Spring is a busy season for the arts in the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District, with many events open to the public. From a Fenway Park debut to full theatrical productions, student artists and performers are bringing remarkable work to stages and galleries across the community.
The season launched in spectacular fashion when the ABRHS Marching Band took to the field at Fenway Park to perform the National Anthem at a Boston Red Sox game on April 5 at 1:00 p.m.
Winter Colorguard fans made the trip to Salem on April 4 at 3:12 p.m., where ABRHS competed at State Finals and came in fourth in their class, a testament to the hard work these athletes and artists put in all season long.
Back in town, the Douglas Art Show opened on April 8, offering a glimpse at the visual creativity flourishing in the District’s younger grades.
Then the music really gets going. On April 10 at 7:00 p.m. (just before this issue of the Exchange goes to print) the ABRHS Lower Gym transformed for Swing Night, one of the most spirited evenings on the arts calendar.
April 16 is a double-header: Chamber Fest brings Chamber Ensembles and a cappella performances to ABRHS at 7:00 p.m. while, across the campus, the Spring Showcase takes the stage in the RJ Grey Theatre, also at 7:00 p.m.
Visual artists get their moment in the spotlight starting April 28 when the ABRHS Senior Art Show opens at The Gallery at Villageworks and runs through May 20. Mark your calendar for the Gallery Opening Reception on May 7 from 5:00–6:30 p.m. — a lovely way to celebrate the work of graduating student artists.
May is packed. The Merriam Art Show runs May 9 from 3:00–5:00 p.m. and, on May 13, McCarthy-Towne hosts a Visual Arts & Arts Integration Show from 5:30–7:30 p.m. That same evening, the ABRHS Spring Concert happens at the beautiful Groton Hill Music Center at 7:00 p.m.; tickets will be available in April, so watch for that announcement.
Theater lovers won’t want to miss “Disney’s Descendants”, performed in the ABRHS Auditorium over three shows: Friday, May 15 at 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, May 16 at both noon and 4:00 p.m. It’s a great choice for families with younger kids, and a chance to see the District’s drama program shine.
Choral music takes center stage later in the month. The Blanchard Spring Chorus Concert is May 18 at 7:00 p.m., and Blanchard singers return on May 22 at 9:00 a.m. to perform at the school’s Community Meeting. The Gates Celebrate the Arts Night rounds out the week on May 20 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Community members lining the streets for the Acton and Boxborough Memorial Day parades on May 25 will be treated to performances from both the AB Elementary and High School Bands, a beloved tradition that brings the District’s musicians out into the neighborhoods.
And don’t miss what promises to be a memorable evening: the AB Madrigal Dinner returns May 28 and 29 at 6:30 p.m. Conant Arts Night on June 4 from 6:00–7:30 p.m., and the Empty Bowls event at RJ Grey that same evening from 5:30–7:30 p.m., comprise a meaningful combination of art, community, and cause.
For a comprehensive calendar and ticket information, visit performingarts.abschools.org.
Jen Lewy is a local author and parent.
