Arts & Entertainment

Photo courtesy of Councilman LaValle's office

On Saturday, April 23, The Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce, along with several local public officials, welcomed their newest member, The Paper Store, located at Smith Haven Plaza, 2075 Nesconset Hwy, Lake Grove, with grand opening celebration & ribbon cutting ceremony. 10% of all sales generated on that day benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities.

A Hallmark partner, the specialty gift store sells fashion apparel, home decore, stationary, jewelry and more.

Pictured from left, Melissa Carter, The Paper Store; NYS Assemblyman Doug Smith; Doreen Newman, Greater Middle Country Chamber; TOB Councilman Kevin J. LaValle; Tracie Congdon, Store Manager; NYS Senator Mario Mattera; Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy; Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy; and District Manager Lisamarie Soper.

Located next to Bed Bath & Beyond, the store is open Monday to Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 631-979-2340.

MAKING BEAUTIFUL MUSIC

All Souls Church in Stony Brook welcomed the renowned Euclid Quartet on April 30 as part of the church’s Saturdays at Six concert series. Pictured from left, violinist Jameson Cooper, violinist Aviva Hakanoglu, cellist Chris Wild, violist Luis Enrique Vargas, concertgoer Kathy Donnelly and Dan Kerr of All Souls Church. “We had a full house, and the music was world class!” Kerr said.

Last chance to visit Mr. McGregor's garden patch! Theatre Three's The Adventures of Peter Rabbit closes on May 7. Photo from Theatre Three
Programs

Feather Their Nest

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket hosts a children’s workshop, Feather Their Nest, on May 7 from 10 a.m. to noon. The Baltimore Orioles have returned to the farm! Help all our feathered friends build the softest nests ever by filling a mesh bag with all sorts of surprising materials to take home. Watch to see what the birds choose and see if you can find where they built their nests! For ages 3 to 12. $40 per child. To register, call 689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.

Astronomy Day at the Vanderbilt

Join the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport for Astronomy Day on May 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., part of a nationwide celebration of educational programs designed to engage audiences in the awe-inspiring fields of Earth and space science. Join them in the Rose Garden for astronomy demonstrations, crafts, solar observings giveaways and more. The event is free with general admission. Call 854-5579.

Theater

‘Madagascar’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Dreamworks’ Madagascar: A Musical Adventure from April 2 to May 8. Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, Madagascar will leave audiences with no choice but to “Move It, Move It!” All seats are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

Disney’s ‘High School Musical Jr.’

We’re all in this together! Disney Channel’s smash hit musical comes to life at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown in Disney’s High School Musical Jr. from April 15 to May 15. Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High must deal with issues of love, friends and family while balancing their classes and extra curricular activities. The show’s infectious, danceable songs will have you dancing in your seats! All seats are $25. To order, call 724-3700 or visit www.smithtownpac.org. 

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

The Adventures of Peter Rabbit hops over to  Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from April 16 to May 7. Peter, Flopsy, Mopsy, Cotton-Tail, Benjamin Bunny, the McGregors and all their friends come to life in this delightful musical adaption suggested by the characters created by Beatrix Potter. Fun for the entire family and a Theatre Three tradition for spring break! $10 per person. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

A scene from 'We Feed People' Photo courtesy of National Geographic

By Melissa Arnold

When Russia first began its major assault on Ukraine earlier this year, the whole world turned its eyes on the conflict. As days turned into weeks and scenes of destruction played out on screens everywhere, it seemed like everyone had the same questions: How will this end? What can we do?

Among them was Lyn Boland, co-director of the Port Jefferson Documentary Series (PJDS). “I must ask myself at least once a day what more I could be doing, because this situation is so heartbreaking,” she said.

A scene from ‘We Feed People’
Photo courtesy of National Geographic

Boland, co-directors Barbara Sverd and Wendy Feinberg, and board members Honey Katz, Lorie Rothstein and Lynn Rein put their heads together to create an inspiring event to support Ukrainian people in need. On Monday, May 9, they will host a screening of the film We Feed People, a family-friendly documentary about generosity, food and its power to heal.

