A world-class performance hall. Multiple art galleries. Subterranean concert venues. Art is a way of life here. Randolph has so much to offer! Here are a few events happening during October.
Chandler Center for the Arts - Where the arts and community meet
Strike Anywhere Tune on a Distant Hill, Sat, Oct 5 at 7 and Sun, Oct 6 at 3
Tune on a Distant Hill is no ordinary show; it's a collage of sight and sound, a kaleidoscope of dance, music, and monologues. Weaving together colorful tales of the Green Mountain Mermaid and the fabled "Pig Man" with the personal narratives of hardworking farmers, restless youth, wealthy transplants, and undervalued migrant workers, Tune on a Distant Hill paints a vivid and poignant portrait of Vermont life. Tickets and info.
Kavita Shah Cape Verdean Blues, Fri, Oct 11 at 7
Kavita Shah, an esteemed vocalist, composer, researcher, and educator, seamlessly blends the jazz tradition with global musical sensibilities. Known for her exceptional skill in various musical languages, Shah's work integrates her ethnographic research on Brazilian, West African, and Indian traditions.
Shah's accolades include being named a 2023-2025 Jerome Hill Artist Fellow and a 2023-2025 Composers & the Voice Fellow with the American Opera Project. She is currently working on a new album chronicling her journey to her ancestral villages in Gujarat and an opera about child migration. Tickets and info.
Our Town Auditions Sat, Oct 19 through Mon, Oct 21
Calling all aspiring actors and theatre enthusiasts in the White River Valley! Chandler is stoked to invite you to audition for OUR TOWN by Thornton Wilder, set to be performed from February 28 to March 9, 2025.
Auditions are open to everyone — no experience or preparation needed. Sign up for an audition slot on October 19, 20, or 21, or email [email protected] if you need a different time. They have roles for all ages and genders, ranging from no lines to lead characters.
Visit the OUR TOWN AUDITION SIGN-UP SHEET to secure your spot. If you have any questions or special considerations, include them in your sign-up form or email us at [email protected]. Help make this winter production unforgettable!
Upper Valley Baroque Sat, Oct 26 at 3
UVB Choir & Orchestra will perform Baroque celebrations: Charpentier Te Deum & Vivaldi Gloria.
UVB musicians invite us to celebrate with the majesty of Charpentier’s "Te Deum" and Vivaldi’s "Gloria", on period instruments, under the direction of Maestro Filippo Ciabatti. Tickets and info.
Playhouse Movie Theater - The oldest movie theater in Vermont
The Wild Robot
DreamWorks Animation's The Wild Robot adapts Peter Brown's #1 NYTs bestseller. The adventure follows Roz, a robot who must adapt to life on an uninhabited island, forming bonds with animals and becoming a parent to an orphaned gosling.
Directed by Chris Sanders and produced by Jeff Hermann, this film delves into self-discovery, the blend of technology and nature, and the essence of life. Catch it through October 10th. Rated PG.
Coming Soon
Read here for more October films and events at The Playhouse.
Galleries and Exhibits - New Shows
ART, etc. Opening Reception Oct 4 from 5 to 7
Don't miss ART etc's new exhibit! Andrea is excited to showcase a new exhibit featuring the works of three talented artists: Gary Eckhart, Roarke Sharlow, and Tyler Gately. Gary’s stunning watercolors and Roarke’s digital images capture the timeless beauty of Vermont’s barns and farmland, evoking nostalgia and celebrating Vermont's evolving landscape. Additionally, Tyler Gately’s "Aviart," a unique blend of painting and Army Aviation, will also be on display.
Join Andrea at the Opening Reception on Friday, October 4, from 5 to 7. Meet the artists and enjoy food, drinks, and live music by the talented Beth Monroe.
