Olde Towne's First Friday Expands with Entertainment and Activities June 4th

Olde Towne Portsmouth is the place to be for 'First Friday'.  Friday June 4th is no exception.  The event has grown and has become a joint effort among a number of local businesses.

This is the weekend that local galleries, antique shops, stores and museums in Portsmouth's Olde Towne come together for the city's most popular monthly evening escapes - 'First Friday'.  Held the first Friday of each month, Olde Towne Portsmouth's arts & antiques community will play host to both casual browsers and serious buyers.  This weekend is no exception with shoppers out for a night on the town.  Numerous galleries, antique shops and specialty stores will participate, with some hosting receptions and exhibition openings.

Participating businesses include those from the waterfront at High Street Landing and along the High Street corridor to Effingham Street.

The big change is the addition of entertainment for 'First Friday' at the New Colony Theater.  The Colony Theatre is coming back.  As the New Colony Theater, this once popular landmark is about to embark on a new era.  A rebirth. 

This is a great chance to shop, dine and experience Olde Towne from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Then, head to the New Colony Theater for their concert.

When Joe Maniscalco, Portsmouth native Sherri Williams Holland and Bill Kendra walk on stage at the New Colony Theater, it will be a rare concert appearance for the Two*Can Jam Band.

Portsmouth residents will recall Joe Maniscalco performing at a number of local establishments including: Griff's Restaurant, Barons Pub, The Flagship Restaurant, Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel and Mario’s Restaurant.  This time, it’s different.

Joe Maniscalco with his Two*Can Jam Band will perform as part of the First Friday events in Olde Towne Portsmouth.  It all takes place on Friday, June 4, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.

On the national stage, Maniscalco has opened for a long list of acts including Jimmy Buffett, Faith Hill, Chicago, Hall & Oates, Daryl Worley, B52 and Lee Greenwood.  His song list is comprised of more than 1,000 songs.

Tickets prices are $15 adult, $12 senior, student & military.  Discount tickets (with ID) can be purchased at the door.  Tickets are sold on a general admission basis and are non-refundable.  Tickets are on sale now and can be ordered by telephone at 757.625.1212 and/or in person at the New Colony Theater box office.  Tickets are also available at Starboards Coffee Kiosk at High Street Landing.

Sponsors for the concert include: Mainsail Entertainment LLC and vbnightlife.com.

 You can visit the New Colony Theater online at www.newcolonytheater.org.  Click here, to become a Fan of the New Colony Theater on Facebook.  Click here, to follow the New Colony Theatre on Twitter.  Click here for more information.

New Colony Theater is located at 430 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  For more information, call 757.625.1212.

 

Here is an idea of what you can expect this Friday among the local art galleries: 

At High Street Landing, Riverview Gallery is pleased to present 'The RE Show:  Recycled, Revamped, Rethought, and Redesigned' art from found objects!  An amazing group of local and regional artists who hope to have you hang their trash on your walls, or set it on your mantle!  Come hop out of the "box" with us at the opening reception for this show from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on June 4th.  Live music, great art and sparkling conversations always take place.

Riverview Gallery, 1 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  The gallery is open Sunday thru Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.    For more information, call 757.397.3207

 

Around the corner from Riverview Gallery is Skipjack Nautical Wares and Marine Gallery.  Located on the riverfront, they will be open Friday night from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Skipjack Nautical Wares and Marine Gallery features local artist J. Robert Burnell with his works on display in their foyer art gallery.

Skipjack Nautical Wares and Marine Gallery, One High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  The gallery is open Tuesday thru Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday and Monday by chance or appointment.    For more information, call 757.399.5012.

 

The current art exhibit at The Visual Arts Center of Tidewater Community College is ‘Women in Design: Virginia Celebrates Women in the Arts’.  The show runs through June 24, 2010.

The Visual Arts Center of Tidewater Community College joins arts institutions across Virginia in the recognition and celebration of women in the arts.  A component of the statewide initiative Minds Wide Open, Women In Design: Virginia Celebrates Women in the Arts includes work in various areas of graphic design including print and digital media.  Design genres include: environmental, typeface, identity, packaging, book, motion graphics, video, animation and web interactive.

