Going Places Monthly: May 2024

May Going Places

Art Happenings

May 3, - 6 - 8 p.m. 

Artist Talk with Artist Alia Bensliman: A Story of Emotions 

Artworks - 19 Everett Alley, Trenton

(609) 394-9436 | info@artworkstrenton.org | artworkstrenton.org 

Alia struggles herself from chronic and invisible illness and art plays a big role in her healing process. When she starts drawing or painting she enters into a trance that takes her deep into a world where she develops enchanting worlds. Each piece she creates talks about how she feels at the moment; whether it’s sadness, happiness, or pain, her work has been her best coping tool. Join us to learn more about invisible disabilities through the powerful and reflective work of Alia Bensliman.

May 3 - 18

ArtJam 2024 

HomeFront | 45 Hulfish St, Palmer Square, Princeton, NJ

(609) 883-7500 ext. 316 | RuthannT@homefrontnj.org | homefront-artspace.com

With more than 75 artists represented, the annual “pop-up” gallery will feature the work of national and local professional artists as well as undiscovered artists who have been impacted by poverty and homelessness. The one-of-a-kind artwork for sale includes paintings, sculptures, pottery, glass, and hand-sewn items.

ArtJam 2024 is an inspiring, high-energy celebration of creativity and community that benefits HomeFront and its innovative therapeutic art and sewing programs, ArtSpace and SewingSpace. HomeFront is a nationally recognized social service organization for low-income Mercer County residents who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.  It provides 35 programs that promote safe secure housing, life skills and educational support, and basic necessities, with a special focus on children.

Among the ArtJam events will be a Fashion Show by HomeFront’s SewingSpace participants at the Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon St, on Saturday, May 11 from 3 - 4:30 p.m.  A Fashion Show Reception from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. will follow, around the corner at ArtJam.  On Mother’s Day, May 1, a mother-child painting class will be held from 10am-noon.  Space is limited, so please register at homefront-artspace.com if you would like to participate. The ArtJam closing reception is scheduled for Friday, May 17, from 5 - 8:30 p.m.

May 4, 11, & 18, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

Paint the Creek: Plein Air Landscape with John Gummere

Artworks - 19 Everett Alley, Trenton

(609) 394-9436 | info@artworkstrenton.org | artworkstrenton.org 

Assunpink Creek runs through Artworks' "front yard," a beautiful location in historic Mill Hill that offers a range of views for landscapes and/or cityscapes - both of which are specialties for Trenton-area artist John Gummere. Three sessions should enable participants to develop one or more images. Emphasis on composition, color, and basic rendering of space. Beginners are welcome, and more experienced artists can work more independently with instruction as needed. John's expertise is primarily in oil painting, but you are welcome to paint or draw with the medium of your choice. 11x14 gessoboard panels will be supplied by Artworks; you should bring other materials if you'd like. A landscape easel and camp stool are recommended. Because this class is outside, you should sign up in advance so that arrangements can be made in the event of rain. Meeting begins at Artworks. 

*Ticket Cost: $35 per session. 


Concerts

May 5, 4 p.m. 

Shout for Joy! 

The Capital Singers of Trenton | Sacred Heart Church, 343 South Broad St, Trenton 

(609) 434-2781 | capitalsingers.org 

The Capital Singers of Trenton, under the direction of Artistic Director Vinroy D. Brown, Jr. will present Shout for Joy! The Concert will include works by Handel, Hailstork, and Garrett. 

*Ticket Cost: $20 Advanced Purchase; $25 Day-of

May 11, 4 p.m. 

In Conversation with Haydn

Voices Chorale NJ and the Berks Sinfonietta Chamber Orchestra | Trinity Church, 33 Mercer St, Princeton 

info@VoicesChoraleNJ.org | voiceschoralenj.org

Join Voices Chorale NJ and the Berks Sinfonietta chamber orchestra in appreciating the mastery of one of Franz Joseph Haydn’s most distinctive and memorable compositions: Missa in Angustiis (Mass for Troubled Times), more popularly known as the Lord Nelson Mass. Between sections of this liturgical work, the chorale will perform contemporary pieces that respond to themes within the Mass, bringing new perspectives on forgiveness, praise, faith, peace, and unity in a divided world.

