A Chorus, For Us: For the pandemic-weary, Cantate Carlisle has a song and a celebration

November 30, 2021 | by Barbara Trainin Blank

When the long-term tenure of an artistic director comes to an end, the organization may be concerned about what follows.

Not so for Cantate Carlisle, the choral group established and headed by Cheryl Parsons for 30-plus years.

When Parsons retired in 2020, the choral group turned to a person who many of the singers knew and had confidence in. Michelle DiBona Trefren, who accepted the baton, is a long-time area conductor, pianist, organist, vocalist and music educator.

“I couldn’t be more honored to be in this position and fill the shoes of quite a legacy of great choral music-making in Carlisle,” Trefren said. “When I learned about the opening, I was ecstatic and knew this would fit right into my passions—leading and inspiring musicians to make great choral music at a high level that can bless a community.”

Simultaneously, Trefren is the resident music director at the Carlisle Regional Performing Arts Center.

“Cheryl provided wonderful leadership due to her musicianship, attention to detail and concern for the needs of the singers,” said Taylor Andrews, a choir member who is also president of the board. “We are fortunate that Michelle follows her lead with skill and empathy. Both have brought expertise, energy and fun to rehearsals, resulting in outstanding performances.”

Andrews joined Cantate Carlisle in 1996. An attorney and chief public defender, he previously sang in a church choir.

“With my large caseload, Cantate Carlisle rehearsals were a form of therapy and joy,” he said.

One of the strengths of Cantate Carlisle lies in the devotion of the singers. The longest serving member is Beverly Mancke, who joined the choir at its very beginning. A first soprano, she began singing solos when she was 8 years old but now prefers being part of a group.

“My husband John saw the audition announcement and suggested I try,” Mancke said. “I continued to audition each year.”

But the opportunity to sing good music was only one reason to stay on.

“I’ve met and become friends with many wonderful people,” Mancke said. “Tuesday evenings have become my chance to put everything else on hold and enjoy learning and singing all kinds of music. Since 1990, we’ve sung many different pieces of music and performed a wide variety of concert themes from Bach to Broadway.”

In addition to the adult group, the choral organization features Cantate Young Voices for singers in grades four through eight in the area.

Beth Kammerer is in her fifth year as director of Cantate Young Voices. She’s a retired music teacher who taught choir for 20 years at schools in Hawaii.

“Singing is a passion of mine, and I’m very excited to share my love of music with the young singers,” she said.

Cantate Carlisle’s diverse membership ranges in age from 23 to 80, averaging about 40. As in the past under the baton of Parsons, the repertoire is varied, said Trefren.

Some highlights have been works by Brahms, all sung in German, Leonard Bernstein’s “Chichester Songs” in Hebrew, and “Ceremony of Carols,” composed by Benjamin Britten and written in Old English.

Occasional trips out of the country are among the joys of singing with Cantate Carlisle. So far, the group has traveled to England, Scotland, Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic and Canada. Occasionally, these trips offer opportunities to sing with local choral groups.

Next up for Cantate Carlisle is their winter concert, which takes place in early December. The postponed 30th Anniversary Gala is slated for May 7.

“With only one rehearsal as a group this past year, the choir dove into recording songs as an ensemble, masked and distanced in a large and well-ventilated space,” Trefren explained. “Hearing the ensemble all together, for the first time since I took on the artistic director position, was certainly thrilling.”

“Convergence,” the Cantate Carlisle winter concert, takes place Dec. 4 and Dec. 5 at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 21 S. Bedford St., Carlisle. For more information, visit www.cantatecarlisle.org.

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Toys, for Girls and Boys: Thousands of Harrisburg children will receive holiday gifts, thanks to Harrisburg’s Marine Reserves

November 30, 2021 | by Phyllis Zimmerman

Marine Reserve Staff Sgt. Edel Castillo jump-started this year’s annual Toys For Tots drive at a time when many were focused more on that last dip in the pool than holiday giving.

The Harrisburg Marine Reserve Unit’s campaign officially kicked off on Oct. 1. However, weeks before the start, Castillo already was fully engaged with this year’s volunteer recruitment, with orientation planning and with community fundraisers.

“The program needed a lot of love when I took over,” said Castillo, a first-time campaign commander.

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program is based in Uptown Harrisburg at the Echo Co., 2nd Battalion Marine Reserve unit headquarters on N. 2nd Street. The Echo Co. program serves underprivileged children in many areas within Dauphin County, as well as Camp Hill and Mechanicsburg in Cumberland County.

The unit’s Toys For Tots has been in place for more than two decades, Castillo said. Despite ongoing pandemic restrictions, the 2020 campaign safely distributed a total of 22,377 toys to 14,806 area children. The program’s goal each year “is to make sure every kid around Harrisburg has a toy for Christmas,” Castillo said.

“It’s so simple, so basic,” he said. “When they told me to go buy toys, I was all about it.”

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks and his wife Diane founded Toys for Tots in 1947 in Los Angeles, according to the national organization.

When Bill told Diane that he couldn’t find an organization to accept donations of her handmade dolls to children in need, she promptly told him to start one. That first year, Bill and Marines from his Reserve unit collected and distributed some 5,000 children’s toys.

In the wake of the L.A. program’s success, the U.S. Marine commandant ordered Toys For Tots campaigns implemented at all Reserve sites for 1948, establishing it as a national community action program. Today, Toys for Tots distributes about 18 million toys nationally to 7 million underprivileged children each year, totaling nearly 800 campaign sites overall.

In 1991, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation was established to help run and support the Toys for Tots program. The foundation is designated to raise funds, purchase toys, provide promotional and support materials, solicit corporate support, educate the public, and manage all funds raised and donated, in addition to overseeing day-to-day operations.

Across central PA, Toys For Tots campaigns also are run annually for children in northern Dauphin County, Cumberland/Perry and Lancaster counties, and in northern and southern York County.

This year, more than 25 area businesses and organizations hosted drop-off boxes at their physical locations for the Harrisburg Marines, accepting unwrapped toy donations valued at $10 or more for children up to age 12. Monetary donations also are accepted through the organization’s local or national websites or through the mail.

Toys are distributed to area children throughout December through a network of area volunteers via local organizations, churches or Marine door-to-door deliveries.

Harrisburg’s Toys For Tots hosts several community fundraisers each year, including the 24th annual Kick-Off Classic that took place Aug. 14 at the Carlisle Barracks Golf Course. This year’s successful event was sold out.

On Oct. 23, the Echo Co. hosted its first Cars & Coffee fundraiser at its Harrisburg headquarters, sponsored by Duck Donuts in Hampden Township. The event featured a vehicle lineup varying from monster trucks to classic sports cars, all while accepting toy and monetary donations from the public.

In turn, Duck Donuts donated 10 dozen “fall favorite” donuts for Cars & Coffee, according to Morgan Banaszek, catering and events manager at the Hampden Township location.

“When I heard about Toys For Tots down here, I wanted to donate,” said Banaszek, who frequently donated to the cause while growing up in the Wilkes Barre-Scranton area.

On Oct. 28, Echo Co. Marines hosted a Trunk or Treat fundraiser at its Harrisburg unit in conjunction with the city’s bureaus of police and fire. Young guests explored an educational police van and fire truck onsite and a spooky, smoked “graveyard,” and of course, received candy. Toys and monetary donations were accepted there, as well.

“We have a longstanding history of supporting Toys For Tots,” said Ana White, director of Community Services and Engagement for the Harrisburg Bureau of Police. “They usually want us to participate with them. It’s a way for us to show a partnership we have with the community.”

Harrisburg’s Echo Co. Marine Unit is headquartered at 2991 N. 2nd St. For more information, contact the Echo Co. Harrisburg program at [email protected], 814-826-4758 or on Facebook.

