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Ramps

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Ramp dinners and festivals are popular in April

Events for April 2015

• Eleanor Roosevelt, History Alive!

  April 01, 2015 — Inwood, Berkeley WVHC Event

  Eleanor Roosevelt, History Alive!, 1PM April 1 at Musselman-South Berkeley Community Library, Inwood.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Stonewall Jackson, History Alive!

  April 02, 2015 — Keyser, Mineral WVHC Event

  Stonewall Jackson, History Alive!, 1:45PM April 2 at Keyser Middle School.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• The Great Gatsby at the Clay Center

  April 02, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Montana Repertory Theatre in THE GREAT GATSBY

  Thursday, April 2, 7:30 pm

  Tickets: $35, $25, $15

  F. Scott Fitzgerald’s world-renowned story of the Roaring Twenties comes to life on stage. Experience the fervor of Jay Gatsby’s energy – tempered only by the charms of Daisy Buchanan – and the disarming humility of the naive Nick Carraway as they navigate the temptations promised by the American Dream.

  http://www.theclaycenter.org/performances/spring-15.aspx
• Passover and Good Friday

  April 03, 2015

  Passover begins, Good Friday
• Full moon

  April 04, 2015

  Full moon
• Total Lunar Eclipse

  April 04, 2015

  A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes completely through the Earth’s dark shadow, or umbra. During this type of eclipse, the Moon will gradually get darker and then take on a rusty or blood red color. The eclipse will be visible throughout most of North America, South America, eastern Asia, and Australia.
• Sunday@Two - Bare Bone

  April 05, 2015 — Beckley, Raleigh

  Sunday@Two – Bare Bones

  Apr 05, 2015 2:00 pm at Tamarack

  Bare Bones have sent chills up and down spines all around the world with their Appalachian acappella harmonies via NPR’s Mountain Stage, and live, in person, on many concert stages from the Augusta Heritage Center in Elkins, West Virginia to the Big Muddy Festival in Boonville, Missouri.

  Tamarack offers a FREE concert every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. From Bluegrass to Blues, Tamarack has live performances for the whole family to enjoy. There is no admission fee for any Sunday@Two (2:00 p.m.) performance.

  http://www.tamarackwv.com/whats-happening/events.html
• Easter

  April 05, 2015

  Easter Sunday
• West Virginians and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln: Sesquicentennial Speakers Bureau

  April 07, 2015 — Keyser, Mineral WVHC Event

  West Virginians and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln, Speakers Bureau with Michael Woods, 7 PM April 7 at Potomac State College, Keyser

  Sesquicentennial Speakers Bureau is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Citizen Cope at the Clay Center

  April 08, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  An intimate solo / acoustic performance by CITIZEN COPE

  Wednesday, April 8, 7:30 pm

  Tickets: $45, $35, $30, $25

  This fiercely independent, self-produced artist pens songs that open the heart and speak for the soul. Listen to poignant lyrics and passionate guitar strumming in carefully crafted music that tells of a life lived fully. No holding back – see this expressive “Sideways” musician bare all on stage.

  http://www.theclaycenter.org/performances/spring-15.aspx
• Jackson County Quilt Show

  April 10, 2015 to April 11, 2015 — Ripley, Jackson

  The 39th annual show sponsored by the Jackson County CEOS will be from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on April 10 and from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on April 11 at Epworth United Methodist Church, 299 N. Church Street in Ripley. A variety of quilts will be for sale. Demonstrations are planned both days. This year’s theme is Star Quilts. Admission is $2. Call the Jackson County Extension Office at 304-372-8199 for information.
• Art Careers: Be Your Own Boss

  April 10, 2015 — Huntington, Cabell

  Be Your Own Boss (mini-conference)

  Friday, April 10, 2015 | 9 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

  Marshall University Visual Arts Center

  Free & Open to all interested artists!

