It was a whole day of celebration! At least 175 of us celebrated the success of our Dietrich Sustainability Fundraising Campaign, ensuring the Wyoming County Cultural Center at the Dietrich Theater will be able to survive whimsical movie periods, and make necessary repairs to its aging building when needed.
The celebration began with the free showing of “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark” and ended with a second showing in the evening.
“It was a true reflection of the generosity of our region,” according to Executive Director Erica Rogler. “Folks have been so willing to give their time and resources to benefit the community. Businesses, individuals, and foundations have made it possible. We thank them all for helping us reach our sustainability fundraising goal. A special thank you to Cabot Oil and Gas Corporation for underwriting this wonderful day of celebration.”
You could tell that folk music is alive and well in NEPA because at least 75 music lovers filled the seats in the Evans Theater to hear four singer/songwriters tell their stories and sing their songs. Never disappointing, Lorne Clarke and Tom Flannery not only sang their songs, but also shared their verbal banter with a very appreciative audience for the 19th Annual Gathering of Singer/Songwriters.
As I listened to musical guest Ellie Rose, I kept thinking about how she sounded like a combination of Adele and Melissa Ethridge. She is just 19 and surely has a promising career ahead. Mickey Spain was a perfect addition to the foursome, sharing his own songs, including a wonderful children’s song, encouraging adults to sing along. And they did! If you missed 19, get ready for a grand celebration for the 20th Gathering of Singer/Songwriters next summer. An evening of great fun, great songs, and fascinating stories of their inspiration.
Will you be able to join us for Fall Film Festival Preview Day on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 1 or 6 p.m.? Many foreign and independent movie fans have found Preview Day very helpful. See all of the 21 trailers of the 21 movies featured in the festival from Friday, Sept. 13 to Thursday, Oct. 3 and choose the ones you want to see. Preview Day is free with discounted concession. Come for an hour of trailers, pick up a brochure with the schedule of showings, meet fellow film enthusiasts, and mark your calendars.
You can even sign up for Opening Night Gala tickets for Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 13, an evening of great hors d’oeuvres, wonderful wine and beer, and decadent desserts. Along with two movies, of course. For information, call the Dietrich at 570-996-1500.
We are partnering with VIA again for another preview: Ken Burns’ new Country Music documentary. On Sunday Sept. 8 at 3 p.m., you are invited to a free preview of the 16 hour series coming to PBS on Sept. 15. A special guest at the preview will be Gary Carl who will sing several selections and talk about storytelling through song.
With overwhelming gratitude, we thank all of you who support the Dietrich by coming to the movies, classes, and events. Everything we do is with you in mind. We look forward to seeing you soon and often.
