Come join us for lunch and networking to share your expertise and learn about other businesses.

No fee. Just purchase lunch and contribute 2 dollars for raffle.

Questions contact:

[email protected]

Join us for our October Event

Networking & Cocktails beginning at 6:15 pm.

Sit Down Dinner at 7:00 pm

Members and their guests $40 per person, Non-Members $50 per person.

Pay Online by credit card Click to http://www.bpaofwesterndelco.com/online-payment/

“We are planning an informational night for our members and guests!

The leadership of Chadds Ford Twp, Concord Twp and Thornbury (Delaware Co) Twp are invited to give us an update on what is happening in each!!

FIRST STATE BALLET THEATRE KICKS OFF 2023-2024

SEASON AT THE GRAND OPERA HOUSE WITH COPPÉLIA

The charming tale of love, mischief and a mysterious toy maker
Join the vivacious Swanhilda and her friends as they set out to uncover the identity of the mysterious Coppélia, whose appearance at the workshop of the eccentric Dr. Coppelius sets off a chain of comical misadventures. This charming classic filled with laughs and delightful music and dancing is perfect for young audiences.

Saturday, October 21 at 7 pm
Sunday, October 22 at 2 pm
The Grand Opera House – Copeland Hall
818 N. Market Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
Tickets: $19.99-$57
Call 302-652-5577 or visit www.thegrandwilmington.org

FSBT PARTNERS WITH RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF GREATER
DELAWARE FOR TOY DRIVE
FSBT will be conducting a Toy Drive at our three shows in Copeland Hall this season – Coppélia, The Nutcracker and The Sleeping Beauty – to benefit the families staying at Ronald McDonald House in Wilmington. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Delaware serves families with seriously ill children by enabling access to medical care and providing a place that offers comfort, hope, and togetherness. Bring a toy to any performances to donate and brighten the lives of families facing serious challenges.
For a list of suggested donations, visit www.firststateballet.org.

Ronald McDonald House Contact
Erin McGrath
Marketing & Communications Manager
Ronald McDonald House of Delaware
302-428-5322
[email protected]

ABOUT FIRST STATE BALLET THEATRE
Established in 1999, First State Ballet Theatre (FSBT) is Delaware's leader in ballet performance, training, education and outreach. Our mission is to present ballet boldly to Delaware; to enrich our community with live professional performances; to inspire and educate dancers and audiences of the future; and to connect local youth with a creative, inclusive movement experience.
First State Ballet Theatre is Delaware's only professional ballet company and employs a diverse roster of professional dancers from around the world. FSBT is based in Wilmington’s historic Grand Opera House and presents classical and contemporary ballet programming and new works from local and internationally-recognized choreographers.
Each year FSBT reaches over 6,000 people through our performances and outreach programs. The School of FSBT offers ballet classes and other dance programming year-round for students ages three years to seniors and attracts students from Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and all three counties in Delaware.
This organization is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.delawarescene.com.

For more information about First State Ballet Theatre’s 2023-2024 Season,
please visit www.firststateballet.org

