NEWS EVENTS ARCHIVE

NEWS EVENTS ARCHIVE

Looking for past arts events? Here’s an archive of some previous events we’ve featured on our website.

May-July 2025

PRIDE & PREJUDICE” AT WEATHERVANE PLAYHOUSE

Dates: July 24- August 2, 2025 Time: Various, See their link below Location: Weathervane Playhouse Newark (100 Price Road, Newark) Tickets: Adult tickets begin at $42. Discounts for Students, Seniors, and Children Under 12. Buy Tickets: Weathervane Playhouse’s “Pride and Prejudice”

Presented by Otterbein Senior Life Granville with generous support from Denison University, Leader Printing, and the Ohio Arts Council.

Kate Hamill's adaptation of the classic tale Pride and Prejudice captures the humor and wit of Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates societal pressures and expectations surrounding marriage, while trying to avoid a loveless match. Despite initial judgments of the aloof Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth discovers that first impressions can be deceiving. Vibrant with modern sensibilities, this adaptation features a zany portrayal of the Bennet family and the complexities of both love and prejudice. Hamill's play combines the charm of Austen's original story with a bold, contemporary flair, full of laughter, eccentric characters, and heartfelt fun.

END OF SUMMER ART CAMP

Date: July 28- August 1, 2025 Time: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Location: Alley Art Studio (32 E. Pratt Street, Johnstown) Tickets: $180/artist For More Information: Alley Art Johnstown Events

Come join Alley Art Gallery this summer for 5 days, 3 hours a day, for a whopping 15 hours of art fun. We will be doing seasonal paintings and crafts. They will have new projects for you to create. (We will still have your favorites like the acrylic pours.) Each day of art will feature 2 to 3 projects. There will be a snack time about midway through the morning. This art camp is for ages 6yrs and up. Cost is $180 per artist. Spaces are limited and fill up quick.

To reserve a space, call or text at (740)-403-4383.

MUSIC IN LICKING COUNTY: VICTORIOUS KAYBIRDS

Date: July 31, 2025 Time: 6:00PM-8:30PM Location: Licking County Children's Home Memorial Park Gazebo (745 E. Main St, Newark) Tickets: Free for all! For more information: Licking Park District July Events

Bring your lawn chair and come for an evening of live music played by The Victorious KayBirds. With a variety of music- rock, soul, jazz, country, blues, pop, and more- the KayBirds have something for everyone. Their music is described as "joy-inducing" so get ready for a fun night! Plus, enjoy a meal from the Holy BBQ food truck! 

This concert will also feature a Cruise-In by the Heath Kiwanis! Come check out all the cool cars!
FREE!
Check out the Victorious KayBirds website.

LICKING COUNTY LIBRARY AUTHOR TALKS

Date + Time: Various Dates and Times (see below for more info) Location: Online Tickets: Free, but must register To Register: Licking County Artist Talks—Upcoming

Register for upcoming talks from bestselling authors and thought leaders. Talks highlight a wide variety of authors and books, ranging from Pre-K to Adult. Previous authors have included Lee Hawkins (Pulitzer Prize Finalist and Award-Winning Journalist), Kate DiCamillo (Newbery Medal Winner for The Tale of Despereaux), and R.F. Kuang (New York Times Bestselling Author of Yellowface, Babel, and the Poppy War Trilogy)

Some upcoming events include:

Living the Otter Life with Katherine Applegate (3rd-6th grade)— Tuesday, June 24th at 4:00 PM

Discerning the Truth with Marie Lu (9th-12th grade)— Thursday, July 17th at 4:00 PM

On the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains with Pria Anand— Thursday, July 31st at 2:00 PM

Brought to the Licking County Library System in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium.

INTRO TO WET FELTING: FIBER COLLAGE

Date: July 30th/August 6 (Two-Session Class) Time: 6:00PM-8:00PM Location: Bryn Du Mansion (537 Jones Road, Granville) Tickets: $150 for the two-session class For More Information: The Bryn Du Mansion Sign-Up Page

Get introduced to the ancient skill of wet felting in this two-part fiber course designed to give you the fundamentals of this unique & versatile art form. With the perfect balance of technique and creative play, we will discuss its history and the science that is the foundation of a well-made piece of felt while exploring color blending, surface design, and what goes into creating a dynamic & interesting fiber collage.

