Write Yourself Free in Westport offers editorial services, writing workshops, storytelling nights and a variety of other events for writers of all levels. Activities are scheduled with working people in mind, many during weekends and weekday evenings. Visit the Write Yourself Free Web site for a schedule of upcoming events.
The Old Newgate Prison Museum is the site of Connecticut's first prison, which was built from the remains of an 18th-century copper mine. Copper was first discovered on the site in 1705 and was one of the few commercial mines in the British colonies until it was abandoned in the 1750s. The Old Newgate Prison opened its doors on December 2, 1773, for male prisoners. The first female prisoners of Old Newgate were incarcerated in 1824. Just three years later, in 1827, the prison was shut down due in part to the high cost of operation, but also because of inhumane practices. Today the guardhouse is the only building that is intact; the remains of the other buildings can be seen over the prison's 12-foot walls.
If you are planning a visit as a large group or a school trip, please send an email to [email protected] or [email protected] to schedule your visit. Discounts are available.
Perfect Productions specializes in planning events of all sizes, from a simple backyard picnic to an elaborate tropical vacation. Since 1984, Perfect Productions has been coordinating business trips, family outings, weddings, vacations and other events with exceptional attention to detail.
Perfect Productions' Farmington office is located on Cooke Street. Visit the website for more information or call to schedule an appointment.
Cutting Edge Entertainment is a professional event planning and talent management company, operated out of the home of its CEO in Canton. Cutting Edge has been planning events for over 25 years, and has built up a resume that includes planning private parties for corporations and colleges, as well as public events sponsored by towns around the East Coast. Cutting Edge handles all aspects of event planning, including talent acquisition, sound, lighting, music, comedic performances, activities and novelty items such as virtual reality simulators and professionally drawn caricatures. Call the Cutting Edge office to schedule a meeting or to get ideas for your next event.
When SoNo residents need a little Hollywood, they check out the newest flicks at the BowTie Regent 8, located on North Main Street near MLK Boulevard. Although the main entrance faces Main Street, most of the parking is in the rear of the building (it's a pay-lot). Tickets are available for purchase online, and frequent patrons can participate in a bonus program. BowTie has a popular "Movies for Moms" programs that easily accommodates babies and toddlers, and the facility is also available for private parties.
Since 1960, the Rowayton Arts Center has provided a haven for the arts on Rowayton Avenue. Art exhibitions, lectures, films and discussion groups all have a home here. Supported by membership dues, classes, commissions and donations, the Arts Center has stayed surprisingly small, but it remains the cultural heart of the village.
The website offers an updated schedule of classes and events.
The American Historical Society Museum is comprised of a Living Museum, the Pine Grove School, the History Room located at the Avon Public Library and the Derrin House currently under restoration. The Living Museum was originally a schoolhouse that opened in 1823 and used until 1938. Local citizens worked to save it from demolition in 1981 and helped to dismantle and restore the structure where it is currently located on East Main Street next to the Avon Public Library. The Pine Grove School is located along Route 167 at the corner of Harris and West Avon Road. The structure represents an early 20th century schoolhouse.
The Waveny House is a historic Tudor mansion located in Waveny Town Park, managed by the New Canaan Recreation Department. The expansive, beautiful grounds are often host to weddings and special events. Rental rates and information can be found at the provided Web site.
Claude Villani's gallery of contemporary fine art, Galerie Sono, specializes in showing one-of-a-kind pieces in a museum-like setting. Featuring artists from across the globe, the Galerie aims to lead patrons through the collecting process. Both Villani and his gallery director have more than 20 years' experience in the art world. Stop by during a wine reception for a new artist or visit during the day while taking in the local sights. Galerie Sono is located at the end of Washington Street and near Route 136
With a history dating back to 1922, the Silvermine Arts Center offers art classes, workshops and features approximately 20 exhibits throughout the year. Classes include ceramics, sculpture, photography, new media, painting, drawing and jewelry making.
This movie house is part of a chain of Bow Tie Cinemas which was founded over 100 years ago. This location boast 16 screens, a snack bar, digital sound and party rooms. Bargain matinees run through 6pm. The theater is located right off the highway and has a large free parking lot.
Broad Brook Opera House is located in the Broad Brook section of East Windsor. The Opera House Players was founded in 1968 and is the oldest community theater group in the area. Its players put on a number of family-friendly musicals throughout the year.
Founded in 2001 by director Richard Chiarappa and Jim Kilian, West Hartford Symphony Orchestra is a nonprofit music organization that features seasonal concerts, collaborative shows, guest artists and holiday musical events. To order tickets, visit the website or inquire by mail. Most concerts are held at West Hartford's Town Hall or at Kingswood Oxford's Robert's Theater. Directions for both venues can be found on WHSO's website.