The Art of Books
Old books are getting new life as art pieces at the Eastham Public Library, which is gearing up for its annual Repurposed Art Book Contest and Exhibition. Outer Cape residents of all ages are invited to create and submit an original work of art that incorporates a book in its composition. All works will be displayed at the library during February (a.k.a. “Love Your Library Month”).
Outreach Librarian Marianne Sinopoli says the types of artworks are limited only by the imaginations and creativity of those participating. “Book art can take a number of different forms, including sculpture, fashion design, and mobiles,” she says. “And I’m sure there are more possibilities we haven’t yet seen, like weaving and quilted items.”
As in previous years, students from Nauset Regional High School will be contributing entries. “We’re expecting sculptures, two-dimensional art, jewelry from the art metals classes, and possibly even a few pieces from the woodworking class,” says Sinopoli. “It should be a vibrant exhibition.”
Books that have been withdrawn from circulation and other materials are available from the library. The deadline for entries is Jan. 31. Entry forms are online at easthamlibrary.org. For more information, or to request materials, call 508-240-5950 ext. 3132 or email [email protected].
Celebrating the New Year, Intentionally
The New Year is usually a time for resolutions. A new dinner tradition in Provincetown is a reminder that it’s a good time for intentions, too.
On Saturday, Dec. 31, the Balena restaurant at the Crown & Anchor (247 Commercial St., Provincetown) hosts “Nourish: An Intentional New Year’s Eve Dinner.”
The menu is curated by Nicole Cormier, an “anti-diet dietitian” and nutritionist at Orleans-based Delicious Living Nutrition. Working with the nonprofit Sustainable CAPE, Cormier focuses on “intuitive-eating nutrition therapy” and the promotion of sustainability using local foods.
Twenty-three local farmers and makers will provide ingredients and inspiration for the menu, which will include a five-course meal with three drink pairings. Tickets are $150 at onlyatthecrown.com.
Reading Plays at the Wellfleet Library
While we most often think of them as being intended for performance, plays written for the stage can also make great dramatic literature — and generally don’t take long to read. And if they’re read out loud in a group setting, even better.
This winter, the Wellfleet Public Library (55 West Main St.) will host a series of sessions for reading plays aloud. Over two weeks in January, a group will read Lorraine Hansberry’s classic A Raisin in the Sun, which debuted on Broadway in 1959 and tells the story of a Black family in Chicago striving to overcome financial hardship.
All are welcome to attend or participate in the reading, and no acting experience is required. The group will read the first act of the play on Jan. 4 and the second act on Jan.11. Both sessions are at 4 p.m. Visit wellfleetlibrary.org for more information.
Pop Stars Ring In the New Year
Some of the biggest pop stars of the century — or simulations thereof — will be lighting up the stage at the Crown & Anchor this weekend.
On Friday, Dec. 30, New York City-based pianist and singer-songwriter Todd Alsup celebrates the life and songs of George Michael in Freedom: The George Michael Experience, a “club music cabaret” featuring the artist who went from being one half of Wham! to one of the best-selling solo artists of the 1980s and ’90s. And on New Year’s Eve, Thirsty Burlington channels the inimitable (and seemingly immortal) Cher in the aptly named Turn Back Time. Burlington will be joined by fellow performers Dana Danzel as Cyndi Lauper and Jona Williams as Celine Dion. That’s a lot of star power to ring in the New Year.
Tickets for each show are $35 at thecrownanchor.thundertix.com.