By the end of our class, you will have at least one felted collage plus enough materials (and the know-how) to create more at home if you want a mini collection. In this course, you’ll gain a familiarity with the supplies and materials required for successful wet felting, tips, tricks & how to avoid common mistakes, the different stages of felting and what those look & FEEL like, how to make your own pre-felt that can be used in future projects, how to use a limited color palette to better focus on creating visual interest through texture, surface design elements, a composition, and a great foundation for upcoming courses that will introduce more advanced techniques like three-dimensional felting.

HANGOUT WITH MUSIC- MICHAEL HALE + MARY MILLER

Date: July 28, 2025 Time: 6:00-9:00 PM Location: Three Oaks Vineyard (1591 Crosley Rd, Granville) Tickets: Free, space is limited For More Information: Three Oaks Vineyard

Hey friends! Join us for a fun evening at the beautiful Three Oaks Vineyard. As the sun goes down, get ready to enjoy a mix of upbeat live music, tasty wines, refreshing wine slushies, and yummy food truck snacks.

Event Highlights:

· Upbeat Live Music: Whether you want to dance the night away or simply sit back and enjoy the tunes, our energetic musicians have you covered. Perfect for a lively and fun night out!

· Delicious Wines: Sip on our best wines, made with love and care. You won’t want to miss these amazing flavors!

· Wine Slushies: Cool off with our super refreshing wine slushies. They’re a great twist on your favorite drinks, perfect for a warm evening.

· Food Truck Treats: Enjoy a variety of tasty treats from our gourmet food truck, the perfect match for your wine experience!

Bring your family and friends for a night of dancing, fun, and great food. We can’t wait to see you at the winery!

Seating: First come, first served for tables. Come out and join the fun!

For everyone's benefit: No smoking or vaping on or near the patios, no pets, no outside alcohol, no Cannabis anywhere on the property

SPEAKEASY SOIRÉE- FUNDRAISER

Date: July 26, 2025 Time: 5:30PM-9:00PM Location: Snaphots Lounge, 1320 Weaver St, Granville, OH Tickets: $150-$1150 For more information: NGSO information

Step back in time to the Roaring Twenties at Symphony of Flavor: Speakeasy Soirée, an evening of live music, gourmet cuisine, and prohibition-era cocktails in su-pport of the Newark-Granville Symphony Orchestra (NGSO). This exclusive event brings music lovers and community supporters together for an unforgettable night of elegance and entertainment.

Proceeds from the Speakeasy Soirée directly support the NGSO and its educational programming, helping to provide enriching musical experiences for students and outreach initiatives that inspire the next generation of artists. Your support ensures that the power of live music continues to thrive in our community.

For tickets and Auction visit:

https://givebutter.com/c/NGSO

SUMMER ARTS AND CRAFTS MARKET @ NEWARK ARCADE

Date: July 26, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM Location: Newark Arcade (29-35 N 3rd Street & 24-30 N 4th Street, Newark) Tickets: Free! For more information: Summer Craft Market 2025

We’re excited to be headed back to the Historic Newark Arcade for our Summer Art & Craft Market!

Join us on Saturday, July 26, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm to shop from local artists and makers - inside one of downtown Newark’s most beautiful venues.

It’s the perfect opportunity to find something unique and support local entrepreneurs. Over 25 local vendors will be at the event, meaning there will be something for everyone!

Hosted by the Canal Market District..

FINAL FRIDAYS ON THE SQUARE

Date: July 25, 2025 Time: 4:00 PM- 7:00 PM Location: Downtown Newark, Newark Square Tickets: Free and open to the public! For more information: Final Fridays Facebook Event Listing

Art, music, food, family fun, crafts every month, plus vendors sponsored by the Downtown Newark Association.

Over 25 vendors will attend July’s Final Friday, with artists, businesses, companies, and local services being represented. Come down to the square to enjoy a night of fun and support your local community!

JEWELRY MAKING CLUB

Date: July 25, 2025 Time: 7:00-8:00 PM Location: Granville Center for the Arts (119 West Broadway, Granville) Tickets: Free, but must reserve a ticket For More Information: Jewelry Club Event Posting— Granville Center for the Arts

Join us for our monthly Jewelry Making Club and discover the joy of crafting stunning wearable art! It's the perfect club to bring your ideas to life, connect with fellow creatives, and explore the endless possibilities of jewelry making!

Meet Your Host: Emily Fouts, a talented local artist and experienced jewelry maker, will guide the evening with her expert tips, creative inspiration, and plenty of encouragement. Whether you're crafting earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or something one-of-a-kind, Emily will be available to help you bring your ideas to life.