  Join us for Art Careers: Be Your Own Boss for an inside look at entrepreneurship in the arts. Gail Patton with Unlimited Future, Inc., along with others, will discuss resources, then moderate a panel discussion by local artists/business owners. During online registration (marshall.edu/art/careers), participants can sign up for one-on-one mentoring, which will take place immediately following the panel discussion. Meet and greet begins at 8:30 a.m.

  Free, but you must register in advance

  For more information, please contact 304-696-7299.
• Artisan Demonstrations - Wild Mountain Soaps

  April 10, 2015 to April 12, 2015 — Beckley, Raleigh

  Artisan Demonstrations – Wild Mountain Soaps

  10am to 6pm April 10-12 at Tamarack

  Our artisans come to demonstrate how they make their products for Tamarack. Take a few minutes to watch them work. They will be happy to talk with you and answer questions.

  http://www.tamarackwv.com/whats-happening/events.html
• Lewisburg Chocolate Festival

  April 11, 2015 — Lewisburg, Greenbrier

  This Festival includes an exciting schedule of chocolate themed events from 11 am-3 pm April 11, including musical performances, dinners, tastings, chef demonstrations and fun for all ages. This is an event you will not want to miss.

  http://www.lewisburgchocolatefestival.com/
• Sacagawea, History Alive!

  April 11, 2015 — Ronceverte, Greenbrier WVHC Event

  Sacagawea, History Alive!, 2PM April 11 at Ronceverte Baptist Church

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Passover ends

  April 11, 2015

  Passover ends
• FOOTMAD Concert Series: Henhouse Prowlers

  April 11, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Winners of the 2010 RockyGrass Band Competition and the 2010 Chicago Music Award.

  The Prowlers continue to push the envelope with their highly original songwriting, tight arrangements, and electrifying stage presence. With the bluegrass mantle on their shoulders and the best fans in the world by their side, The Henhouse Prowlers are here to stay for a long, long time.

  Bluegrass and Americana performers, the Henouse Prowlers are Award winning, hard-driving, Chicago bluegrass.

  11 April 2015 at the Woman’s Club of Charleston, 1600 Virginia St East

  http://footmad-concertseries.weebly.com/2014-2015-season.html
• Women and Civil War Commemoration: Sesquicentennial Speakers Bureau

  April 12, 2015 — Union, Monroe WVHC Event

  Women and Civil War Commemoration with Katharine Antolini, 2PM April 12 at Ames Claire Hall in Union.

  Sesquicentennial Speakers Bureau is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Julia Child, History Alive!

  April 12, 2015 — Berkeley Springs, Morgan WVHC Event

  Julia Child, History Alive!, 2PM April 12 at the Ice House in Berkeley Springs.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Sunday@Two - Bowed Psaltery Symphony

  April 12, 2015 — Beckley, Raleigh

  Sunday@Two – Bowed Psaltery Symphony

  2:00PM April 12 at Tamarack

  6th Annual Bowed Psaltery Symphony

  Tamarack offers a FREE concert every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. From Bluegrass to Blues, Tamarack has live performances for the whole family to enjoy. There is no admission fee for any Sunday@Two (2:00 p.m.) performance.

  http://www.tamarackwv.com/whats-happening/events.html
• Montclaire String Quartet: Tic-Tac-Toe

  April 12, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Tic-Tac-Toe @ University of Charleston, Erma Byrd Gallery

  Apr 12 @ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

  http://wvsymphony.org/concerts-tickets/montclaire-string-quartet/
• Davis & Elkins Artist-in-Residence Monthly Concert

  April 12, 2015 — Elkins, Randolph

  Davis & Elkins College Artist-in-Residence Jack Gibbons will share his love for the works of four great composers with a free monthly concert series, January through April. “Music with Stories: What Makes a Great Composer?” will be presented at 2 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month in Robbins Memorial Chapel on the College campus.

  On the bill are Beethoven: "An Utterly Untamed Personality,” Sunday, January 11; Mozart: “Viva, Viva Grande Mozart,” Sunday, February 8; Chopin: “Transcending the Limits of Propriety,” Sunday, March 8; and Liszt: “Lisztomania- A Veritable Insanity,” Sunday, April 12. The one-hour concerts are open to the public. For additional information, call the D&E Box Office at 304-637-1255.

