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Blog: Celebrating the Arts Vibe in Randolph – June Highlights

Posted June 01, 2024 by Mark Rosalbo

A world-class performance hall. Multiple art galleries. Subterranean concert venues. Art is a way of life here in Randolph, and when it comes to small town Vermont dining, we serve up more than just delicious food – we bring artistic energy! Here are a few events happening during the month of June: 

Chandler Center for the Arts - Where the arts and community meet

Black woman with sunglasses in front of orange backdropDobet Gnahoré - Friday, Jun 21 at 7:30

Grammy-award-winning performer Dobet Gnahoré headlines Make Music Vermont 2024—Randolph. Gnahoré, a masterful artist, excels in singing, dancing, percussion, and songwriting and has innovatively propelled the contemporary Afropop rhythms of her homeland. She is celebrated for her astonishing dance skills, commanding stage charisma, and deeply emotive singing technique. 

Randolph’s 5th Annual Make Music Day - Randolph has been part of this globally celebrated music holiday since 2020, hosting free music events across town. The main stage is at the Trillium Parking Lot. This year's lineup includes Krishna Guthrie BandAli TThe Village Idiots, Oum Kamar, Em & Nat, Fiona and Emmett Stowell, and More!

Braintree Bluegrass Brunch - Sunday, June 30 at 11:00

The first in a series of three bluegrass shows at the historic Braintree Hill Meeting House. This '24 inaugural event features performances by the talented Audrey Mae Band and Bow Thayer.

Audrey Mae, named after an Alabama belle (Joe Delillo's Mother), is a bluegrass band that delivers top-notch performances. The band features the duet harmonies of bluegrass veterans Peter Winne and Joe Delillo, accompanied by the tasteful stylings of banjo player Joe Lemeris and fiddle and mandolin player Sam McDougle. Their music evokes brother harmony groups such as The Stanley Brothers, The Blue Sky Boys, The Everly Brothers, and yes, even The Beatles.

Bow Thayer, loved by all, is known for his inventiveness. His music is always evolving and unpredictable, and his songs are about "as Vermont as you can get," containing all the trials and tribulations of living here. 

The day will be filled with more than just music. Enjoy food from local food trucks, engage in fun activities for kids, and join a chill morning ride at 10:00. Gates open at 11:00. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the vibrant bluegrass scene in the Heart of Vermont. See you there!

Playhouse Movie Theater - The oldest movie theater in Vermont

Woman with sunglasses on and looking over the top of themChallengers

May 31 to June 6, this Rated R movie, directed by the renowned Luca Guadagnino of “Call Me by Your Name” fame, promises a compelling narrative set in the high-stakes world of professional tennis.

The film features Zendaya as Tashi, a former tennis player who has successfully coached her husband, Art (played by Mike Faist from West Side Story), from being an average player to a grand slam champion. However, Art’s recent slump in form leads Tashi to enter him into a “Challenger” event, a tournament just above the lowest level on the pro tour.

In an unexpected turn of events, Art ends up facing his ex-best friend and Tashi’s former boyfriend, Patrick (Josh O’Connor from “God’s Own Country”), a once-promising player now grappling with burnout. The court becomes a battleground of old rivalries and rekindled romances, with love and careers precariously poised. Be sure not to miss it!

Gold colored movie poster with bald person in a godlike position, arms outFuriosa: A Mad Max Saga

Catch George Miller’s “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” from June 7-13. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth, this standalone action-adventure takes us back to the iconic dystopian world of “Mad Max.” The film reveals the origins of Furiosa, a character from the Oscar-winning “Mad Max: Fury Road”, and her journey through trials and tribulations to find her way home. Don’t miss this much-anticipated return to the Mad Max universe!

a man next to a large purple stuffed animal w a city behind themIF

“IF,” a magical journey directed by John Krasinski, follows a girl with the unique ability to see imaginary friends. She uses this power to reunite these forgotten companions with their children. The film, featuring Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds, and Fiona Shaw, along with voice talents like Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Steve Carell, celebrates the boundless creativity of a child’s mind. Stay tuned for its upcoming release!