Our treasure trove of tools and supplies will be freely available for you to use—beads, wire, clasps, earring hooks, and more. Got a stash of your own materials? Bring them along!

No experience? No problem! This club welcomes all ages and skill levels. At the heart of our club is a "Learning Together" philosophy, where we share ideas, learn by doing, and inspire each other in a friendly, fun environment.

This club is FREE and family-friendly.

PAINT THE PARKS

Date: July 24, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM- 8:30 PM Location: James Bradley Center at Infirmary Mound Park (4351 Lancaster Rd, Granville) Tickets: $20 For more information: Licking Park District July Newsletter

Join us at the James Bradley Center at Infirmary Mound Park for a Paint the Parks class. Supplies and snacks provided. BYOB/BYOW. Ages 16+. Minors should be accompanied by an adult. Register for the event by July 21st.

“JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR”— WEATHERVANE NEWARK

Date: Various, see below Time: Various, see below Location: Weathervane Playhouse Newark (100 Price Road, Newark) Tickets: Adult tickets are $42. Discounts for Seniors, Students, and Children Under 12 For more information: Jesus Christ Superstar @ Weathervane Newark

What’s the buzz? Jesus Christ Superstar, the groundbreaking musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, has captivated audiences for decades. Offering a unique and compelling perspective on the final week of Jesus Christ’s life, this rock opera is narrated through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Inspired by the Gospels, this famous story unfolds entirely through song, featuring an iconic rock score with favorites like “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” and “Gethsemane.” Delve into the intricate relationships and conflicts among Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, followers, and the Roman Empire in this timeless musical that continues to resonate with audiences today, as it did 50 years ago.

Showtimes are as follows:

  • Thursday, July 10, Friday, July 11, Saturday, July 12, at 7:30 PM

  • Saturday, July 12, at 2:00 PM

  • Tuesday, July 15-Saturday, July 19 at 7:30 PM

Presented by Park National Bank with generous support from the Ohio Arts Council.

ZENTANGLE WORKSHOP: VISUAL MINDFULNESS

Date: July 24, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM- 7:30 PM Location: Granville Public Library (217 East Broadway, Granville) Tickets: free For more information: To register

Zentangle® Workshop
with Marla Krak, Certified Zentangle® Teacher
Registration Required
Learn how to create beautiful images through the meditative art of Zentangle® from Marla Krak, a certified Zentangle® teacher. The Zentangle® method removes some of the obstacles that hinder us from being creative and teaches structured pattern drawing to create designs that are both relaxing and beautiful. Don't worry if you're new to Zentangle® - this class is perfect for beginners and no experience is needed. If you can write your name, you can do the Zentangle® method! Attendees will be guided through the creative process in a supportive, encouraging environment, making the experience both enjoyable and stress-free. By the end of the session, you'll not only have beautiful Zentangle® art to showcase, but also a sense of focus and calm that came from the experience

“ART AT THE WEBB"

Date: July 13, 2025 Time: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM Location: The Webb House Museum (303 Granville Street, Newark) Tickets: Free and open to the public! For more information: “Art At the Webb” Facebook Event

The Webb House Museum and Licking County Arts will be hosting the 2nd "Art at the Webb" event. A Plein air gathering of local artists working in the Webb House Gardens. July 13th, from 1-4PM at the Webb House Museum and Gardens. 303 Granville St. Newark.

The event will include: Exhibits of local artist’s work on display and for sale, artists working on the Webb House grounds, vote for your favorite exhibited works, refreshments served.

For questions or information, please contact:

Webb House: (740)-345-8540, or

Licking County Historical Society Office: (740)-345-4898

JAZZ AND COMPANY AT MERAKI ART GALLERY

Date: July 12, 2025 Time: 6:30 PM Location: Meraki Art Gallery (35 West Church Street, Newark) Tickets: Free and open to the public! For more information: Meraki Art Gallery’s Jazz and Company Facebook Event

The Listening Room at Meraki Art Gallery presents: A special evening Jam Session with Jazz and Company.

If you are a musician and want to come do a few songs or jam with Jazz and Company come on out! Come join us for a special night of music and good company in the beautiful Meraki Art Gallery. “Jazz and Company” is a local trio formed completely by accident, just from a love of making music. The trio is made up of local tattoo artist Jazzy Hardbarger, her father Lucas, and with Meraki owner and artist Brian Pagas, will be rocking out with some of your favorite covers!

