May set the stage for a robust season at the Sandisfield Arts Center. It began in the gallery with the opening of a group exhibition “After the Thaw” that ran until May 31. The group exhibition highlighted the transition from the whispers of warmth and lengthening of days at the beginning of spring to full-blown summer images.

    Our June exhibit, “Notes from the Interior,” features works on paper and beckons both artist and viewer to delve into the depths of their consciousness, unveiling the treasures hidden within. The show opens June 8 with a reception from 4:00-6:00 p.m. It closes July 7. The gallery is open Saturdays and Sundays 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., except for June 29 and 30.

    Friends and family gathered in the rain on Sunday, May 5, to honor Val Coleman, with the dedication of the new Memorial Garden on the site of the old Montville School. A bench in his honor provides a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the garden's tranquility. Val was a long-time Sandisfield resident and active SARC member.

    Roughly fifty people gathered on Saturday, May 25, at 7:30 p.m. to watch award-winning photographer, journalist, and filmmaker Andre Lambertson’s heartwrenching and uplifting documentary, “The Whole Gritty City.” The film highlights the importance of school marching bands to the community, especially teenagers in New Orleans. The film aired on CBS and won a Christopher Award, which is a salute media that “affirm the highest values of the human spirit.”

    Two popular performances will be hosted in June, both starting at 7:30 pm. On Saturday, June 15, Tomas Kubinek will perform. Tom is considered a “comic genius, and an all-‘round charmer, offering audiences a joyous experience.” He has won the hearts of thousands in theaters, opera houses, TV specials, and on Broadway. Will he win yours here in Sandisfield?

    The always popular Triple Play returns on Saturday, June 22, with Chris Brubeck, Joel Brown, and Peter “Madcap” Ruth performing world class jazz and improvisation. They’ve performed at SARC many times in the past to sold-out audiences. You’d be advised to reserve your tickets early at www.sandisfieldartscenter.org. I’ve already got mine.

    June events close with Lara’ Tupper’s community writing workshop on Sunday, June 30 at 2:00 p.m. The Art Gallery show will remain open through the first week in July.