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Christmas Quack: Roast duck will give your holiday table a special flavor

November 30, 2021 | by Rosemary Ruggieri Baer

Back in my early marriage days, my husband and I spent a few days in New York City in springtime—pre-children and pre-mortgage.

We splurged on a dinner I have always remembered. It was at the original Four Seasons restaurant on E. 52nd Street. The prices were hefty, so we decided we each only could order two things.

I started with clams casino and, for dinner, a fabulous roast duck. It was dark and crispy and covered with a luscious brown sugar glaze. From then on, I was hooked on duck!

I’ve roasted ducks several times over the years, mostly prepared with an orange sauce as the French like to do. Restaurants these days seem to offer duck breasts that are usually served rare, rather than a perfectly roasted bird with a sweet fruit glaze. If I order it, I usually ask the server if the chef could “cook it.”

After seeing some lovely plump Muscovy ducks at the West Shore Farmer’s Market, I decided to return to one of my longtime favorite recipes: duckling with orange sauce. While one duck won’t serve a huge family gathering, it is perfect (and festive) for a holiday dinner for four. It is no more difficult to make than a roast chicken and, if well cooked, duck is not at all “gamey.” Just make sure the duck you buy is at least 5 pounds or it will be like dinner at Bob Cratchit’s house in Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

Duckling with Orange Sauce

Ingredients

1 ready-to-cook duckling, about 5 pounds (fresh is best)
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
¼ teaspoon dried tarragon leaves (or 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons shredded orange peel
½ cup orange juice (preferably fresh)
A pinch of salt
¼ teaspoon dry mustard
¼ cup currant jelly
2 tablespoons sweet red wine (choose port, marsala, madeira or apple brandy)
1 orange, pared and sectioned
1½ teaspoons cornstarch

Directions

Place duckling breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Tie wing tips to the duck body with kitchen twine.
In a small saucepan, cook the onion and tarragon in the butter until tender. Add the orange peel and juice, salt, mustard and jelly, stirring constantly. When the jelly is melted, stir in the wine and orange sections.
Measure the sauce. Save half for glazing at the end and half for basting during cooking.
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.
Pierce the duck skin with a fork and brush with the basting sauce.
Roast the duckling about 22 minutes per pound (about 2 hours). If the duck appears to be browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil. The duck is done when the drumstick feels very soft. Remember to baste frequently.
Duck is usually fairly fatty. I suggest placing the bird on a thick bed of paper towels before placing it on a platter.
Place the cornstarch in a small saucepan and add the sauce saved for glazing. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and boils. Boil and stir for an additional minute and pour over the duck right before serving.

Some notes about preparing your holiday duckling:

Some chefs believe that it is best to cut the duck into four sections (quadrants) with sharp kitchen shears. I have always used a sharp carving knife and cut it as I would a roast chicken.
Duck is fun to decorate! Use red and green grapes, orange slices or kumquats or little lady apples, if you can find them. I like to accompany the duck with a mixture of brown and wild rice and a green vegetable.
You can experiment with different spirits when making the sauce, like Grand Marnier or cognac. Orange marmalade works too if you can’t find currant jelly. Because duck is pretty rich, a red wine works as well as white (champagne or Prosecco are also lovely).

I hope you give cooking duck a try for something special this month.

Happy holidays to all readers of TheBurg!

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Dust Off Your Dice: New gaming hub opens on the west shore

November 30, 2021 | by Rachel Lindsley

The gaming landscape has evolved in the wake of the pandemic.

For instance, during quarantine, long-time gamers found time to teach beginners the mechanics to get started, expanding the footprint of the community.

According to Forbes, “Magic: The Gathering (MTG) had its best financial year of all time in 2020, growing by 27% compared to 2019,” and it continues to rise in 2021.

Also, tabletop role-playing games and competitive card games used to be saved for at-home play. Today, game store owners are bringing players back to the table with a safe, comfortable space to compete and quest.

“Tabletop games have been a popular form of leisure for thousands of years and continue to evolve,” said Tyler Myers, owner of Blue Moon Games. “Then, COVID-19 happened. People were finding themselves stuck inside with nowhere to go and nothing to do. There was a notable surge in games sales, spurring renewed interest in the market.”

Myers, a hobbyist himself, saw this gaming renaissance as an opportunity to open a local game store in Lemoyne. Growing up as a competitive MTG player, Myers spent his young adulthood in game stores—working through college, exploring new game packs and dreaming of one day opening his own place.

“That’s where my passion for Blue Moon Games stems from,” Myers said. “We saw a promising opportunity to fulfill a desire in the gamer community—so we did. We have quickly become a second home to many of our customers.”

Blue Moon Games provides a welcoming environment for all fandoms to peruse and purchase dice, blitz decks, booster packs and miniatures, as well as board games and catalogues of singles. One of their most popular items is the wide selection of trading cards available for purchase or trade.

Myers prides himself on offering a variety of games to choose from, but newcomers are not required to pay to play some of their new and unique titles. There are several demo copies available to take for a spin—no purchase necessary.

“We offer everything you’ll need for MTG, Dungeons & Dragons, Flesh and Blood and Pokémon, as well as classics such as Catan, Ticket to Ride, Descent and more,” Myers said. “We are acquainted with all of our offerings and love to make recommendations at the front desk.”

Ready to play? Inside, you will find spacious game rooms with several tables fitting four to 10 people each. This 3,000-square-foot gaming utopia fits 48 customers comfortably with hopes to expand into a Wizards Play Network Premium location next year.

One of Myers’ main objectives for opening a local game store was to provide an open environment, free from gatekeeping and the all-too-prevalent cliques associated with the gaming community.

“Gaming can be an exclusive environment for many individuals who are just trying to get started and learn the ins and outs,” Myers said. “We have a code of conduct that our players must abide by to participate so everyone enjoys their time together.”

York resident Jackson Shatzer enjoys starting his weekend at Friday Night Magic—an evening of MTG strategy with new and old friends alike, held every Friday at the store.

“I enjoy seeing people I know and meeting new friends around the tables at Blue Moon Games,” Shatzer said. “I am thankful for their friendly atmosphere where competitors and casual players can learn, grow and share in games together.”

Weekly tournaments have quickly grown to include Commander Tuesdays, Pokémon Wednesdays and Flesh and Blood Sundays. Visit their Facebook page to view their weekly schedules and learn about special events like their popular pre-release dates.

Along with their merchandise for sale, Myers has expanded his offerings with three arcade classics—Tekken, Street Fighter II and Galaxian. He hopes to become an arcade hotspot on the west shore.

Guests also are welcome to “bring your own snack” by enjoying local eateries nearby such as Neato Burrito, The Pizza Grille and West Shore Diner. Some establishments even deliver directly to Blue Moon Games.

Invite your dice-rolling enthusiasts or participate in gaming tournaments with community members—the arena is open and ready for all to play.

Blue Moon Games is located at 875 Market St., Suite 101, Lemoyne. For more information, including about gaming leagues, visit www.bluemoongamer.com or their Facebook page.

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That’s All, Folk! After a 20-year run, Jess Hayden passes the Susquehanna Folk Music Society baton to a new generation

November 30, 2021 | by Jeff Falk

Jess Hayden, photo by Art Wachter

“Folk”—now there’s an interesting word.

“Folk” can refer to a genre of music. “Folk” can refer to a style of dance. “Folk” can refer to a way of life.

“Folk” means people, but it can also refer to a specific type of people, like “that Jess Hayden sure is some good folk.”

For Hayden, “folk” is a mindset.

On the final day of 2021, Hayden will retire as the executive director of the Susquehanna Folk Music Society. She leaves behind a 20-year legacy of fundraising, event proliferation and, generally, enhancing the folk culture in and around the Harrisburg area.

