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'The Warbler'

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

“My mother is a willow. She stands by a stream that burbles like a toddler’s kisses, and her leaves dip into the water whenever the wind blows …” So opens the gifted Sarah Beth Durst’s latest novel, The Warbler. 

Author Sarah Beth Durst with a copy of her latest novel.

“If I stay, then one day, beneath the watchful blue sky, I too will grow roots, my skin will harden to bark, and the strands of my hair will blossom.” Elisa’s curse—what her mother called “our family inheritance”—condemns the family’s women to become trees if they remain in any place for too long.

“I’m packed before I’m ready to leave.” This statement embodies the nomadic Elisa, The Warbler’s central figure. She is never going to but “coming from.” Living under different names, she has taken on Beatrix, Wanda, Gitana, and Barbara, all of which mean “traveler” or “stranger.” Elisa’s quest is threefold: find her familial origins, understand her inability never to remain, and how to break the curse. The sole clue is the location must possess enough “unexplained oddities.” 

Until her mother Lori’s passing two years before, mother and daughter crisscrossed the United States, visiting strange and out-of-the-way towns.

As the book opens, Elisa leaves Tyler, with whom she has lived for ten months. She lived in the “now, now, now.” But her life is governed by strong tenets: “Don’t form ties. Don’t take mementos. Don’t keep in touch.” Elisa must always run. A particularly poignant memory is Elisa reflecting on a gift to her mother: a novelty pillow. But the simple offering was left behind because it tied them to that place. Elisa desires something as simple as a junk drawer or a jar of peanut butter “that I don’t have to ration.”

Elisa lands in Greenborough, Massachusetts (The verdant name hints at the possibility of answers to a nature-based enchantment.) Drawn by a cat in the window, her first stop is The Book Cellar, “overflowing with books, exactly as a bookstore should be. Every shelf is stuffed, with volumes wedged horizontally on top of vertical rows and crammed between the top shelf and the ceiling, so many that they look as if they have been quietly breeding for years.” 

Elisa is drawn to books because “they’re portable and replaceable.” Owen, the shop’s proprietor, befriends her. She immediately applies and is given a job in the store. But quickly, the town’s nature reveals itself when she witnesses a strange accident and its peculiar aftermath. 

‘The Warbler’

The town’s charming surface belies a roiling strangeness beneath its seemingly bucolic surface. Greenborough’s inhabitants include a musician who plays a stringless guitar, a writer whose fingers never touch the keys, a waiter who is perpetually wiping a dessert carousel, and a woman who keeps dozens of birds caged in her yard. Even the most benign statement can be ominous: “You know, I’ve lost track of when I came here. Guess time flies when you’re having fun.” The driving force of the peculiar but well-drawn cast of characters is a nameless trio of elderly sisters who suggest the fates in their many forms. 

Ultimately, The Warbler chronicles three generations: grandmother Rose, daughter Lori, and granddaughter Elisa. The book’s chapters alternate in three timelines, exploring the women’s lives and challenges. What seems, at first, a traditional fantasy grows into a complex and emotional narrative. Durst addresses the power of choice and the spirit (and danger) of wishing. Of her many works, Durst’s The Warbler is probably her most visceral and raw, compelling in Elisa’s passion to find truth but also a sense of self. 

Having been condemned to wander, the idea of home burns deeply. Elisa is one of Durst’s finest creations, an individual struggling with loneliness and looking for a sense of the whole. “I love music. It’s something that’s actually supposed to be ephemeral. You experience it, then move on, carrying it only as an imperfect memory of how it made you feel. It’s one of the few things that I can experience exactly like everyone else.” Glimpses of her various “lives” help create a wholeness as Elisa puts the pieces together.

Once again, Durst celebrates nature in its beauty and mystery. The metaphor of roots plays as a grounding but equally as a trap. Each woman yearned for a different life, but their choices or those around them failed to complete them. The novel’s resolution shows depth and insight into the fragility of human nature.