VCNJ continues its tradition of presenting various musical styles and eras together in thought-provoking concerts to delight and inspire audiences and musicians alike. Contemporary works include Fragile by Sting and Exsultate! Jubilate! by Kyle Pederson.

Principal Conductor Dr. David A. McConnell is the Artistic Director of both Voices Chorale and Berks Sinfonietta. Dr. Akiko Hosaki will accompany the choir on the piano and organ. Assistant Conductor Emily DeMerchant will conduct two pieces, and soloists will include Voices' own choral scholars.

*Ticket Cost: General Admission, $25; Children/Student, $15

May 19, 4 p.m. 

The Elements 

The Capital Singers Women's Ensemble | Sacred Heart Church, 343 South Broad St, Trenton 

(609) 434-2781 | capitalsingers.org 

The Capital Singers Women’s Ensemble under the direction of Associate Conductor Ellen J. Dondero will present The Elements. Pieces by Rosephanye Powell, Elaine Hagenberg, Ruth Elaine Schram, Joseph M. Martin, and Nancy Grundahl and others will be performed.  


Dance

May 11, 8 p.m. | May 12, 2 p.m. 

The Mercer Dance Ensemble: In Concert 

Kelsey Theater at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu

Some of Mercer County Community College’s most talented students, staff, faculty, and alumni (plus guest choreographers and dancers) come together to tell their stories, sway your emotions, and weave a spell with their music and movement.  

*Ticket Costs: $22/$20


Festivities

May 11, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

Cultural Festival 

Hopewell Township and Culture Connections | Woolsey Park, 221 Washington Crossing Pennington Rd, Titusville

info@hopewelltwp.org 

Hopewell Township and Culture Connections will be hosting their 1st Annual Cultural Festival. The celebration will include a grand opening of the new township bandshell scheduled for 10:30 a.m. The event will include performances, food and vendors. 


Film/Movies

May 1, 7 p.m. 

Dance, Girl, Dance: Film Screening 

Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St, Princeton

(609) 279-1999 | princetongardentheatre.org 

In Dorothy Arzner’s backstage melodrama, Maureen O’Hara and Lucille Ball play two midwestern dancers who dream of becoming stars in the big city. One struggles to pursue a life in the ballet, while the other relies on her sex appeal to conquer the world of Burlesque. The creative team behind Dance, Girl, Dance is composed of director Arzner and co-writer Tess Slesinger and is based on a story by novelist Vicki Baum – which elevates this B-musical into a compelling story where the experience of the women takes center stage. 

An online film discussion about this film will be held on May 14. This discussion if free. 

*Ticket Cost: $13.50 General Admission; $7.75 Members; $10 Students; $11 Seniors and Princeton University Staff/Faculty

May 2, 7 p.m. 

The Gleaners and I: My Favorite Film Series

Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St, Princeton

(609) 279-1999 | princetongardentheatre.org 

Agnès Varda’s first experiment with shooting digitally begins by studying the history of “gleaners" – people along the French countryside who scavenge the surplus of fields from the main harvest. The film evolves into an exploration of modern “gleaners" – those living on the margins who survive on what society tosses aside. In the end, Varda's film transforms into a meditation on art and life, as she puts herself into the documentary. Philosophical, whimsical, curious, and humane, The Gleaners & I exemplifies the qualities for which Varda is most admired. In French w/ subtitles.

*Ticket Cost: $13.50 General Admission; $7.75 Members; $10 Students; $11 Seniors and Princeton University Staff/Faculty

May 5, 1:30 p.m. 