  More information
• The Story of the Celts

  April 12, 2015 to April 17, 2015 — Cedar Lakes Conference Center, Jackson

  Dr. Mick Moloney, a native a Limerick, Ireland, will lead the week-long workshop about the epic journey of the Celts. The New York University professor will trace his own journey in a presentation illustrated by visual images, videos and live performances. Cedar Lakes offers a year-round program of craft workshops. Contact Gloria Gregorich in the Craft House at 304-372-7860 for information. www.cedarlakes.com
• Bluefield State College Fulbright Scholar lecture series

  April 15, 2015 — Bluefield, Mercer WVHC Event

  The Bluefield State College Fulbright Scholar lecture series continues April 15 at 2 p.m. at Bluefield State College with a lecture by Dr. Can Kultur an entrepreneur and owner of a software company in Turkey. Another Fulbright lecture will take place on April 21 at 2 p.m. at Bluefield State College with Dr. Vlodomyr Dankiv of the Ukraine; he is responsible for setting up e-banking in England. The 2015 spring lecture series wraps up on April 28 at 9 a.m. at Bluefield Sate College with a lecture by Professor Heri Purwanto, a gamelan music scholar. For more information contact Sudhakar Jamkhandi at sjamkhandi@bluefieldstate.edu.

  This project is funded in part by a West Virginia Humanities Council grant.
• Downtown Charleston ArtWalk

  April 16, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Now in its 13th year, Downtown Charleston ArtWalk is a free self-guided walking tour of Charleston’s shops, galleries and businesses featuring regional art and performances. Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling.

  Participating shops are located along Quarrier, Capitol and Lee streets in Downtown Charleston and feature a variety of art – from paintings and sculptures to photography and music. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new.

  The 2015 schedule:

  • March 19
  • April 16
  • May 21
  • June 25 (FestivALL)
  • July 16
  • August 20
  • September 17
  • October 15
  • Nov. 27 (Black Friday)
  • December 17

  For more information: http://www.artwalkcwv.com/
• Theodore Roosevelt, History Alive!

  April 16, 2015 — White Sulphur Springs, Greenbrier WVHC Event

  Theodore Roosevelt, History Alive!, 7PM April 16 at White Sulphur Springs Public Library.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Benjamin Franklin, History Alive!

  April 16, 2015 — Clarksburg, Harrison WVHC Event

  Benjamin Franklin, History Alive!, 7PM April 16 at Friedlander’s Hall in Clarksburg.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Archives and History Thursday Lecture: Construction of the National Road

  April 16, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  On Thursday, April 16, 2015, Dr. Billy Joe Peyton will present “Making the Crooked Ways Straight and the Rough Ways Smooth: Engineering and Construction of the National Road” in the Archives and History Library of the Culture Center in Charleston. The program will begin at 6:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

  Planning for the Cumberland Road, or National Road, began in 1806, with construction carried out by the federal government from Cumberland, Maryland, to Wheeling, (West) Virginia, between 1811 and 1821. Featuring a modern, paved surface and state-of-the-art bridges and culverts, it was the nation’s first interstate highway and an immensely popular route that transformed Wheeling into a “Gateway to the West.” Peyton will discuss engineering and construction of the National Road and the prominent role it played in the nation’s early growth and development.

  Billy Joe Peyton received his B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. in history from West Virginia University. His 30-year public history career began in the 1980s at Prickett’s Fort State Park, West Virginia Public Broadcasting, the National Park Service, and Kaymoor Coal Mine site. Peyton later worked as associate director of the Institute for the History of Technology & Industrial Archaeology at WVU, cultural resource specialist at an historical architecture firm, and high school history teacher. He is currently Professor of History in the College of Business & Social Sciences at West Virginia State University and co-director of the Glenwood Center for Scholarship in the Humanities.