In previous novels, Durst demonstrated her skill as a world-builder with fantastical and wholly original universes. She inverts this idea with The Warbler, constructing her story in the very real, recognizable here-and-now. While no less effective, the immediacy becomes a driving force. Durst addresses the idea of home, the struggle between living free and being caged. 

In turns sinister and heartfelt, The Warbler is a tale of bravery in facing supernatural and wholly human adversity, looking beyond the shadow of danger, and embracing the healing power of self-reflection and understanding.

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Sarah Beth Durst is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over twenty-five books for adults, teens, and kids. She lives in Stony Brook with her husband, her children, and her ill-mannered cat. Pick up a copy of The Warbler at your local bookseller or online at www.amazon.com or www.barnesandnoble.com. For more information, visit sarahbethdurst.com.

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Nicole Kidman as Nancy Vandergroot in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Amazon Prime

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

“Sometimes I wonder. Is it even real?” This notion heralds an interesting premise, but the idea fails to manifest in Amazon Prime’s limp psychological thriller Holland. 

Holland, Michigan, is a midwestern idyll—a Dutch Stepford, complete with tulips and windmills. Rooted in Americana values, one expects the town to be composed of theme park facades. 

Nicole Kidman as Nancy Vandergroot in a scene from the film.
Photo courtesy of Amazon Prime

Life Management (Home Economics) teacher Nancy Vandergroot (Nicole Kidman) lives a seemingly picture-perfect existence with her devoted optometrist husband, Fred (Matthew Macfadyen), and a well-behaved thirteen-year-old son, Harry (Jude Hill). Her world is a softly padded suburban prison, with a church deacon husband who is a community pillar. When asked if she did something different with the dinner recipe, she replies: “Brown mustard instead of yellow. I felt like doing something crazy.” 

Nancy’s hunt for a missing earring reveals a stash of Polaroid film and a suspicious parking ticket. The discoveries suggest Fred is having an affair. Admitting that she likes to “play detective,” Nancy enlists the attentive shop teacher, Dave Delgado (Gael Garcia Bernal), to help uncover Fred’s double life. 

Nicole Kidman and Gael Garcia Bernal in a scene from ‘Holland.’ Photo from Amazon Prime

“He goes to a lot of conferences for an optometrist,” she shares. The pair embark on a search for answers. “Sometimes in life, you know, you’ve got to follow the clues wherever they take you.” About one hundred minutes in, the story turns dark. A climactic confrontation leads to a complication and a less-than-satisfactory second climax/conclusion. 

With the right treatment, the predictable setup can make for an engaging story. Alfred Hitchcock often elevated modest plots with unusual twists, interesting points of view, and an ability to elicit fully realized characters. Hitchcock knew film was less the telling of the story but how the story is told. Unfortunately, Andrew Sodroski’s cluttered screenplay and Mimi Cave’s jumbled direction fail to commit to a tone or style. 

Mixing horror tropes (including nightmare visions), caper standards (almost being caught while searching for evidence), and off-beat humor (a kiss interrupted by a car hitting another car), the genres are not blended but rather randomly stacked. 

Much of the dialogue feels like it is being delivered in quotation marks and italics as if everything is simultaneously important but not what it seems. “We have to stay through Tulip Time.” Is this meant to be humorous? Foreboding? Quirky? Ultimately, the statement feels awkward, as does most of the film.

Matthew Macfadyen and Jude Hill in a scene from ‘Holland.’ Photo from Amazon Prime

The most effective piece is the model train hobby shared by father and son in the orderly garage: “You get to make a story about someone you’ve never met before and direct their whole lives … you get to control everything.” The toy railway’s real purpose is much deeper and the film’s most chilling element. 

Kidman is a gifted actor. With Nancy, she channels some of the more benign shades of To Die For’s Suzanne Stone. Nancy is naïve, frayed, and sometimes a little loopy. Kidman manages to carve some dimension in the homemaker’s struggle, finding balance and understanding in the gathering darkness of Nancy’s crumbling reality. The fact that her internal imbalance is not fleshed out (or resolved) lies squarely with Sodroski and Cave. 

