PinePitch

Jealousy, Gambling and Death — What’s Not to Like?

Tragic love takes the stage in high-def at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines, in a live performance of La Traviata by the Metropolitan Opera on Saturday, Nov. 5, at 1 p.m. For more information go to www.sunrisetheater.com.

Sunday Serenade

Duke University’s Ciompi Quartet arrives Sunday, Nov. 6, at 2 p.m. to sweep you off your musical feet. In a career that spans five continents and hundreds of concerts, the quartet has acquired a reputation for performances of intelligence and creative programming, mixing the old and new in exciting ways. Join them at the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

The Brothers Kossler

Settle into the Bradshaw Performing Art Center’s intimate McPherson Theater from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 22, for an exciting evening of classical guitar artistry with the Kossler Duo. Brothers Adam and John have established themselves as soloists, chamber musicians and educators, and have performed in concerts across the country. Concessions will be available for purchase. McPherson Theater at BPAC, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Sweet and Powerful

At the age of 22, Japanese native Risa Hokamura is on the short list of the world’s finest violinists. She’ll appear in the second of the four-concert Classical Concert Series at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., on Monday, Nov. 14, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Presented by the Arts Council of Moore County, tickets can be purchased at the Arts Council offices at Campbell House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines or by calling (910) 692-ARTS. For additional information go to www.mooreart.org.

O Christmas Tree

Join friends new and old from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 26, for the tree lighting celebration up and down the streets of Southern Pines. Santa Claus will be spreading cheer and taking pictures with good boys and girls (please bring your own camera). Downtown Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Photograph By Ted Fitzgerald/The Pilot

Thank You for Your Service

Bring the whole family and support all of Moore County’s troops and veterans at the annual Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, Nov. 5. To all those who served, we want to honor and thank you. If you are a local veteran, please join the parade. Downtown Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Ornaments, Lights, Action!

Let the twinkling and giving begin at the 26th annual Sandhills Children’s Center Festival of Trees, Nov. 16 – 20, at the Carolina Hotel, 80 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst. The display of Christmas magic is open daily beginning at 10 a.m. Each item is designed or donated by local businesses and residents, and all proceeds go to help children with special developmental needs. Admission is by any monetary donation at the door, with a special “Girls’ Night Out” Nov. 16 with the McKenzie Brothers Band. For more info: www.FestivalofTrees.org.

The Last Waltz

It Makes No Difference what’s happening Up On Cripple Creek, because on Thursday, Nov. 24, at 7 p.m., the Sunrise Theater will present the Thanksgiving tradition like no other — its free screening of The Last Waltz, the Martin Scorsese-filmed tribute to The Band. What’s The Weight? Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

Notes of Nostalgia

The Sandhills Repertory Theatre presents “Judy Norton in Concert” in two shows at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines, on Saturday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m., and on Sunday, Nov. 13, at 3 p.m. Best known as the character Mary Ellen in the hit television series The Waltons, Norton has a long career spanning decades in music, film and television. For tickets and additional information go to www.sandhillsrep.org, sunrisetheater.com or call (910) 692-3611.

Last Dance

Don’t miss your last chance to dance and mingle on Sunrise Square for the final First Friday of 2022. Enjoy food trucks, some Southern Pines Brewery brews, and listen to great music while supporting the local theater on Nov. 4 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Leave the dogs, outside alcohol and rolling coolers home, and make a night of it. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

Man in santa claus costume winking

Santa is Never Overdue

Santa Claus is coming to town on Saturday, Nov. 19, and he’s making a special stop at the Given Memorial Library. Take a photo, make a craft and leave with a special gift bag. There are two time slots, from 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Library cards not required but space is limited, so Santa’s helpers are taking reservations beginning Nov. 1. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info and reservations: (910) 295-3642.

PinePitch

Charity on the Hoof

Take your horse-loving herd on a self-guided tour of six exquisite horse farms from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 16. All proceeds benefit the Prancing Horse Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 the day of. Children 12 and under are free. Prancing Horse Center, 6100 Hoffman Road, Hoffman. Trot off to www.prancing-horse.org for information and tickets.

Photograph By Ted Fitzgeralds

Live After 5

Don’t miss the last concert of the 2022 Live After 5 concert series  on Friday, Oct. 14 from 5:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. with entertainment experts Bantum Rooster. Wildfire Pizza, Jaya’s Indian Cuisine, and Sunset Slush will be on-site with a wide selection of food for all to enjoy. Beer, wine and additional beverages will be available for purchase. Bring your picnic baskets but leave the outside alcohol at home. Kids’ crafts ensure a good time will be had by all. Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

Cabin Cool

Catch up on some upscale cabin coziness on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a tour of eight historic cabins in Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Carthage, taking them all the way from flannel to flawless. One of the cabins is featured in this edition of PineStraw beginning on page 90. Drop into the Woman’s Exchange before or after the tour for a complimentary dessert and drink the day of the event. Tickets are $25 and proceeds support the Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-4677 or www.sandhillswe.org.