  Peyton’s publication credits include entries in the West Virginia Encyclopedia (print and online versions), a chapter in The National Road: The Road & American Culture (1996), and two local history works titled Charleston Then and Now (2009) and Charleston: The First 225 Years (2013). He has also worked as writer and historian on several documentary films, including Ghosts of Green Bottom, Red Salt & Reynolds, and The Midland Trail, and may be seen in The 50 States series on the History Channel.

  Billy Joe Peyton lives with his wife, Christine, their two children, and a pair of unruly hounds in a 100-year-old home in Charleston’s East End Historic District.

  For additional information, contact the Archives and History Library at (304) 558-0230.
• Amicus Curiae Lecture Series on Constitutional Democracy

  April 16, 2015 — Huntington, Cabell WVHC Event

  Thursday, April 16: Lucas Morel, Professor of Ethics and Politics and Chair of Politics Department, Washington & Lee University

  War and Remembrance in Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address

  This year marks the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address. Known most famously for its closing exhortation, “With malice toward none, with charity for all,” the bulk of his 700-word speech was devoted not to the president’s plans for the future but to a recollection of the past. Lincoln offered a providential interpretation of the war and slavery as a way to reunite the divided nation. The war’s devastation, Lincoln supposed, was God’s punishment for the national sin of slavery, and the eradication of American slavery—and not simply the preservation of the Union—was a just outcome of the conflict. Only with a common memory of the nation’s greatest trial could Americans have any hope that Reconstruction would succeed. The refusal to accept Lincoln’s reading of the war postponed America’s “new birth of freedom” for almost a century.

  7PM in the Foundation Hall of the Erickson Alumni Center.

  http://www.marshall.edu/spc/amicus-curiae-lecture-series-on-constitutional-democracy/

  This project is funded in part by a West Virginia Humanities Council grant.
• Tamarack 2015 Dinner Theatre presents: The Glass Menagerie

  April 17, 2015 to April 18, 2015 — Beckley, Raleigh

  Tamarack 2015 Dinner Theatre presents: The Glass Menagerie

  8:00PM April 17 and 18 at Tamarack

  Special Performances – Treehouse Arts Ensemble

  The Glass Menagerie tells the story of the Wingfield family, comprised of faded Southern belle Amanda (the matriarch) and her two children, Tom and Laura. Tom is a restless dreamer frustratingly tethered to home, while Laura is a shy, crippled girl who spends her time admiring her collection of glass animals in lieu of social interaction. The play’s action is motivated by Amanda’s urging of Tom to bring home a “gentleman caller” for Laura, despite Laura’s timidity and Tom’s desire to get out from under his mother’s domineering hand.

  MENU Caesar Salad with Parmesan Croutons Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Paneed Pork Loin with Chardonnay Meyer Lemon and Capers. Cappelini with Sauce Pomodoro Button Mushrooms and Sweet Peas Chocolate Spoon Cake with Fresh Strawberries and Chantilly Cream

  Tickets are available now for Tamarack’s 2015 Dinner Theatre Series! Three unique shows are performed with exquisite cuisine prepared by our Greenbrier-trained chefs. Purchase tickets in advance today! $45 per person/show (plus tax). Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. The curtain will rise for each performance in the Gov. Hulett C. Smith Theater at 8:00 p.m. Call 304-256-6843 (ext. 168) Mon. – Fri. from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. to make your reservations!

  http://www.tamarackwv.com/whats-happening/events.html
• 77th Feast of the Ramson

  April 18, 2015 — Richwood, Nicholas

  2015 Feast of the Ramson

  April 18 at Richwood High Sschool Gym, Cafeteria & Richwood Middle Sschool Red Gym

  Richwood’s “Feast of the Ramson” has been described as “the granddaddy of ALL Appalachian Ramp Feeds.” Legend has it that the first PUBLIC ramp feed was derived from a private meal, attended by thirteen ramp lovers. At this small gathering, the men decided to “go public” the following year.