The nine designers who have been invited to participate in this program are internationally recognized for their numerous and diverse contributions to the field.  For more information on this event at The Visual Arts Center, click here.

The Visual Arts Center is located at Tidewater Community College, 340 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  The gallery hours at the Visual Arts Center are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.  For more information, call 757.822.1888.

 

The theme for 'First Friday' at The Courthouse Galleries is 'Fairy Tale Art'.  Fairy Tale Art features fifty-nine original illustrations from well-loved classic fairy tales as well as modern variations on traditional tales. The magical settings for the stories are created by award winning artists: Kinuko Y. Craft, DEMI, Jane Dyer, Marilee Heyer, Trina Schart Hyman, Jim LaMarche, Barry Moser and Susan Paradis. Fairy Tale Art offers a magic journey to a timeless, enchanted, dream-like world.

The origins and history of fairy tales reaches back over thousands of years. These magical stories were told and retold by storytellers in the early civilizations of China, Egypt and India. Scholars cite the ancient myths and primal truths of the Vedas of India as the source of their shorter cousins, the fairy tale. The world fairy originates from the Latin word fatum, which means to enchant and in French, fee or feerie, is defined as illusion.

In today’s world fairy tales can smooth the uncertainties with a magic carpet ride that transports both child and adult to the realm of wonder and enchantment. The Courthouse Galleries offers a family friendly activity room where artists of all ages can travel into their own imaginations and try their hand at making art.

The exhibit was curated by Sylvia Nissley of Sarasota, Florida. The showing here in Portsmouth is part of a two and a half year national tour developed and managed by Smith Kramer Fine Art Services of Kansas City, Missouri.

' Hot-Time in Olde Towne' at The Courthouse Galleries, offers demonstrations in the courtyard and galleries.  Featured are hot wax make-n-take demonstration with printmaker and art educator Martine Strohmeyer and hot glass demonstration with master glass artist Ed Francis of the Visual Arts Center at Tidewater Community College.  Adult beverages and light refreshments offered.

 

Enjoy free admission and three great exhibits of '2010 Outdoor Sculpture' and 'Trains & Transportation'.  Here's a look at the two additional exhibits:

2010 Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit  Emily Smith of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, VA was the juror for the 2010 Outdoor Sculpture exhibition.

Her decisions were based on several factors: the characteristics of specific sites, relationship between the overall body of work and artistic quality. Selections reflect a balance of styles, from abstraction to more narrative approaches in materials ranging from stone, glass and steel to wood and wind.

Cast your ballot on your favorite sculpture featured in this historic garden setting (shown right) and help determine the People’s Choice Award for the 'Fifth Annual Outdoor Sculpture' exhibit.  The show runs through October 10, 2010. 

Trains and Transportation  See a working model train layout featuring items from the Lancaster Antique Train and Toy Collection.  A locomotive bell, rear backup light from a steam engine, lanterns, pistons and many rare trains and accessories will delight visitors of all ages.  This show runs through October 10, 2010.

Presented by The Courthouse Galleries are located at the corner of High and Court Street.  Be sure to stop by from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  For more information call 757.393.8543.

 

This month Olde Towne Artists are enthusiastically collaborating on a large portrait based of the work of Chuck Close.  Close worked with small squares on a gridded surface to create a large painting (think pixels).

The emerging portrait will not be realized until all 2x2 squares are completed and attached to the large grid. It’s a work in progress that started in April and May.  Come in and see what portrait is emerging on May 7th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The atmosphere at Olde Towne Art is always inviting and it’s not uncommon to see artists gathered together for an impromptu still life or life drawing session going on in the gallery’s classroom. The gallery boasts 23 professional artist studio, which are galleries unto themselves.

Olde Towne Art is located at 525 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  For more information, call 757.822.1888.

 

'The Keels of Victory The City & the Shipyard, 1921-1945' will open at the  Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum on Friday June 4, 2010 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The museum’s newest permanent exhibit will discuss the history of Portsmouth and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard during the 1920’s and the Great Depression.  The exhibit will also examine the role of the city and the shipyard during World War II.   Free Admission.  No registration required.

Come explore the fascinating history of America’s oldest and largest naval shipyard, which is located on the Portsmouth, Virginia's waterfront.