Photograph By Ted Fitzgeralds

Handmade for the Holidays

There’s something for everyone at the 43rd annual Holly Arts and Crafts Festival on Saturday, Oct. 15 beginning at 10 a.m. and boasting the talents of over 100 crafters — from woodworking to glass, stitched art to lawn ornaments, jewelry to metal sculpture. Your favorite downtown shops and restaurants will be offering sales and specials, with food trucks on hand to ensure you shop but don’t drop while you cross names off that holiday gift list. Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

Celebrating Iconic Female Leaders

Spend your Saturday with former governor of South Carolina and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley as she discusses her book If You Want Something Done: Leadership Lessons From Bold Women. She joins The Country Bookshop’s Kimberly Daniels Taws in an intimate and inspirational conversation on Saturday , Oct. 8 from 2:30  p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. For information and tickets visit www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Photograph By Ted Fitzgeralds

Moore Heritage, More Fun

Blend treasure hunting with history and fall fun for the whole family at the 14th annual Shaw House Heritage Fair and Moore Treasures Sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8, rain or shine. The Heritage Fair offers unique vendors, baked goods, live music, demonstrations of old-time crafts, treasure sales and farm animals for petting. The Shaw House, Sanders Cabin and Garner House will be open for tours. The tobacco barn and museum highlight historic agriculture of the Sandhills. The Moore Treasures Sale features collectibles, pottery, jewelry, art, antiques, vintage books, toys, glassware and much more. All proceeds benefit the ongoing efforts of the Moore County Historical Association. Admission is free. The Shaw House, 110 W. Morganton Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2051 or www.moorehistory.com.

Have Hydrangeas, Send Help

Give your hydrangeas a fighting chance at survival by attending an hour-long presentation on the care and keeping of the colorful plants at the Sandhills Horticultural Lecture Series on Friday, Oct. 14 at 1 p.m. In addition to hearing from expert Wake County gardeners, attendees will also see a video of the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival. Registration is not required, but seats are limited, so arrive early at the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, Ball Visitors’ Center, 3245 Airport Road, Pinehurst.

The Big Easy

Join the New Orleans Masquerade Band for a Jambalaya and Jazz Fundraiser, featuring jazz and blues of the 1920s and ’30s, on Sunday, Oct. 16, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Fair Barn. There will be small bites by Southern Whey, delicious jambalaya and dessert served by White Rabbit Catering, and cider tastings compliments of James Creek Cider House. Hosted by the Given Tufts Foundation, all proceeds benefit the Given Memorial Library and Tufts Archives. Pinehurst Fair Barn, 200 Beulah Hill Road S., Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.  

Charo in Class and Concert

Music and pop culture icon Charo may be best known for her signature “cuchi cuchi” phrase, but she’s also been voted “Best Flamenco Guitarist” twice by Guitar Magazine. Her bubbly personality and trademark 1970s expression have endeared her to millions of fans around the world. On Friday, Oct. 21, from noon to 1:30 p.m., Charo will host a master class on guitar and performance, a special opportunity for a small group to learn from a world class artist at BPAC’s intimate McPherson Theater. If you miss her master class, there’s still time to catch her on stage. She’ll be performing that evening from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at BPAC’s Owens Auditorium. Both locations are at 3395 Airport Road Pinehurst. Additional information and tickets are at: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

The British Are Coming!

Make your way to downtown Southern Pines for the penultimate First Friday of the season with The English Beat, a UK band that fuses Latin, pop, soul, reggae and rock — all in support of your local theater. As always, leave the dogs and outside alcohol at home but enjoy the food trucks, along with some Southern Pines Brewery brews, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7. On the square at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

PinePitch

Come One, Come All, Come Sunday

Bring your own blanket or lawn chairs for an outdoor jazz concert on Sunday, Sept. 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring internationally renowned artists performing their own tributes to Duke Ellington’s masterpiece, “Come Sunday.” Between the music and the cash bar, it can’t miss. Cost is $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

Flutter into Fun

Mark your calendars for monarchs! On Saturday, Sept. 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy live music, fun activities and food while learning about monarch butterflies, insects, and birds. Tour the pollinator garden and step into the magical monarch butterfly tent before releasing them to join the great migration. Live music by the Carolina Philharmonic, information from local organizations, food vendors, kids’ activities and more await you at the Village Arboretum, 105 Rassie Wicker Drive, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

The Free Company

With the creation of The Free Company, author James Boyd played a critical role in combating propaganda and defending democracy in days leading up to World War II. On Sunday, Sept. 18, at 2 p.m., the original 1941 recording of Orson Welles’ radio play His Honor, the Mayor — produced by The Free Company — will play, followed by local historian Bill Case speaking about the origins of the group. A light reception will follow.  Tickets are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. There will be a second playing of the recording on Sept. 19 at 5:30 p.m. Weymouth Center for  the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

Photograph By Ted Fitzgerald

Live After Five

Come sail away to the sweet sounds of Carolina beach music from the award-winning band The Castaways as the Live After Five season begins to wind down. Live horns and versatile vocals will swing you through everything from country to Southern rock, while you enjoy the on-site food trucks and activities for the kiddos. Picnic baskets are allowed, but leave those alcoholic beverages at home. Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

What’s Sweeter than a Rose?