Macfadyen (so strong as Mr. Darcy in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice) makes Fred charming, easy, and plausible, veering away from the ominous. Bernal is slightly over-earnest as a man of great conscience who is clearly in love with Nancy. Some racial issues imposed on the narrative ultimately go nowhere, but Bernal uses those to give his character a sense of other in an almost solely white community. Hill makes Harry believable—both likable and subtle. 

Holland attempts to cover self-knowledge, infidelity, guilt, racism, psychological abuse, societal expectations, and a host of other concepts. By trying to say and do so many things, the film fails to unify as one. In the end, Holland is a simplistic suspenser mired in assorted clichés.

Rated R, the film is now streaming on Amazon Prime.

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FINAL ONE ACTS The 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays is winding down at Theatre Three Come see what everyone's raving about before the show closes on April 5. Photo by Peter Lanscombe/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Ongoing

FLIP Circus in Lake Grove

Flip Circus returns to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove from April 4 to 15.  Experience the magical moments under the red and white big top with trapeze artists, acrobats, jugglers and more! Showtimes are 7 p.m. on weekdays; and 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $15 for children and $50 for adults, with senior/military/handicap and family pack discounts available at www.flipcircus.com or at the  box office during each engagement.

Thursday April 3

Game Night at the LIM

As a companion program to its Voices and Votes exhibition, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook presents an American Experiments Game Night from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. featuring a series of games developed by the Smithsonian Institution. Drop in to view the exhibition and participate in meaningful discussions about ideas that are critical to our democracy, all in a fun and engaging format. Adults and children are welcome to stop by and play! Free admission. No registration required. 631-751-0066

Gallery North Art Reception

Gallery North , 90 North Country Road, Setauket invites the community to an opening reception for Lori Horowitz: Undergrowth from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibition, which runs through May 11, features mixed media sculptures, reliefs, and photographs inspired by the study of the pristine and precious environment surrounding the artist’s home, and the cycles of nature and the social complexities that threaten the delicate balance. For more info, call 631-751-2676.

Audubon Society Lecture

Join Four Harbors Audubon Society for a Spring presentation, Paved Paradise: The Ecological Impacts of America’s Road System with guest speaker Ben Goldfarb,  via Zoom at 7 p.m. In his talk, Goldfarb will discuss the ecological harms wrought by transportation and the movement to redress them — and how we can create a better, safer world for all living beings. To register, visit www.4has.org.

Friday April 4 

Military Bridge

Join Union United Methodist Church, 1018 Pulaski Road, East Northport for an evening of Military Bridge at 7 p.m. Bring a group of four or come on your own. Tickets are $20. Call 631-806-3491 to reserve your tickets.

Jazz Orchestra Concert

The Jazz Loft’s 28-piece Big Band will present a performance of Stan Kenton’s “Cuban Fire Suite,” an authentic and highly energetic composition inspired and infused by Cuban rhythms, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. tonight at Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Performing Arts 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook and on April 5 at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook. Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors; $25 for students and $20 for children. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org.

Saturday April 5

Jazz Orchestra Concert

See April 4 listing.

Nature Walk

Town of Brookhaven continues its free spring nature programs with Birding by the Beach at West Meadow Beach in Stony Brook at 10 a.m. and Cedar Beach Nature Center in Mt. Sinai at 2 p.m. Explore the unique ecology of the beach and salt marsh during this free program. Pre-registration required by emailing [email protected].

Hauppauge Spring Craft Fair

Shop small and save big! Hauppauge High School, 500 Lincoln Blvd. Hauppauge hosts a Spring and Gift Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring 100 local vendors selling crafts, jewelry, clothing, bath soaps, crochet, holiday decor, honey, candy, fashion accessories, woodworking, and spring lawn decor at this indoor event. Free admission and free door prize. 631-885-1267

Inclusion Resource Fair

In partnership with Sachem SEPTA and the Sachem School District, Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook will host an Inclusion Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Caregivers and individuals with special needs can connect with organizations that offer support services. Stop by and get a picture with Chippy, the library mascot. 631-588-5024