Returning to Kennett Square on Sunday, October 22nd, the award-winning Clover Market brings
together the best of handmade and vintage artistry, delicious local food, and live music. Janet
Gardner Long, founder of Clover Market, shares the origins of this fantastic event, a little bit
about herself, and how it has become a Kennett bi-annual mainstay.
An Accessible High Quality Popup Event
Clover Market sprouted its roots in the spring of 2010 as a passion “side project” for Janet
Gardner Long, who lived in Ardmore at the time. Long envisioned as an outdoor popup event
that would seamlessly combine antiques, handcrafted items, and artistry. “While there were
higher end art shows around and flea markets of course,” shared Long, “there wasn’t anything
at the time that had a combination of all of these types of items at a high quality level—but still
price accessible.” After a rigorous approval process, the market received the green light and
made its debut in Ardmore with 25 vendors. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and
Clover Market quickly expanded to include locations in Chestnut Hill, Bryn Mawr (which
replaced Ardmore when the customer parking lot was developed), Collingswood, and eventually
Kennett Square. Today, the market boasts 90-100 vendors at each location, alongside food
trucks, live music, and community partners, making it a vibrant, must-visit destination for all, and
has won many Best of Philly and Best of Main Line awards, most recently winning the accolade
of Best of Philly’s “Best Use of a Sunday Afternoon.”
Long is the driving force behind this “scrappy one-woman business,” and she brings an
entrepreneurial spirit to the venture. Her professional background encompasses a wide range of
skills, including advertising, marketing, design, and project management. Clover Market
provided her with an opportunity to blend these diverse talents and feed her love for learning
and connecting people—which is all palpably experienced to attendees and vendors alike.
The Kennett Square Connection
The journey of Clover Market to Kennett Square was orchestrated by Tara Dugan, founder of
worKS, who saw the potential in bringing the market to our charming borough. Tara had
previously been a vendor at Clover Market under a different name, Scout and Annie, and her
local roots gave her unique insights into Kennett Square’s community. After getting the green
light from Genesis, the property’s owner at the time, and Kennett Collaborative, the market
made its Kennett Square debut in late June 2017. These days, with worKS being only two
blocks from the current Clover Market site, many patrons choose to visit both locations to
complete the afternoon.
Now, Clover Market has become a fixture in the Kennett Square community, with two events
taking place each year. Long, now lives nearby, and is enjoying its open and welcoming charm
to the fullest. “I love that open land preservation is valued here as are the arts,” says Long. “It’s
really a special place.” She and her husband, now empty nesters, are taking full advantage of
their new home, exploring local hiking trails, trying out new restaurants, and participating in
community events that the town is so well-known for. Notably, Long mentioned how “many great
events there are locally and how much everyone comes out to support them!”
Upcoming Market Delights (including two mini-trucks)!
The October 22nd Clover Market promises to be an exciting event, with over 100 vendors
showcasing their wares from 10 am until 4 pm at 600 S. Broad Street. As you embark on your
holiday shopping and decorating journey, make sure not to miss two delightful mini-trucks from

Vellum St. Soap Company and May With Love Knits, together on-site for the first time. Check
out the full list of vendors here. Additionally, Braeloch Brewing and Grace Winery will be serving
beer and wine respectively, Calabrese Arts will provide face painting for the little ones, and the
talented local musicians Paul Wilkinson & Luke Ferracone will entertain the crowd from 12-3
pm. Our tip: get there early for the opening bell, a lovely Market tradition, and to snatch up those
unique finds first!
In conclusion, the Clover Market is not just a market; it’s a celebration of artisanal
craftsmanship, community, and the creative spirit. As the market continues to thrive, it remains a
testament to the power of entrepreneurial spirit, community support, and the enduring charm of
Kennett Square.

This Market will feature 100+ carefully curated vendors with a wide variety of handmade and vintage goods along with food trucks, live music, beer and wine, free kids' crafts, and many additional shopping and dining options in town.

The Market vendors will be set up in the entire parking lot at 600 S. Broad Street, right across from Kennett High School. The entire lot will be closed for the Market. The Market is just a very short walk drive from the downtown shopping and restaurant district and close to additional dining options and activities on Birch Street.

The Market is FREE to attend, family-friendly and held outdoors rain or shine (cancellations are only considered in the case of severe or dangerous weather). On-leash, well-socialized dogs are welcome!  Get more information on the website and by following @clovermarket on Instagram and Facebook.

All are welcome

Thursday November  2nd at Noon

Brian Coyle from The Henderson Group will be our guest speak and host. 

Brian plans on discussing the best features of the Amenity Center, the availability of the Amenity Center,

and future Henderson Projects in our area. 

We look forward to you joining us.  Thank you.