Two Roses! Check out the dynamite pair, Duo Rose — lyric soprano Elizabeth Pacheco Rose and bassoonist Saxton Rose — as they perform with Lithuanian pianist Skirmante Kezyte in an intimate concert setting on Sunday, Sept.11, at 2 p.m. at the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Tickets are $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

Ruth Pauley Lecture Series

Dr. Marcia Chatelain received the 2021 Pulitzer Prize in history for her book Franchise: The Golden Arches in Black America, which shows how the McDonald’s fast food chain became a great generator of Black wealth, and explores the intersection of race, inequality, food and consumer capitalism in America. Join her Thursday, Sept. 15, at 7 p.m. as she speaks on “Hungering for Change: Food Justice and Civil Rights.” The lecture is free and open to the public. Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. For additional information contact info@ruthpauley.org.

Little House in the Sandhills

Laura Ingalls-approved: Continue the celebration of the 100th year of the historic Woman’s Exchange when the cabin reopens for the fall season on Sept. 7 at 10 a.m. It will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., serving lunch daily from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info:  (910) 295-4677 or www.sandhillswe.org.

Fall into Fun

Let the fall breeze blow you over to Autumnfest in downtown Southern Pines on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There’s something for everyone at this festival featuring arts and crafts, live entertainment, a 5K run, youth sprint races and great food. Follow the scent of pumpkin spice to Downtown Park, 145 S.E. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.mooreart.org.

Krazy for Kaboom!

Buckle up before blasting into an educational tour of the scientific method with the famed Doktor Kaboom! The klutzy but lovable educator-entertainer uses humor and comedy to demonstrate spectacular applications of physical science. Who said learning can’t be fun? Join the good Doktor for “Look Out! Science is Coming!” on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 5-6 p.m. at the Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Everything’s Coming Up Roses

Klea Blackhurst’s award-winning and critically acclaimed tribute to Ethel Merman, “Everything the Traffic Will Allow,” is in town for one night and one night only on Thursday, Sept. 29, from 7 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. in the Owens Auditorium of the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Blackhurst brings bright new interpretations to Merman’s signature songs like “I Got Rhythm” and “Everything’s Coming Up Roses.” For info and tickets go to: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Much Ado about Mousse

Devotees of downtown Aberdeen’s The Bakehouse will be lining up for the first Lunch ‘n’ Learn of the fall season at the Sandhills Woman’s Exchange. The former owner and renowned pastry chef, Martin Brunner, will present “Making Chocolate Mousse Demo and Tasting” on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at 10 a.m. As a professor of baking and pastry arts at Sandhills Community College, Brunner will ensure you and your taste buds both learn something delicious. Cost is $25 with lunch by chef Katrina. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-4677 or www.sandhillswe.org.

PinePitch

   

Acting and Air-Conditioning — What’s Not to Like?

The Judson Theatre Company continues its summer theater festival with two Sandhills area premieres. Catch one or both to beat the August heat. Opening Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. and running through Aug. 14 is the comedy fantasia Buyer & Cellar about a struggling actor working in the basement mall of Barbra Streisand’s home. And, from Aug. 19 – 28, get ready for Tick, tick, BOOM! a three-person musical by the author of Rent about an aspiring composer worried he made the wrong career choice. Performances begin at 8 p.m. for both shows in the black box McPherson Theater at Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

 

Even Better than Scooby-Doo

Don’t miss the first in Weymouth’s new Saturday morning family series featuring Mitch Capel as “Gran’daddy Junebug” on Aug. 6 at10 a.m. Capel is a master storyteller, recording artist, published author and poet. He has been featured at numerous schools, libraries, museums and festivals since 1985, including the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.; the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee; The Smithsonian’s 2009 Folklife Festival on the National Mall; and the presidential inauguration of Barack Obama. Free admission but registration is required. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

 

Elle and Kermit

Step back in time with two favorite throwback films in the Sunrise Theater’s Summer Film Series. Check out Legally Blonde at 7 p.m. on Thursday Aug. 4, or catch The Muppet Movie at 7 p.m. on Aug. 11. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Tickets are $10. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

 

Photograph By Ted Fitzgerald

Live After Five

Bounce!, a high energy wedding and party band from the Triangle area, will be playing all your favorite dance songs from the last 40 years. Local favorite Whiskey Pines will open from 5:15 p.m. to 5:50 p.m., so grab your lawn chair and don’t be late. Dance the night away till 9 p.m. at Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road, Pinehurst. Picnic baskets are allowed and food trucks are standing by, but no outside alcohol. Not to fear, you can still purchase beer, wine and soft drinks as you slide into your blue suede shoes. Info: www.vopnc.org.