St. Baldrick’s event

VFW Post 3054, 8 Jones St., Setauket will host a St. Baldrick’s event for Three Village Heroes from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring the family for a fun-filled day including music, food trucks, raffles, outdoor games and more to raise money to fight childhood cancer. Held rain or shine. 631-406-1938

Youth Abilities Fair

In partnership with Middle Country SEPTA, the Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will host a Youth Abilities Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet representatives from various organizations and learn about their resources, services and activities for children and teens. Enjoy a sensory space, crafts, games, activities and meet the Super Mario Brothers and friends! Enjoy a spectacular magic show at 1 p.m. with the Great and Powerful Dave. 631-585-9393

Wet Paints Studio Art Reception

Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson invites the community to an artist reception for its latest exhibit on the Second Floor by the Wet Paints Studio Group from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Refreshments will be served. The exhibit runs through April 29. 516-380-7715

Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal Church 18 Magnolia Place, Selden will hold a Spaghetti Dinner and Basket Raffle from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. $10 admission includes dinner, dessert, 5 raffle tickets and a door prize ticket. Proceeds benefit St. Cuthbert’s Food Pantry. To RSVP, call 631-732-8773 or visit their Facebook page.

Saturdays at Six Concert

All Souls Church, 61 Main Street, Stony Brook continues its Saturdays at Six series with a concert by Brazilian guitarist Octávio Deluchi at 6 p.m. The program will feature a balance between Spanish and Brazilian repertoire, including selections by Heitor Villa-Lobos, Astor Piazzolla, Chiquinha Gonzaga, Marco Pereira, and others. Free. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

Sunday April 6

All Kids Fair

Huntington Hilton, 598 Broad Hollow Road, Melville will host the 14th annual All Kids Fair from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with over 80 kid-centered exhibitors. Activities include bounce houses, petting zoo, music, face painting, balloon animals, puppies to cuddle, kid’s classes, arts and crafts and much more. Tickets purchased in advance are $5;  $10 for children ages 2 and up and $5 for adults at the door. www.AllKidsFair.com/Tickets.

Spring Craft Fair

Backstage Studio of Dance, 200 Wilson St., Port Jefferson Station will hold a Spring Craft Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop for art, crafts, jewelry, homemade gifts, soaps, clothing, personalized items, baked goods, crocheted items and much more. Free admission. For more information, call 631-331-5766.

Ridotto concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington hosts a Ridotto concert featuring Spanish pianist Gustavo Diaz-Jerez at 4 p.m. The program will include works by Albeniz (Iberia), DeFalla, Soler and his own composition. Tickets are $35 adults $30 seniors, $25 members $12 students. To order, call 631-385-0373, or email [email protected]

Simon & Garfunkel lecture

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents Simon & Garfunkel: Old Friends at 3 p.m. In this unique 90-minute multimedia program, Tony Traguardo presents the story of the two kids from Queens who started their professional career together as ‘Tom and Jerry.’ Followed by a Q&A. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Toby Tobias in Concert

The Toby Tobias Ensemble presents a concert of Global American music at Stony Brook Community Church, 216 Christian Ave., Stony Brook at 3 p.m. A reception with the musicians will follow the concert. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 students. For more information, call 631-751-0574 or email [email protected].

Monday April 7

Lyme Disease Awareness Workshop

Visit Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station to learn all about Lyme disease with Doreen Eadie NP, Advanced Practice Provider from the Specialty Care Center at St. Charles Hospital from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. To register, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org

Tuesday April 8

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to concert by singer and entertainer Susan Capri at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Local Author Fair

Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook hosts a Local Author Fair from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Celebrate the joy of reading and writing! Meet and chat with local authors, purchase signed books and enter a raffle to win exciting prizes. Light refreshments will be served. Questions? Call 631-588-5024

Wednesday April 9

No events listed for this day.

