Arts and Recreation
St. Pat's Parade & Shamrock Fest Return To Jaffrey
Park Theatre again produces annual parade and Irish festival from March 12 - 16
The St Pat's Day Parade kicks off.
The New Hampshire Pipes and Drums..
Photos courtesy of The Park Theatre
JAFFREY, New Hampshire (February 27, 2025) Once again, Jaffrey and the Monadnock Region turn green for St. Patrick's Day. Once again, The Park Theatre is producing the 6th Annual St. Patrick's Parade and the 4th Annual Shamrock Fest. The festival of all things Irish, begins March 12 and ends on Sunday, March 16 (2pm) with the parade along Main Street in Jaffrey, New Hampshire.
"We are very proud to produce the annual Jaffrey St. Pat's Parade and Shamrock Fest. It our biggest community event and it brings in thousands of attendees every year. We thank everyone that makes it happen; all of the sponsors, advertisers, performers, parade participants, volunteers and Park Staff for what they do to make this festival and parade so special for the state of New Hampshire and New England. A special shout-out goes to Jaffrey resident Kevin Hampsey who co-founded and has produced all 6 parades. Without his inspiration and hard work each year, this would never happen. Thank you and Sláinte Kevin!," said Steve Jackson, CEO and Managing Director of The Park Theatre.
The annual highlight is the parade, which begins outside St. Patrick's Parish at 89 Main Street in Jaffrey at 2pm on Sunday, March 16 (weather date March 23). Thousands line up along Main Street (Route 124) to watch as the parade heads east and downtown past The Park Theatre. This year marks the debut of one of the greatest marching bands in America, the New Hampshire Pipes and Drums. They march in parades all over the U.S. and are the annual hallmark of the Manchester NH St. Patrick's Parade. Formed in 2002, the critically acclaimed band of 34 bagpipers and drummers put smiles on parade watchers of any age.
The Hill's Bandwagon of Vermont returns to the Jaffrey parade this year. Other marchers include The Flying Irish Dancers, 1st NH Regiment Revolutions, 6th NH Regiment, Keene American Legion, Conant High School Marching Band and many more.
The public is asked to join the parade as well. The parade team is asking folks to join the Monadnock Pot & Pans Band. Just bring a couple of pots and or pans. March and make beautiful noise. They are also recruiting for the Granite State Kazoo Choir. Kazoos will be provided. No experience needed, but if you have it, it can help. Just have fun. If you are interested in either, you can call the theatre to sign up (603) 532-8888.
The Grand Marshall of the parade is once again Jimmy Quinn. Jimmy is a native Irishman, born in Donegal and co-founder of the parade. The parade will be broadcast on Facebook LIVE on the theatre's page, facebook.com/theparktheatre. Broadcast begins at 12:30pm. Diane Griffin will return doing the color for the broadcast. Diane is also from Ireland and was born in Sandycove, county of Dublin. Diane is a regular volunteer at The Park Theatre.
The Shamrock Fest begins on Wednesday, March 12 with the recently restored Ryan's Daughter (1970) film starring Robert Mitchum. Directed by David Lean (Doctor Zhivago, Bridge on the River Kwai, Lawrence of Arabia) it was filmed entirely in Ireland with sumptuous cinematography. The film will be presented on the theatre's giant screen with 17-speaker surround sound. The Great Ireland Road Trip is a recent travelogue documentary that features a young couple as your guide. It will be shown with free admission on March 12 & 13. On Thursday, March 13 The Boxer (1997) starring Daniel Day-Lewis will be shown on the big screen. The award-winning film was directed by Jim Sheridan (My Left Foot, In the Name of The Father).
Live entertainment at Shamrock Fest begins Friday night, March 14th at 7:30pm with New England's favorite Celtic band, the Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki Trio. They were the first band to perform at the theatre after it opened in 2021. On Saturday, The father & son duo, The Fiddling Thomsons, return to Shamrock Fest after a very successful concert last year. On Saturday night March 15, the Celtic rock band, Waking Finnegan also returns to the festival with a foot stompin' concert at 7:30pm.