 

Where’s John Travolta When You Need Him?

Break out the headbands and shimmy into your bell-bottoms, then head to downtown Aberdeen for an evening of Snap and Hustle with “the greatest disco revival show in the world.” For one night only catch Boogie Knights at a pop-up disco from 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. at The Neon Rooster, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

 

Calling All Amateur Pitmasters

For three days dip yourself into all things barbecue at the Pinehurst Barbecue Festival, a celebration of taste and tradition. With four signature events sprinkled across the weekend like a dry rub, you can revel in bourbon pairings, grilling classes and music from tribute band Chicago Rewired. From September 2 – 4, there’s something for the whole family at the village of Pinehurst. 6 Chinquapin Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

 

Triplets by Cindy Edgar

The Artist Sees What Others Only Glimpse

Get a view through the artists’ eyes at two exhibits this month. The Artists League of the Sandhills, 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen, will host an opening reception on Friday, Aug. 5, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for its exhibit “Small Gems of Art,” which will run through Aug. 26. Info: (910) 944-3979.

Also on Aug. 5, the Arts Council of Moore County will present the 42nd annual “Fine Arts Festival” opening and awards ceremony at the Campbell House Galleries, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines from 6 p.m. to 8  p.m. The show will remain open until Aug. 26. Info: (910) 692-2787 or www.mooreart.org.

 

Blood, Guts and Books

Finish your summer reading quest with the author of Ship of Blood: Mutiny and Slaughter Aboard the Harry A. Berwind, and the Quest for Justice on Wednesday, Aug. 24, at 5:30 p.m. A native son of Sanford, author-in-residence Charles Oldham will share his love for all things Tar Heel history from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free admission, registration required. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

 

Have a Brighter By and By

Enjoy your Sunday with one of Weymouth’s popular “Come Sunday” Jazz brunches on Aug. 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Bring your own blanket, chairs and a picnic. There will be a cash bar with mimosas, beer, wine and non-alcoholic choices. The event features internationally renowned jazz artists each performing their own rendition of Duke Ellington’s classic, Come Sunday. Cost is $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

 

Photograph By Ted Fitzgerald

Rock On

First Friday is back from its July hiatus with Dangermuffin, a Carolina-based band that weaves lyrical themes of sea, sun and spiritual connection with Americana, island-influence, folk and jam. Enjoy food trucks, some Southern Pines Brewery brews, and listen to great music while supporting the local theater on Aug. 5 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. No dogs, outside alcohol or rolling coolers. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

PinePitch

Fireworks and Fun

Check out the rockets’ red glare at the Pinehurst Harness Track from 6 – 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 3. Fireworks will begin around 9:15 p.m., with plenty to keep you busy until then, from a kids zone with inflatables; a variety of food vendors; and Liquid Pleasure, the great dance and show band that has appeared with stars like Paula Abdul and Aretha Franklin. 200 Beulah Hill Road S., Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

 

Up Close with Roy Firestone

Laughs guaranteed at this one-night-only show featuring Roy Firestone, the seven-time Emmy Award-winning host of ESPN’s legendary Up Close Primetime. You may also remember Firestone from his appearance in the film Jerry Maguire, where he played himself in an unforgettable scene, but did you know he was also a critically acclaimed humorist, musician and impressionist? Firestone has performed in more than 2,000 venues spanning two decades. You can catch him at the Owens Auditorium from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 16, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

 

   

Everyone Is a Reader

If you’re on the hunt for a summer read join The Country Bookshop’s Kimberly Daniels Taws for three author events in July. Hugh Eakin will be chatting virtually with Taws about his book Picasso’s War on Wednesday, July 13, from 1 – 2 p.m. On Friday, July 15, author Rick Ridgeway will be at The Pilot, 145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, from 6 – 7 p.m. to talk about his outdoor explorations in Life Lived Wild: Adventures at the End of the Map. To wrap up the month, join author-illustrator Matt Myers on Tuesday, July 26, at 4 p.m. to celebrate the release of his new book, The World’s Longest Licorice Rope. His wife, Maya, will discuss two of her books, Not Little and Little Kids First Big Book of Baby Animals at The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info and tickets for all events: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

 

Far Out Artwork

If you miss the psychedelic ’70s, then climb into your VW bus and drive to Seagrove for a special trip down memory lane. Carolina Bronze East, a studio and gallery space in the Historic Lucks Cannery in Seagrove, is owned by two ’76 East Carolina University grads, still making art, defying the odds. Their new display, “The ’70s Show,” showcases the talent that walked through the art school during that decade. Be quick about it, though, because the show closes July 7 at the Historic Lucks Cannery Artwalk, 365 Fernandez Loop, Suite 205, Seagrove, N.C. For more information call (336) 873-8291.