During the Revolutionary War, the shipyard was described by the British as “the most considerable one in America.” It’s been burned three times by retreating armies because of its strategic importance. Many historic ships have been built here, including the CSS VIRGINIA (EX-MERRIMAC), the first ironclad to engage in battle; the nation’s first battleship, the TEXAS; and the nation’s first aircraft carrier, the LANGLEY. The shipyard is also home to the country’s first drydock, which is still in use. At its peak during WWII, the yard employed nearly 43,000 workers.

Founded in 1767 as the Gosport Shipyard, its name was changed during the Civil War to the Norfolk Navy Yard, and later the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. (“Norfolk” was chosen because, at the time, there was already a Portsmouth Navy Yard in New Hampshire.)

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum offers a unique perspective on U.S. history, from Colonial to Civil War times and beyond. You’ll find beautiful ship models, uniforms, military artifacts and exhibits portraying life in 18th, 19th and 20th century Portsmouth

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum is located at Two High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  Go to High Street Landing, on the corner of High Street and Water Street.  For more information, call 757.393.8591.

 

Colonel Crawford's 'Living History' Walks will take place Friday June 4, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.  It's is more than a walk through the streets of Olde Towne Portsmouth, when you take one of Colonel Crawford’s acclaimed Living History Tours.  It's a little piece of Portsmouth's history that comes to life. 

The Living History Tour is a 75 to 90 minute stroll through the history, homes and hearts that created the “faire towne” of Portsmouth.  It covers approximately one mile of the historic district in Olde Towne.  Prepare to be educated and delighted with this walking production, which “is never quite the same!”

Colonel Crawford established the City of Portsmouth in 1752 upon 65 acres of land on the Elizabeth River that were a part of his extensive plantation.

Today, there is a different Colonel Crawford that strolls through Olde Towne Portsmouth.  Colonel William Crawford is a character created by Eric Price while under contract with the City of Portsmouth in commemoration of its 250th birthday.  Based on Portsmouth’s real-life founder, the Colonel is well versed in all things colonial and, of course, all things Portsmouth.

Walking tours will be conducted Thursday, Friday and Saturday starting at 8:00 p.m. and will depart from the lobby of the Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center at 425 Water Street.  Tours run through October 30.  Walking Tours are limited to 40 guests.  Dress appropriately for the weather.  Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.  Group tours and private events prevail. 

Advance Ticket prices are:  Adults $10.00 / two for $15.00.  Students & Seniors $8.00 / two for $15.00.  Military discount 50%.  Children 8 and younger – FREE.  Tickets can be purchased in advance at: Starboards Coffee Kiosk, 101 High Street, 757.478.0056 and Skipjack Nautical Wares & Marine Gallery, One High Street, 757.399.5012. 

Questions?  For more information, call the Portsmouth Visitor's Center, 6 Crawford Parkway at 757.393-5111.

For more information on Colonel Crawford, click here.

 

This weekend, you can visit the Olde Towne Farmer's Market at 'First Friday'.  You'll find items for sale that include fresh seasonal produce, flowers, plants, canned goods, baked goods, jams, breads, honey, and more!  It starts at 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. or depending on when they run our of their products, etc.

The Olde Towne Farmer's Market has a new permanent location - it will be on Court Street between High and Queen streets.  The location was previously on Middle Street, adjacent to the Sports Museum, off of High Street in Olde Towne Portsmouth.

Here's a sampling of just a few of the participating vendors:

Broken Arrows Farm "All Natural Pasture Raised Animals,"  Sauces 4 U "The best Hot Sauces you will get your hands on!,' The Old Man and the Seafood "from the shore to your door", Stonefield Soaps "Handcrafted Goats Milk Soap"

The Olde Towne Farmer's Market is administered by volunteers all of whom are committed to making fresh, locally grown or raised food available to Portsmouth, surrounding communities, and visitors.

The Olde Towne Farmer's Market returns Satuday June 5th.  It starts at 9 a.m. and runs until 1:30 p.m. or depending on when they run our of their products, etc.  

For more information on the Olde Towne Farmer's Market and the 2010 schedule, click here.

 

The concentration of antique shops along High Street has made it one of the Hampton Roads region's antiquing hot spots.  Make sure that you stop by and visit some of Olde Towne's finest antique shops. 