A self-proclaimed introvert, Hayden’s a people-person who has stepped outside of her comfort zone, all in the name of “folk.”

“The concept of ‘folk music’ is really up for debate,” Hayden said. “It’s the people. What we prize is translated folk music that’s been handed down from person to person. It’s music of the people, but it can be modernized. Folk music tells stories so we can learn about different people in different times.”

Hayden’s successor will have a tough act to follow.

Recently, following an extensive search and hiring process, musician and writer Peter Lee was selected to succeed Hayden. Lee will be charged with taking SFMS to the next level, much in the same way that Hayden did at the turn of the 21st century.

“Part of the reason I chose this time to retire is that the Susquehanna Folk Music Society is headed in a great direction,” said Hayden, a 65-year-old resident of New Cumberland. “It’s super exciting. We have this influx of new, young people, and it’s very intentional. There’s a ton of interest in folk music by younger people. They are very respectful of the folk music tradition.”

Through Hayden’s guidance, the society has grown its membership to an all-time high of 600 members. SFMS sponsors over 40 programs and events a year, everything from musical and dance performances to jams and coffeehouse concerts to virtual series and educational programs, and, of course, the Susquehanna Folk Festival—all performed by nationally and internationally recognized, as well as local and regional, artists.

Headquartered in New Cumberland, the society does not operate its own venue. Instead, concerts and shows are performed at venues across central Pennsylvania, including locally at Fort Hunter in Harrisburg.

“What makes it unique to me is that the performances are generally very intimate types of experiences,” Hayden said. “There are a lot of conversations from the stage to the audience. It feels like folk artists like that community aspect. The performances are so relaxed, and I really like to see the interaction between the artists. I love the history and that it’s so connected to the past.”

Like all genres, folk music is unique. However, it differentiates itself with the wide range of instruments used to perform it, as well as its links to traditions and heritages from around the world. Included in the genre are disciplines like the blues, Celtic music, Balkan music, Appalachian music, traditional African music and Hayden’s personal favorite, Jewish klezmer music.

But the true power of folk music may emanate from its ability to connect cultures.

“I think about that all the time,” said Hayden, of music’s role in our society. “I think music just reverberates very profoundly in all of us. We’ve all had the experience of hearing music. It just touches our core like very little else does. It moves us. It activates so many feelings. It transports you.”

Folk Community

A group of like-minded volunteers founded the nonprofit Susquehanna Folk Music Society in 1985. Initially, Hayden became involved as a volunteer and a board member before becoming the sole employee in 2001.

“Folk music is an unusual genre in that you don’t get to hear it every day,” Hayden said. “Our volunteers are people who are just glad to find it. We feel everyone has a strong commitment to folk music. Through everyone’s support, this works.”

First and foremost, Hayden is a musician—a well-rounded and experienced musician. Her instrument of choice is the clarinet, which she has played as part of the Old World Folk Band and the West Shore Symphony Orchestra.

“Growing up, the question wasn’t whether or not you wanted to play an instrument, but which one,” Hayden said. “My father was a music teacher who could play just about anything, and he was a lover of folk and traditional music.

One day, he decided to put together a family folk band called the Dalton Family Singers.

“That was my introduction to music,” Hayden said. “I learned a lot and always had an interest in folk music.”

Certainly, Hayden’s pending retirement will alter her lifestyle. While it will allow her to entertain other interests and pursuits, she cannot imagine an existence that does not include folk music.

“The first thing I want to do is go on a little trip because I think a period of separation would be helpful,” Hayden said. “I want to do some volunteer work and continue my relationship with Susquehanna Folk Music Society.”

After all, SFMS has not only been her work life, but her social life, too.

“We call it ‘the folk community,’” she said. “That sense of finding each other is a very strong motivation. It’s something I’m really passionate about.”

For more information on the Susquehanna Folk Music Society, visit www.sfmsfolk.org.

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Full Sound Ahead: Turning 75, Lancaster Symphony Orchestra acknowledges the past, embraces the future

November 30, 2021 | by Jeff Falk

As it emerges from the debilitating effects of the pandemic, the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra has a lot on its musical plate.

Anyone familiar with the orchestra shouldn’t be surprised. After all, the LSO has long been a vibrant, robust organization dedicated to serving greater Lancaster through world-class musical entertainment.

But there’s more going on here than just the organization getting busy and doing what it does. The LSO is staring down an important milestone in its storied history.

This current season marks the orchestra’s 75th anniversary. In addition, it is heading down the home stretch of a search process to identify a new conductor who will help shape the direction of the orchestra well into the future.

“I think, at the core of it, the message is that we’re back after a very difficult time for everyone,” said Guy McIntosh, the LSO’s executive director. “As a new Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, we’re kind of re-inventing the wheel.”

Touch Your Soul

Formed in 1946 by community leaders, the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra presented its first concert a year later, within the confines of the McCaskey High School auditorium. Prior efforts to create a hometown orchestra had been derailed by two world wars and a national economic depression.

“Back then, Lancaster was a smaller community, and music was very important,” said McIntosh. “It was kind of people’s diversion.”

The LSO, he said, started as a community-based orchestra and included musicians who might have played in high school. Over time, it morphed into a professional organization with paid musicians. Today, the orchestra features an active roster of 50 to 80 local, regional and nationally recognized musicians.

“What people think of classical music is that it’s very high society,” said McIntosh, a 36-year-old Lancaster city resident. “A lot of people think symphony orchestras play this old music. That’s our fault. We’ve played into that mindset. But to me, that’s not what a symphony orchestra is. There’s music out there that can really touch your soul and take you on a journey.”

The symphony’s historic 75th annual season comes on the heels of a tumultuous 2020-21. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the LSO went 18 months without performing a live show, a forced year-and-a-half sabbatical from talented artists making beautiful music together. In September, the LSO finally re-opened live with the triumphant celebration, “The Return.”

“It was difficult for everyone,” McIntosh said. “But, if there was a silver lining, it was that we were able to hone in on what we do as an organization. The first one back in September, ‘The Return’ concert, was very emotional, just to see the audience again. If you’re playing for no one, there is no emotion to play off of. To not have that for 18 months was difficult. But it feels all that much better being back.”

More Inclusive

A key part of the new season is LSO’s highly anticipated holiday concert, “Sounds of the Season,” which takes place this month. Led by chorus master Bill Wright, it will feature an interaction between the chorus and orchestra that has become a favorite for all ages.

“It’s very family-oriented,” McIntosh said. “It features a wide range of holiday music, holiday favorites and Christmas carols. There’s also a special reading of ‘The Night Before Christmas.’”

Looking farther ahead, the LSO’s long search for a new conductor is nearing completion.

From 190 original applicants, the orchestra identified 30 possible candidates, a number that was then narrowed down to 10. Now all that remains are the final four—Jayce Ogren, Delta David Gier, Michael Butterman and Chelsea Gallo.

Each candidate will act as a guest conductor for a different concert performance in four different months during the 2021-22 season. From those concert showings, the LSO is expected to name a new permanent conductor in late spring of 2022, and, when it does, that person will become just their third music director ever.

“You could say it’s an audition,” said McIntosh. “After a final decision is made, an offer will be extended, and, hopefully, the offer is accepted.”

Part of the new conductor’s mission will be to reflect and represent the musical interests of an ever-changing Lancaster community.

“Art definitely has a role in our society, and I think music is one of the most important art forms,” McIntosh said. “It can spark a feeling in you that you can’t put a finger on. The emotion can be good or bad. All forms of music are alive and well. We need to be more inclusive in what we do and be a reflection of our community. That’s the future of where all classical music needs to be.”