 

Summer on the Stage

Switch up your poolside routine and check out the inaugural Summer Theatre Festival, brought to you by the Judson Theatre Company. Beat the heat in the intimate, air-conditioned Bradshaw Performing Arts Center’s McPherson Theatre as three exciting 21st century shows receive their Sandhills area premieres. Running from July 22 – 31 is the two-man musical spoof of aspiring playwrights seeking Broadway contracts, Gutenberg! The Musical! Then catch Buyer & Cellar August 5-14 for a comedic fantasia about a struggling actor working in the basement mall of Barbra Streisand’s Malibu home. Wrap up the summer Aug. 19-28 with tick, tick . . . BOOM, a three-person musical by the author of Rent about an aspiring composer worried he made the wrong career choice. BPAC is at 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. For tickets visit judsontheatre.com. See you at intermission.

 

Christmas in July

If you’d rather deck the halls than sweat on the deck, you’ll want to join in the Yuletide festivities at Given Memorial Library on Saturday, July 23. Santa Max will be flying in on a summertime sleigh to celebrate Christmas in July. There will be a photo opportunity with Santa, a craft and a goodie bag to take home. Reservation required. There are two time slots to choose from, 9:45 – 11 a.m. and 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-3642.

 

Patriotism on Parade

Nothing says Independence Day like a parade, and the village of Pinehurst is ready to celebrate, decked out in red, white and blue! Move your feet to snag a seat before the official parade begins at 10 a.m., Monday, July 4, at Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

 

Hot Town, Summer in the City

It’s the deals that are burning up the sidewalks in Southern Pines on July 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tables will be set up both inside and outside of the downtown stores so you don’t have sweat to get the biggest discount. The event is hosted by the Southern Pines Business Association.

PinePitch

Off Script with The Sway

Join The Sway for an exciting author event on Tuesday June 14, from 6 to 8 p.m., at 195 American Fusion, 195 Bell Ave., Southern Pines. Get a behind-the-scenes perspective on this summer’s hottest beach read, Nora Goes Off Script, from the author, Annabel Monaghan. Enjoy an exclusive night sipping on a flight of tequila cocktails inspired by the books’ characters while hearing more about Annabel’s creative process. Enough tequila and a good book — who needs the beach?  Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

 

Photograph by Diane McKay

Now Watch This

Hop, leap or jump over to Raeford to watch horse and rider teams go through their paces at the North Carolina Hunter Jumper Association Annual Horse Show that begins Wednesday, June 29, and ends Sunday, July 3. Times are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford. For information visit www.nchja.com.

 

History at Home

West Southern Pines has an impressive legacy and an even brighter future. Learn more about this historic area as Kim Wade, president of the West Southern Pines Civic Club, and Vincent Gordon present an Arts and Humanities Lecture, “The Rebirth of West Southern Pines: One of N.C.’s First African American Townships,” on Sunday, June 12, at 2 p.m. Free admission, registration required. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

 

So Many Books, So Little Time

And we’re only talking about the ones by James Patterson! Wondering where to start? Try his new memoir, James Patterson by, you guessed it, James Patterson. Launch into your reading with an autographed copy of the book and a conversation with the author led by The Country Bookshop’s Kimberly Daniels Taws from noon to 2 p.m. on Friday, June 10, at the Pinehurst Resort, 80 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 692-3211 or www.ticketmesandhills.com.

First Friday

If “cosmic soul rock” is your thing, then the place to be Friday, June 3, is listening to Rebekah Todd and her band on the Sunrise Theater outdoor stage, 250 N.W. Broad St. in Southern Pines, from 5 to 8 p.m. Influenced by artists from Hiatus Kaiyote to Tedeschi Trucks Band, Todd focuses on the art of expression. Enjoy food trucks, some Southern Pines Brewery brews, and listen to great music while supporting the local theater. No dogs, outside alcohol or rolling coolers. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

 

To Be or Not to Be

’Tis not the question for us because we know you’ll want to be at the Shakespeare in the Pines summer production of Hamlet, opening Friday, June 10, at 7:30 p.m. Lawn admission is free. Trust us, “the play’s the thing” you need for your weekend plans. Performances are also on June 11, 12 and 17 – 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tufts Park, Village of Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

 

Use Your Superpower for Good

Plant power, that is. Join Namaste Arey of Meadowflower Farms at the Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines, on Saturday, June 25, at 11 a.m., for “Plant Propagation 101.” Perfect for beginners, this class will leave you with tips and tricks for turning cuttings into new baby plants. Is there a better superpower? The Earth doesn’t think so. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

 

Classic Cruisers

Do you love Flathead V8s and hand-crank windows? How about raising funds for charity? Cruise into Mac’s Breakfast Anytime, 1904 N. Sandhills Blvd., Aberdeen, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 17, and catch the action. Bring your classic car, truck or motorcycle, and raise funds for local charities. There will be door prizes, music and more. Organized by Sandhills Classic Street Rod Association. Info: www.sandhillsclassicstreetrods.com.