  There was much hoopla connected to that initial feed. Only men were invited and each male had to present a letter of permission to attend, submitted by his “next of kin,” that absolved the newly formed “National Ramp Society” of liability. Off to CCC Camp Cranberry they went to hear orations and tall tales. True mountain food was cooked over an open campfire. There was wild game of every variety and side dishes of homegrown vegetables. It was reported moonshine was the drink of choice. The keynote speaker was the Mayor of the City of Charleston.

  http://www.richwoodchamberofcommerce.org/FeastOfTheRamson/RampFestival2015.html
• RCCAC Evening Concert Series: Hillbilly IDOL

  April 18, 2015 — Elkins, Randolph

  Hillbilly IDOL

  April 18th, 2015 7:30 pm at Randolph County Community Arts Center

  Hillbilly IDOL continues to capture new audiences with their catchy and exciting roots influenced repertoire. Hillbilly IDOL draws from the deep, rich well of American music to blend an original hybrid sound they call “Town & Country” music.

  http://randolpharts.org/concerts/evening-concert-series.html
• Mountaineer State History Expo

  April 18, 2015 — Fairmont, Marion

  An incredible once a year opportunity to explore a collection of clever, creative history displays in impressive surroundings equivalent to any fine stately museum…the Marion County Courthouse.

  A stained glass dome, reflects light onto huge hand painted murals that tower above marble staircases and halls that will hold over 30 exhibitors, passionate about their interests, and eager to share and discuss them with you.

  Simultaneous free music and entertainment to join in will delight all ages throughout the day. You’ll want to plan to take a seat in the 3rd floor “jury room” for our concession lunch and baked goodies available also all day.

  Don’t miss this “Historic Party”! Sat., April 18, 10:00AM to 3:00PM

  Marion County Historical Society 304-367-5398 l
• New moon

  April 18, 2015

  New moon
• Civilian Conservation Corps Spring Jubilee

  April 18, 2015 — Quiet Dell, Harrison

  The West Virginia State Civilian Conservation Corps Museum Association announces that the Annual Spring CCC Jubilee is set for Saturday, April 18, 2015 at the Quiet Dell United Methodist Church Activity Room, Harrison County, I79 just South of Bridgeport, and Clarksburg, just off Exit 115. All CCC vets, their family members, their friends, and the general public are invited. Noon luncheon requires RSVP by April 8, 2015 to Richard Bailey 304 842 3436, Dr. Robert Anderson at 304 842 5194, or Charles Piercy at 363 4388. There is no charge to attend if you wish not to enjoy the catered luncheon. The Jubilee starts at 9:30 a.m. There will be CCC displays, honors for CCC Vets and their families, auction, Hall of Fame Induction, and just good fellowship. This yearly event is not a fundraiser, but, a chance to honor the legacy of the CCC to America. To contact the CCC Museum located in Harrison County please call ahead at 304 6223304. Please pass this information on to CCC Families in your part of the State of West Virginia. The WVCCC Museum is a 501C3. Please preserve your CCC memorabilia for posterity. Check out the West Virginia State CCC Museum website
• Sunday@Two - Doug and Shelly Harper

  April 19, 2015 — Beckley, Raleigh

  Sunday@Two – Doug and Shelly Harper

  2:00PM April 19 at Tamarack

  The first time they sang together, Doug and Shelly Harper’s voices united like two old friends. Since then, Doug and Shelley have performed throughout central Appalachia in a variety of venues. Some include NPR’s MOUNTAIN STAGE, THEATRE WV’s MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS, and THE CLAY CENTER, just to name a few. Long time friend, Dave Fondale joins them on bass.

  “Hybrid Folk” is a term coined to describe Doug’s writing style and play list. Audiences come away from performances WARMED, AMUSED & INSPIRED. Join me in welcoming them to our stage.

  Tamarack offers a FREE concert every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. From Bluegrass to Blues, Tamarack has live performances for the whole family to enjoy. There is no admission fee for any Sunday@Two (2:00 p.m.) performance.

  http://www.tamarackwv.com/whats-happening/events.html
• Hatfields & McCoys: American Blood Feud traveling exhibit

  April 20, 2015 to May 11, 2015 — Athens, Mercer WVHC Event

  The new Humanities Council traveling exhibit, The Hatfields & McCoys: American Blood Feud, will be at Concord University April 20 to May 11. To book the exhibit contact program officer Mark Payne at payne@wvhumanities.org or 304-346-8500.