The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra’s holiday concert, “Sounds of the Season,” takes place Dec. 17 and 18 at First Presbyterian Church, 140 E. Orange St., Lancaster. For more information, visit www.lancastersymphony.org.

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Vulnerability on View: Open yourself up to ”C’mon C’mon”

November 30, 2021 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

Image courtesy of A24 Films

There are some films that make you want to talk, and then there are some films that make you want to be around people with whom you can talk.

That is the type of film that Mike Mills’ “C’mon C’mon” is—an introspective film about a man and his nephew that makes you want to connect, no matter what the connection is. With its black and white color scheme, moody glimpses of a typically showy Los Angeles, and a handful of characters who are just barely hanging on to a semblance of “fine,” the story takes you on a journey through the allure of introspection and vulnerability.

The story follows Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix), whose seemingly perfect gig is traveling around the country, interviewing children for a radio program. The questions are tough, and the answers, important—and insightful, convincing Johnny that these kids are just like adults, when you boil it all down. But Johnny has two problems. One, he is lonely. He keeps holing up in hotels on the way to the next batch of interviews, clearly grasping at something that he can’t quite get a hold of. And, two, which he takes much longer to realize—Johnny doesn’t really know his subject. He has never actually experienced day-to-day interaction with a kid (or “young person” as he keeps referring to them during initial recordings).

When Johnny’s sister, Viv (Gaby Hoffman) asks him to take care of her son, Jesse (Woody Norman) while she helps Jesse’s father (Scoot McNairy) get his mental health back on track, Johnny jumps at the opportunity. Maybe he thinks it will be a change of pace; maybe he wants the company. And he knows kids—this will be a piece of cake. But as the days stretch and Viv keeps extending Johnny’s responsibilities, Johnny finds that Jesse is a lot more complex than he originally thought.

This isn’t a “Mr. Mom” scenario by any means. Johnny doesn’t struggle to keep up with Jesse’s demands physically but emotionally. He doesn’t understand why he likes pretending so much, and some of Jesse’s reactions seem to come from left field. And he especially doesn’t understand why Jesse keeps digging at Johnny’s past, trying to understand him. This creates a very thoughtful and, at times, tense environment that is beautifully explored by Phoenix and Norman.

If the black and white color scheme and slow, brooding music don’t immediately provide an acknowledgement of Johnny’s headspace, Mills does an artful job of revealing his discomfort bit by bit through various conversations throughout the film. As Jesse reveals himself to Johnny, he also slowly pulls Johnny’s story out of him.

There are a couple of moments early on that seem forced and expository, but as the film continues, expect to get lost in the tenderness of Johnny and Jesse’s relationship. And this review would be amiss if it didn’t mention the wonderfully candid relationship that Phoenix and Hoffman present as brother and sister in a broken but loving family.

“C’mon C’mon” comes to Midtown Cinema this December. Don’t miss this beautiful exploration of vulnerability.

Midtown Cinema is located at 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.midtowncinema.com.

DECEMBER EVENTS AT MIDTOWN CINEMA

“Gremlins” (1984)

Friday, Dec. 3, 9:30 p.m.

“Scrooged!” (1988)

Sunday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.

Down in Front!
Comedy improv panel riffs on a Santa double feature

“Santa Claus” (1959)

Friday, Dec. 10, 8 p.m.

“Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” (1964)

Friday, Dec. 10, 9:30 p.m.

“Home Alone” (1990)

Sunday, Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m.

3rd in the Burg Movie Night

“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (1989)

Friday, Dec. 17, 9:30 p.m.

“The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992)

Saturday, Dec. 18, 11 a.m.

“White Christmas” (1954)

Sunday, Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m.

“It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946)

Wednesday, Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 24, 7:30 p.m.

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Happenings: Our December Calendar of Events

November 30, 2021 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

AACA Museum
161 Museum Dr., Hershey
717-566-7100; aacamuseum.org

“Cars & Christmas,” a special holiday exhibit with themed Christmas trees, automobiles, train displays, a Hess truck display, scavenger hunt and “Sammy The Snow Plow,” through January.

“Something Special” Coast to Coast, based on the book “Ford Model T Coast to Coast: A Slow Drive Across a Fast Country” by Tom Cotter, through April 22

Art Association of Harrisburg
21 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-236-1432; artassocofhbg.com

“Situated: Confronting Identity,” featuring art by Bridie Alvarez, Destiny Santana, Larissa Ramey and Lucy Giboyeaux, Dec. 3-Jan. 6; reception: Dec. 17, 5-8 p.m.

Shakespeare-themed art exhibit featuring Kim Stone, Carrie Wissler Thomas and Tina Reiley, Dec. 1-Feb. 28 at Capital Blue Cross and in conjunction with Gamut Theatre’s Classics Fest

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

“Art for the Holidays” annual market of unique handmade gifts for the holidays, through Dec. 29

“A Tradition of Realism,” a group display of Pennsylvania landscapes, Dec. 3-24

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

December Artist: Stella Tallamo

Dickinson College
The Trout Gallery
240 W. High St., Carlisle
717-254-8159; troutgallery.org

“Horace Pippin: Racism and War,” centering on Pippin’s “Mr. Prejudice,” representing the artist’s response to the discrimination of African American soldiers fighting in World War II, through Feb. 19

“Tracing Slavery: I—Moses Williams, Silhouettes,” cut-paper profiles by Williams with prints by contemporary artist Kara Walker, through Jan. 22

“Tracing Slavery: II—Kara Walker, Harper’s Pictorial History of the Civil War,” works highlighting the experience and identity of African Americans, past and present, through Jan. 22

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

Mid Penn Bank Art Show and Sale, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Hershey Public Library exhibit, through Dec. 11

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

“Color, Pattern, Function,” Lydia Gasper Ceramics, Dec. 10-Jan. 29; artist’s talk and reception: Jan. 14, 4:15 p.m.

The Millworks
340 Verbeke St.; Harrisburg
717-695-4888; millworksharrisburg.com

New works by Linda Benton McCloskey, Tami Bitner, Pat Frese, Judy Kelly, through Dec. 12

New works by Paul Gallo, PD Murray, Rebekah Adey, Mary Gelenser, and Paul Vasiliades, Dec. 15-Jan. 9

Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
1820 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-232-8915; pnfm.org

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

Perry County Council of the Arts
PCCA Gallery, 1 S. 2nd St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

“Artisan Marketplace” holiday exhibition, filled with unique handmade items and art for local gift giving, through Jan. 15

7th Annual Juried Exhibition, featuring outstanding artwork in a variety of media, created by local artists, through Jan. 29

Rose Lehrman Art Gallery
One HACC Drive, Harrisburg
717-780-2435; hacc.edu

Student Honors Photography, through Dec. 3; Zoom reception and award ceremony: Dec. 2, 5:30-7 p.m.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

“Art of the State,” an annual statewide juried competition, through Jan. 2

“Witness to History: Colonel Paul Evanko’s 9/11 Field Notes,” featuring the head of the PA State Police’s handwritten field notes from the morning of 9/11, through Jan. 2

“Why Not in Pennsylvania? Campaigning for Women’s Suffrage in the Keystone State,” through Jan. 2

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

“Four Seasons and Seven Vices—Old Master Prints in Series,” examining stories of seasons, elements, planets, virtues and vices in Renaissance and Baroque-era printmaking, through Jan. 23

“Tradition Interrupted,” exploring how artists weave contemporary ideas with traditional art and craft to create thought-provoking hybrid images and objects, through Jan. 23

“Someday This Pain Will Be Useful To You,” artwork by Irvin Rodriguez, through Feb. 20

Suzanne H. Arnold Art Gallery
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu/gallery

“A Contemplation of Scenery: The Vesell Family Collection” virtual exhibit, featuring 45 predominantly American landscape paintings from the 19th century, through Dec. 5

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

“Emerging Artists Showcase,” Dec. 3-Jan. 28; reception: Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m.