Thursday April 10

TCAC art reception

Trinity Community Art Center, 130 Main St., Northport invites the community to an opening reception for “Reflections of Autism” by artist Erich Preis from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibition runs through April 27. 631-637-2278

Crafts & Cocktails

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor for Crafts & Cocktails: Beachy Botanicals from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Just in time for spring, enjoy the floral notes of a refreshing Botanical Bliss cocktail or mocktail while crafting a unique whelk shell planter. Discover the cultural history of the channel whelk, then be inspired by the swirling geometry of these shells as you decorate your planter complete with a plantlet to take home! For adults 21 and up. $35 per person. Register at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Spring Wreath Making Workshop

Create a floral spring wreath with Diana Conklin of Diana Everlasting at the Reboli Center for the Arts, 64 Main St., Stony Brook from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. A beautiful wreath in your decor is something special but a beautiful wreath made by you is even better! $45 per person includes all materials. For ages 12 and up. Call 631-751-7707 to register.

Comedy Night at the CAC

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Stand Up/ Sit Down comedy series in the Sky Room Cafe with live stand up with Richie Byrne at 8 p.m. followed by a Q&A with host Steven Taub. Tickets are $35, $25 members. To purchase in advance, visit www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Film

Made in Huntington Film Festival

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will host the Made in Huntington Film Festival at various times from April 3 to April 6. Explore 36 selections ranging from a Public Service Announcement, animation, a silent film, bundles of short subjects and multiple feature length films. Tickets are $20, $18 members. For the full schedule, visit www.madeinhuntington.com/screenings.

‘Man From Pretentia’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Man From Pretentia, a tender portrait of “quirky” art dealer, Paul Bridgewater, who became a fixture of the Downtown NYC art scene, at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 3 at 7 p.m. Followed by a Q&A with the director, Chih Hsuan Liang, and producer, Steve Zehentner. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Juror #2’

Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a viewing of Juror #2 starring Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, J.K. Simmons, and Kiefer Sutherland on April 9 at 2 p.m. Open to all. To reserve your seat, call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org.

‘Theater of Thought’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Science on Screen series with Theater of Thought: Neuroscience and the Human Brain on April 9 at 7:30 p.m. Followed by a conversation and Q&A with Dr. Alexei Koulakov from CSHL. Tickets are $16, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Dust to Dust’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Dust to Dust at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 10 at 7 p.m. Director Kosai Sekine follows haute couture designer Yuima Nakazato as he discovers the grave impact of “fast fashion” on the environment and then challenges his team and his industry to act more sustainably. Resources on recycling and a upcycled fashion show to follow the screening. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 15 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Waitress The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, it tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

‘Into the Woods’

Lighthouse Theatre Company presents the Tony award-winning musical Into the Woods at St. James Episcopal Church, Mills Hall, 490 North Country Road, St. James on April 4 and April 5 at 8 p.m. and April 6 at 3 p.m. Stephen Sondheim’s masterful score soars in this poignant dark-comedy featuring all your favorite fairytale characters as you’ve never seen them before. Proceeds benefit Celebrate St. James. (CSJ). Tickets are $35 adults $30 seniors/veterans, $25 CSJ members and includes dinner and dessert. To order, visit lighthousetheatrecompany.com/tickets.

‘Wait Until Dark’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Wait Until Dark from April 18 to May 11. One of the American theatre’s greatest suspense plays, Jeffrey Hatcher’s gripping new adaptation of Frederick Knott’s classic sets the action in 1944 Greenwich Village. Susan, a woman who recently lost her vision, is imperiled by con men searching for a mysterious doll. Trapped in her apartment, Susan draws on new depths of resourcefulness as the story builds to its extraordinary, breath-taking conclusion. Contains adult situations. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’

Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents Priscilla, Queen of the Desert – The Musical in the Shea Theater in the Islip Arts Building April 17 to 19 and April 23 to 26 at 7:30 p.m. and  April 27 at 2 p.m. Based on the smash-hit movie, the play is the heartwarming, uplifting adventure of three friends, Tick, Bernadette and Adam, a glamorous Sydney-based performing trio who agree to take their show to the middle of the Australian outback. Featuring hits like “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive,” “Hot Stuff,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Go West,” “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” and “I Love The Nightlife.” General admission is $15, veterans and students 16 years of age or younger $10. SCCC students with current ID get one free ticket. To order, call 631-451-4163.