Directed by Ron Howard, the National Geographic film tells the story of chef Jose Andres, the Spanish-born founder of World Central Kitchen. The not-for-profit organization is dedicated to feeding communities impacted by natural disasters and humanitarian crises around the globe. 

“I have found that in the most challenging moments, food is the fastest way to rebuild a sense of community,” Andres said in the film. “A humble plate of food is just the beginning … there is no limit to what we can achieve when we come together and just start cooking.”

The documentary was already completed when Ukraine was invaded, but World Central Kitchen has been on the ground there ever since, helping to provide food and other basic needs.

Boland said that a contact from National Geographic reached out to the arts council recently, offering the film for consideration in the Port Jefferson Documentary Series. The spring lineup was already planned, but Boland asked if they’d be willing to screen the film as a benefit instead. All proceeds from the screening will be sent to World Central Kitchen to provide immediate support to Ukrainians in need. 

“Getting to see Jose Andres in action, and the embrace of humanity that he has, is incredible. He has a way of pulling everyone in,” Boland said.

A scene from ‘We Feed People’
Photo courtesy of National Geographic

Andres started from the bottom in various kitchens when he arrived in America in the 1990s. Over time, he worked his way through the ranks and eventually became a restaurant owner and cookbook author with his own massive following. He founded World Central Kitchen in 2010 in response to the earthquake in Haiti, and since then, it’s been his way of giving back through his greatest passions.

We Feed People takes viewers inside planes, trucks and kitchens as Andres and his team deliver food over a 10-year period. 

Following the movie screening, there will be a live Q&A session via Zoom with the film’s producer Meredith Kaulfers and Ukrainian singer Olha Tsvyntarna, who fled her country for safety a month and a half ago. Tom Needham, host of “The Sounds of Film” on 90.1 WUSB-FM radio, will serve as moderator.

“What’s happening in Ukraine is an abomination, and the people there need the whole world to step up and help them,” said Allan Varela, chair of the Greater Port Jefferson-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council, which sponsors the Port Jefferson Documentary Series. 

“Our mission at the arts council is to bring joy to our communities and expose people to ideas and subjects they may not otherwise know about. For us, we can use our artistic mission to raise awareness, create a fundraiser and ultimately do our part to assist the Ukrainian people.”

Varela also expressed gratitude to Lori and Tom Lucki of Riverhead Toyota for covering all expenses for the screening.

We Feed People: A Fundraiser for Ukraine will be held at John F. Kennedy Middle School, 200 Jayne Blvd, Port Jefferson Station on May 9 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10.69 per person online at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com ($10 from each ticket will be sent to World Central Kitchen, and the remaining $0.69 will be used to cover Paypal fees for the donation) or $10 at the door (cash only). 

For more information about this event, email to [email protected].

The cover of 'Journey Into Awareness'

In honor of her debut book, Journey Into Awareness: Reclaiming Your Life, licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Karin M. Keyes will be at a book launch and signing  event on Friday, May 6 at Pathways to Health located at 464 Route 25A in Miller Place from 7 to 9 p.m.

Author Karin M. Keyes

“I’m very excited!” said Keyes, noting that her book is reflections on everyday life from the perspective of love, honesty, and inner power, based on the knowledge of one’s inner divinity. Much of the focus of her work has been on the effects of childhood trauma and the process of restoring a healthy sense of self following such trauma.

The book “comes from a very personal place and need to help others,” Keyes said, adding, “This book is a compilation of realizations that I have come to for myself along the way, especially following a couple of the most traumatic years of my life.”

“More than anything, I have become aware that we are all on this journey together. There is nothing that we go through in isolation. It is only by joining together, learning from each other, holding each other up when we cannot stand on our own or falling into the arms of those we love and trust when we, ourselves, can’t do it on our own that we can truly thrive and be all that we are meant to be. It is my hope that my experiences and those of the people who I have come to love so deeply will offer something of value to you in your own journey,” she added.