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; wildwoodlake.org

“Photography Contest Display,” showcasing more than 100 photographs taken at Wildwood Park, Dec. 14-Jan. 29

Read, Make, Learn

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

Dec. 4: Vintage Tin Earrings, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 4: Art Together, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 7: Beginner Level 1 Jewelry Making—Riveting & Texture, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14: Ceramic Jewelry, 6-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 10: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
Dec. 11: Eucalyptus Magic, 10-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 11: Easy, Playful Acrylic, 12-3 p.m.
Dec. 14-Jan. 18: Clay—Hand Building, Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 16: Make a Journal, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
717-737-5026; thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

Dec. 30: New Year’s Eve, 6-9 p.m.
Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve, 6-9 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Dec. 1: Toddler Storytime, 10 a.m.
Dec. 1: Spanish Language Conversation Group, 12 p.m.
Dec. 1: Discord Hangouts, 3 p.m.
Dec. 2: Anime Club, 4 p.m.
Dec. 2: Dungeons and Dragons, 7 p.m.
Dec. 3: Preschool Storytime, 10 a.m.
Dec. 3, 10, 17: Teen Dungeons and Dragons online, 4 p.m.
Dec. 3, 10, 17: Tween Dungeons and Dragons online, 4 p.m.
Dec. 4: Dance Me a Story in person and on Zoom, 10:30 a.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18: Teen Dungeons and Dragons online, 3 p.m.
Dec. 5: Crazy for Coloring, 2 p.m.
Dec. 7: Novel Thoughts Book Club, 6 p.m.
Dec. 8: Young Adult Book Club, 4 p.m.
Dec. 8: Learn about the James Webb Telescope, 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 11: Black Creek Games, 10 a.m.
Dec. 16: Book Discussion, 6 p.m.
Dec. 21: Novel Thoughts Book Club Too!, 1 p.m.

Elizabethtown Public Library
10 S. Market St., Elizabethtown
717-367-7467; etownpubliclibrary.org

Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23: Fiber Artists, 3 p.m.
Dec. 9, 23: Knitter’s Group, 5 p.m.
Dec. 11: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.
Dec. 18: Knitter’s Group, 10 a.m.
Dec. 21: Musik Time, 10:30 a.m.

Fort Hunter
5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-599-5751; forthunter.org

Dec. 11: Santa’s Reindeer and Virtual Mrs. Claus, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

Dec. 1: Moving Forward Book Group w/ Hospice of Central PA, 1-2 p.m.
Dec. 1: Grief and End-of-Life Care–A Hear Me Out Discussion, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Language at the Library—Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Resume Writing Workshop, 10:30-11:30 a.m., 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Dec. 3, 10: Peaceful Poses Children’s Yoga Story Time, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Get That Job! Workshop, 10:30-11:30 am., 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18: Teen Grab and Go Bag (ages 7-12), 1 p.m.
Dec. 6: STEM Grab & Go, 9 a.m.
Dec. 6: Keep it to Yourself—Controlling your Social Media, 3-4 p.m.
Dec. 6, 20: Zoom—Frederickson Writes on Zoom, 6:45 p.m.
Dec. 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29: Discovery Zone Fun, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 7: Curl up with the Classics—“Mrs. Dalloway,” 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 7: Cloud Storage Basics, 2-3 p.m.
Dec. 7: Managing Stress During Times of Change, 3-4 p.m.
Dec. 7: Teen Drop-In— Pokémon Terrarium, 5:30-7:15 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Career Exploration Workshop, 10:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m.
Dec. 10: Film Friday, 7 p.m.
Dec. 13: Philosophers’ Roundtable, 2-3:30 p.m.
Dec. 13: Twisted Stitchers, 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Comics Club, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 14: READ to Dogs, 6:30-8 p.m.
Dec. 14: Virtual Fredricksen Reads—“The Personal Librarian,” 7-8 p.m.
Dec. 16: Holiday Book Reading—“The Library Gingerbread Man,” 6-6:45 p.m.
Dec. 17: Family Movie Nights, 6:30-8 p.m.
Dec. 21: Tween Drop-In— Pokémon Terrarium, 5:30-7:15 p.m.
Dec. 23: Plot Twisters, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 28: Home-Based Business Roundtable, 6-7:30 p.m.

Harrisburg Young Professionals
hyp.org

Dec. 19: HYP Book Club, 2-4 p.m.

Hershey Public Library
701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-533-6555; hersheylibrary.org

Dec. 1: LEGO Club, 4 p.m.
Dec. 1: Hear Me Out—Grief and End-of-Life Care on Zoom, 5:30 p.m.
Dec. 1, 15: Card Making Class, 6 p.m.
Dec. 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 : Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies Together, 10 a.m.
Dec. 2, 16, 30: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14: Girls Who Code, 6 p.m.
Dec. 11: Evergreen Holiday Wreaths, 11 a.m.
Dec. 11: Fused Glass, 1 p.m.
Dec. 11, 18: Chess Club, 1 p.m.
Dec. 15: Evergreen Holiday Wreaths, 6 p.m.
Dec. 18: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.
Dec. 18: Mirrors, Windows and Sliding Glass Doors Family Book Group, 2 p.m.

Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0171; simpsonlibrary.org

Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14: Parents & Toddlers Together, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Tea and Stitches, 10 a.m.
Dec. 8: Mad About Mysteries on Zoom, 7-8 p.m.
Dec. 8: A Night At The Theatre, 7-9 p.m.
Dec. 13, 27: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 16: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10 a.m.
Dec. 20: Monday Night Book Club, 7-8 p.m.
Dec. 28: Tabletop Game Night, 6-8 p.m.

The LGBT Center of Central PA
1306 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-920-9534; centralpalgbtcenter.org

Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25 Passageways, 2 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Dec. 9: Aging with Pride Luncheon, 12 p.m.
Dec. 14, 28: Queers and Quests game night, 6 p.m.

Middletown Public Library
20 N. Catherine St., Middletown
717-944-6412; middletownpubliclib.org

Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Online Science Fiction Book Club
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Star Trek Rewatch online group
Nov. 4: Book Club, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Storytime and Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 20: Mystery Book Club (in person and online), 6-7 p.m.

Midtown Scholar Bookstore-Café
1302 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-236-1680; midtownscholar.com

Dec. 2: An Evening with Brené Brown, 8-9 p.m.

National Civil War Museum
One Lincoln Circle, Harrisburg
717-260-1861; nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Dec. 4: Sorting Through Rumors, Whispers and Rumblings about Mary Virginia “Jennie” Wade, 1-2 p.m.

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Dec. 4: Wreath Making, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., 1:30-3:30 p.m.

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

Dec. 2: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 4: Quill a Hanging Ornament, 2-3 p.m.
Dec. 4, 18: December Book Sales, 9 a.m-3 p.m.
Dec. 6: The Night Library on Zoom (ages 5-8), 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Dec. 6, 20: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 11: Write-On Writer’s Workshop, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 12: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 14: Book Review Program & Holly Luncheon, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 16: Jan Brett’s “The Hat” on Zoom (ages 4-7), 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Dec. 18: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 18: Children’s Book Writers Critique Group, 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 22: PennWriters Writing Group, 6-9 p.m.

Palmyra Public Library
50 Landings Dr., Annville
717-838-1347; palmyra.lclibs.org

Dec. 1, 8, 15: Smart Start Storytime, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Dec. 13: Palmyra Public Library Book Discussion, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

Dec. 1: Explore! Pennsylvania Owls, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23: Curiosity Kids, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 3, 18: StoryTime, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 3: Virtual Artists Conversations—A Sense of Place with Lauren Whearty and Kelly Kautz from Art of the State 2021, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Dec. 8: Explore! Art in Nature, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 10: Virtual Adventures in Nature Lab—PA Owls, 12:15-12:45 p.m.
Dec. 15: Explore! Weaving, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 22: Explore! Winter, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 29: Explore! New Year’s Traditions, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

Dec. 15: Life Drawing Class, 6-9 p.m.