Antique Adventures located at 507 High Street, Nearthebay Antiques located at 310 High Street,  Queen Bee’s Antiques located at 425 High Street, Skipjack Nautical Wares and Marine Gallery located at One High Street and Way Back Yonder Antiques located at 620 High Street.

Be sure to visit a few of the specialty shops including:

Paperwhyte located at 610 High Street.

N E X T, an upscale consignment shop features home furnishings, rugs, art, lamps, the unique & unexpected.  They are located at 607 High Street.

Paulette Joseph featuring Faveur Natural Essentials offers an elcectic mix fashion and apparel and gifts. Some of their popular brands include Brighton and Crabtree & Evelyn.  They are located at 614 High Street.

 

Your ‘First Friday’ event is not complete until you have dined in one of Olde Towne's extensive selection pubs, restaurants and eateries all within a short walking distance with over 20 chef-owned and operated restaurants to choose from. 

The City of Portsmouth has a complete listing of the restaurants in Portsmouth.  For more information, click here.

Listed below are the restaurants that will have live entertainment:

Amore Casual Italian will offer 10% off that persons food bill with a reciept from ANY of the shops downtown.  606 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  757.337.8382.  Open 11 a.m. to midnight.

Baron's Pub & Restaurant is offering a Happy Hour Specials.  They feature live entertainment from 9:30 p.m. to midnight.  Located at 500 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  757.399.4840.  Open 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Griff's Restaurant & Sports Lounge will feature live entertainment from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday.  509 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  757.606.3990.  Open 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Montgomery Grill will feature live entertainment Friday and Saturday.  On Friday June 4th 'Billy Joe Trio' will perform.   All performances start at 9:00 and go until midnight.  725 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.  757.393.3322.  Open 11:00 a.m. until Midnight.

You'll also enjoy a wine tasting taking place: 

Angry Adam's Wine and Cheese Spot will present a 'First Friday Wine Tasting' from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.  In honor of their one year anniversary, Angry Adams Wine and Cheese Spot has searched high and low for the finest Virginia products available.  They will have winemaker's John & Mills Wagner of Chatham Vineyards; Frank Foster from Gracie's Garden; local author Raymond McAlwee will be signing his book" Chesapeake Bay Stories; Virgina Food & Wine Magazine Editor Chef Patrick Evans-Hylton and Meadow Creek Farms with there  award winning cheese.  There is no charge for this event.  Please visit their website for further information www.angryadams.com.  Angry Adam's Wine and Cheese Spot is located at 501 High Street in Olde Towne Portsmouth.  For more in formation, call

 

Interested in seeing a first run movie in a unique dining setting?   PRINCE OF PERSIA (PG-13) opens Friday June 4th at The Commodore Theatre.  The movie is narrated by Pierce Brosnan and is from Walt Disney Studios.  This is a luxuriously restored 1945 Art Deco style motion picture theatre presenting first run films with a fine dining restaurant within the main auditorium.  Click here, to read my article on the Commodore Theatre.

Shows are daily at 7 p.m.; matinees Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday at 2 p.m.  Same day ticket sales, in person, at the boxoffice. 24 hour Theatre & show information: 757.393.6962.  The Commodore Theatre is located at 421 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth.

 

About First Friday:  First Friday is held along the seven blocks of historic High Street between Effingham Street and the Elizabeth River the first Friday of each month, rain or shine, year round.  Most shops & galleries are open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. There is no admission fee for First Friday - participating businesses are open to the public. First Friday is part of ‘FirstEvents’ co-sponsored by Portsmouth Museums, Portsmouth Partnership, Olde Towne Business Association, PRHA, EDA and the City of Portsmouth. 

This event is promoted by PortsEvents.  PortsEvents is a registered 501(c)(6) organization to promote events in Portsmouth.  The 2010 Presenting Sponsor for PortsEvents is TowneBank. 

For more information on events in Portsmouth, go to www.PortsVaEvents.com.

 

We hope to see you in Olde Towne Portsmouth on Friday and Saturday.  What a great way to celebrate a great weekend to shop, dine and enjoy!

 

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Thanks for reading and sharing...'A New Day in Olde Towne'.

Have a great day!

David Cartier

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