Keyes has been in private practice on Long Island for the last 20 years, with a focus on alternative therapies, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), clinical hypnotherapy and energy-focused therapies, incorporating spirituality into her work. 

Keyes also has a background in addictions therapy, having worked in the substance abuse field for 10 years. She felt so deeply about what she learned that she felt a need to help others by sharing what she had discovered and went on to become an LCSW in order to help others find their own clarity and purpose in life. 

Keyes’ blog, Our Spiritual Journey: Finding Our True Selves is located at https://ourspiritualjourneybykarinkeyes.blogspot.com/ and offers readers inspirational self-help theories and inspiration for tapping into one’s true self. She also administers a Facebook community page, Karin M. Keyes, LCSW: Spiritual Journey (@KeyesSpiritualJourney), and can be found on Instagram at @Karin.Keyes.

Books will be available at this event. To register, please call 631-642-2200. 

DOO WOP BOP DOO WOP Featuring stars of Broadway’s smash hits Jersey Boys and Motown: The Musical, The Doo Wop Project heads to Stony Brook University's Staller Center for the Arts' Main Stage on May 7. Photo courtesy of Staller Center
Thursday May 5

Strictly Business vendor fair

The Miller Business Center, Greater Middle Country Chamber of Commerce and the Brookhaven Chambers of Commerce Coalition present Strictly Business, a business to business networking event, in the Middle Country Public Library parking lot, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The annual event helps promote and build businesses in Brookhaven and the surrounding areas. Free admission, door prizes and more! Rain date is May 12. For more information, call 585-9393.

Vanderbilt lecture

Join the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport for a lecture titled Tectonic Problems: Why the Foundations of Modern Geology Remain Elusive at 7 p.m. Marine seismologist Dr. William Bythewood Hawley will introduce participants to contemporary debates in geology and the theory of plate tectonics. Tickets are $10 per person. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Strictly Sinatra

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook celebrates the music of Frank Sinatra with three nights of swingin’ songs from May 5 to May 7 featuring the classic Sinatra arrangements of Nelson Riddle, Billy May, Don Costa and others. Pete Caldera will be backed by Tom Manuel and the 17-piece Jazz Loft Orchestra. Caldera is best known for singing standards, mainly at New York’s Carnegie Club, where he performs monthly. All performances are at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children at www.thejazzloft.org.

Friday May 6

Strictly Sinatra

See May 5 listing.

Birdwatching at the Vanderbilt

Join the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport for an  early morning birdwatch and architecture tour with the Vanderbilt’s director of curatorial affairs from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Participants will enjoy the unique opportunity to view the Vanderbilt estate in the early dawn hours, when the grounds are still closed but the birds are active. A second opportunity will be offered at 6:30 p.m., as many bird species are also active at dusk. Tickets are free for members, $12 for non-members. Sturdy hiking footwear is strongly suggested. Participants are asked to bring their own binoculars. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

First Friday at the Heckscher

Celebrate First Friday at The Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington during extended viewing hours of the exhibits from 5 to 8:30 p.m, and a special performance by musician CMONTY beginning at 7 p.m. Free admission. Call 380-3230.

Saturday May 7

Strictly Sinatra

See May 5 listing.

Rummage Sale

St. James United Methodist Church, 532 Moriches Road, St. James hosts its annual Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. featuring clothing, bric a brac, jewelry, toys, games and more. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Ukrainian Relief Fund. Questions? Call 584-5340.

Community Shred Day 

Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket will hold a Community Shred Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Get rid of that unnecessary paperwork in a safe and environmentally-friendly way. A shredding truck from A Shred Away, Inc. will be in the library parking lot for on-site shredding of personal documents. There is a limit of 5 boxes or bags. All paper collected will be recycled at a certified paper mill. Call 941-4080.