  The Hatfields & McCoys: American Blood Feud is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council. The traveling exhibit is funded in part by ZMM Architects & Engineers of Charleston.
• Stonewall Jackson, History Alive!

  April 20, 2015 — Moundsville, Marshall WVHC Event

  Stonewall Jackson, _History Alive!, 6PM April 20 at Marshall County Public Library, Moundsville.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Bluefield State College Fulbright Scholar lecture series

  April 21, 2015 — Bluefield, Mercer WVHC Event

  The Bluefield State College Fulbright Scholar lecture series continues April 21 at 2 p.m. at Bluefield State College with Dr. Vlodomyr Dankiv of the Ukraine; he is responsible for setting up e-banking in England. The 2015 spring lecture series wraps up on April 28 at 9 a.m. at Bluefield Sate College with a lecture by Professor Heri Purwanto, a gamelan music scholar. For more information contact Sudhakar Jamkhandi at sjamkhandi@bluefieldstate.edu.

  This project is funded in part by a West Virginia Humanities Council grant.
• Film premier - Jay: A Rockefeller's Journey

  April 22, 2015 — Morgantown, Monongalia WVHC Event

  The premier of the Jay Rockefeller documentary Jay: A Rockefeller’s Journey will take place at the Erickson Alumni Center on WVU’s Campus, Wednesday, April 22, 2015, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. However, they must RSVP by Friday, April 17, at this website. www.wvpublic.org/rsvp.

  This project is funded in part by a West Virginia Humanities Council grant.
• Benjamin Franklin, History Alive!

  April 22, 2015 — New Martinsville, Wetzel WVHC Event

  Benjamin Franklin, History Alive!, 12PM April 22 at New Martinsville Public Library.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Lyrids Meteor Showe

  April 22, 2015 to April 23, 2015

  The Lyrids is an average shower, usually producing about 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by dust particles left behind by comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, which was discovered in 1861. The shower runs annually from April 16-25. It peaks this year on the night of the night of the 22nd and morning of the 23rd. These meteors can sometimes produce bright dust trails that last for several seconds. The first quarter moon will set shortly after midnight, leaving fairly dark skies for the what could be a good show. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Lyra, but can appear anywhere in the sky.
• Mary Lincoln, History Alive!

  April 23, 2015 — Petersburg, Grant WVHC Event

  Mary Lincoln, History Alive!. 7PM April 23 at Grant County Public Library in Petersburg.

  History Alive! is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Walter Gropius Master Artist Series Presents: Mark Pharis

  April 23, 2015 — Huntington, Cabell

  Walter Gropius Master Artist Mark Pharis speaks about his work during a public presentation at Huntington Museum of Art on April 23, 2015, at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Admission is free. Pharis will present a three-day workshop at HMA titled “Two Dimensions to Three Dimensions and Back Again: Function, Context, and Process” on April 24-26, 2015, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For workshop fee information, call (304) 529-2701. The exhibition is on view March 7 – May 3, 2015.

  https://www.hmoa.org/exhibitions/current/
• Broadway in Charleston: Memphis

  April 23, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Thursday, April 23, 2015, 7:30 pm

  From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis where rock and roll was born, comes a hot musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Memphis tells the story of DJ Huey Calhoun, a good ole’ local boy with a passion for R&B music and Felicia Farrell, an up-and-coming black singer that’s ready for her big break. Come along on their incredible journey that’s filled with laughter and roof-raising rock ‘n’ roll.

  http://www.theclaycenter.org/performances/14-15-broadway.aspx
• 43rd Annual Dogwood Festival

  April 23, 2015 to April 25, 2015 — Huntington, Cabell

  After a one-year hiatus, the Dogwood Arts and Crafts Festival is returning to the city with a new and improved format. The Big Sandy Superstore Arena will host the arts and crafts festival April 23-25.