 

Yard Sales Are the Bee’s Knees

Local buzz has it there will be some great finds at The Bee’s Knees Community Yard Sale, on Saturday, June 11, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whet your appetite while shopping at 30 – 40 individual outdoor booths offering everything from handmade crafts, modern tools and electronics, to vintage and antique collectibles, before finishing up with a bite at the on-site food truck. The Bee’s Knees, 125 N.C. 73, West End.

PinePitch

Antiques Roadshow, Right Up the Road

Since 1985 antiques and collectibles dealers have gathered to display their wares in the village shops and along the streets of Cameron’s historic district. Like wine — and people — it only gets better with age! Head up the road for a free event with more than 150 dealers, shopping, food and fun on Friday, May 6, and Saturday, May 7, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Downtown Cameron, Carthage Street, Cameron.

Calling All Hats

Treat your hat to a night on the town at the Derby Day fundraising event for Weymouth’s new free after-school program, Weymouth Equestrians, from 5 – 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 7, at the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Enjoy bluegrass, bourbon and BBQ while competing in the best hat contest and a prize raffle for your win/place/show Derby picks. Info and tickets: www.weymouthcenter.org.

Buggy with the Fringe on the Top

Spontaneous singing of Broadway show tunes not required to enjoy this year’s annual Carthage Buggy Festival, though it’s never discouraged. Come out to enjoy arts and crafts, beer, wine and food 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 7. There will be a kids zone, classic car and truck show, and buggy and tractor show. Downtown Carthage at 1 Courthouse Square, Carthage.

Strawberry Fields Forever

The Women of Weymouth’s final meeting of the season will conclude on Monday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with an outdoor luncheon, featuring strawberry shortcake, music and a Talbot’s fashion show. Wear your most fashionable fascinators and win some sweet prizes. John Lennon may or may not be on the playlist. Reserve your tickets by May 6. Cost is $20 for supporters and $25 for guests. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

 

Bocce with a Big Heart

Brush up your bank shot and break out your bocce balls to benefit children who have special developmental needs at the Sandhills Children’s Center’s Backyard Bocce Bash. Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 21, at the Pinehurst Harness Track, 200 Beulah Hill Road, Pinehurst, for the teams of four competing in the round robin tournament. Info: (910) 692-3323 or www.SandhillsChildrensCenter.org.

Double Play Books Bash

There are two separate author events to scratch your lit-itch on Wednesday, May 11. Michelle Huneven will be chatting online about her book, Search, from 12 – 1 p.m. The talk isn’t just cheap, it’s free, but registration is required. For in-person bibliophiles, Taylor Brown will be discussing his book, Wingwalkers, from 4 – 6:30 p.m. at The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info and tickets for both events: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Memorial Day Muscles

Start off the Memorial Day weekend with the Murph Workout Challenge, an energetic way to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation. The workout consists of a mile run followed by 300 air squats, 200 push-ups, 100 pull-ups, and another mile run, but can be modified to suit physical ability. Southern Pines CrossFit will host its annual Memorial weekend tribute to the fallen while supporting the amazing Gold Star Teens Organization. Corner of New York Avenue and Bennett Street, Southern Pines, on Thursday, May 26 at 5 p.m. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Fun Times Infinity

All day long. We’re talking alllll day long. The Village of Pinehurst Family Fest is a full day of live music — three bands on hand — from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, May 30, with a skydiving jump by the Black Daggers, a kids zone, North Carolina’s premier video game truck, a photo booth with the U.S. Women’s Open trophy, various food and beverage vendors . . . and the list goes on and on. Pinehurst Harness Track, Beulah Hill Road S., Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Sip, Sip, Sip

Thirsty Thursdays get a glow-up on Thursday, June 2, from 6 – 9 p.m., when Babson Real Estate Advisors presents “A Taste of North Carolina: Whiskey and Wine” at the Agora Bakery and Café, 15 Chinquapin Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com. Time to treat yourself. 

Pine Pitch

Doin’ the Bunny Hop

Kids can enjoy an “Eggstravaganza” of crafts, egg hunts and pix with Mr. Bunny beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 9, at Campbell House Park, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Free to all, even those answering to the name Harvey.