John Singer Sargent: Fashion & Swagger - Art on Screen 

Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St, Princeton

(609) 279-1999 | princetongardentheatre.org 

John Singer Sargent is known as the greatest portrait artist of the 19th century. What made his ‘swagger’ portraits remarkable was his power over his wealthy sitters, what they wore, and how they were presented to the audience. Sargent’s work transcends the social noise and captures an alluring truth with each brush stroke. Through interviews with curators, contemporary fashionistas, and style influencers, this documentary examines how Sargent’s unique practice has influenced modern art, culture, and fashion. Filmed at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and the Tate Britain, London.

*Ticket Cost: $14 General Admission; $12 Members

May 8, 7 p.m. 

Petite Maman: International Cinema Series 

Princeton Garden Theatre in Partnership with the Princeton Public Library, 160 Nassau St, Princeton

(609) 279-1999 | princetongardentheatre.org 

Céline Sciamma (director of Portrait of a Lady on Fire) returns with this tender French coming-of-age tale about an 8-year-old girl. Packed with emotion and insight, this touching look at the relationships between mothers and daughters is anchored by fantastic performances and gorgeous cinematography. In French with subtitles.

*Ticket Cost: $13.50 General Admission; $7.75 Members; $10 Students; $11 Seniors and Princeton University Staff/Faculty

May 12, 1 p.m. 

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again: Mother's Day Film Screening 

Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St, Princeton

(609) 279-1999 | princetongardentheatre.org 

You and your mom will be dancing queens at this special Mother's Day screening of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.

Existing as both a sequel and a prequel, this lighthearted musical takes place a decade after the first film. In the present day, Sophie finds herself on the brink of parenthood, and in the past, we get to follow Donna as she navigates through the most influential summer of her life. Featuring a charming performance from Lily James, an unforgettable cameo from Cher, and iconic ABBA hits that missed the first screen adaptation, this joyous celebration of motherhood, love, and music is not to be missed on the big screen.

*Ticket Cost: $13.50 General Admission; $7.75 Members; $10 Students; $11 Seniors and Princeton University Staff/Faculty

May 15, 7 p.m. 

Ran: Prof Picks Film Screening & Theater Discussion 

Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St, Princeton

(609) 279-1999 | princetongardentheatre.org 

Ran reimagines Shakespeare’s King Lear set in 16th century Japan, telling the story of an aging ruler who decides to divide his land equally among his three sons, causing a power struggle. The use of color, costuming, staging, and direction demonstrate Kurosawa’s mastery of filmmaking. A stunning cinematic experience punctuated by epic battle scenes and presented in a brilliant new restoration. In Japanese w/ subtitles. Rated R.

Princeton University’s Junko Yamazaki will introduce this screening and lead a Q&A after the film.

*Ticket Cost: $13.50 General Admission; $7.75 Members; $10 Students; $11 Seniors and Princeton University Staff/Faculty 

May 19, 10 a.m. 

Kubo and the Two Strings: $5 Family Matinee

Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St, Princeton

(609) 279-1999 | princetongardentheatre.org 

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with this 2016 animated tale about a young boy who must locate a magical suit of armor worn by his late father in order to defeat a vengeful spirit from the past. Featuring an incredible blend of technologies, including computer-generated visual effects, this feature from Laika, the studio behind CORALINE and PARANORMAN, is sure to be a hit with the family.

*Ticket Cost: $5 for Kids and Adults; FREE for Members.


History Happenings

May 5, 12 - 2 p.m. 

May Tea

The Old Barracks Museum, 101 Barracks St, Trenton 

(609) 396-1776 | info@barracks.org | barracks.org/maytea

You’re invited to tea! The Old Barracks Museum is hosting May Tea, a semi-formal
tea service with all proceeds benefiting the museum's operating expenses.

With the purchase of a ticket, the service will include a variety of teas, finger sandwiches,
and pastries, as well as a teacup that can be taken home with you. Seats are limited and tickets will likely sell out quickly. Teacup color will vary and cannot be reserved. Additional teacups are available for purchase in the shop.

Brunch attire is suggested, and don’t forget to wear your best hat for a chance to win a
prize in the hat contest! This fundraiser recalls the Pink Tea, a fundraiser of the Old Barracks Association in 1901.

