of the sky at its most magical moments. The “Rays of Light” class guides students through techniques to achieve the perfect balance of light and shadow, subtle color blending, and atmospheric perspective, making the clouds look like they could float right off the canvas. This class invites participants to explore the endless possibilities of acrylic paint while creating stunning skyscapes that will brighten any space. All skill levels are welcome to all of these classes.

Evan Fitzgerald’s current work explores the ideas of persona. The word persona is rooted in the Latin word for a theatrical mask. Carl Jung described persona as a social mask that we all put on – something to embody, a different mask for a different setting. By obscuring the subject’s face, their headdresses are the focal point. The individual is merely a pedestal for displaying these objects.

“Both of these artists bring such creative and whimsical works to the gallery. I hope visitors will be mesmerized by the details these painters bring to their paintings. We are thrilled to have them exhibiting here,” shares Susan Schauer John, owner of the Zebra Gallery.

For more information or to sign up for Gabriel Lehman’s class, call 410-253-9131 or email

[email protected]. The Zebra Gallery is located at 5 North Harrison Street in Easton, Maryland (across the street from the Historic Tidewater Inn). The gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to  5 p.m. or by appointment. For further information, visit www.sfsfiber.art or www.thezebragallery.com.