Lewiston Arts Council invites all for a summer full of fun

by Terry Duffy
Lewiston Porter Sentinel, May 28, 2005

After what seems like endless weeks of cold, dreary un-spring like weather, warm, sunny days are finally here and -- in perfect timing -- to kick-off the Lewiston Council on the Arts’ summer ‘05 season of happenings.

Actually the folks at the Arts Council have been rather busy the past several months, planning for what they expect to be one heck of a 2005 bill -- from fine arts to musical happenings to things historical. Throw in what’s shaping up to be one fantastic food fest and you’ll find -- pardon the pun -- there’s literally something for all tastes.

What’s going on? “The answer is a resounding lots!” exclaimed Eva Nicklas of the Arts Council as she outlined just a few of this year’s plethora of activities.

•Drumming in the Courtyard -- a four week series of drum circles offering participants an opportunity to learn and join in on African and Middle Eastern rhythms, taught by Miriam Minkoff, continues at 2 p.m., Sundays through June 12 in the all-new Lewiston Courtyard, 476 Center St. A limited number of drums are available, or bring your own. Call 754-0166 for details.

•The Spirits of the Seaway Trail Walks -- debuting at 2 p.m., Saturday June 11 and continuing through Saturday, Sept. 24 -- invites visitors to stroll and discover the beauties of historic Lewiston, led by costumed guides. Learn the stories of Lewiston’s rich past; discover personalities and relive pivotal points in its history, including the area’s role in the Underground Railroad.

•The Taste of Lewiston, Saturday, June 26 from noon to 9 p.m. along Center Street from Fourth to Sixth streets. “We’re back and better than ever,” commented Arts Council Executive Director Irene Rykaszewski on the return of this year’s taste.

Following a one-year hiatus, the Taste has a new location, more vendors than ever -- over 30 and growing -- continuous entertainment and promises some neat offerings. How about a farmer’s market celebrating Niagara’s bounty, an old-fashioned Carousel or the Niagara Wine Trail Courtyard featuring the offerings of five local wineries?

Much, much more to talk about on this one. Look for an expanded report in an upcoming Sentinel issue.

•The ever popular Lewiston Outdoor Fine Arts Festival, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 13-14 along the Center Street strip, at Academy Park, the Hennepen Park Gazebo and in points in-between.

Now in its 39th year, Lewiston’s mini version of Allentown will see over 150 professional exhibitors from around the country, the creations of the Western New York High School Chalk Walk Competition, entertainment, and much more. Stay tuned to the Sentinel for updates on this one.

•Concerts, concerts and concerts. From the Summer of ‘69: A Rock reunion of local bands, Sunday, July 10 at Academy Park; to a return of Blue Mondays, an eight week concert series at the Hennepin Gazebo beginning July 11 through Aug. 29; Jazz Wednesdays, weekly July 6 through Aug. 24; to the Lewiston Jazz Project, Thursdays, June 30 - Sept. 1 at the Hennepin Gazebo, the Arts Council has it and more. They invite residents and visitors to experience the exciting sounds by some of the area’s most innovative musicians.

But, that’s not all. There’s also:

•A Little Bit of Artfest at Old Sanborn Days, Saturday and Sunday, July 9-10 on the grounds of the Sanborn Fire Co., Route 429 in Sanborn.

•Blooms Fashions at the Barton Hill Estate, Sunday, July 31, at 210 Center St. Enjoy a mix of arts and fashion amidst one of Lewiston’s architectural wonders.

•Haunted History Ghost Walks -- 7 p.m., Saturdays, from Sept. 3 -Oct. 9, starting at the Lewiston Courtyard, 476 Center St. Led by historian Mason Winfield, this one combines good old-fashioned story telling with tales of the supernatural. Great for getting in the pre-Halloween mood.

•The Historical Celebration of the Niagara Movement, 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 in the Performing Arts Center of Niagara Falls High School. New this year, this event marks the anniversary of a historic secret meeting that gave birth to the NAACP and the modern Civil Rights Movement. The evening will also see a return of the renowned Hampton University Choir to the WNY area.

As you can see, the Arts Council hasn’t left anyone out when it comes to planning and organizing some truly unique events. “We have a great season to look forward to,” announced Nicklas as she invites those from near and far to partake and enjoy.

That’s putting it mildly.

For details, contact the Lewiston Council on the Arts, at 754-0166 or on-line at www.ArtCouncil.org.