*Ticket Cost: $35 for members; $40 nonmembers 

May 19, 1 - 2:30 p.m. 

Battlefield Tour 

Princeton Battlefield Society, 500 Mercer St, Princeton 

(609) 232-8540 | info@pbs1777.org | pbs1777.org  

Spend a Sunday afternoon at the Princeton Battlefield State Park and learn more about the Battle of Princeton, a battle that ended the “ten crucial days” of 1776-1777. Walk in the footprints of Washington’s troops and listen to exciting narratives of soldier and civilian experiences. Your tour is led by an approved Historical Interpreter.

Following the approximate one hour tour, visit the historic Thomas Clarke House, the home of a Quaker farming family and the only remaining structure from the January 3, 1777 Battle of Princeton.

*Ticket Cost: $5. Pre-registration is required.


Howell Farm

May 4, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Hog Slopping & Weighing 

Howell Living History Farm, 70 Woodens Ln, Hopewell Township

(609) 737-3299 | howellfarm.org 

Guess the weights of the Howell Farm hogs as they step onto the scales for their summer weigh-in! Visitors will learn the finer points of keeping pigs, including their history, diet, and some fun facts. Next they’ll guess their weight, grind corn, mix feed, fill the wallow, and slop the hogs!

May 11, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Sheep Shearing & Herding 

Howell Living History Farm, 70 Woodens Ln, Hopewell Township

(609) 737-3299 | howellfarm.org 

"Shear Fun" is in store with sheep shearing, wool spinning, and weaving demonstrations throughout the day...and a special guest appearance by award-winning border collies herding sheep in the round pasture!

Visitors can learn about sheep care, fleece cleaning, and wool use—plus working dog whistle commands, puppy training, and more. Herding demonstrations are at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.

May 18, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Corn Planting

Howell Living History Farm, 70 Woodens Ln, Hopewell Township

(609) 737-3299 | howellfarm.org 

Once the threat of frost is gone, farmers take to the fields to plant their last spring crop. On corn planting day, you can see them in action using workhorses and a circa-1900 planter. Head back to the barnyard to help shell and grind corn for the pigs and chickens...then make your way to the farmhouse to learn how corn is processed for baking, and sample some fresh-baked cornbread!

May 25, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Haying & Wagon Rides 

Howell Living History Farm, 70 Woodens Ln, Hopewell Township

(609) 737-3299 | howellfarm.org 

Learn how to make hay the old-fashioned way...head up to the fields where farmers are cutting, tedding, and raking loose hay to store in the barn for the horses!


Lectures/Talks

May 5, 2 p.m. 

Genealogical Research via the USHMM and the International Tracing Service Program

Mercer County Library System: Lawrenceville Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville

(609) 883-8292 | lawprogs@mcl.org | mcl.org

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) is more than a memorial and a museum. It is also a treasure trove of genealogical records for those who seek to trace their Holocaust-era ancestors. On this Holocaust Remembrance Day, Sunday, May 5, join Elana Broch, a retired Princeton University librarian and a psychometrician, at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch as she guides you through the complex and rich collections of the USHMM, including the International Tracing Services, the Central Name Index, the Arolsen Archives, and the Pages of Testimony from Yad Vashem. Learn how to navigate the USHMM catalog and discover the stories of your family members who lived through one of the darkest chapters of history.

*Advanced Registration is Appreciated 


Literature

May 17, 10 a.m. 

Friends of the Lawrence Library May Book Sale 

Mercer County Library System: Lawrenceville Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville

(609) 883-8292 | lawprogs@mcl.org | mcl.org

Shop the Friends of the Lawrence Library May Book Sale for thousands of used, gently-read books for readers of all ages. The sale opens to the general public on Friday, May 17, at 10 a.m. and ends Monday, May 20 at 4:30 p.m. Payment by cash or check only.

A special Early Admission event will be held on Thursday, May 16 from 1 - 4 p.m. where the public will have the first chance to get some amazing deals. Entry to the Early Admission is free for current members of the Friends of the Lawrence Library, $5 for the general public, and $20 for patrons with scanners. This event is the only time scanning devices will be permitted.