As this event welcomes patrons of the arts to bring their own beverages, we kindly request that guests complete a brief membership form. You can fill this out upon arrival or in advance by texting Meraki or messaging them on Facebook. Complimentary coffee and water will be provided. Let’s ensure we have a fantastic experience while being responsible and respectful to the Arts, the gallery, and all attendees.

To contact, please call or message: (740)-877-7816

PAINTING WITH WOOL: WET FELTED SUNSET

Date: July 13, 2025 Time: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Location: Weathervane Playhouse Newark (537 Jones Road, Granville) Tickets: $95 Buy Tickets: Bryn Du Website Listing

Do you love color and the texture of fiber art? Join me in this "painting" with wool workshop that is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to hone their wet felting skills. We will focus on creating a realistic sky at sunrise or sunset through the layering and blending of dyed wool with a simple foreground silhouette. You will gain the technical skills necessary to create a felted wall hanging from roving while you experience how the fibers change, shrink and co-create with you throughout the process.

Local artist Megan Henderson will also be sharing some of the tips and tricks she’s developed over the years as a felt maker. Materials Provided by Instructor: All the wool and most supplies needed will be supplied. Material List for Student: Please bring an old bath towel and hand towel, Small bucket or other receptacle for holding water, Small bottle of dish soap or bar soap. Some feltmakers like olive oil soap but any will do. Optional supplies will be listed in Art Center Documents but are not necessary.

Registrations may be cancelled up to one week prior to the class or workshop by contacting the Bryn Du office. Cancellations will be subject to a processing fee.

FIRST ANNUAL NEWARK COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

Date: Saturday, July 12th Time: 9:00AM- 8:00PM Location: The Ohio State University @ Newark (1179 University Dr, Newark) Tickets: Free! For more information: Event Facebook Page

Please join us for the first annual Newark Community Festival.

The primary goal of this event is to bring the COMMUNITY together for great food, music, art, and games. The secondary goals are to: (1) raise money for non-profits in Licking County and (2) connect individuals to these non-profits.

Live Music from: Acoustic Power Venture, Breezy Meadows, Brother Klutch, Cigar Box Scott, DJ Tammi, Funknado, Graveyard Pete and the New Appalachian Sound, Kyle Browning, Lisa Gain, Low T, L.A. Chic, Michael Rawlings, Nat Reeb, Sean Jenkins and Nick Shaver, Michael Rawlings, RadiOhio (Duo), Sparky Brewer, The Weasels, & The Dirigibles!

Don’t miss this chance to connect with your local community, support the arts, and learn about some of the great non-profits Newark and Licking County host!

MUSIC AT FOUNDATION PARK: THE HIP REPLACEMENTS

Date: Thursday, July 3rd Time: 6:00 PM- 8:30 PM Location: Thomas J. Evans Foundation Park (10255 McIntosh Rd, Pataskala) Tickets: Free! For More Information: Event Facebook Listing

Brought to you by Pataskala Parks & Recreation and the Licking County Park District: Come for a fun evening of live music at Foundation Park in Pataskala! The Hip Replacements will play catchy tunes and you can enjoy a meal from the Burger N Smile food truck!

Located at Thomas J. Evans Foundation Park (10255 McIntosh Rd, Pataskala). Bring your friends and enjoy a night of free music!

CREATIVE CORNER @ THE WORKS

Date: Saturday, July 5th Time: 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM Location: The Works (55 S. 1st Street, Newark) Tickets: $2 per child + General Admission/Works Membership For More Information: Creative Corner @ The Works

Let’s get creative! Join our education team as we dive into the world of art. On the first Saturday of each month, explore different mediums and art techniques. Each artist will take home a unique piece of their own! Suitable for ages 5-12.

July’s craft of the month is “Painting” - Create a unique piece of art using a pour painting technique.

