Events

While Concord’s role in the start of the American Revolution is widely recognized, less well known are the continued experiences of disruption and turmoil in Concord throughout the war. Through eyewitness historical objects, artworks, and documents, Transformed by Revolution explores what it was like to be part of this war-time community that hosted Harvard College and became a hub of military supplies for the army in Boston. The exhibition also considers who participated in this fight for Independence and the meanings of freedom for women, the Black community, and sovereign Indigenous nations.

“There is art in the science, and science in the art.” – Marsha Wilcox Ancient Light transforms the Allie Kussin Gallery from Jan 12 - Mar 22 with celestial photography by Marsha Wilcox. Join us for a joint opening reception on Jan 28 at 6 PM celebrating Ancient Light and Carl Ristaino’s Inspirational Jam (RSVPs appreciated).

Carl Ristaino’s imagination comes alive through dynamic jazz scenes and whimsical cityscapes in Inspirational Jam, on view in the Wedge Gallery at The Umbrella Arts Center. Working in acrylics, Ristaino builds layers of bold color that capture the transcendence of live music and fantastical worlds. In his jazz series, Ristaino’s canvases become stages where musicians lean into their instruments, vocalists throw their heads back in ecstatic song, and the audience communes over the pleasure of spontaneous creativity.

Wit & Word is a literary event in the dead of New England winter, designed to warm post-holiday hearts sans shopping or screens. Featuring five area writers sharing sharp satire, candid confessions, and true stories that explore mysteries of middle age and realities of modern adulting, the night offers humor with heart, insight, and perhaps a little cringe. You’ll leave laughing, thoughtfully entertained, and hopefully, slightly more fortified to make it to spring. 

Join naturalist and avid outdoor enthusiast Jeff Adams for a winter walk featuring identification tips and natural history facts for some of the trees and shrubs along Walden's shore. We’ll discuss different techniques for identification of bare trees/ shrubs like branching, buds, bark, galls, and persistent leaves and fruit. We may also see some non-woody plants that remain erect in winter. 

Join us for an Artist Talk with Marsha Wilcox (Ancient Light) and Carl Ristaino (Inspirational Jam) on February 21 at 2 PM in the Black Box Theater. Through their talks, the artists will speak on their process, inspiration, and artistic journeys. RSVP appreciated.

The Umbrella Stage Company proudly presents TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, directed by Scott Edmiston and dramatized by Christopher Sergel, based on the book by Harper Lee.  Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, To Kill a Mockingbird opens in a sleepy Alabama town in the midst of the Great Depression, where Scout and her brother, Jem, live with their widowed father, lawyer Atticus Finch. While the children act out stories and muse about their mysterious neighbor, Boo Radley, the facade of their seemingly peaceful town begins to crack when a young black man is accused of a terrible crime. Driven by an unshakeable moral conviction, Atticus defends the man in a trial that sends violent waves through the community, teaching young Scout about prejudice, compassion and the courage to do what is right.

Join us for an enchanting evening as handmade lanterns illuminate the historic streets of Concord. No need to register for the Parade. Light Up the Nig. Be a part of Brighter Together, Concord’s inaugural Lantern Parade and Party! With the Concord250 Lantern in the lead and hundreds of creative, handmade lanterns joining in, we will transform the dark, winter night into a celebration of light, creative expression, and community. Muster at 6:00 PM at the Alcott Elementary School. The 15-minute parade will wind through residential streets, ending at a party at the Concord Scout House. https://www.concordlanterns.org/

Come be part of the music at The Umbrella's spring Salt Lick Sessions concert on Friday, March 27, featuring Claire Ernst & Dani Offline.

Claire Ernst is an emerging pop/R&B artist from Nashville who just released her debut full-length album, Oh, Hello!, a vibrant introduction to her artistry. Dani Offline is a songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist making analog R&B for the 21st century.

Don't miss this opportunity to see these emerging artists!