 Henderson Group

The New Amenity Center

2 Christy Drive, 1st Floor,

Chadds Ford, PA, 19317

<RSVP Click Here> 

Do you want to renew/join the CFBA?

<Click Here>

Art Stroll Kennett Square

https://historickennettsquare.com/

Art Loop Wilmington

http://artloopwilmington.org/

First Friday West Chester

http://www.downtownwestchester.com/view_program.php?id=468

ELAWARE’S LARGEST GARAGE SALE RETURNS IN NOVEMBER

Junior League’s Whale of a Sale Promises Amazing Deals

Calling all treasure hunters, upcycling aficionados, fashionistas, and bargain-hunting parents looking for a great deal! Whale of a Sale – Delaware’s Largest Garage Sale – returns on Saturday, November 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Concord Mall (old Hollister and Zumiez storefronts). The much-anticipated sale has been a time-honored fundraiser for the Junior League of Wilmington (JLW) since 1980.

The 2023 Whale of a Sale will feature an expanded boutique area, with an array of high-quality and designer items including brand-new clothing, accessories, formalwear, and bridal gowns contributed by local businesses. Fabulous finds can also be found in the holiday department, children’s clothing and toys, equipment & sporting goods, housewares, art, and more! There will also be a small furniture section that includes gently used items such as coffee and end tables, office chairs and more.

Generations of Whale of a Sale shoppers eagerly anticipate the Sale, and thousands are expected to attend this year. Proceeds benefit the JLW’s mission of developing the leadership potential of its Members and the League’s current community focus, Stand Up. Period. This initiative focuses on menstrual equity in Delaware and aims to ensure affordable access to period supplies.

WHALE OF A SALE

Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Concord Mall, 4737 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803

Join our Whale of a Sale Facebook Event at https://fb.me/e/3nvFnUy1p or visit us at jlwilmington.org/whale-of-a-sale

Come join us for lunch and networking to share your expertise and learn about other businesses.

No fee. Just purchase lunch and contribute 2 dollars for raffle.

Questions contact:

[email protected]

MASTERS OF ILLUSION LIVE!
Coming to The Playhouse on Rodney Square, November 9, 2023
Starring Master Illusionists
NAATHAN PHAN, JASON BISHOP & BEN BLAQUE

  MASTERS OF ILLUSION LIVE!, America’s largest touring magic show, will appear at The Playhouse on Rodney Square as part of their 2023 Winter Mini-Tour, November 9, 2023, starring master illusionists, Naathan Phan, Jason Bishop and Ben Blaque, each of whom has appeared on The CW Network’s hit television series, MASTERS OF ILLUSION ®. Here is a Sizzle Reel of what to expect at performances: https://vimeo.com/874967509/9090bce702?share=copy

These modern masters of illusion display skills that have taken a lifetime to perfect, and audience members will be baffled by their astounding skills which include large-scale grand illusions, comedy and close-up magic, in your face sleight-of-hand, dangerous escapes, the appearance of birds from thin air, music, smart phone technology and laughs aplenty!  The show will also feature audience participation.

MASTERS OF ILLUSION LIVE! is a huge stage phenomenon born from the multi-award winning television series, MASTERS OF ILLUSION, which is currently celebrating its 10th Anniversary Season airing on The CW Network in 2023.  The stage show, MASTERS OF ILLUSION has been presented live in front of tens of thousands of people across the U.S.A. and around the world.  It has been seen by over 100 million viewers on The CW Network and in 126 countries around the world.  MASTERS OF ILLUSION tours American cities annually, and has had residencies in Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe and Atlantic City.  Learn more at www.thegrandwilmington.org 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MastersofIllusion
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mastersofillus

EVENT:                                            MASTERS OF ILLUSION LIVE!,

DATE/TIME:                                    Thursday, November 9^th at 8pm

VENUE:                                           The Playhouse on Rodney Square

TICKETS:                                         Call 302-652-5577 or visit www.thegrandwilmington.org

In the show, MASTERS OF ILLUSION LIVE!, the star magicians Comedy Magician, Naathan Phan, Master Illusionist, Jason Bishop assisted by Kim Hess and his dog Gizmo, and Ben Blaque who performs a Danger Act utilizing knifes and crossbows, assisted by Camille Zamboni.  Audience members will have an opportunity to be chosen to also help the magicians on stage.