BRYN DU’S CONCERT ON THE GREEN SERIES

Date: Tuesdays and Sundays throughout the summer Time: 6:30PM- 8:00PM Location: Bryn Du Mansion— Back Lawn (537 Jones Road, Granville) Tickets: Free! For more information: Bryn Du Upcoming Events

Join the Granville Recreation District for the summer concert on the green on the back lawn of the Bryn Du Mansion. 6:30 to 8pm. Bring your own blanket or lawn chair, and enjoy some good music! Upcoming performances include:

Blue Spectrum— Tuesday, June 24th

Lightning Express— Sunday, July 6th

DV8— Tuesday, July 15th

Parking is limited, and vehicles are not permitted to park on the grass. Concerts will start at 6:30 PM (unless otherwise noted) and will be a 90-minute set with no intermission. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics. Performance may not be taped without the explicit permission of the artists. Granville Recreation District facilitates concerts. Please get in touch with them with specific questions or information at 740-587-1976.

BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATIONS @ THE DAWES ARBORETUM

Date: Saturday, June 28th Time: 10:00AM– 12:00PM Location: Dawes Arboretum (7770 Jacksontown Rd, Newark) Tickets: $50/ticket To Purchase Tickets: Dawes Arboretum Event Tickets

Join artist Sarah Gray for an afternoon of illustration at The Dawes Arboretum! Dive into the world of botanical illustration with step by step instructions for creating a variety of stunning and highly detailed pieces. Participants will also be given the opportunity to wander in the gardens and areas surrounding the Zand Educational Center to directly observe, and practice their botanical illustration skills! Materials provided, all skill levels welcome.

Program Audience: Ages 10+

Location: Zand Education Center

Accessibility: Attendees will be indoors and seated for most of the program, with some opportunities to walk around the garden.

Recommended Attire/Supplies: None

THE ALLMAN BETTS BAND: LUCKY SEVENS TOUR

Date: June 15th Time: 7:00PM Location: The Midland Theater (36 N. Park Place, Newark) Tickets: $39-$69+ For More Information: Midland Theater Schedule

Individually, they're Devon Allman and Duane Betts, two solo artists and modern-day guitar heroes who've both spent years creating their own version of American roots music. Together, they're the leaders of The Allman Betts Band, a supergroup anchored by sharp songwriting, fiery fretwork, and a historic legacy. Inspired by the classic sounds of the group's family tree, The Allman Betts Band makes timeless rock & roll for the modern world, blurring the boundaries between blues, Americana, and southern soul. Critically-acclaimed studio albums like Down to the River and Bless Your Heart have established the band's own legacy of music and brotherhood, while hundreds of live shows — including annual performances of the all-star Allman Betts Family Revival — have sharpened the group's chemistry onstage. There's a richly historic lineage to The Allman Betts Band, but these musicians proudly live in the modern world, carving out a contemporary soundtrack for the American South.

MUSIC 4U!: PETER LARSON AND FRIENDS

Date: June 15th Time: 6:00PM Location: The Robbins Hunter Museum on the Side Lawn (221 E Broadway, Granville) Tickets: FREE! For More Information: Music 4U by NGSO Events

This engaging performance will be led by Peter Larson, the Newark-Granville Symphony Orchestra’s principal pianist. In addition to his orchestral role, Peter is an accomplished Broadway composer and jazz pianist. This concert will bring together NGSO musicians to present a lively and accessible program of jazz classics, offering audiences a unique blend of improvisation and orchestral artistry.

All are welcome— bring a blanket and some friends!

A CENTURY OF COLOR: THE 2025 HEISEY COLLECTORS OF AMERICA ANNUAL CONVENTION

Date: June 12th- June 14th Location: Heisey Glass Museum (169 W Church St, Newark) Tickets: Free, but RSVP is encouraged. For More Information: Heisey Glass Museum Facebook Page or Website

Join us for A Century of Color, the 2025 Heisey Collectors of America Annual Convention, as we celebrate the brilliance, craftsmanship, and history of Heisey glass! This year’s convention pays tribute to the stunning spectrum of Heisey colors that have captivated collectors for generations.

Highlights Include:

Glass Show & Sale – Shop from top dealers offering a dazzling array of Heisey glass.

Educational Seminars – Deepen your knowledge of Heisey’s rich history and signature colors.

Live & Silent Auctions – Bid on rare and unique pieces to add to your collection.

Annual Banquet & Awards Ceremony – Enjoy an evening of camaraderie and celebration.

Museum Tours & Special Exhibits – Explore exclusive Heisey glass displays at the Heisey Glass Museum.

Networking & Social Events – Connect with fellow collectors, glass enthusiasts, and historians.