(mostly) TRUE THINGS 

The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main St., Port Jefferson presents a (mostly) TRUE THINGS Storytelling Show on April 26 at 7 p.m. Join them for a compelling evening of true stories – with a twist on the theme GAME ON! Hosted by Jude Treder-Wolff, the show will feature Marc Abbott, Aaron Foss, Cyndi Zaweski, and Jezrie-Mercano-Courtney. Tickets are $20 online at www.mostlytruethings.com, $25 at the door (cash only).

Farmers Markets

Huntington Farmers Market

Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Jan. 5 through April 27. 631-470-9620

Port Jefferson Farmers Market

The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 through April 27. 631-802-216

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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Sugar

ADOPT SUGAR!

She’s Sugar, spice and everything nice! Sugar is a delightfully sweet, and petite, chocolate-colored Min-Pin (Miniature Pinscher and Boston Terrier) Mix up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

This six-year-old girl’s journey began under some very unfortunate circumstances, originally rescued by the Shelter from a terrible breeding situation where she was used, neglected, and discarded. After medical care for being malnourished and dehydrated, this tiny survivor was later adopted… only to be returned to the shelter two years later due to her fears when it comes to meeting new people. This little survivor has been let down far too many times… but we know the right family is out there to give her the love she truly deserves.

Because of her difficult past, Sugar can be a little shy when meeting new people — but with patience, kindness, and a few treats, you’ll quickly earn her trust and see her wonderful personality shine. Sugar is smart, energetic, and eager to please. She loves to learn and will thrive in a quiet, compassionate home where she can finally feel safe, loved, and part of the family. If you’re ready to show Sugar that not all humans disappoint, she’s ready to fill your life with joy, loyalty, and unconditional love.

Sugar can become protective of her people, however she will listen when corrected. Sugar would be best suited in a quiet home with no other pets or children. Let’s get her story out to the world far and wide… if you’re not the right person for Sugar, you can still help by sharing her story on Social Media and with friends, neighbors and family.

If you are interested in meeting Sugar please fill out an application and schedule a date/time to properly interact in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and a Dog Walk trail.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

For more information regarding more rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 
URGENT – Foster Opportunity:
If you have no other pets or young children at home, and are looking for a way to serve your community, please consider signing up to be a foster. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens, and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for extended periods of time.
Download the Foster Application at:

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Stock photo
 Obesity can influence your body’s ability to use vitamin D

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Happy Spring! It’s been a rougher winter than in recent years, and the additional hours of sunshine each day seem even more welcome than usual.

The extra sunshine is also good news for your vitamin D3 levels. Realistically, though, it’s still challenging to get enough sun exposure to meet your vitamin D requirements without putting yourself at risk for developing skin cancer. Even without this concern, sun exposure doesn’t address all our vitamin D needs. In a study of Hawaiians, a subset of the study population with more than 20 hours of sun exposure without sunscreen per week still had some participants with low vitamin D3 values (1).

This is why many of us rely on food-sourced vitamin D from fortified packaged foods, where vitamin D3 has been added. 

Why do we care about vitamin D? Studies have shown that it may be effective in preventing and treating a wide swath of chronic diseases. If you have low levels of vitamin D, replacing it is important. There’s still a lot we don’t know, though.

For example, there is no consensus on the ideal blood level for vitamin D. For adults, the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (formerly the Institute of Medicine (IOM)) recommends between 20 and 50 ng/ml (2). The Endocrine Society updated their testing and supplementation recommendations in 2024 to stratify them by age and pregnancy status, among other risk factors (3). Generally, however, they do not recommend testing vitamin D3 levels for healthy adults and defer to the IOM for supplementation recommendations.

How does body fat affect Vitamin D absorption?

Data from the VITAL trial, a large-scale vitamin D and Omega-3 trial, suggests that participants with BMIs of less than 25 kg/m2 had significant health benefits from supplementation versus placebo (4). These included 24 percent lower cancer incidence, 42 percent lower cancer mortality, and 22 percent lower incidence of autoimmune disease. Those with higher BMIs did not experience these benefits.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), those with obesity issues might need greater intakes of vitamin D to achieve vitamin D levels similar to those of people with lower weights, because subcutaneous fat sequesters vitamin D, making it unavailable for their systems to use (2).