On parade day, Jaffrey's favorite band, The Grateful Dads, will be performing in The Park Theatre's Lounge just inside the theatre's front doors. They will perform before the parade starting at noon, then they march in the parade, then return to the Lounge around 2:45pm until 5pm.
Starting at noon, food will be available for sale at the concession stand and in the lobby. Items include hamburgers, hot dogs, homemade chili and baked goods, plus hot chocolate, coffee/teas and lots of Guinness.
During the festival, Irish Whiskey sampling with solo and trio flights will be sold in the Lounge. (All alcoholic purchases require photo ID.)
The Shamrock Fest's presenting sponsor is Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. The secondary sponsor is McClure's Tree Service. Shamrock Fest's official media sponsor is radio station WKNE, part of Monadnock Media Group. The parade has over two dozen sponsors from Jaffrey and the Monadnock Region. The list of sponsors can be found at shamrockfest.org.
A program guide for Shamrock Fest will be availabe during the week of March 3rd at sponsor's businesses and other locations throughout the Monadnock Region.
For tickets and information, go to theparktheatre.org or shamrockfest.org or call the box office (603) 532-8888.
The Park Theatre performing arts center is located at 19 Main Street in downtown Jaffrey, New Hampshire, just 90 minutes from Boston & 60 minutes from Worcester, MA.
Ireland Travelogue Documentary Screens at Shamrock Fest
Young couple take you on a breathtaking tour of Ireland with their film being shown at The Park Theatre
Kim and Jaycie Haskell upstaged by their background in The Great Ireland Road Trip
Photos courtesy of The Park Theatre
JAFFREY, New Hampshire (March 4 , 2025) The upcoming Shamrock Fest in Jaffrey, New Hampshire will feature three screenings at The Park Theatre of a new travelogue about Ireland entitled, The Great Ireland Road Trip. It will be shown Wednesday, March 12 at 5:30pm, and Thursday, March 13 at 5:30pm and 7:15pm. Admission is free. The 5:30pm screenings will be in the Eppes Auditorium with its giant screen. The 7:15pm showing will be in the King Screening Room.
Kim and Jaycie Haskell take you on a breathtaking tour of Ireland in their new one-hour documentary, produced by Atlas Unlimited, a travel experience company helmed by three brothers specializing in amazing HDR and VR travel videos.
Here is what this stunning travelogue film, The Great Ireland Road Trip, is about in their own words:
"Join us on an unforgettable hour-long adventure across the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland. In this documentary, my wife and I embark on a road trip that takes us from the bustling streets of Dublin to the serene beauty of Ireland's countryside.
"Our journey begins in Dublin, where we explore the historic Christchurch Cathedral and delve into the Viking history at the Dublania Museum. From there, we hit the open road, winding our way through the lush Irish countryside, and visit the peaceful Glendalough Cathedral. Our adventure takes us to the legendary Blarney Castle, where we bravely kiss the Blarney Stone for a touch of eloquence.
"Driving through the dramatic Gap of Dunloe, we spend a night under the stars in the secluded Black Valley. The natural beauty continues as we wander through Killarney National Park and explore the ancient ruins of Muckross Abbey. The Wild Atlantic Way guides us along the rugged western coast, leading us to the poignant Irish Famine House and the ancient Dunbeg Fort.
"Our exploration doesn't stop there--we venture into the depths of Crag Cave, learn fascinating stories at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, and take a magical walk along the iconic cliffs themselves, all while enduring the unpredictable Irish weather. We marvel at the majesty of birds at the Aillwee Birds of Prey Centre before capping off our journey with a night in the enchanting Kinnity Castle.
"From start to finish, this road trip is packed with awe-inspiring sights, rich history, and the warm spirit of Ireland. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or dreaming of visiting the Emerald Isle, this documentary will transport you to the heart of Ireland. Join us for an epic journey that showcases the very best of this magical country."
The Shamrock Fest's presenting sponsor is Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. The secondary sponsor is McClure's Tree Service. Shamrock Fest's official media sponsor is radio station WKNE, part of Monadnock Media Group.
A program guide for Shamrock Fest will be availabe during the week of March 3rd at sponsor's businesses and other locations throughout the Monadnock Region.
For information about these free screenings, go to theparktheatre.org or shamrockfest.org or call the box office (603) 532-8888.