Community spring cleanup

The Walt Whitman Birthplace Association, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station will hold a I Love My Park Day event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Roll up your sleeves and participate in a spring cleaning of the property as part of a statewide initiative to maintain parks. Bring your own gardening tools. Lunch, snacks drinks, tours, certificate and free t-shirt provided. Visit www.ptny.org to register. 

Mother’s Day felting class

The Atelier at Flowerfield, 2 Flowerfield,  Suite #15, St. James offers a Mother’s Day felting class with artist Oksana Danzinger from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will learn the needle felting technique and take home a beautiful felted flower. $75 per person. To register, call 250-9009 or visit www.theatelieratflowerfield.org.

Selden Craft  & Gift Fair

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Newfield High School, 145 Marshall Drive, Selden hosts an indoor Craft & Gift Fair to benefit the school’s Leader Club from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with over 75 vendors. Featuring exquisite jewelry, decorative wreaths, homemade candies, organic soaps, wearable art, vintage items and much more. Questions? Call 846-1459.

Civil War Encampment

The Farmingville Historical Society invites the community to the Bald Hill School House Civil War Encampment at the Thomas Muratore Park at Farmingville Hills, 507 Horseblock Road, Farmingville from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. See how classes were held in the 1860’s, talk with Union and Confederate Civil War soldiers, witness a drill, manual of arms, march and musket fire and much more. Free. Visit www.farmingvillehistoricalsociety.org.

Porsche Car Show

The Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook teams up with Metro NY Porsche Club of America to raise money for local domestic abuse prevention and education efforts with a car show from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is free to the public and no reservations required. Call 751-7707.

Astronomy Day at the Vanderbilt

Join the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport for Astronomy Day, part of a nationwide celebration of educational programs designed to engage audiences in the awe-inspiring fields of Earth and space science. Join them in the Rose Garden from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for astronomy demonstrations, crafts, solar observings and  giveaways and again from 8 to 11 p.m. for lunar observing, weather permitting. The event is free with general admission. Call 854-5579.

Sun-Safety event

Join Stony Brook University for a Block the Sun, Not the Fun event at the Smith Haven Mall Center Court, Moriches Road, Lake Grove from noon to 3 p.m. Healthcare experts from Stony Brook Cancer Center and Stony Brook Dermatology Associates will be on hand to answer questions about prevention and resources for screenings for skin cancer. Kids can interact with Long Island Aquarium critters and Woflie the SBU mascot and Urban Air’s mascot Urbie will be on hand for photos from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Free. For more info, call 722-2623.

Sheep to Shawl – This event has been cancelled due to the weather.

The Huntington Historical Society kicks off the spring season with its popular “Sheep to Shawl” Festival on the grounds of the Dr. Daniel W. Kissam House Museum property at 434 Park Avenue in Huntington from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy family-fun activities including sheep shearing, old-fashioned games, spinning wool demonstrations, crafts, Maypole dancing, traditional live music, tours of the Kissam House and much more. Free admission. Call 427-045.

Muster Day at the Arsenal – This event has been postponed to May 14.

Join the Huntington Militia for a Muster Day at the Huntington Arsenal and Village Green on Park Avenue in Huntington from noon to 5 p.m. This is a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes of The Order of the Ancient and Honorable Huntington Militia and see what is involved reenacting Long Island history with marching, musket firing, tours of the Arsenal, open hearth cooking, and craft demonstrations. Free. Visit www.huntingtonmilitia.com.

Cherry Blossom Festival

The Charles B. Wang Center at Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook will host its annual Sakura Matsu Cherry Blossom Festival from noon to 5 p.m. Welcome spring to Long Island with the blooming of sakura (cherry blossoms), the sounds of taiko drums, and a wondrous array of Japanese cultural exhibits including Koto plays, Japanese traditional dances, martial arts demonstrations, calligraphy workshops, ikebana flower arrangement, tea workshops, manga drawing, origami paper folding, kimono dress-ups, and cosplay for all ages. rain or shine. Admission of $30 adults, $20 students/seniors, $10 children ages 6 to 12, free for children ages 5 and under. For more information, call 632-6353.