Does vitamin D improve cardiovascular health?

Several observational studies have shown benefits from vitamin D supplementation with cardiovascular disease. The Framingham Offspring Study showed that patients with deficient levels were at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (5).

In contrast, though, a small randomized controlled trial (RCT) questioned the cardioprotective effects of vitamin D (6). This study of postmenopausal women, using biomarkers such as endothelial function, inflammation or vascular stiffness, showed no difference between vitamin D treatment and placebo. The authors concluded there is no reason to give vitamin D for prevention of cardiovascular disease. 

An NIH review of both observational and randomized clinical trials concluded that, even for those with low vitamin D levels, supplementation does not reduce cardiovascular disease risk (2). 

How does vitamin D affect your weight?

There is moderately good news on the weight front. The Study of Osteoporotic Fractures found that vitamin D plays a role in reducing the amount of weight gain in women 65 years and older whose blood levels were more than 30 ng/ml (7).

This association held true at baseline and after 4.5 years of observation. If the women dropped below 30 ng/ml in this period, they were more likely to gain more weight, and they gained less if they kept levels above the target. There were 4,659 participants in the study. Unfortunately, sufficient vitamin D did not result in weight loss.

Does vitamin D supplementation reduce fracture risk?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against giving “healthy” postmenopausal women vitamin D, calcium or the combination of vitamin D3 400 IUs plus calcium 1,000 mg to prevent fractures, and it found inadequate evidence of fracture prevention at higher levels (8). The combination does not seem to reduce fractures, but it does increase the risk of kidney stones.

Should you supplement your vitamin D3?

While vitamin D may not be a cure-all, it might play a role with many disorders. It is important to supplement to optimal levels, especially since many of us living in the Northeast have insufficient to deficient levels. This is especially important for those with specific health issues that are affected by low vitamin D levels. However, it is important not to raise your blood levels too high (9). I advise my patients to target a range between 32 and 50 ng/ml, depending on their health circumstances.

References:

(1) J Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2007 Jun;92(6):2130-2135. (2) nih.gov. (3) JCEM, August 2024 (online June 2024). (4) JAMA Netw Open. 2023 Published online Jan 2023. (5) Circulation. 2008 Jan 29;117(4):503-511. (6) PLoS One. 2012;7(5):e36617. (7) J Clin Endocrinol Metabol. May 17, 2012 online. (8) JAMA. 2018;319(15):1592-1599. (9) Am J Lifestyle Med. 2021 Jul-Aug; 15(4): 397–401.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

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A scene from 'Snow White.' Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Rachel Zegler as Snow White in a scene from the film.Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Andrew Burnap as Jonathan and Rachel Zegler as Snow White in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Gal Gadot as the evil stepmother in a scene from the film. Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
'Snow White' is now playing in local theaters. Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Reviewed by Jeffrey Sanzel

Disney’s Snow White arrives in theaters on a wave of bad publicity. The casting of a non-traditional Snow White and that actor’s criticism of the original animated version, the approach to the seven diminutive cohorts, and the friction between its two stars have caused the House of Mouse to take a cautious approach to the live-action release.

The 1937 feature was part of Disney’s Golden Age of Animation. While a progressive sensibility can find fault with its outdated views, it remains unmatched for pure art and craft. Over the years, dozens of Snow Whites have graced the big and small screens. Beginning with the 1902 silent, adaptations include Mirror, Mirror; Snow White and the Huntsman; Snow White: A Tale of Terror; and Snow White and the Three Stooges.

Putting this aside, Disney’s Snow White is a by-the-numbers remake with some modern additions. The plot connects the usual dots. Snow White’s mother dies, and her father, the king, remarries a beautiful but vain woman. The sorceress queen’s magic mirror informs her she is no longer “the fairest of them all”—that honor now bestowed on her stepdaughter, Snow White.