Whether you’re a longtime collector, a new enthusiast, or simply curious about the artistry of Heisey glass, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

GLASSBLOWING @ THE WORKS

Date: Thursdays and Saturdays thru July Time: 10:00AM-4:00PM Location: The Works (55 S. 1st Street, Newark) Tickets: $65 ($55 for members) For More Information: The Works Glass Blowing Classes

Come into The Works’ hot glass studio and make your own blown-glass piece with guidance from our professional glass artist (the gaffer in glassblowing lingo). You’ll be able to create and take home your very own glass piece! Pieces vary by session.

Upcoming sessions will feature:

  • June Class: Make Your Own Glass Tumbler

  • July Class: Make Your Own Glass Paperweight

OLD ACADEMY BUILDING ARTIST TALK & OPEN HOUSE

Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 Time: 4:00PM-7:00PM (Artist Talk at 5:00PM) Location: The Old Academy Building (103 W Elm St, Granville) Tickets: No RSVP or ticket required, free to everyone! For More Information: The Granville Community Association Facebook

Explore Granville’s Old Academy Building, enjoy an intimate artist exhibition by local artist Charles Williams, and stay for a 5 PM talk by the Bryn Du Artist-in-Residence Nancy Cook—a historical fiction author collecting local stories to inspire her writing. Come share your memories, connect with neighbors, and enjoy light refreshments to celebrate Granville’s past, present, and creative future. Hosted by the Granville Community Association.

WEATHERVANE CABARET SERIES

Date: Various dates throughout June 2025 Time: 7:30 PM Location: Earthworks Cafe & Lounge @ Newark Station (325 W Main St, Newark) Tickets: $15 per show, available at weathervaneplayhouse.org

Weathervane Playhouse is reviving its popular Cabaret Series, bringing intimate musical performances to the cozy setting of Earthworks Cafe & Lounge. Each themed evening features members of the Weathervane company performing a mix of Broadway standards, contemporary hits, and hidden gems.

Upcoming shows include:

  • May 26: "Ladies of Broadway" featuring songs from female composers and lyricists

  • June 16: "Movie Musical Magic" celebrating songs from Hollywood musicals

  • July 7: "Contemporary Broadway" showcasing hits from the last decade of Broadway shows

Each performance includes light appetizers, with a full menu and bar available for purchase. Seating is limited to 60 guests per show, so early reservations are recommended.

"GREASE" AT WEATHERVANE PLAYHOUSE

Dates: June 12-14 and 17-21, 2025 Time: 8:00 PM (7:00 PM on Sundays) Location: Weathervane Playhouse (100 Price Road, Newark) Tickets: $20-$35, available at weathervaneplayhouse.org

For the first time in 57 years, Weathervane Playhouse is bringing the beloved musical "Grease" to its stage! This production will feature all the hit songs that made the show a classic, including "Summer Nights," "Greased Lightnin'," and "You're the One That I Want."

Directed by Weathervane artistic director Kevin Connell with choreography by Erika Wills, this production stars local talents Jordan Miller as Danny and Emma Fitzpatrick as Sandy, supported by a cast of 24 performers from across central Ohio.

Opening night (June 12) will feature a special 1950s-themed pre-show party starting at 6:30 PM, with vintage cars on display, a costume contest, and complimentary refreshments.

DAVID SPADE AT THE MIDLAND THEATRE

Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 Time: 8:00 PM (Doors open at 7:00 PM) Location: The Midland Theatre (36 N. Park Place, Newark) Tickets: $45-$75, available at midlandtheatre.org

Emmy-nominated comedian, actor, writer, and "Saturday Night Live" alum David Spade brings his signature sarcastic humor to the Midland Theatre for one night only. Known for his roles in "Tommy Boy," "Joe Dirt," and "Just Shoot Me," Spade will deliver his hilarious observations on pop culture, celebrity life, and everyday absurdities.

Opening for Spade will be comedian Sarah Tiana, known for her appearances on "Chelsea Lately" and "Comedy Central Roasts."

Please note that this show is for audiences 16 and older due to mature content. A VIP package ($125) is available which includes premium seating, a post-show meet-and-greet, and an autographed photo.

GLASSBLOWING WORKSHOPS AT THE WORKS

Date: Thursdays in May (May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) Time: 10:00 AM-4:00 PM Location: The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology (55 S. 1st Street, Newark) Cost: $45-$65 per piece (varies by project)

Experience the fascinating art of glassblowing at The Works' renowned glass studio. Under the guidance of professional glass artists Bill Bigler and Luke Boyd, participants can create their own unique glass pieces to take home.