About The Magicians:

Naathan Phan is a multi-talented, award-winning entertainer, hailing from Orange, CA (next to Disneyland in Anaheim, CA) who has headlined stages across the globe, appeared in films such as Superbad, has been regularly featured on national television networks including NBC, Syfy, The CW, and Comedy Central since the age of 23.  He is also a regular performer at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA.  Phan has wowed audiences around the world with everything from his high-energy, close-up magic and stand up comical shenanigans to this theater-shaking opera singing and his mind-blowing stage illusions and celebrity impressions.  He has appeared on Masters of Illusion and Penn & Teller:  Fool Us on The CW, Don’t Blink, The Hollywood Christmas Parade, America’s Got Talent and Wizard Wars.  Phan, at times sings in his magic act.  He is also does many celebrity impressions.  He is currently appearing on the 10th season of the hit television series MASTERS OF ILLUSION on The CW Network, which airs on Fridays at 9/8c.
Website:  https://www.magicasianman.com

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram:  @magicasianman

Jason Bishop has graced the iconic stages of New York City with his phenomenal shows in New York City on Broadway, “Straight Up Magic” and “Believe in Magic,” leaving theatergoers spellbound and craving for more!  Bishop, who was once a foster child, found his calling in magic.  He hails from Fleetwood, NJ.  Audiences have also seen him on NBC’s “Today Show,” The CW’s “Master’s of Illusion,” CBS’s “Sunday Morning” and Europe’s legendary “Le Plus Grand Cabaret Du Monde” filmed in Paris, France.  Bishop has been dazzles audience with his grand illusions and close-up magic.  Bishop’s performances have led him to over 40 countries on 6 continents.  Bishop will be premiering a new magic illusion called Smithereens in this touring show, which was designed by legendary Broadway craftsman, Jim Steinmeyer.  This marks his first appearance on tour with Masters of Illusion Live.  He has appeared on the hit television series MASTERS OF ILLUSION on The CW Network numerous times.
Website:   http://thejasonbishopshow.com
Social Media:  Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/people/Jason-Bishop-Illusionist/100063441350754/
Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/jasonbishopshow/
You Tube – https://www.youtube.com/@JasonBishopIllusionist

Ben Blaque hails from Springfield, MO.  In the summer of 2004 Blaque began working as a stage crew for The Kirby Van Burch show in Branson, Missouri where he developed a strong desire to become an Illusionist.  He became the protégé of Kirby Van Burch and years later in 2009 and started to learn the crossbow act.  In 2012 Blaque appeared on the television show, America’s Got Talent he was advanced to the Quarter Finals and the Wild Card round.  He performed for two years at The Palace Theater in Myrtle Beach, SC.  He has also been seen at Harrah’s in New Orleans.  Blaque performed on a seven month long European Tour, including London’s West End.  He has also done American Tours, including an appearance at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, CA.  Other television shows he has appeared on include:  MASTERS OF ILLUSION on The CW, Britain’s Got Talent, the NBC show, I Can Do That, where he invented his “backwards selfie.”  He has also been seen on Italy’s Tu SE Que Valdes, France’s Battle of the Judges where he introduced his new act never before performed by anyone, the combination of Crossbow and Aerial Acrobatics.  Blaque is the only Crossbow performer to shoot a crossbow or compound bow while hanging upside down.  He is also the Crossbow Act in the world to be awarded the prestigious “Merlin Award” from the International Magician’s Society as Best Variety Act. This marks his first appearance on tour with Masters of Illusion Live.  He is currently appearing on the 10th season of the hit television series MASTERS OF ILLUSION on The CW Network, which airs on Fridays at 9/8c.
Website: www.benblaque.net
Facebook and Instagram:  @benblaque