Galleries and Exhibits - New Shows

blue and white art exhibit poster using bright red lettering and a flower type image in the backART, Etc.  Opening Reception - June 7 from 5 to 7

Art, etc. presents their newest exhibits for June and July, featuring Ginger Elaine's work that celebrates connection, creativity, and conscientious living. As an “Art Alchemist,” she transforms everyday materials into wonderful pieces of art, each a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. Also on display is Vermont-based photographer John O’Donnell, who has recently turned his lens skyward, capturing the ethereal beauty of the night sky. His latest work, a stunning series of the recent eclipse, showcases his ability to capture celestial events with remarkable clarity.

Abstract painting, dark, with feelings of sadness yet bright colors trying to emergePeople's Gallery - THE GIGANTIC, Opening Reception Friday, June 7, from 5-8

Embark on a visual journey spanning over thirty years of painting with artist Michael Perrone. This exhibit showcases a diverse array of painting genres, methods, and materials, reflecting Perrone’s expansive artistic exploration.

Perrone, a graduate of Muhlenberg College and The University of Pennsylvania, has exhibited his work internationally, including two solo exhibitions with Michael Steinberg Fine Art in Chelsea, New York City. His work has been featured in publications such as The New Yorker, Elle Decor, and Time Out New York.

The exhibit is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 2-5pm, and by appointment. To schedule a visit, please call 929-461-6124. 

Galleries & Exhibits - Ongoing Shows

Nature themed image with green squares and brownsThe Gallery at Chandler - Nature's Palette Area Art Show

Nature's Palette. Get lost in nature's awe-inspiring colors, forms, and events, beautifully captured and interpreted by our talented local artists. This exhibit explores the profound connection between nature and human life, culture, thoughts, moods, dreams, and visions. How do you perceive nature’s wonders and colors? How does the natural world shape your artistry? The show runs from May 18 to July 6. Learn more here.


Abstract painting with a resemblance to a woman sitting hunched over, sadThird Branch Pottery Gallery -  Pandemic Art

North Main Gallery presents Pandemic Art, the story of life during COVID-19 told through abstract paintings and music. For the artist, it is an ongoing experimental journey of mental health preservation through artistic exploration. 

Bright colors shingin a light on the artist's style of using bold colors and lettering to make a statementAaart is Aaart

AAArt is AAART Studio + Gallery, situated at 27 North Main St., is the creative hub of Rachi Farrow, a revered local artist with several decades of experience. Rachi’s artistry is an exploration of our throwaway culture, transforming waste products and everyday objects into extraordinary art pieces. Her process involves fragmenting, reconfiguring, reusing, and resurrecting these discarded items, recycling them into unique works of art. The gallery, a testament to Rachi’s commitment to sustainability and creativity, welcomes visitors whenever the lights are on, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of art

white with blue lines indicating the letters W and RWhite River Craft Center 

This June, the White River Craft Center (WRCC) is excited to offer an intensive two-weekend program, Introduction to Weaving, on June 15 & 16 and 29 & 30. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to weaving, covering everything from using a loom and measuring a warp to weaving a sampler of different patterns, yarns, and colors. Participants will also learn how to prepare and interpret weaving drafts, plan and complete a project from start to finish, and access resources for continuing weaving at home. Intermediate weavers with specific projects in mind are welcome to join and receive guidance from the instructor.

The WRCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities in art and hand crafting. Check out their website for their programming calendar

Live Music +

RACDC's First Friday, Friday, June 7 at 5:30

First Fridays is back on Merchant's Row! This festive gathering is designed to bring our community together, encouraging everyone to socialize, play, get to know their neighbors and support our amazing local businesses.

From June to October, between 5:30PM and 7:30PM, participate in a lively community atmosphere filled with live music, local artisans, delicious food, and kid crafts galore. Plus, many of our restaurants and shops will be open late for your convenience!