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; wildwoodlake.org

Dec. 5, 12: Natural Ornaments, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dec. 9: Owl Prowl at Detweiler Park, 5:30-7 p.m.
Dec. 11: Winter Discovery, 10 a.m.
Dec. 16: Reindeer Workshop, 6-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 18: Winter Tree ID, 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 19: Reindeer Workshop, 2-3:30 p.m.
Dec. 28-30: Winter Wonders Camp (ages 7-10), 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 28-30: Winter Wonders Camp (ages 4-6), 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Winters Heritage House Museum
41-47 E. High St., Elizabethtown
717-367-4672; elizabethtownhistory.org

Dec. 4: Needle Felting Class, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Live Music

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Dec. 3: Jazz in the City
Dec. 17: Leo Kottke and Mike Gordon
Dec. 17: April Verch and Joe Newberry
Dec. 18: A Family Holiday Celebration
Dec. 18: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Wild and Swingin’ Holiday Party

Arts on the Square
Market Square Presbyterian Church
20 S. Second St., Harrisburg
717-257-1270; marketsquarechurch.org

Dec. 12: Carols by Candlelight

Boneshire Brew Works
7462 Derry St., Harrisburg
717-469-5007; boneshire.com

Dec. 2: Dave Gates

Carlisle Theatre
44 West High St., Carlisle
717-258-0666; carlisletheatre.org

Dec. 4: The British Invasion Years
Dec. 11: The Wizards of Winter

Central PA Friends of Jazz
www.friendsofjazz.org

Dec. 11: Ted Rosenthal

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Dec. 13, 17: Holiday Music at the Library

Dickinson College Department of Music

Rubendall Recital Hall, Weiss Center for the Arts

240 W. High St., Carlisle

717-245-1568; dickinson.edu/music

Dec. 2: Chamber Music Concert w/student chamber ensembles
Dec. 3: Choir Concert w/Dickinson College Choir and the Dickinson Improvisation and Collaboration Ensemble
Dec. 8: “Concert Competition” w/Dickinson performance studies students

Elizabethtown College
1 Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown
717-361-1212; www.etown.edu

Dec. 5: Songs of the Season Choral Concert

The Englewood
1219 Research Blvd. Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Dec. 1, 15, 22, 29: Wednesday Jazz Series
Dec. 2: The Bad Toupees + The Neighborly
Dec. 3: The Eric Mintel Quartet tribute to “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Dec. 4: Cold Spring Union and Holly Serio at the Alt-Country Christmas
Dec. 8: Harrisburg Jazz Collective
Dec. 9, 16, 23: DJ Caraby
Dec. 10: The Fleshtones with The Cynz
Dec. 11: MauveStröm
Dec. 15 Wednesday Jazz Series
Dec. 17: Honky-Tonk Holiday Show
Dec. 18: Start Making Sense Talking Heads Tribute Band

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

Dec. 13: Holiday Harp and Handbells

H*MAC
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Dec. 2: Grayscale
Dec. 8: Neverwake and Guests
Dec. 9: Riff Raff
Dec. 10: Bear Grillz
Dec. 11: Eternal Frequency, Magical Mystery Doors
Dec. 17: The Stonewall Vessels, Medusa’s Disco
Dec. 18: The Menzingers
Dec. 19: Verivery

Harrisburg Gay Men’s Chorus
harrisburggaymenschorus.org

Dec. 18-19: Winter Concerts at Whitaker Center

Harrisburg University Presents
www.concertseries.harrisburgu.edu

Dec. 1: CAAMP at XL Live
Dec. 4: The Hooters at XL Live
Dec. 9: The Glorious Songs at XL Live
Dec. 10: Misterwives at XL Live

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Dec. 2: Manheim Steamroller
Dec. 4: Straight No Chaser

Keystone Concert Band
145 E. Main St., First Floor, Mechanicsburg
717-421-1512; keystoneconcertband.com

Dec. 11: Christmas Concert at All Saints Church

Keystone Theatrics
The Playhouse at Allenberry
1559 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs
717-258-3211; www.keystonetheatrics.com

Dec. 3-19: “Elf the Musical”

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Dec. 3: Symphony Orchestra Concert

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Dec. 5: Messiah University Christmas Concert
Dec. 7: Messiah University Musica Nov Concert
Dec. 8: Christmas with Tim Zimmerman and the King’s Brass
Dec. 11: Messiah University Guitar Ensemble

Open Stage of Harrisburg
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Dec. 3-18: A Very Court Street Cabaret Christmas
Dec. 8-23: Figgy Pudding

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. Third St., Harrisburg
717-238-9304; pinestreet.org

Dec. 5: A Festival of Lessons and Carols

Susquehanna Chorale
One College Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-533-7859; susquehannachorale.org

Dec. 17: Candlelight Christmas at Messiah University
Dec. 18: Candlelight Christmas at Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren
Dec. 19: Candlelight Christmas at Market Square Presbyterian Church

Susquehanna Folk Music Society
717-745-6577; sfmsfolk.org

Dec. 2: Lúnasa
Dec. 6: Caroline Keane and Tom Delaney Hit Rewind virtual concert
Dec. 12: Tanner Bingaman virtual show
Dec. 17: April Verch and Joe Newberry at Appell Center for the Performing Arts

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

Dec. 11: Champian Fulton Trio
Dec. 15: Irish Christmas in America

Whitaker Center
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

Dec. 2-4: Get the Led Out
Dec. 18-19: Winter Concerts with Harrisburg Gay Men’s Chorus

XL Live
801 S. 10th St., Harrisburg
717-409-8975; xlhbg.com

Dec. 1: CAAMP
Dec. 3: Smooth Like Clyde
Dec. 4: The Hooters
Dec. 8: Low Cut Connie
Dec. 9: The Glorious Sons
Dec. 10: Misterwives
Dec. 11: The Amish Outlaws
Dec. 15: Weekend Wednesday
Dec. 17: Back in Black—The True ACDC Experience
Dec. 18: Ben Gallaher
Dec. 29: Tauk

Zeroday Brewing Co.
925 N. 3rd St, Harrisburg
717-745-6218; zerodaybrewing.com

Dec. 3: Kevin Koa
Dec. 17: Natalie Ness

The Stage Door

American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster
717-397-7700; amtshows.com

Dec. 1-30: “The 2021 AMT Christmas Show—Winter Wonderland”

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Dec. 3: Paula Poundstone
Dec. 10: Mike Head, John Burton, Jonathan Desmarais
Dec. 12: “The Nutcracker Ballet” with Greater York Dance

The Belmont Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-3894; thebelmont.org

Dec. 10-12: “A Swingin’ Holiday Spectacular”

Dickinson College Department of Theatre & Dance
Mathers Theatre, Holland Union Building

28 N. College St., Carlisle

717-245-1239; dickinson.edu/theatreanddance

Dec. 3-5: “Freshman Plays,” one-act plays presented by Dickinson theater students.