Feherty Unplugged

The unchained — or perhaps unhinged, depending on your point of view — and incredibly funny David Feherty will go from the PGA Tour and major championship announcing booth to the stage at Owens Auditorium for his one-man stand-up show on Thursday, April 7, at 7 p.m., at the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. For information and tickets go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Double Dose of Lee

The Judson Theatre Company returns with Lee Squared: The Liberace and Peggy Lee Comeback Tour, a unique evening of music and laughter on April 8-10 at the Owens Auditorium, Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, on the campus of Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Liberace, played by David Maiocco, lived a life of flamboyance and sparkle, and Miss Peggy Lee, played by Chuck Sweeney, is simply beyond description. The duo won the 2017 Bistro Award for Lee Squared. The performance on Friday, April 8, is at 8 p.m., while the shows on April 9 and 10 begin at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at www.judsontheatre.com.

Four Women, One Heirloom

Join New York Times bestselling author Kristy Woodson Harvey as she talks about her new novel, The Wedding Veil, at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 5, at The Country Club of North Carolina, 1600 Morganton Road, Pinehurst. Juxtaposed against the drama of the Vanderbilts and the Biltmore Estate is the intriguing present-day story of Julia Baxter and her grandmother, Barbara Carlisle. While wearing the gorgeous Vanderbilt wedding veil is considered good luck, is it really? Tickets are available from www.ticketmesandhills.com. For more information go to www.thecountrybookshop.biz or call (910) 692-3211.

Live After 5

The 2022 concert series kicks off with The Embers, featuring Craig Woolard, on Friday, April 8, from 5:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road, Pinehurst. Picnic baskets are allowed, outside alcohol isn’t. Never fear, beer, wine and soft drinks are available for purchase, and there will be food trucks, food trucks, food trucks. For information go to www.vopnc.org.

Homes in Bloom

The Southern Pines Garden Club presents its annual (in non-pandemic years) Home & Garden Tour on Saturday, April 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., where visitors have the opportunity to experience some of the Sandhills’ most elegant homes and gardens. The cost is $25 in advance and $30 the day of the tour. For information and tickets go to ticketmesandhills.com.

And They’re Off and Running

Spring. Matinee. Races. The Pinehurst Harness Track, 200 Beulah Hill Road, Pinehurst, 1 p.m to 5 p.m., Saturday, April 9. Enough said. Bring sunscreen, floppy hats and plenty of folding money for, ahem, a side bet or two. The races begin at 1 p.m. and end at 5 p.m., or thereabouts. For information call (708) 921-1719.

Haute Couture

Just about anyone who makes anything you can wear or walk in will be represented in the spring Fashion Show on Tuesday, April 19, at the Forest Creek Golf Club, 200 Meyer Farm Drive, Pinehurst. The buffet lunch and cocktails cost $65. Eve Avery, Marie and Marcele, Morgan Miller, J. McLaughlin, Monkee’s, Denker, Ikonic Kollection, Eclectic in the Village, Cooper and Bailey’s, Dunberry Resort Wear, and Perle by Lola will all be there. For info and tickets go to www.
womenofthepines.org.

Home and Garden Extravaganza

The Spring Home & Garden Expo at the Fair Barn, 200 Beulah Hill Road, Pinehurst, will have more than 40 companies showing their wares beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 22. For information go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.

It Looks Good for Its Age

The wood sprites will be out celebrating the oldest known living longleaf pine on Saturday, April 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Weymouth Woods Boyd Tract meadow, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. The free festival will feature food tucks, music, turpentine info and a demonstration of a live, prescribed burn. So, how old is the oldest longleaf? It’s so old its squirrels are seventh generation. For information call (910) 692-2167.

Jazz and a Bagel

New Orleans jazz trumpeter Leroy Jones will perform on the lawn at the Weymouth Center for Arts and Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines, for Sunday brunch on April 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. For information and tickets go to www.weymouthcenter.org.

Choral Society in the House

The Moore County Choral Society will present “From Dusk to Dawn” at the Village Chapel, 10 Azalea Road, Pinehurst, on Sunday, April 24, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. For information and tickets go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.

PinePitch

Drawing by Addyson Hennessy (Grade 5), Aberdeen Elementary School

Chip Off the Old Masters

The annual Young People’s Fine Arts Festival at the Campbell House Galleries, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines, opens at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 4, highlighting the artwork of students in grades K-8 in Moore County’s public, private, charter and home schools. The art will be judged and awards given at a special reception and award ceremony. For more information call (910) 692-2787 or go to www.mooreart.org

Call me Crazy

The Sandhills Repertory Theatre presents Always . . . Patsy Cline, a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically in a plane crash at the age of 30. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger. Filled with down-home humor and classic tunes, opening night is March 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Additional shows are March 5 and 6 at 2 p.m.
For more information go to wwwticketmesandhills.com or www.sandhillsrep.org.

The Ultimate Tutu

The Bolshoi Ballet streams its way onto the stage of the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad Street, Southern Pines, on Sunday, March 6, with its performance of Swan Lake, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet — panned when it debuted in March of 1877 — about a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer. Sounds can’t-miss to us. For more information call (910) 692-3611 or visit www.sunrisetheater.com.