Beatles lecture

Join renowned producer, composer and Deconstructing the Beatles series creator Scott Freiman for his latest Deconstructing the Beatles lecture, Deconstructing Let It Be, at the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington at 7 p.m. Freiman will dive deep into the music of Let It Be with insights into the composition, arrangement, and production of classic songs like “Get Back,” “Two Of Us,” and “Let It Be” with the use of rare audio and video. Tickets are $25, $20 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org for more info.

Doo Wop Project in concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook welcomes the Doo Wop Project to the Main Stage at 8 p.m. Tracing the evolution of Doo Wop from the classic sound of five guys singing tight harmonies on a street corner to the biggest hits on the radio today, The Doo Wop Project takes audiences on a journey from foundational tunes of groups like the Crests, Belmonts and Flamingos through their influences on the sounds of Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, and The Four Seasons all the way to DooWopified versions of modern musicians like Michael Jackson, Jason Mraz and Maroon 5. Featuring stars of Broadway’s smash hits Jersey Boys and Motown: The Musical. Tickets range from $52 to $68. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Sunday May 8

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

Get local! The Port Jefferson Farmer’s Market returns to Harborfront Park, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson today and every Sunday through Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Purchase local produce, honey, bread and baked goods, plants and flower bouquets. Call 473-4724.

Grist Mill tours

The Stony Brook Grist Mill, 100 Harbor Road, Stony Brook will be open today and every Sunday through October from 1 to 4 p.m. Learn about the inner workings of the mill as it crushes grain into flour and hear about its 323 year history on a guided tour will a miller during guided tours and a visit the Country Store. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children. Cash only. For more information on the Stony Brook Grist Mill and for large group tours, call The Ward Melville Heritage Organization at 751-2244.

Monday May 9

Civic meeting

The Sound Beach Civic Association will hold a meeting at the Sound Beach Firehouse, 52 Sound Beach Bvd., Sound Beach at 7:30 p.m. On the agenda will be a meet and greet the candidates of the Rocky Point and Miller Place boards of education. All are welcome. For more information call 744-6952.

Tuesday May 10

An evening of Goat Yoga

Join the Smithtown Historical Society, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown for a 45 minute sesson of yoga with friendly, interactive goats from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and again from 6 45 to 7:45 p.m courtesy of  by Steppin’ Out Ponies and Petting Zoo. Tickets are $28 per person and all levels of yoga are welcome. Please bring a mat & towel. The first session will be open to children aged 7 to 17, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Registration required via Eventbrite. For more information, call 265-6768.

Wednesday May 11

Community blood drive

St. James Fire Department, 533 Route 25A, St. James will host a community blood drive in memory of Paige Elizabeth Keely from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. To make an appointment please visit www.nybc.org/donate or call 800-933-BLOOD.

Cruise Night Car Show

It’s back! The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Cruise Night Car Show every Wednesday through Oct. 26 from 5 to 9 p.m. Visit the Shoppes, enjoy a bite to eat and then check out the fine array of classic cars in the parking lot. Call 929-3500.

Long Island Guitar Festival

The 30th annual Long Island Guitar Festival will be held from May 11 to 15 at various times the Setauket Presbyterian Church, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket. Scheduled performers include David Russell, Benjamin Verdery, Beijing Guitar Duo, Evan Taucher, Harris Becker & Friends, Laura Lessard, Michael Roberts, James Erickson, Paul Cesarczyk, Chinnawat Themkumkwun, Olson/De Cari Duo, Jeffrey Marcus, Maureen Hynes, Rie Schmidt, Alan Morris, and Samantha Clarke. Ensembles scheduled to perform include the NJMEA HS Honors Guitar Orchestra, the New Jersey Guitar Orchestra, the Susan E. Wagner HS Guitar Ensemble, and the Metropolitan Guitar Academy. Tickets are available at Eventbrite or at the door. Visit www.ligfest.net for more info.

