Events Highlights
Below is a list of programs for kids and adults, scheduled to take place in the library’s Ottinger Room. All events are free and open to the public. Registration is not required unless otherwise noted. Additional programs for kids (like storytime and book groups) and ongoing exhibitions can be found here:
Also check out our new monthly calendar, which shows both recurring and special events, and sign up for our email newsletter.
NEW PROGRAM FOR KIDS
A New York State certified teacher will be available two afternoons a week in the library to help students with their homework assignments. Help is available on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 to 5:30 p.m. for students up to 6th grade. This is a free drop-in program; there’s no registration required.
JUNE 8 | THEATRE
HSC Presents Jeffrey Sweet’s Kunstler
Hudson Stage Company presents a free, staged reading of Kunstler, a drama based on the career of radical lawyer William Kunstler, the famous defender of such clients as the “Chicago Seven.” Jeff McCarthy (of Broadway and television fame) plays Kunstler, who toward the end of a long and controversial career faces an audience of law students, including one determined to confront him. Playwright Jeffrey Sweet has written or co-written about two dozen plays and musicals, including The Action Against Sol Schumann (a New York Times critic’s choice), The Value of Names (an LA Times critic’s choice) and American Enterprise (honored by the American Theatre Critics Association). Actor Jeff McCarthy—whose Broadway resume includes Chicago (Billy Flynn), The Pirate Queen (Dubdhara), Beauty and the Beast (Beast), and many more—has also starred on stage in leading regional theatres and appeared on several popular TV shows. (Jeff is also the voice of the great Chuck Jones’ creation, Michigan J. Frog.) Q&A with participating artists follows the performance, which is made possible through the generous support of the Croton Free Library and a grant from ArtsWestchester. Friday, June 8, 7:30 p.m.
JUNE 9 | YOUNG CLASSICAL ARTISTS’ SHOWCASE
Sign-Up Now
Sign up to be a part of the Croton Free Library’s 7th annual Classical Young Artists’ Showcase. High-school-age students are invited to give a recital-quality performance of up to 8 minutes of well-prepared classical music. Instrumentalists and vocalists presenting solo and group pieces welcome. The library’s piano is available for use. Performers must provide their own accompanists (who may be adults). Registration for Croton residents begins immediately, and for non-residents, May 14. Registration closes May 30. Register in person, by phone (914-271-6612) or by e-mail (youngartists@optonline.net). Saturday, June 9, rehearsal 3:00 p.m., concert 7:30 p.m.
JUNE 15 | MUSIC
Pianist Michael Skelly in Recital
An enchanting evening of classical piano music at the Croton Free Library includes works by Bach, Ravel, Chopin and Brahms. Michael Skelly presents a most enjoyable program: Bach’s Prelude and Fugue in C (Book II) and Prelude and Fugue in A (Book II); Ravel’s “Miroirs” (selections); Chopin’s Barcarolle; Brahms’ Eight Pieces, Op. 76. Michael—whose recitals have been called “thoroughly engaging from beginning to end”—has been a member of the piano faculty at Columbia University for over 25 years. Friday, June 15, 7:30 p.m.
JUNE 23 | CHILDREN’S PROGRAM
Patricia Shih Kicks off the Summer Reading Game
Patricia Shih Kicks off the Summer Reading Game. Join award-winning singer-songwriter Patricia Shih as she “dreams big” with big ideas at the library. With music, movement and games, Patricia invites everyone to “Dream Big, Read”! Audience members guest-star on stage, as Patricia leads children and families through big ideas like cooperation, love of books and pure fun! Patricia Shih has been entertaining audiences of all ages for decades, wowing audiences throughout North America with her “music with meaning.” Her show introduces this year’s Summer Reading Game theme—“Dream Big, Read.” After the show, youngsters are invited to (but not required to) sign up for the Summer Reading Game—“Dream Big, Read”—which runs from June 23 to August 11. Children, share your reading, come in for weekly giveaways and prizes, drop in for crafts, and lots more. Not reading yet? Ask about our Book Buddies program that pairs high-school volunteers with younger children, so that all ages can enjoy summer reading fun. Saturday, June 23, 11:00 a.m.
JUNE 27 | YOUNG ADULTS
Movie and Pizza Night Kicks off Teen Summer Reading Game
Teens, come watch one of your favorite PG-13 movies and stay for a pizza party. You’ll have the opportunity to sign up for the Teen Summer Reading Game, which runs from June 27 through August 8. A librarian will be on-hand to describe how the Teen Summer Reading Game works at the Croton Free Library. Hint: prizes at the beginning, prizes at the end, the fun of pleasure reading in between. (FYI, you will be able to sign up to participate throughout the duration of the summer reading program, and are not required to register to attend the movie/pizza party.) Wednesday, June 27, 7:00 p.m.
.Exhibitions
OTTINGER ROOM
Harold Zabitz: Watercolors & Acrylics
Harold Zabitz was the art teacher at Croton-Harmon High School years ago, and now travels to paint pictures. His exhibition of watercolors and acrylics will be in the Ottinger Room during May and June. The reception will be Sunday, May 6th, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.