The Park Theatre performing arts center is located at 19 Main Street in downtown Jaffrey, New Hampshire, just 90 minutes from Boston & 60 minutes from Worcester, MA.
Coming Up at Nova Arts in Keene
GEORGE: Futuristic, GRAMMY NOMINATED, Jazz in Keene Friday, March 7!
John Hollenbeck founded GEORGE during the Covid pandemic, bringing together three talented musicians he had long admired. Though most of the members had never met before, John was confident--having known them personally--that the group would immediately click. Their sound refuses to be confined by any category or label. In March 2021, the group remotely recorded a "Proof of Concept," and by January 2022, they gathered in Montreal, Canada, to record their debut album "Letters to George". Released on vinyl, CD, and digitally on January 27, 2023, "Letters to George" marked the beginning of their unique musical journey. On August 27, 2023, GEORGE released "shorts", a collection of four re-composed remixes and improvisations based on their first recording session.
John Hollenbeck has received six GRAMMY nominations and has collaborated with some of the most influential figures in jazz, including Bob Brookmeyer, Fred Hersch, and Tony Malaby. As a genre-defying composer and percussionist hes earned widespread acclaim in both the jazz and contemporary music scenes. Known for his work as the creative force behind the groundbreaking Claudia Quintet and the ambitious John Hollenbeck Large Ensemble, his music draws from a diverse mix of jazz, world music, and contemporary composition. His extensive career in new music includes a long-standing friendship with legendary composer Meredith Monk, further cementing his reputation as a prominent figure in music.
Anna Webber is a flutist, saxophonist, and composer whose work blends the realms of avant-garde jazz and new classical music. Recently honored as a 2021 Berlin Prize Fellow, Anna was also recognized as the top "Rising Star" flutist in the 2020 Downbeat Critic's Poll.
Montreal-based vocalist, keyboardist, composer, and producer Sarah Rossy is known for her unique fusion of live electronic processing with jazz, folk, and Arabic music. Her creative practice weaves together autobiographical narratives, ethereal soundscapes, and bold social commentary. Recently, Sarah's work has explored themes of ancestral continua, intergenerational connections, and community healing.In 2024, Sarah released her debut audiovisual album, "OF WHO WE HAVE BECOME", a deeply personal and immersive soundscape imagined through a kaleidoscopic electronic jazz lens. This album marks a significant new chapter in her musical journey.
Isis Paola Giraldo, known by her stage name Chiquita Magic, is a Latinx artist and producer originally from Colombia and currently based in Canada. She crafts a distinctive sound that blends futuristic electro pop with diverse musical influences including EDM, hip hop, cumbia, funk, reggaeton, choirs, and jazz. Using microtonal synthesizers, her voice, and a drum machine, Chiquita Magic creates an innovative and captivating sound that pushes the boundaries of genre.
David Kontak is a multi-talented instrument builder, musician, visual artist, and occupational therapist based in Concord, NH. With a background in visual arts, David taught drawing and printmaking at Kent State University in the 80s and 90s while also performing in various jazz and experimental ensembles. His exploration of homemade instruments expanded the sonic possibilities for these groups, leading to the creation of stringed and percussion instruments.
As a solo performer, David showcases his inventions, incorporating movement, humor, and visual elements into his live shows. Currently, he is collaborating with Composer Andrea Clearfield, Librettist Ellen Frankel, and Artistic Director Dominick DiOrio on a National Endowment for the Arts project, Beyond the Binary. This commission for a 130-piece chorus and custom percussion instruments will debut in May 2022 with the renowned Mendelssohn Chorus in Philadelphia.
In addition to his musical work, David is an Occupational Therapist specializing in rehabilitation technology. He makes adaptive equipment that enhances participation in music, and has worked extensively on integrating students with disabilities into mainstream music ensembles using custom instruments that adapt to the players needs.
Doors are at 7pm and music will start at 730 sharp! Seating is first come first served. All Ages! For more information visit: novaarts.org/events/george
Tickets are available at novaarts.org/events, at Brewbakers / Terra Nova Coffee, or at the door. Nova Arts is located at 48 Emerald St, Keene, NH.