Finger Lickin’ Good

Order a tasty springtime meal and support the Given Memorial Library at the same time on Tuesday, March 22. Elliott’s on Linden will be doing all the cooking for you. Given to Go ticket sales begin March 7 and close March 18. Dinner can be picked up at the library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst, between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The cost is $24 per meal. For info call (910) 295-3642 or email giventufts@gmail.com.

Jazzing up the Great Room

Trombonist and composer Ryan Keberle has performed with Maria Schneider and Wynton Marsalis; with Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, and Alicia Keys; with Pedro Giraudo and Ivan Lins. He’s even played in the house band for Saturday Night Live. On Wednesday, March 9, Keberle and his progressive modern jazz band Catharsis will be in the great room at Weymouth at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6. For more information and tickets go to www.weymouthcenter.org.

Walk This Way

The village of Pinehurst will hold its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 12 at 11 a.m., in or around Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Drive, Pinehurst. So, OK, it’s not actually St. Patrick’s Day, but it is a weekend, and the ACC basketball tournament finals won’t start for a while, and there will be festive parade entries and plenty of Irish cheer, so why not get a jump on the celebration? For additional information go to www.vopnc.org/events.

Dig This

If you’re in the over 55 set, dress in your favorite green thumb outfit and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Thursday, March 17, by touring some of Moore County’s most beautiful gardens from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring your own transportation and munchies for a post-tour picnic at the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. For more information call (910) 692-7376.

Someone’s Idea of Fun

FirstHealth Fitness of Pinehurst will host a free 5K Fun Run on Saturday, March 26, along the greenway trails. This is a timed event with staggered starts in small groups to maintain social distancing. Of course, if you really want to socially distance yourself, just go very, very slowly. For more information and registration call (910) 715-1800.

Nobody Expects the Spanish Inquisition!

For the first time, the Metropolitan Opera presents the original five-act French version of Giuseppe Verdi’s epic opera Don Carlos, the tale of doomed love among the royals, set against the backdrop of — you guessed it — the Spanish Inquisition. The performance streams at 12 noon on Saturday, March 26, at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. For additional information call (910) 692-3611 or go to www.sunrisetheater.com.

Jazz on the Grass

Shana Tucker and ChamberSoul will be performing outdoors at a jazz brunch on Sunday, March 27, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. For more information visit www.weymouthcenter.org.

 

 

PinePitch

Triple Play

The North Carolina Symphony will begin in tranquility and shift into high-octane energy in its “All Strings” concert featuring three selections: Novellette No. 1 by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor; St. Paul’s Suite by Gustav Holst; and Souvenir de Florence by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The performance will be Thursday, Feb. 3, at 8 p.m., at the Robert E. Lee Auditorium, 250 Voit Gilmore Lane, Southern Pines. For tickets and more information go to www.ncsymphony.org.

A Chance to Be Presidential

The Carolina Philharmonic presents Presidential Keys featuring David Osborne’s romantic piano offerings at the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst, on Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m. Osborne has performed at the White House for Presidents Carter, Reagan, Bush 41, Clinton, Bush 43, and Obama. For additional information call (910) 687-0287 or go to www.carolinaphil.org.

Another Classical Sunday

The Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities will continue its Sunday music series on Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. with University of North Carolina School of the Arts faculty Kevin Lawrence on violin and Dmitri Shteinberg on piano in the great room of the Boyd House, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Cost is $25 for members and $35 for general admission. For more information go to www.weymouthcenter.org.

It’s Not Yellowstone, But…

The painted ponies will stampede — if stampeding can take a couple of months — through the streets of Southern Pines for another year. These imaginings of 16 artists will graze all of February and March and will be auctioned off to the highest bidder on April 9. Proceeds benefit the Carolina Horse Park. For further information visit www.carolinahorsepark.com.

Freedom Fighter

Bestselling author Kate Moore will talk about her book The Woman They Could Not Silence, the story of Elizabeth Packard who, betrayed by her husband of 21 years when he has her committed to an insane asylum, fights for her own freedom and the freedom of others. Moore will discuss her book on Tuesday, Feb. 22, from 2 – 3 p.m. at The Pilot, 145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. For information call (910) 692-3211 or go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Try, Try Again

Postponed in January, poet and N.C. Literary Hall of Fame member Marsha Warren will present “Freedom Park: The Inspiring Story of How a Monument to Freedom is Built while Confederate Statues are Coming Down” on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. at the Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. The cost is $15 for Weymouth members and $20 for non-members. For further information go to www.weymouthcenter.org.

Puppy Love

Roll over and join the “Furever Yours” Valentine’s Day Gala hosted by Caring Hearts for Canines on Friday, Feb. 4, from 6 – 9 p.m., at the Pinehurst Resort, 1 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst. The cost is $60 for a night of dancing, good food, adult beverages and a silent auction to support the dogs rescued by Caring Hearts. For more info visit https://caringheartsforcanines.com.