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster
717-898-1900; DutchApple.com

Dec. 1-23: “Miracle on 34th Street”

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

Dec. 29: “SHAZOOM! Interactive Magic Show “

Gamut Theatre Group
15 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-238-4111; gamuttheatre.org

Dec. 31: TMI Improv—Last Laughs of 2021
Dec. 31: Countdown to Noon with Popcorn Hat Players at Whitaker Center

H*MAC
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Dec 3-19: “Kill Keller” with Narçisse Theatre Company

Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center
1000 S. Eisenhower Blvd, Middletown
717-939-9333; thehcpac.org

Dec. 3-5: “Newsies The Broadway Musical”

Harrisburg Comedy Zone
110 Limekiln Rd., New Cumberland
717-920-5653; harrisburgcomedyzone.com

Dec. 3, 4: Jay Nog and Mike Keegan
Dec. 10, 11: Mike Speenberg and Keith Dee
Dec. 17, 18: J Bliss

Hershey Area Playhouse
830 Cherry Dr., Hershey
717-533-8525; hersheyareaplayhouse.com

Dec. 2-12: “A Gift to Remember”

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Dec. 1: “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer The Musical”
Dec. 7: Cirque Dreams Holidaze
Dec. 18-19: “The Nutcracker” with Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet
Dec. 28-Jan. 2: “The Prom”

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmpa.com

Dec. 2-12: “A Little Women Christmas”

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Dec. 9-19: “A Christmas Carol” with Totem Pole Playhouse

Narçisse Theatre Company
[email protected]; www.narcissetheatre.org

Dec 3-19: “Kill Keller” at H*MAC

Open Stage
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Dec. 2-22: “Who’s Holiday!”
Dec. 4-19: “A Christmas Carol”
Dec. 5: “The Obstructed View—Drag the Halls! Brunch”

Zeroday Brewing Co.
925 N. 3rd St, Harrisburg
717-745-6218; zerodaybrewing.com

Dec. 16: Boozy Bingo with Felicia O’Toole

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It’s a SAD Time of Year: Shedding a little light on Seasonal Affective Disorder

November 30, 2021 | by Karen Hendricks

Elysa Springer of Harrisburg says she turns into Eeyore every winter.

Winnie-the-Pooh’s friend—a gloomy gray donkey—epitomizes how she feels, as the amount of daylight grows shorter and shorter. The winter solstice on Dec. 21 marks the shortest amount of daylight, or longest night of the year.

“It starts around the middle of October—I notice I have a lot less motivation,” said Springer. “When it’s not light out till 7 a.m., it’s all downhill for me. It’s depressing to go to work when it’s dark and to leave work when it’s dark.”

Seeing the Light

Light seems to be a key factor—for Springer and many others.

But one silver lining of the pandemic, for Springer, is that she’s worked from home since March 2020. In her home office, “things are better,” because she has “an actual window.”

Pre-pandemic, as director of systems and data management for the commonwealth’s Office of Children, Youth and Families, Springer worked in a state office building “with glass blocks in the windows” where sunlight didn’t stream in.

“I don’t see how it doesn’t affect everyone,” Springer said. “I think everybody’s affected [by the change in season].”

Whether it’s less sunlight or freezing cold temperatures, a lot of people just plain hate winter, amirite?

“I’m one of those people,” said Dr. Melissa Brown, a licensed psychologist who practices in Harrisburg with UPMC in Central Pa. She was half-laughing, but half-serious, too.

“People blame winter, but it really brings a set of symptoms,” Brown said, that generally bring people down.

When is it SAD?

While many people feel—like Springer—a drop in energy, motivation and mood during the winter, it can actually be a much more serious condition for others. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression, diagnosed by either a primary care physician or a psychologist like Brown.

SAD symptoms include feelings of depression, lethargy, malaise, oversleeping or restless sleep, lack of concentration, decreased interest in activities, substantial weight gain or weight loss, and a craving for unhealthy foods.

“People [with SAD] feel like they want to go into hibernation mode because SAD is a type of depression triggered by a reduction in the brain chemical serotonin,” Brown said.

And why does serotonin drop? It’s regulated by our exposure to light. So, just like bears heading into hibernation, when our serotonin drops, our brains tell us to hunker down.

There are three medical treatments for people diagnosed with SAD, Brown said. Therapy with a psychologist can help people develop strategies to cope, antidepressants can stabilize symptoms and mood, and then there’s something called light therapy.

Light Bulb Moment

Light therapy is used not only for people formally diagnosed with SAD, but it’s also gone somewhat mainstream. Just do a quick search on Amazon, and you’ll find a wide variety of light boxes available, many with “happy light” or “happy mood” in the description.

So how does it work?

“It’s artificial light with a specific output of lumens that helps recalibrate our brain chemicals, which we know impacts our mood,” Brown said. “It helps calibrate our circadian rhythms, synching with our light and wake cycles. If you think about hibernation, the lack of sunlight sends a message to your brain that you should be sleeping and not moving and grooving.”

Although she’s never been diagnosed with SAD, Springer has seen the light, so to speak. She researched the options several years ago and finally settled on a $50 light (some are much more, others are even less). It sits on her desk, and she switches it on daily, from October through April.

“I didn’t notice a difference instantaneously, but I was definitely a little less down in the dumps,” Springer said. “I wouldn’t say it’s a magic light, but it definitely helps.”

Hers looks similar to a halo light—a pandemic panic purchase by many people trying to improve their Zoom appearances. So, if nothing else, Springer notes with a laugh that it also improves her look on Zoom.

Brown agrees that light boxes could be helpful for people like Springer “who just need a little help” getting through winter. Generally, people use light therapy for about 20 to 30 minutes once or twice a day.

“I think most people can attest to that great feeling of warmth that the sun provides for us,” Brown said. “Just the comfort those light boxes could bring people who especially are teetering, as a preventative measure, is something I would recommend.”

Mood Menders

As a blueprint for avoiding the winter blues, among people not formally diagnosed with SAD, Brown recommends healthy self-care, including a good diet of vitamin-rich foods, regular exercise, staying connected socially, and getting outside daily despite cold winter temperatures.

“Sometimes, we see connections between a reduction in Vitamin D levels partly because we naturally absorb Vitamin D from the sun, and that reduction impacts our mood as well,” Brown said. “I tell people to go outside every day for 15 minutes—it kind of charges us up.”

She notes that SAD cases increase the further you move away from the equator. So hey, look on the bright side. Compared to Alaskans, we Pennsylvanians might not have it so bad. And there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. By the end of the month, on Dec. 31, there are only 79 days till the first day of spring.

Dr. Melissa Brown practices at UPMC in Central PA’s PinnacleHealth Psychological Associates, 205 S. Front St., Harrisburg, 717-231-8360.

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Community Corner: Notable Events in December

November 30, 2021 | by Missy Smith

Farmers’ Course

Dec. 1, 8, 15: Business owners, agricultural producers and entrepreneurs are invited to Farm Sense Farm Financial and Production Management at Penn State Extension Cumberland County, 310 Allen Rd. #601, Carlisle, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees will receive hands-on business training from agriculture business educators. www.extension.psu.edu

Cars & Christmas Celebration

Dec. 1–Jan.: The galleries of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum, 161 Museum Dr., Hershey, will transform into wintery wonderlands with Christmas trees and special themed exhibits for the holiday season, including a snowmobile display, sleds and sleighs and “Sammy The Snow Plow.” www.aacamuseum.org

Chocolate Lab

Dec. 1-Jan. 2: The Hershey Story Museum, 63 W. Chocolate Ave., is hosting holiday-themed Chocolate Lab classes on the weekends like “Candy Cane Bark,” “Chocolate Reindeer,” “Marshmallow Mischief” and more. Guests can enjoy a 45-minute class to learn about chocolate and make their own chocolate treat. www.hersheystory.org

Festival of Ice

Dec. 2-3: Kick off the holiday season with a visit to downtown Lewistown for a viewing of ice sculptures and carvings, a parade, a live nativity, performances and music, food and kids’ activities, 6 to 9 p.m. www.jrvvisitors.com