Thursday May 12

Long Island Guitar Festival

See May 11 listing.

Virtual Trivia Night

Wok this way and join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St. Cold Spring Harbor for a virtually Deliciously Fun Trivia Night via Zoom at 7 p.m. Test your knowledge of foods from around the world, food moments in film and music, food logos, historic dishes, ingredients, cultural traditions, food in art, and more. Questions are mostly multiple choice and include photos, videos and audio clips. Participate solo or play as a team. Winner is Lord of the Fries! $10 suggested donation. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Theater

‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’

The Carriage House Players open the 31st annual Summer Shakespeare Festival at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centeport with “Midsummer Night’s Dream” on May 13 from 8 to 9 p.m. and May 15 from 7 to 8 p.m.. Performances take place outdoors on stage in the courtyard, where the Spanish-Mediterranean architecture adds a touch of timeless charm and magic. Bring your own lawn chairs. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Steel Magnolias’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Steel Magnolias from April 9 to May 7. Come on down to Truvy’s Louisiana beauty shop where six strong women share their hopes and dreams. Beginning on the day of debutante Shelby’s wedding, the play traces this eccentric and lovable cast of characters as they support each other through life’s many challenges. Stop by for some great laughs and unforgettable friendship. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 and older. To order, call 928-9100 or visit theatrethree.com. 

‘A Bronx Tale’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents A Bronx Tale from March 24 to May 8. Based on Chazz Palminteri’s classic movie, this streetwise musical will take you to the stoops of the Bronx in the 1960s—where a young man is caught between the father he loves and the mob boss he’d love to be. Featuring a doo-wop score, A Bronx Tale is a story about respect, loyalty, love, and above all else: family. Tickets range from $75 to $80 with free valet parking. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘It Shoulda Been You’

Star Playhouse at Stage 74, 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack presents It Shoulda Been You, Broadway’s wild musical farce with blushing brides, nervous grooms, overbearing moms, unexpected guests and plenty of crazy twists and turns, on May 14 and 21 at 8 p.m. and May 15 and May 22 at 2 p.m. It’s wedding season and you’re invited to a wedding like no other! Get ready for a good time filled with music, mayhem, comedy, and a real bunch of characters! Tickets are $25 adults, $20 seniors and students. To order, call 462-9800, ext. 136 or visit www.starplayhouse.com.

‘Kinky Boots’

Up next at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport is Kinky Boots from May 19 to July 3. With songs by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein, this dazzling, sassy and uplifting musical celebrates a joyous story, inspired by true life events, taking you from the factory floor of a men’s shoe factory to the glamorous catwalks of Milan! Tickets range from $75 to $80 with free valet parking. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Mamma Mia!’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson closes its 2021-2022 with Mamma Mia! from May 21 to June 25. ABBA’s timeless hits tell the enchanting story! On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the Greek island paradise they last visited twenty years ago. Featuring such chart toppers as “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” “Take a Chance on Me,” “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!,” and “Dancing Queen,” this is a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget. Contains adult themes and situations. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 and older. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Film

‘Winged Migration’

The Four Harbors Audubon Society will host a free screening of “Winged Migration’ at the Smithtown Library, 1 North Country Road, Smithtown on May 6 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m  Birds travel hundreds if not thousands of miles every Spring and Fall, always taking the same route, using the natural compass of the stars, and even the Earth’s magnetic field to find their way. Explore these miraculous yearly journeys and discuss the benefits and perils these winged avians have as they travel to their summer and winter homes. Reservations required by calling 766-3075 or 360-2480, ext. 232. 

‘We Feed People’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series hosts a special fundraiser for Ukraine with a screening of the National Geographic documentary “We Feed People” at John F. Kennedy Middle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on May 9 at 7 p.m. Directed by Ron Howard, the film follows the work of Chef Jose Andres of the World Central Kitchen. Followed by a live Q&A session via Zoom with Ukrainian singer Olha Tsvyntarna. Tickets are $10.69 online at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com, $10 (cash only) at the door. For more information, email [email protected].