People's Gallery - Spooky Exhibition Opening Reception, Fri, Oct 4, 5:30 to 8:00
Head down to People’s Gallery and create your Spooky portrait drawing! The People's Peeps will hang your work inside the gallery for the duration of the exhibition, and gallery artists will also add their spooky creations during the month. On Halloween, the gallery will be open with free candy and hot cider, and you can also take home one of the spooky portrait drawings of your choice. Come create and celebrate with our creative community!
People’s Gallery is now in its second year as an art cooperative in Randolph! Visit on Fridays from 4 to 8, weekends from 11 to 3, or by appointment. To schedule a visit, call 802-505-0353. Follow them on Instagram for the latest updates. (image shown is a Collodian Print by Steven Arcella @stevenarcella)
Galleries & Exhibits - Ongoing Shows
The Gallery at Chandler -Juxtaposition: Collage Show
A juxtaposition is an act or instance of placing two elements close together or side by side to compare the two. The artists in this show have various objects with opportunities to have contrasting concepts in parallel structures. The matching of objects alters or adds to the original meaning of those concepts and reveals surprising relationships. Explore for yourself - collage, uncollage, assemblage, textiles, installations, prints, and stamps. This exhibit runs through mid-November. Please go check it out! More info here.
Third Branch Pottery - G.E.M.S.
Third Branch Pottery is thrilled to announce a new exhibit at the 15 North Main gallery, featuring the creative works of students from GEMS, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing 6th-8th graders with opportunities to explore self-concept through various activities such as hiking, biking, volunteering, and more. This exhibit showcases the collaborative efforts of photographer Bailey Masi-Wood and Drift Farm’s Taryn Colonnese, who guided the students in workshops on photography and felting. The campers were encouraged to explore their creative sides, resulting in stunning photographs and felt art pieces.
Aaart 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.
Brainstorm Art Supply - Dyeing Workshop
Join Brainstorm for their next workshop, Tie-Front Robe Duster Dyeing with Dana Decker on Sunday, October 13th from 2 to 4! In this two-hour workshop, participants will learn how to ice dye using a variety of our Dharma Trading Co. Procion fiber reactive dyes. Dana will demonstrate different techniques for achieving patterns and designs. SOLD OUT!
All things Inktober are included in their monthly sale, which offers 15% off all drawing inks, pens, calligraphy products, and sumi in-store for the entire month of October. Get inspired!
White River Craft Center Open Studio Weekend, Sat Oct 5 and 6
Fall Open Studio Weekend (#77 on Loop 10) is October 5 and 6. Join the WRCC for a weekend filled with creativity - three floors worth! Explore the studios of local artists like Melle Finelli Jewelry and Janet Cathey, and photographers Matt Gustafson and Bailey Masi-Wood, who will debut their new photography studio. Also, painter Allen Matthews and multimedia artist Stephanie Nyzio will open their studios to welcomed quests. Enjoy an artist market (with Susan Cornick and Dawn Littlepage), weaving demos, darkroom tours, and galleries! Speaking of galleries - Amy Schachter is showcasing a solo show in their expanding Studio Artist Gallery! Refreshments await on the front porch.
Community Collage Workshop. Dive into this fun, versatile medium with Teaching Artist, Heather Stearns. In this two-hour session, you'll learn tips and tricks, and create your own artwork to take home. No experience needed—all materials provided! Workshop starts on Oct 10. Register here.
Printmaking Primer Workshop Series. Join Teaching Artist Janet Cathey for a 5-week tour of non-toxic printmaking techniques! Try linoleum, wood block, monoprints, collographs, and drypoint etching. By the end, you'll know your preferences and have hands-on experience. Participants get a block print kit; tools are returned after the workshop, but paper, linoleum, and ink are yours to keep. Series starts on Oct 22. Register here.
Intro to Weaving Workshop Series. Learn to weave by using a loom, measuring a warp, dressing the loom, and creating a vibrant sampler with various patterns and colors. You'll explore weaving drafts, complete a project, and gain resources to continue weaving at home. Intermediate weavers can bring their own project ideas and receive guidance from the instructor Susan Rockwell. Series starts on Oct 19. Register here.