Unionville High School Art Gala celebrates its 47th year! The annual art show and sale, to be held November 17 and 18 at Unionville High School, showcases local working artists, Unionville High School (UHS) Alumni, and current UHS student artists. In addition to beautiful artwork, there is live music to entertain and delicious desserts to enjoy. Funds raised will benefit the UHS PTO, contributing to Educational Enrichment Projects to enhance the overall educational experience for all UHS students, and will also help make local community outreach efforts possible.

The Unionville High School Art Gala strives to include a variety of artists - both new and more established individuals. Approximately 60 participating artists express their talents though diverse mediums including oil and watercolor paintings, photography, glass, metal, pastels, mixed media, jewelry, ceramics, mosaics, and wood.

We are proud to announce that our featured artist this year is Shawn Faust. Known as one of the premier equine artists in America, Shawn paints stunningly realistic images of horses, cows, foxes and other animals that call Chester County home. Shawn affectionately gives the animals that he paints names to fit their personalities. “Snug” the fox warms our hearts as he is curled up, showing a posture of contentment. “Ginger” the cow is a beautiful white bovine with ginger-colored fur on her ears. “My subject matter is simply a conduit for my empathy,” Shawn says. Simply put, there’s an immediate connection that takes place when you stop and admire his work.

Faust's artistic accomplishments have taken him around the globe, with participation in the esteemed 2019 Beijing International Art Biennale in China leaving an indelible mark on his career. His awe-inspiring works have also graced the walls of renowned galleries and museums across the United States, including the Wildlife Experience Museum in Parker, CO, the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington, DE, the Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover, DE, Sage Creek Gallery in Santa Fe, NM, and the Spa Fine Art Gallery in Saratoga Springs, NY.

The Art Gala also includes a Student Art section which highlights the impressive artistic talents nurtured by the outstanding UHS Art Department. In addition to approximately 175 student artists, students who demonstrate particularly refined and distinct talents are selected as Featured Student Artists each year.  This year’s Featured Student Artists will be announced at the end of October.

Additionally, a Silent Auction will be offered to the public, featuring beautiful artwork donated by the talented artists in the show as well as select regional activities and outings. Bids will be accepted throughout the Gala weekend starting at 12 noon on Friday, November 17, and ending at 5 p.m. on Sunday, November 19. While auction items will be on display for viewing in-person at the Gala, all bidding for the Silent Auction will be online at https://www.32auctions.com/unionvilleartgala2023; bidders need not be present to bid.

Donations to the silent auction along with business sponsorships are key components to the success of the Gala. Please see our website at https://www.unionvilleartgala.com for details on how to donate a silent auction item and/or to become a sponsor.

Friday evening includes live music from UHS students and local musicians, with assorted desserts and beverages offered for sale. Thirty percent of proceeds from art sales and 100% of proceeds from the silent auction benefit the UHS PTO. Admission is free.

The 2023 Unionville High School Art Gala begins Friday, November 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. and continues on Saturday, November 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Unionville High School Auditorium Entrance, 750 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348. For more details and information, please visit the Art Gala website at www.unionvilleartgala.com or find us on Facebook and Instagram. This fun and lively event is not to be missed!

West Chester University Opera Theatre Stages

Beauty and the Beast on November 17 and 18

 West Chester University’s Opera Theatre presents BEAUTY AND THE BEAST on Friday, November 17, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, November 18, at 3 p.m. in the Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, Philips Memorial Building, 700 S. High Street, West Chester. General Admission tickets are $7 for adults at www.wcupatix.com/schoolofmusic. Tickets for faculty, staff, students, and children under 12 are FREE.

This operatic version of the familiar BEAUTY AND THE BEAST fairy tale features lush, romantic music by Vittorio Giannini.