* All numbers are in (631) area code unless otherwise noted

 

Chicken Quesadillas

By Barbara Beltrami

Ola! When I sat down to write this column and realized it would be published on Cinco de Mayo, I couldn’t resist sharing with you some recipes for popular food from Latinx friends. My repertoire for this type of cuisine is not all that extensive, but here are 3 favorite recipes  that will help make Cinco de Mayo a delicious celebration.

Consuelo’s Shrimp Fajitas

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

1 1/4 pounds fresh large shrimp

8 fajita flour tortillas

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, sliced into rings

1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/2” strips

1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/2” strips

1 orange or yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/2” strips 

3 canned chipotle peppers in Adobo  sauce, diced

2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from can

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 teaspoons brown sugar

DIRECTIONS:

Peel and devein shrimp and remove tails. Warm tortillas In medium skillet and set aside to keep warm; heat oil over medium-high heat; add onion and bell peppers and saute, stirring occasionally, until starting to soften, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add shrimp and cook another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn pink. Finally, add the chipotle peppers and sauce, lemon juice and brown sugar, stir and cook another minute. 

Place tortillas on individual plates, spoon shrimp mixture in center of each one and serve immediately with sour cream, red or green salsa, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce and guacamole.

Juanita’s Grilled Grouper Tacos

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

1 pound grouper filets, washed, patted dry

One 24-ounce bottle ceviche marinade

1/2 small head green or red cabbage, cored and coarsely shredded

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Juice of one freshly squeezed lime

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

8 flour tacos

DIRECTIONS:

In a nonreactive bowl combine fish and marinade; make sure that fish is completely submerged, cover and refrigerate for 2 t 4 hours. Drain fish and discard marinade. In a medium bowl thoroughly combine cabbage, onion, most but not all of the cilantro, 1 1/2 tablespoons of the lime juice, oil, salt and pepper, 1/2 a teaspoon each of the coriander and cumin; cover and refrigerate. 

In a small bowl whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise and remaining cilantro, lime juice and spices; vigorously whisk, then cover and refrigerate. 

Grease grill grates, then pre-heat to medium-high; add fish to hot grates, grill, turning once, for about 6 to 8 minutes, until charred on the outside and opaque on the inside. Flipping once, add tortillas to grill to warm, about 30 seconds, slightly charred. Place fish in center of each tortilla, top with cabbage mixture and add sour cream-mayonnaise mixture. Serve with ice cold Mexican beer.

Nestor’s Chicken Quesadillas

YIELD: Makes 4 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

3 tablespoons olive oil 

2 bell peppers (any color), cleaned and thinly sliced into rings

1 medium onion, chopped

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1  pound chicken tenders

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon zataar

4 medium flour or corn tortillas

2  cups shredded Manchego cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 ripe avocado, peeled and sliced

4 scallions, clean and sliced

DIRECTIONS:

In a large skillet over medium high heat, warm one tablespoon oil and add peppers, onion, salt and pepper; cook 5 minutes or until, soft. Remove from skillet and set aside to keep warm. Season chicken with salt, pepper and spices, and heat another tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add chicken and, stirring occasionally, cook until golden, about 8 minutes; remove and set aside to keep warm. 

Reduce heat to medium-low; heat remaining tablespoon oil; place one tortilla in skillet, add 1/4 each of pepper and onion mixture, chicken, cheeses, avocado and scallions to top half of tortilla. Fold other half over filling and cook, turning once, until golden on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Repeat procedure with remaining 3 tortillas. Cut into wedges; serve with sour cream, salsa and a green salad.

Photo from Smithtown Library

On Monday, April 11 the Passport Acceptance Facility celebrated the execution of its 1,000th
passport application. Charles and Angela Fisher of Smithtown were the lucky patrons who made
this appointment to apply for a new passport. They received a travel gift basket as a token of
appreciation for utilizing the Library’s Passport Acceptance Facility.