On Friday, March 14, Nova Arts presents an evening of heartfelt country tunes and dark folk tales with the incredible Charlie Chronopoulos & Midnight Betty!
Charlie Chronopoulos will take you on a musical journey through the gritty post-industrial landscapes of Middlesex County, weaving tales that are as dark as they are hopeful. His undeniable talent for storytelling paints a picture of life’s struggles and triumphs. At the heart, Charlie’s performances are an authentic blend of country and folk, bringing his deeply personal and emotionally charged sound to the stage.
Joining him will be the dynamic duo Midnight Betty: Chelle (vocals, guitar) and Oriana (vocals, banjo, keyboard). This duo's musical magic was born out of fate (and a well-crafted choir seating chart!), and their harmony is undeniable. With a shared love of country, folk, pop, and musical theater, their performances are a delightful mix of both heartfelt emotion and playful humor. Fans often say that Chelle and Oriana always look like they're having the best time together--and that energy translates directly into their music. Their goal always remains the same: to have fun, laugh, and let the music take them on a journey.
Doors are at 7pm and music will start at 730 sharp! Seating is first come first served. All Ages! For more information visit: https://www.novaarts.org/events/charlie314. Nova Arts is located at 48 Emerald St, Keene, NH.
Gardening
Garden Longer with Less Muscle Strain and Fatigue
Kneeler pads provide comfort and protection for knees.
Photo courtesy of MelindaMyers.com
That first full day in the garden may find you tired, sunburned, and stiff. Whether you are a young or young-at-heart gardener, include some strategies to help extend your enjoyment and reduce fatigue and muscle strain so you can keep gardening longer each day and for years to come.
No matter your age, it's important to protect your joints when gardening. Use a kneeler pad or knee pads to protect your knees. Knee pads secured to your legs allow you to conveniently and comfortably protect your knees as you move from one garden bed to another.
If you need help kneeling, consider a garden kneeler with handles. The handles provide needed support when kneeling and standing up. The ones that can be flipped over and used as a garden bench provide double the benefit. The seating position reduces bending and helps minimize the need to kneel.
Elevating your garden can also help. It is a great way to save space and eliminate the need to bend when planting, weeding, and harvesting. Elevated gardens and raised beds also offer a place to garden where planting space is limited or nonexistent. You'll enjoy planting and harvesting with minimal weeding needed. Just be sure to monitor soil moisture and water as needed. Use self-watering containers, add irrigation or employ water-extending products to help lengthen the time between watering.
Further expand planting options by dressing up walls, fences, and more with vertical gardens. Monitor soil moisture in wall-mounted gardens regularly as many have limited soil that dries out quickly.
Clean and sharpen your tools, including pruning equipment, digging and weeding tools. This allows you to make cuts more easily and dig into the soil and weed with less effort.
Consider investing in ergonomic tools designed for comfort to help prolong your time in the garden. Select lightweight tools with non-slip comfortable grip handles aligned to keep your wrist extension straight, which helps reduce muscle strain.
Use pruners with ratcheting, compound, or Dual Link action for more cutting power with less effort. You'll be able to spend more time pruning with less muscle strain and fatigue. Consider investing in shovels with an anti-skid plate above the blade, providing more foot support for more digging power. Or retrofit an existing shovel with a commercially available anti-skid foot plate.
Don't overlook the importance of protecting your hands as well when gardening. Quality gardening gloves provide support and protection when digging, planting, pruning, and more.
Start with some preseason training. Every gardener knows gardening is a workout and often involves different motions and muscles than other exercises. Always warm up your muscles and do a bit of stretching before getting out in the garden.
Enlist the help of wheeled carts and wagons to move plants, mulch, soil, and other heavy loads. Don't be afraid to break heavy loads into smaller batches or ask for help. You'll spare your muscles and probably save time in the long run.
Wear a pair of safety glasses to protect your eyes and don't forget the sunscreen. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water.
Preseason planning and preparation can help reduce muscle strain as the garden season begins. You'll boost your enjoyment and be able to garden longer.
Melinda Myers has written over 20 gardening books, including The Midwest Gardener's Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses "How to Grow Anything" DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda's Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers' web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.