Assistant Professor and Director of Opera Nicholas Provenzale says, “We are so excited to welcome audiences of all ages to see BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. It is the perfect introduction to opera for every age. It follows the familiar and popular classic fairytale, the music is beautiful and accessible, it is performed in English, and it is just under an hour long. We invite the entire community to join us for this magical, family-friendly opera.”

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST was performed at the Free Library of Philadelphia on Saturday, November 4, and will be performed at the Kennett Library on Saturday, November 11 at 2 p.m. These events are FREE and open to the public. The cast has also performed for Boys and Girls Clubs in the Philadelphia region with one remaining performance on November 20.

Provenzale adds, “I chose this shorter opera with a familiar story for our outreach tour, which is a terrific way to bring opera to new audiences while providing an opportunity for our students to hone their craft.”

WCU Opera’s production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST includes a cast of 11 with accompaniment by one onstage pianist. The show is double cast. Vocal Performance major Zoe Bennett (Malvern, PA) performs in the title role as BEAUTY on November 18. Flute major Elizabeth Jones (Willow Grove, PA) plays the role on November 17, 2023.

Limited parking is available across and along the street just outside the Philips Memorial Building. Parking is also available in West Chester’s M Lot, just a short walk South. Purchasing tickets in advance is strongly encouraged.

About West Chester University’s Wells School of Music

West Chester University’s Wells School of Music is accredited with th

The Department of Theatre and Dance at West Chester University, an accredited institution of the National Association of Schools of Theatre, prepares students for the professional and the academic worlds of Theatre and Dance, while raising student awareness of civility, diversity, creativity, problem solving and social responsibility. The department offers a BA Theatre degree program with elective concentrations in Musical Theatre, Performance, and Design and Production, in addition to a dance minor and theatre minor.

Unionville High School Art Gala celebrates its 47th year! The annual art show and sale, to be held November 17 and 18 at Unionville High School, showcases local working artists, Unionville High School (UHS) Alumni, and current UHS student artists. In addition to beautiful artwork, there is live music to entertain and delicious desserts to enjoy. Funds raised will benefit the UHS PTO, contributing to Educational Enrichment Projects to enhance the overall educational experience for all UHS students, and will also help make local community outreach efforts possible.

The Unionville High School Art Gala strives to include a variety of artists - both new and more established individuals. Approximately 60 participating artists express their talents though diverse mediums including oil and watercolor paintings, photography, glass, metal, pastels, mixed media, jewelry, ceramics, mosaics, and wood.

We are proud to announce that our featured artist this year is Shawn Faust. Known as one of the premier equine artists in America, Shawn paints stunningly realistic images of horses, cows, foxes and other animals that call Chester County home. Shawn affectionately gives the animals that he paints names to fit their personalities. “Snug” the fox warms our hearts as he is curled up, showing a posture of contentment. “Ginger” the cow is a beautiful white bovine with ginger-colored fur on her ears. “My subject matter is simply a conduit for my empathy,” Shawn says. Simply put, there’s an immediate connection that takes place when you stop and admire his work.

Faust's artistic accomplishments have taken him around the globe, with participation in the esteemed 2019 Beijing International Art Biennale in China leaving an indelible mark on his career. His awe-inspiring works have also graced the walls of renowned galleries and museums across the United States, including the Wildlife Experience Museum in Parker, CO, the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington, DE, the Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover, DE, Sage Creek Gallery in Santa Fe, NM, and the Spa Fine Art Gallery in Saratoga Springs, NY.

The Art Gala also includes a Student Art section which highlights the impressive artistic talents nurtured by the outstanding UHS Art Department. In addition to approximately 175 student artists, students who demonstrate particularly refined and distinct talents are selected as Featured Student Artists each year.  This year’s Featured Student Artists will be announced at the end of October.