  “The Dogwood Arts and Crafts Festival has provided a forum for artisans on a local and regional stage to show off their passions for more than 40 years,” Mayor Steve Williams said. “Considering that Huntington was recently designated as a Certified Arts Community, there’s no better time to reintroduce the festival.”

  To maintain an outstanding quality of exhibitors, all West Virginia artisans participating in the festival previously will have been juried into Tamarack. All out-of-state artisans also will have gone through a strict jurying process.

  Spearheading the jury process will be Huntington resident and ceramic artist Carter Taylor Seaton. Seaton directed an Appalachian craft cooperative for 15 years, has served as a juror for Tamarack and the Mountain State Art & Crafts Festival and directed the Dogwood Arts and Crafts Festival in 1985.

  The festival will kick off on the evening of Thursday, April 23, with a preview party hosted by Mayor Williams and First Lady Mary Poindexter Williams.

  It will be open to the public from noon to 9 p.m. Friday, April 24, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, April 25. A variety of local Appalachian musicians will perform both days.

  More information.
• 23rd Annual Spring Mountain Festival

  April 24, 2015 to April 26, 2015 — Petersburg, Grant

  23rd Annual Spring Mountain Festival

  April 24, 25 and 26, 2015

  Mark your calendars for the Spring Mountain Festival hosted by the Grant County Chamber of Commerce. Most of the events are held in and around the Tri-County Fairgrounds. Admission to the festival grounds is free and features fabulous entertainment from the festival stage, arts and craft vendors with a variety of interesting and useful creations and novelty items, rides, games, food vendors, flea market, civil war train rides, and much more. There’s an antique car, truck, and tractor show for the big kids with prizes for the winners and a motorcycle show. The festival boasts a parade to start Saturday’s activities. Compete at the double elimination corn hole tournament throughout the festival or enjoy as a spectator. The Spring Mountain Festival has something for all ages and you won’t want to miss the excitement. The Miss Spring Mountain Festival Pageant is held a few weeks before the festival and is open to all West Virginia girls who meet the qualifications. The pageant is a preliminary to the West Virginia Fairs and Festivals Pageant held in January of each year.

  http://www.gowv.com/aboutthefestival.htm
• Skirmish on the River: Civil War Re-enactment

  April 24, 2015 to April 26, 2015 — Gilbert, Mingo WVHC Event

  “Skirmish on the River: Civil War Re-enactment” is scheduled for Saturday April 25 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, April 26 at 1 p.m. at the Larry Joe Harless Community Center in Gilbert. The cannons are scheduled to be fired on Saturday at 9:30 p.m.

  Friday, April 24, is scheduled as an education day and students will attend to learn about the Civil War period. The students will be involved in a show and tell designed especially for this historical period.

  For more information contact Cheryl Mitchem at 304-664-2500.

  This project is funded in part by a West Virginia Humanities Council grant.
• Helvetia Ramp Supper

  April 25, 2015 — Helvetia, Randolph

  Saturday, April 25. Helvetia Ramp Supper. Enjoy ramps, ham, fried potatoes, soup beans, coleslaw, applesauce, and cornbread with desserts and beverages. Starts at 2 p.m. $15. A square dance with music by the Helvetia Star Band follows. 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. $5

  http://www.helvetiawv.com/
• Frank Caliendo at the Clay Center

  April 26, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha

  Sunday, April 26, 7:30 pm

  Tickets: $65, $47, $37, $27

  Known for his uncanny impressions of people as varied as Morgan Freeman, George W. Bush and John Madden, this MADtv, Fox and ESPN star has a punchline to keep everyone laughing. Get ready for a high-energy blend of impressions, characters and stories that starts fast and never lets up.

  http://www.theclaycenter.org/performances/spring-15.aspx
• What Holds Us Together: Little Lecture

  April 26, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha WVHC Event

  Sunday, April 26 at 2:00 PM

  What Holds Us Together: Marc Harshman

  Marc Harshman, poet laureate of West Virginia, will explore how poetry and storytelling have not only shaped his life, but how the humanities shape the life of a nation. In a talk he promises to be filled with poetry and stories, he will discuss how an attitude of attentiveness helps lift the human spirit and so can inspire us to engage our world with greater humanity and purpose. In this era of information overload, Harshman believes that by embracing the whimsy and gravity to be found in the arts and letters, we have the resources needed to nurture body politic of our nation in many useful and profound ways.