June 7th will feature musical guests Rob Oxford and Friends. Let’s celebrate our community spirit and support local businesses together! See you there. 

two cows playing cowbellsMake Music Vermont - Randolph Friday, June 21 from 10 to 10 

Make Music Day in Randolph a global celebration of music on the longest day of the year. This year marks our fifth annual Make Music Vermont event, offering a full day of free music for all. The festival, organized in collaboration with The Underground - Recording Studio and Listening Room, Chandler Center for the Arts, and the White River Craft Center, will showcase Randolph’s thriving musical culture with twelve diverse performances throughout the day.

We’re excited to introduce a main stage event in the Trillium Parking Lot. The event will kick off at 6 p.m. with performances by the Krishna Guthrie Band, the acclaimed Dobet Gnahore and her band, and a DJ set to close the night.

From morning to night, enjoy a variety of performances at local businesses across town. Highlights include Ali T at Wee Bird Bagel Cafe, Fiona and Emmett Stowell at Kimball Public Library, Em & Nat at The Gear House, and much more.

blue and blck with girl cartoon imageThe Underground - Listening Room HIFI + DJ Sound Syndicate, Friday, June 7 at 7:30

Come be in the rhythm of vintage house music with HIFI. With DJ Fidelma Wyse on the Maschine, Jofus on bass, and Phil Carr on drums, they bring an original house music experience. Fidelma, having spent her 20’s in the rave scene of London, brings that flavor and all original tracks to HIFI. Jofus and Phil have been intuitively playing their bad-to-the-bane bass and drums together for 30 years.

HIFI creates an ambiance for all those who want to get lost in the music. Tickets are available in advance for $14 or at the door for $17. Doors open at 7:00 pm and the show starts at 7:30 pm. This is an all-ages event and you’re welcome to BYOB. Don’t miss out on this unique musical experience! Get tickets

three musicians performing with The Underground green logo in the center of the posterThe Underground - Listening Room - Songwriter Showcase, June 14 at 7:30

Come experience an evening of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics at the Songwriter Showcase. This all-ages event features a lineup of talented singer-songwriters, each bringing their unique musical styles to the stage including Django Koenig, a Vermont-born artist, will win you over with his blend of Americana and Soul, Thomas Gunn, a showman from Vermont, combines poetic wit with unbridled passion, promising a contemporary and experimental musical experience, Hana Kahn, a nominee for the New England and Boston Music Awards Pop Artist of the Year, will guide you on a winding route to self-discovery with her powerful stories and elegant musicianship, David Cron, a singer/songwriter, will entertain you with his music that lives somewhere between insightful reflections and downright silliness, Mathe Svahn, a growing solo musician from Enfield NH, will inspire you with his unique style and authenticity. Fez Sil is an honest, lyrical storyteller who grew up in California and is now in VT ... lucky for us!

Tickets are available in advance for $14 or at the door for $17. Doors open at 7:00 pm and the show starts at 7:30 pm. You’re welcome to BYOBGet tickets

Wit & Grit - Trivia Night

Wit & Grit Trivia Night: Get ready to put your knowledge to the ultimate test at Wit & Grit's Trivia Night. Doors open at 5:00, and the games begin at 6:00. Date: stay tuned.

Restaurants

Within just a few blocks, Randolph offers a culinary journey like no other. Prepare your taste buds for a fusion of flavors, from Italian delights to tantalizing Northern Thai cuisine, and everything in between. And here's the exciting part - these restaurants aren't just places to eat, most double as visual art galleries, live music venues, or sometimes both! Talk about a dining experience that feeds your soul. So, buckle up and get ready to savor the creativity at these awesome eateries:

Saap Thai - James Beard Award Winner

One Main Tap & Grill - Farm-to-table, locally inspired cuisine, and craft beer

Tacocat Cantina - casual street tacos 

East Garden - Chinese 

Short Notice - shareable small plates

Chef’s Market - sandwiches & specialty groceries

Randolph Village Pizza - family-friendly Italian

The Forge - American bar & grill

Wee Bird Bagel Café - best bagels ever

Wit & Grit - breakfast and lunch classics with unique style

Windy Lane Bakehouse - freshly baked sweets and savories 

Prince Street Cafe - classic bowling alley breakfast and lunch

So, what are you waiting for? Go have some fun!

The art vibe here is passionate, supportive, and inclusive.