Additionally, a Silent Auction will be offered to the public, featuring beautiful artwork donated by the talented artists in the show as well as select regional activities and outings. Bids will be accepted throughout the Gala weekend starting at 12 noon on Friday, November 17, and ending at 5 p.m. on Sunday, November 19. While auction items will be on display for viewing in-person at the Gala, all bidding for the Silent Auction will be online at https://www.32auctions.com/unionvilleartgala2023; bidders need not be present to bid.

Donations to the silent auction along with business sponsorships are key components to the success of the Gala. Please see our website at https://www.unionvilleartgala.com for details on how to donate a silent auction item and/or to become a sponsor.

Friday evening includes live music from UHS students and local musicians, with assorted desserts and beverages offered for sale. Thirty percent of proceeds from art sales and 100% of proceeds from the silent auction benefit the UHS PTO. Admission is free.

The 2023 Unionville High School Art Gala begins Friday, November 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. and continues on Saturday, November 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Unionville High School Auditorium Entrance, 750 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348. For more details and information, please visit the Art Gala website at www.unionvilleartgala.com or find us on Facebook and Instagram. This fun and lively event is not to be missed!

The beautiful dress designed by Ann Lowe for the nuptials of future First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy has us intrigued about the topic of weddings. Join us as author Coleen Christian Burke takes a look at White House weddings of First Family members that reflected a mix of the private, the public, and the political—as well as traditional romantic spectacle. Included with general admission. Members free. Reservations required. To register online, login to unlock Member pricing, select general admission, and then select the lecture under tour options.

Register now.

West Chester University Opera Theatre Stages

Beauty and the Beast on November 17 and 18

 West Chester University’s Opera Theatre presents BEAUTY AND THE BEAST on Friday, November 17, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, November 18, at 3 p.m. in the Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, Philips Memorial Building, 700 S. High Street, West Chester. General Admission tickets are $7 for adults at www.wcupatix.com/schoolofmusic. Tickets for faculty, staff, students, and children under 12 are FREE.

This operatic version of the familiar BEAUTY AND THE BEAST fairy tale features lush, romantic music by Vittorio Giannini.

Assistant Professor and Director of Opera Nicholas Provenzale says, “We are so excited to welcome audiences of all ages to see BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. It is the perfect introduction to opera for every age. It follows the familiar and popular classic fairytale, the music is beautiful and accessible, it is performed in English, and it is just under an hour long. We invite the entire community to join us for this magical, family-friendly opera.”

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST was performed at the Free Library of Philadelphia on Saturday, November 4, and will be performed at the Kennett Library on Saturday, November 11 at 2 p.m. These events are FREE and open to the public. The cast has also performed for Boys and Girls Clubs in the Philadelphia region with one remaining performance on November 20.

Provenzale adds, “I chose this shorter opera with a familiar story for our outreach tour, which is a terrific way to bring opera to new audiences while providing an opportunity for our students to hone their craft.”

WCU Opera’s production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST includes a cast of 11 with accompaniment by one onstage pianist. The show is double cast. Vocal Performance major Zoe Bennett (Malvern, PA) performs in the title role as BEAUTY on November 18. Flute major Elizabeth Jones (Willow Grove, PA) plays the role on November 17, 2023.

Limited parking is available across and along the street just outside the Philips Memorial Building. Parking is also available in West Chester’s M Lot, just a short walk South. Purchasing tickets in advance is strongly encouraged.

About West Chester University’s Wells School of Music

West Chester University’s Wells School of Music is accredited with th

The Department of Theatre and Dance at West Chester University, an accredited institution of the National Association of Schools of Theatre, prepares students for the professional and the academic worlds of Theatre and Dance, while raising student awareness of civility, diversity, creativity, problem solving and social responsibility. The department offers a BA Theatre degree program with elective concentrations in Musical Theatre, Performance, and Design and Production, in addition to a dance minor and theatre minor.

Come join us for lunch and networking to share your expertise and learn about other businesses.

No fee. Just purchase lunch and contribute 2 dollars for raffle.

Questions contact:

[email protected]