To arrange payment by check or cash or contact: Program Manager Susan Cornick, [email protected]
The White River Craft Center (WRCC) is a non-profit organization that provides educational opportunities in art and handcrafting. View their website programming calendar.
Live Music +
RACDC's First Friday, Fri, Oct 4 from 6 to 8
First Fridays is back on Merchant's Row! This festive gathering is designed to unite our community, encouraging everyone to socialize, play, get to know their neighbors and support our amazing local businesses.
From June to October, between 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM, participate in a lively community atmosphere filled with live music, local artisans, and kid activities. Plus, many of our restaurants and shops will be open late for your convenience!
October 4th will feature musical guests Blue Note 6. Let’s celebrate our community spirit and support local businesses together!
The Underground - Listening Room - Reggaetón Dance Party with DJ CheleFri, Oct 4
Join Vincent Friday night after Randolph’s "First Friday" activities on Merchants Row for The Underground's monthly dance party series! Tickets are just $10 on the day of the show. Doors open at 7:00 PM and the show starts at 8:00 PM. This is a BYOB event and open to all ages. Learn more.
The Underground - Listening Room Nowhere Washington, Western Terrestrials, Jonny Hick and The Kickers, Fri, Oct 11
The Underground has it going thrice tonight! Nowhere Washington: Original pop-rock inspired by rural life. Featuring Nick Sherman, Angela Paladino, John "Chili Dog" Tyler II, Jeremiah Johnson, and Kyle Martel.
Western Terrestrials: Hard-driving honky-tonk from Vermont. Expect sweeping astral plains and honky-tonk allure.
Jonny Hick and the Kickers: Vermont-based band blending Americana/country with indie influences. Jonny's farm roots and guitar-picking style shine through.
Tickets are $14 in advance or $17 at the door. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. You’re welcome to BYOB. Get tickets.
The Underground - Listening Room - Kevin O'Shaughnessy w/ Shiny New Toyz, Fri, Oct 18
Kevin O’Shaughnessy is a versatile Hard Rock artist known for his powerful voice, Satriani-like guitar skills, and catchy Bon Jovi-inspired choruses. His music blends personal lyrics with engaging performances, making each listen a new experience. Based in Montpelier, VT, Kevin started as a session player in Boston, performing in Las Vegas, New York (including Carnegie Hall), and numerous recordings. As a talented producer and educator, he released his solo album, Persistence of Vision, in 2015. Tickets are $14 in advance or $17 at the door. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. You’re welcome to BYOB. Get tickets.
The Underground - Listening Room The Village Idiots w/ Of Conscious Mind, Fri, Oct 25
The Village Idiots and Of Conscious Mind Live in Randolph! Join The Village Idiots (Chris, Joe, and Erik) at Vincent's place for an evening of eclectic cover tunes and new interpretations. Catch Of Conscious Mind with their new lineup this Halloween. Welcome Bridget Labrie on lead vocals, Wade Mullins on bass, and Paul Picard on drums. The new OCM sound promises to be tighter than ever! Tickets are $14 in advance or $17 at the door. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. You’re welcome to BYOB. Get tickets.
Wit & Grit - Trivia Night
Wit & Grit Trivia Night. Get ready to put your knowledge to the ultimate test at Wit & Grit's popular Trivia Night. Doors open at 5:00, and the games begin at 6:00. New date coming soon!
Restaurants
Within just a few blocks, Randolph offers many fun places to eat. Prepare your taste buds for a fusion of flavors, from Italian delights to insane 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 incredible eateries:
Saap Thai - James Beard Award Winner
One Main Tap & Grill - Farm-to-table, locally inspired cuisine, and craft beer
East Garden - Chinese
Short Notice - shareable small plates
Chef’s Market - sandwiches & specialty groceries
Randolph Village Pizza - family-friendly Italian
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!