  Marc Harshman is the poet laureate of West Virginia appointed by Governor Earl Ray Tomblin in May, 2012. His full-length collection, GREEN-SILVER AND SILENT, was published by Bottom Dog Press later that same year. Four chapbooks of poems include ALL THAT FEEDS US: THE WEST VIRGINIA POEMS published in 2013 to celebrate Marc’s appointment. Periodical publications include Shenandoah, Wilderness, The Progressive, Appalachian Heritage, and many others. Poems have been anthologized by the University of Georgia, Kent State University, the University of Iowa, and the University of Arizona. His eleven children’s books include THE STORM, a Smithsonian Notable Book. His children’s titles have been published in Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Danish, and Swedish.

  Three new children’s titles are forthcoming. Marc holds degrees from Bethany College, Yale Divinity School, and the University of Pittsburgh. He has recently received honorary doctorates from Bethany College and West Liberty University in recognition of his life’s work. In honor of the West Virginia Sesquicentennial, Marc was commissioned by the Wheeling National Heritage Area to write a poem celebrating this event and so on June 20th his poem “A Song for West Virginia” was presented in both Charleston and Wheeling as a part of the day-long festivities. It has recently been reprinted by the Quarrier Press, Charleston, WV.

  Robinson & McElwee PLLC is sponsoring the 2015 Little Lecture Series. Founded in Charleston in 1983, the law firm serves clients throughout West Virginia and Ohio.

  Admission to the lecture is $10 and includes a reception after the program. People interested in attending should call the Humanities Council at 304-346-8500.

  Little Lecture Series is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Bluefield State College Fulbright Scholar lecture series

  April 28, 2015 — Bluefield, Mercer WVHC Event

  The Bluefield State College Fulbright Scholar lecture series wraps up on April 28 at 9 a.m. at Bluefield Sate College with a lecture by Professor Heri Purwanto, a gamelan music scholar. For more information contact Sudhakar Jamkhandi at sjamkhandi@bluefieldstate.edu.

  This project is funded in part by a West Virginia Humanities Council grant.
• Us & Them: First Listen Party

  April 28, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha WVHC Event

  Us & Them is new podcast from Peabody Award winner Trey Kay and West Virginia Public Broadcasting that explores the issues that create vast cultural divides. Get a sneak peek of the podcast on April 28 before its May 1st debut. Come for the podcast, stay for the snacks and Q&A with Peabody Award Winner and Us & Them producer/host Trey Kay and West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s Dave Mistich and Roxy Todd.

  Kin Ship Goods, 818 Lee St E, Charleston, West Virginia 25301

  The event is free, but space is limited. RSVP through this link.

  Can’t wait for the event to start? Share your excitement with #UsandThem on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. https://www.facebook.com/usthempodcast

  This project is funded in part by a West Virginia Humanities Council grant.
• The Floating Capitol: Speakers Bureau

  April 30, 2015 — Charleston, Kanawha WVHC Event

  The Floating Capitol: Speakers Bureau with Billy Joe Peyton, 7PM April 30 at Edgewood Summit in Charleston.

  Speakers Bureau is a project of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
• Walter Gropius Master Artist Series Presents: Tula Telfair

  April 30, 2015 — Huntington, Cabell

  Walter Gropius Master Artist Tula Telfair speaks about her work on April 30, 2015, at 7 p.m. at Huntington Museum of Art. Admission is free. Telfair presents a workshop at HMA titled Identifying a Personal Artistic Vision on May 1-3, 2015, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (304) 529-2701 for workshop fee information. The exhibition is on view April 25 – July 19, 2015.

  https://www.hmoa.org/