Typically this wonderful event is held at the Bay State Commons in Westborough, but due to inclement weather from Hurricane Ian, Arts in Common had to relocate to the Mill Pond School. This event took place on 10/1/22. Here is a little about Arts in Common:
Arts In Common (AIC) was created in 2009 by the Westborough Cultural Council, both as a community festival and as a means to raise local funds to support the arts and culture in Westborough. This free community event is a gathering place for artists, performers, foodies and neighbors to come together for a day to connect and celebrate the arts and culture. Our mission is inline with the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s mission. We believe: Culture creates. Culture empowers. Culture inspires. Culture enriches. Culture provides. Culture builds.
Watch a video recap of the day here!
Performances:
Hung Gar Kung Fu and Lion Dance Academy:
Lion dances are known to ward off negative energies and shower the audience with good luck and prosperity. The 10-minute performance will kick off Arts in Common and will be followed by some audience interaction and photo opportunities. Visit their website for more information.
Paul Courchaine:
Paul Courchaine is a live looping acoustic/vocalist. Active in the central mass area for years, you will hear vocals, guitars, bass and drums with nothing pre recorded. Come and hear unique arrangements of familiar tunes and enjoy this one man band!
Listen to the podcast version here.
Tumbao Latin Dance:
Have you ever wanted to learn salsa dance? Learn salsa dance with friendly instructors from Tumbao Latin dance. Christian and his staff will be teaching a free salsa lesson and then you will be able to witness the pros in action with a performance.
Eduardo Ortiz Latin Jazz:
Eduardo started his career in the Dominican Republic working in numerous orchestras. He was the bass player for the orchestra directed by renowned maestro Rafael Solano. He is a professional bass player, composer and music director with a rich background in jazz and Latin music who has collaborated with many artists over the years and now serves as a representative of the Dominican culture in the Worcester area through his artistry.
Listen to the podcast version here.
Bill Fanning Quartet:
Trumpeter, Composer and teacher Bill Fanning performs concerts and conducts clinics as a member of the Jeff Coffin Mu’tet. His educational background includes a master’s degree from New England Conservatory where he studied with Jon McNeil, Jerry Bergonzi George Garzone and Bob Brookmeyer. He has also studied with the legendary Bobby Shew. Bill Fanning’s Quartet will be performing a collection of family-friendly jazz standards from the Great American Songbook and highlighting famous jazz composers featuring New England’s finest musicians. View their website here.
Listen to the podcast version here.
Henry the Juggler:
Henry Lappen is a professional juggler. He has been seen by thousands up and down the East Coast – at theaters, schools, libraries and festivals. He has been performing for over 35 years. He studied physical comedy at California’s Dell’Arte School and continues his development with classes in tango and yoga. He is an active member of the International Jugglers Association. Visit his website here.
We and the Dawg:
Come enjoy the horns, organ and guitar of the nonstop fun and funky group that will have you dancing to the groove. The funk-tastic soul and R&B from the 1970s to today with fabulous vocalist Bruce Reed from Tornado Alley & Big Dawg. Visit their website here.
Listen to the podcast version here.