Beginning Friday at 10 a.m., entry to the sale is free and open to the general public. No scanning devices will be allowed. The book sale will be open Friday, Saturday and Monday from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 12:30 - 4:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday will be $5 a bag. Bring your own bag.

Book donations for the Friends of the Lawrence Library book sale are being accepted at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Proceeds from the book sale fund programs and other library services that benefit library patrons of all ages.


Theater

May 8 - June 2

Choice

McCarter Theatre Center, Berlind Theater Venue, 91 University Place, Princeton 

(609) 258-2787 | patronservices@mccarter.org | mccarter.org

From the writer of the hit Broadway musical - and soon-to-be film franchise - Wicked and the beloved 90’s TV seriesMy So-Called Life, comes a new comedy that explores a woman’s right to choose in decidedly unexpected, often hilarious, and ultimately thought-provoking ways. 

Journalist Zipporah Zunder has landed the story of her career—and it’s forcing her to reexamine her past, her (sometimes absurd) present, and the choices that have shaped her life. Playwright Winnie Holzman brings her trademark wit and ability to weave social issues into compelling, relatable stories as she explores one of the most polarizing subjects of our time through a refreshingly humorous - and profoundly human - lens. Show times vary. 

*Ticket Cost: $25-$60 

May 18,19, 25 & 26, 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.

The Jungle Book 

Kelsey Theater at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu

Deep in the heart of the Indian Jungle, Bagheera, the black panther, discovers a Man-Cub. Only the wolves Akela and Raksha may save his life and raise him as their own. But Shere Khan, the Great Tiger, has targeted the boy. Bagheera teaches the boy all he knows about the Jungle. Baloo the lovable bear befriends Mowgli and saves him from the fearsome grasp of Kaa, the Python, and the wild Monkey-People. But who can save him from Shere Kahn?

*Ticket Cost: $16/$14

May 24. 8 p.m. | May 25, 7 p.m. 

Ship Happens: A Cruisical 

McCarter Theatre Center, Matthews Theater Venue, 91 University Place, Princeton 

(609) 258-2787 | patronservices@mccarter.org | mccarter.org

Back for its 133rd year, the Princeton Triangle Show brings you Ship Happens: A CruisicalJoin as Triangle sets sail with a tale as old as tide. Climb aboard the SS Giznee Fairytale, a cruise with all of the amenities - buffets, shuffleboard, and even magic? While other passengers enjoy their luxurious journey, twins Isla and Lindsay venture below decks, only to be swept away in a current of schemes and whimsy. Not since Ted has a cruise gone so wrong! Come find out more at the swashbuckling, high-kicking, shipshow that is Ship Happens: A Cruisical.

Join the cast onstage after Friday's show for our Reunions alumni reception.

*Ticket Cost: $25-$250 

May 28, 7:30 p.m. 

Voice and the Violin

McCarter Theatre Center, Matthews Theater Venue, 91 University Place, Princeton 

(609) 258-2787 | patronservices@mccarter.org | mccarter.org

Grammy Award-winning violinist Joshua Bell returns to McCarter Theatre, alongside celebrated soprano Larisa Martinez, who has been sought after for her “smoky soprano” (Opera News), and acclaimed pianist Peter Dugan, the host of NPR's From the Top. "Voice and the Violin" is an evening of romantic arias and modern classics, including selections from Mendelssohn, Hérold, Puccini, Bernstein, and more. 

*Ticket Cost: $60 - $90

May 31, 8 p.m. 

Bright Star 

Kelsey Theater at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor

(609) 570-3333 | kelsey.mccc.edu

Inspired by a true story and featuring a Tony & Grammy nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Bright Star follows the life of Alice Murphy and tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption, set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. Inspired by a real event, and propelled by an ensemble of onstage musicians and dancers, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion, beautiful melodies, and powerfully moving performances. It’s a theatrical experience as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful. Recommended for ages 13 and older. 

*Ticket Cost: $26/$24


Mercer County