Pictured from left, Smithtown Building Head and Passport Acceptance Agent Eileen Caulfield, Passport Acceptance Agent William Salas, Charles and Angela Fisher, Assistant Director Patricia Thomson, Passport
Acceptance Agent Andrew Salomon and Passport Acceptance Agent Jessicca Newmark.

The Passport Acceptance Facility opened its doors at the Smithtown Building of The Smithtown
Library in November 2018. It is open to all patrons, regardless of library district by appointment
only. For more information or to make an appointment, please call (631) 360-2480 ext. 192 or email
[email protected].

 

Mango Souffle

Mothers selflessly devote themselves to their children from infancy into adulthood. A mother’s love never wanes, and she’s always ready and willing to step in and put her children first. Mother’s Day is a great chance for men, women and children to honor the special women in their lives.

Delicious homemade treats can show mothers just how much they’re appreciated and adored. Try this tasty recipe for Cold Mango Soufflés Topped with Toasted Coconut from “The Complete Mexican, South American & Caribbean Cookbook” (Metro Books) by Jane Milton, Jenni Fleetwood and Marina Filippelli

Cold Mango Soufflé

Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients:

4 small mangoes, peeled, pitted, chopped

2 tablespoons water

1 tablespoon powdered gelatine

2 egg yolks

1⁄2 cup superfine sugar

1⁄2 cup milk

11⁄4 cups heavy cream

Grated rind of one orange

Toasted flaked or coarsely shredded coconut, to decorate

Directions:

Place a few pieces of mango in the base of each of four 2⁄3-cup ramekins. Wrap a creased collar of nonstick parchment paper around the outside of each dish, extending well above the rim. Secure with adhesive tape, then tie tightly with string.  Pour the water into a small heatproof bowl and sprinkle the gelatine over the surface. Leave for 5 minutes or until spongy. Place the bowl in a pan of hot water, stirring occasionally, until the gelatine has dissolved. 

Meanwhile, whisk the egg yolks with the superfine sugar and milk in another heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water and continue to whisk until the mixture is thick and frothy. Remove from the heat and continue whisking until the mixture cools. Whisk in the liquid gelatine.

Puree the remaining mango pieces in a food processor or blender, then fold the puree into the egg yolk mixture with the orange rind. Set the mixture aside until starting to thicken.

Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Reserve 4 tablespoons and fold the rest into the mango mixture. Spoon into the ramekins until the mixture is 1 inch above the rim of each dish. Chill for 3 to 4 hours, or until set.

Carefully remove the paper collars from the soufflés. Spoon a little of the reserved cream on top of each soufflé and decorate with some toasted flaked or coarsely shredded coconut before serving. 

 

METRO photo

Mother’s Day is a great time of year to honor mothers and attempt to give back just a portion of the tireless love and devotion moms offer their children. For those needing a little inspiration on treating their mothers in special ways, consider these ideas.  

• Make mom a breakfast in bed with her favorite morning treats or bake a delicious dessert that mom will absolutely devour.

• Enjoy a movie at home with mom. Let her pick the flick and share her favorite film with you.

• Agree to not bicker for the entire day, especially if you are prone to getting into arguments with siblings.

• Put together a collage of photos from moments you have shared with your family.

• Cook a meal together and learn about everyone’s favorite recipes or the family history.

• Customize a coffee mug, tote bag or a blanket with a meaningful sentiment or photo.

• Treat mom to a day off from her chores. Tackle all of the jobs she normally does for the family. 

• Pamper mom with a gift card for her favorite nail salon or massage therapy location.

• Compile a playlist of songs and artists mom prefers and download them to her phone.

• Write her an email with an inspirational quote or special words of love.

• Tackle a task that she may not want to do herself, such as washing the exterior of her car and vacuuming the interior.

Mother’s Day gift ideas should come from the heart and can show mothers near and far how much they are appreciated and loved.