Christmas Spirit
Dec. 2-Jan. 1: Experience the Christmas Spirit Light Show at Clipper Magazine Stadium, 650 N. Prince St., Lancaster, for a festive drive-through light show, with hundreds of thousands of color changing lights, synchronized to Christmas music. www.ChristmasSpiritLights.com

Elegant Progressions
Dec. 3-4: Historic Harrisburg Association and Kidney Foundation of Central PA host the 30th annual “Elegant Progressions” black-tie progressive dinner. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and aperitifs, a formal dinner and dessert at decorated mansions in Harrisburg. www.elegantprogressions.org

Light Show

Dec. 3-Jan. 1: Walk through thousands of lights lit in festive shapes and designs, and enjoy horse carriage rides, food, and more, at Kish Park, 1 Derry Park Dr., Lewistown.www.kishparkshininglight.org

HBG Flea
Dec. 4: Shop the HBG Flea for local art, vintage treasures, curated curios and unique holiday gifts, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Strawberry Square, Harrisburg. www.hbgflea.com

Kiwanis Parade

Dec. 4: The Lewistown Kiwanis Club’s annual Christmas parade steps off at 1 p.m. with floats, bands, Scout troops, firetrucks and Santa. This year’s theme is “Ugly Christmas Sweater.” www.facebook.com/lewistown.kiwanis

Snowball Saturdays

Dec. 4, 11, 18: Take the family to The Hershey Story Museum, 63 W. Chocolate Ave., for free Snowball Saturdays with indoor snowball fights, a visit with a snowman and to enjoy stories about wintertime fun, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. www.hersheystory.org

Festival of Trees
Dec. 4-19: View Christmas trees decorated with handmade ornaments and trimmed by local garden clubs at the Fort Hunter Tavern House, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, on Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Trees will be up for raffle, and a selection of ornaments will be available for purchase. www.forthunter.org

Fort Couture
Dec. 4-19: View Christmas tree dresses created by Fort Hunter friends and neighbors on Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., at Fort Hunter Mansion & Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg. Enjoy imaginative displays with unique dress forms adorned in Christmas decorations. www.forthunter.org

Toy Train Exhibit
Dec. 4-19: Keystone Model Railroad Historical Society returns to Fort Hunter Centennial Barn, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, with a display of HO gauge trains that travel over a large layout representing central PA communities, Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. www.forthunter.org

Little Elves

Dec. 4-31: Kids are invited to The Hershey Story Museum, 63 W. Chocolate Ave, to journey through “Little Elves Workshop” using chocolate clay, icing and ribbon to fashion an ornament, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children can try out vintage toys, and the whole family can pose in front of a snowy Hershey scene for a holiday photo. www.hersheystory.org

Victorian Tea

Dec. 5: Enjoy a Victorian tea in hybrid fashion at Fort Hunter Mansion, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 12 to 4 p.m. Tour the historic mansion in person to enjoy holiday décor by the Civic Committee of the Harrisburg Garden Club and view a clear toy candy demonstration. Pick up pre-purchased tea packages to enjoy at home. www.forthunter.org

Natural Ornaments
Dec. 5, 12: Create holiday ornaments with pinecones, milkweed pods and other natural materials at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg. All supplies will be included. Cost is $5 and pre-registration is required. www.wildwoodlake.org

Deck the Halls
Dec. 9: Dauphin County Historical Society will host its 26th annual gala at the Harris-Cameron Mansion, 219 S. Front St., Harrisburg, 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy food, desserts, craft wines and beer, live music, holiday décor and a silent auction and raffle. www.dauphincountyhistory.org

Foreign Film
Dec. 10: Join Fredricksen Library, 100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill, for “Koyla,” from the Czech Republic, recounting a love story between guardian and child that is universal in its storytelling. Showings are at 2 and 7 p.m. www.fredricksenlibrary.org

Christkindlmarkt
Dec. 11: Get in the holiday spirit at the Lower Paxton Christkindlmarkt and outdoor street festival with more than 75 craft vendors, craft activities, German and festival food, a living nativity, pictures with Santa, live music and a holiday sing-a-long, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.facebook.com/LPChristkindlmarkt

Christmas Fest
Dec. 11-12: Bethesda Mission hosts “Christmas at Italian Lake,” 3rd and Division streets, Harrisburg, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy photos with Santa, sleigh rides, caroling by local choirs, food truck foods and a holiday market. A tree lighting ceremony will be held on Dec. 11 at 5 p.m. All proceeds benefit Bethesda Mission. www.bethesdamission.org

Winter Discovery
Dec. 11-Jan. 30: Visit the Olewine Nature Center at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, where special exhibits will highlight some of Wildwood’s animals in winter, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.wildwoodlake.org

Carols by Candlelight

Dec. 12: Arts on the Square presents a free Christmas concert at Market Square Presbyterian Church, 20 S. 2nd St., Harrisburg, at 4 p.m. Enjoy J.S. Bach’s “Magnificat in D” and Randol Bass’ “Gloria” with the Sanctuary Choir, Harrisburg Camerata, organ, orchestra, brass and percussion. Enjoy carol singing and candle lighting. www.marketsquarechurch.org

Kids Cocoa Club

Dec. 15-Jan. 15: Curl up with a good book at New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza. Grab the library’s packet and fill your hot cocoa cup with “marshmallows” (winter reading challenges). Update a reading log to earn a completion badge and prize. Grab your hot chocolate reward at the library before Jan. 31. www.newcumberlandlibrary.org

Reindeer Craft
Dec. 16: Make your own wooden reindeer at Wildwood Park, 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, with Friends of Wildwood vice president and craftsman Jim Caufield. All supplies to make two small reindeer will be provided, with your choice of decorations from nature. www.wildwoodlake.org

3rd in The Burg
Dec. 17: Enjoy the best of Harrisburg during 3rd in the Burg, the monthly arts and culture event at galleries, restaurants and art spaces throughout downtown and Midtown, 6 to 9 p.m. www.thirdintheburg.org

Candlelight Concerts
Dec. 17-19: Susquehanna Chorale presents its annual evening Candlelight Christmas concert series. Tickets are $22 in advance, $27 at the door and $5 for students. www.susquehannachorale.org

Holiday Concerts
Dec. 18, 19: Whitaker Center, 222 Market St., Harrisburg, will host the Harrisburg Gay Men’s Chorus holiday concerts. www.harrisburggaymenschorus.org

Mural Tour
Dec. 19: Pine Street Walkers take a tour of downtown Harrisburg’s outdoor murals, accompanied by Christmas caroling. The free event begins at 1 p.m. at N. 3rd and Pine streets, Harrisburg.

Radio Theater

Dec. 19-20: Radio theater comedy troupe, The Not Ready For Drive Time Players, presents “Winter Radio Theater 2021” at Center Street Grille, 4 Center St., Enola, 7 p.m. Actors will read from scripts like old-fashioned radio theater performers, with a modern spin. Admission is $5. [email protected]

Curiosity Kids
Dec. 23: Young visitors in grades K-2 and families are invited to “Curiosity Kids” at the State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North St., Harrisburg, 11:30 a.m. Kids can discover holiday traditions, decorations and toys of the 1950s and 1960s, and create their own glittery ornament. www.statemuseumpa.org

Kids’ New Year
Dec. 31: Children can count down to noon at the Popcorn Hat Players’ 29th annual New Year’s Eve party with a balloon drop, noisemakers, party hats, Hawaiian lei and a performance of “Thumbelina,” starting at 11 a.m. at Whitaker Center, 222 Market St., Harrisburg. Reservations are recommended. www.gamuttheatre.org

Countdown
Dec. 31: Families are invited to celebrate New Year’s Eve at The Hershey Story, 63 W. Chocolate Ave., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can get in the party spirit making noise stomping on bubble wrap and take part in fun activities. www.hersheystory.org

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