May's theme is "Garden Art," with options including:

  • Colorful glass flowers and mushrooms ($45)

  • Hanging bird feeders ($55)

  • Decorative garden globes ($65)

Each session includes a demonstration and personalized instruction as you work with molten glass. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided. Pieces must cool overnight and will be available for pickup the following day.

Space is limited to six participants per hour, with sessions starting at 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 2:30 PM. Advance registration is required at attheworks.org or by calling 740-349-9277.

NEWARK BOOK FEST

Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM-3:00 PM Location: Canal Market District (36 E. Canal Street, Newark)Admission: Free

Book lovers won't want to miss this literary celebration featuring over 100 authors from Licking County and beyond. The festival will include author readings, book signings, panel discussions, and activities for readers of all ages.

Featured local authors include historical novelist Judith St. George, mystery writer Robert Daniels, children's author Maria Bell, and poet laureate of Licking County, David Baker. The event will highlight genres ranging from fiction and poetry to memoir, history, and children's literature.

Special events include a poetry slam at 11:30 AM, a children's story hour at 1:00 PM, and a panel discussion on "The Future of Publishing" at 2:00 PM featuring editors from regional publishing houses.

Local bookstores including The Book Loft and Readers' Garden Book Shop will have booths selling works by participating authors. Food vendors will also be on site.

OUTDOOR SCULPTURE WALK Opens May 18, 2025 Downtown Granville Ten new large-scale sculptures will be installed throughout downtown Granville as part of the biennial Sculpture Walk. Artists from across Ohio have created works specifically for this exhibition. Self-guided tour maps available at the Granville Area Chamber of Commerce and online. Free guided tours offered on the third Saturday of each month at 2:00 PM.

IRISH MUSIC CLUB

Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 Time: 6:00-7:30 PM Location: Granville Center for the Arts (130 N. Prospect Street, Granville) Cost: $15 per session, $50 for 4-session package

Join the vibrant community of Irish music enthusiasts at this monthly gathering led by Leah Bernini Cronin, acclaimed Celtic musician and former member of the Dublin-based ensemble Ceoltoiri. This inclusive session welcomes musicians of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players.

Participants will explore traditional Irish, Celtic, and North Atlantic musical styles, learning authentic techniques and cultural context. The May session will focus on jigs and slip jigs, with sheet music provided for those who read notation and learning-by-ear opportunities for those who prefer that approach.

Bring your own instrument—fiddles, flutes, tin whistles, bodhráns, guitars, and accordions are all welcome. A limited number of tin whistles will be available for beginners to borrow.

Registration is recommended but not required. Call 740-587-4266 or visit granvilleartscentre.org to reserve your spot.


MOTHER'S DAY ART & CRAFT MARKET

Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM-2:00 PM Location: Canal Market District Pavilions (36 E. Canal Street, Newark) Admission: Free

Find the perfect Mother's Day gift at this special market featuring over 40 local artisans and crafters. The event will showcase handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, textiles, woodwork, body care products, gourmet foods, and much more.

Food trucks scheduled to appear include Poppy's Roadside Diner, Schmidt's Sausage Truck, and Kona Ice. Live music will be provided by local acoustic duo The Willow Sounds from 11:00 AM-1:00 PM.

The first 100 shoppers will receive a free canvas tote bag, and all attendees can enter a raffle for gift baskets featuring items donated by participating vendors.

Vendor applications are still being accepted through April 30. Interested artists and crafters can apply at https://www.canalmarketdistrict.org/vendors.

"HEAR US" - DENISON THEATRE DEPARTMENT PRODUCTION

Date: Wednesday, May 1, 2025 Time: 7:00-9:00 PM Location: Michael D. Eisner Center for the Performing Arts, Denison University (240 W. Broadway, Granville) Admission: $5 students, $10 general public

"Hear Us" is a powerful theatrical showcase celebrating the artistic voices of students of color at Denison University. This annual production features original works including monologues, short plays, poetry, dance, and multimedia presentations that explore diverse perspectives and experiences.

Directed by Dr. Cheryl McFarren, Associate Professor of Theatre at Denison, with assistance from student director Jamal Washington, this year's production includes works from 12 student artists representing various backgrounds and disciplines across campus.

The performance will be followed by a talkback session with the creators and performers, providing audience members an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about the themes presented. The Eisner Center gallery will also feature related visual art created by Denison students.

Tickets can be purchased at the Eisner Center box office or through the Denison University website.