Enraged, the queen orders her huntsman to take the princess into the forest, kill her, and bring back the girl’s heart. The huntsman takes pity on the girl and lets her escape. Snow White seeks refuge in the cottage of seven dwarfs. When the queen discovers the girl is still alive, she turns herself into a crone, giving her a poisoned apple. Snow White eats the apple and “falls dead.” True love’s kiss—in the form of a prince—wakes her from her death-like slumber, and they live happily ever after.

The new Snow White follows the essentials with a few variations. Snow White is named for the snowstorm during which she was born. The king disappeared, but no proof of death added to Snow White’s quest. The young woman displays a strong independent streak and speaks up for the mistreated citizens. The biggest departure is the absence of a prince. In his place is the generic “guy,” Jonathan, and his seven out-of-work actors. Snow White and the low-rent Robin Hood “meet cute” when she catches him stealing potatoes from the royal kitchen. While she lets him go, he is arrested and tied to the palace’s front gate. She sets him free. Later, they meet in the forest and reconnect. 

None of the changes are terribly original. While nodding towards political correctness, they could have enhanced this Snow White had they been well-handled. However, they are not, and they do not. The leaden film’s muted and desaturated colors create a joyless landscape. The production is oddly cheap, with costumes evoking dollar-store cosplay. (The exception is the queen’s wardrobe.) The new songs—by Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and Jack Feldman—barely register. From the lifeless and oddly brief opening number, “Good Things Grow,” and Snow White’s generic I Want song, “Waiting on a Wish,” to the queen’s bizarrely wrong-headed “All is Fair,” not one is memorable. The incongruous “Princess Problems” might be a Meet Me in St. Louis cast-off.

Rachel Zegler (wonderful in West Side Story) is a fine, charming Snow White, understanding the decisive, strong character. She moves with elegant determination and sings with heart and purpose. She just deserved a better script and a modicum of direction. 

Gal Gadot is the most wooden villain on record (including the talking trees in The Wizard of Oz). Her stiff line readings compete with the worst community theatre divas. She looks great; unfortunately, she speaks as though she learned her lines phonetically. 

Andrew Burnap is saddled with Jonathan, a hero so dull that he seems like he is going to fall asleep mid-sentence. (The vibe is a fast-food counter worker on his third consecutive shift.) A distinct lack of chemistry separates Zegler and Burnap; whether this is an absence of spark between the actors or the failure of the screenplay is hard to judge. 

The always reliable Patrick Page voices the Magic Mirror and ably channels the 1937 film. Ansu Kabia’s huntsman barely receives two dimensions. One suspects with the right opportunity, he could have made more of the role. The entire cast appears under-rehearsed as if the cameras rolled days before they found any comfort with the material. Snow White is indifferent Renaissance Faire meets second-rate theme park.

And then there are the dwarfs. (Oh, those dwarfs.) Regardless of the public relations problems, this choice was not the solution. The seven CGI-ed figures attempt to capture the charm of their animated counterparts. They do not—not even a little. Living in a Thomas Kinkade-inspired cottage, their images are simultaneously generic and disturbingly hideous. (The equally CGI-ed forest creatures are a little better, in their kinda weird-kinda cute way.)

Disney misfired, trying to please everyone by twisting itself into a knot of contemporary sensitivity. With lackluster design, an underwritten but overthought screenplay, and an insignificant score, this Disney canon entry will be remembered for its muddled controversies rather than its less-than-bland enchantment. In the end, Snow White is not so much about staying woke but staying awake. 

Rated PG, the film is now playing in local theaters.

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STEEPED IN TRADITION East of the River returns to Huntington on March 30 with a program of Sephardic Music. Photo by Isabella Pagel
Thursday March 27

Music Bingo Fundraiser

Smithtown Children’s Foundation will hold a Music Bingo fundraiser at the Elks Lodge, 120 Edgewood Ave., Smithtown at 6 p.m. Join them for dinner and dancing to benefit the Smithtown Central School Districts’ Business School scholarships. Tickets are $50 per person. To register, visit www.smithtownchildrensfoundation.com.

Native American Drumming

All Souls Church, 61 Main St., Stony Brook presents an evening of Native American Drumming Meditations from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. 631-655-7798

Avalon Astronomy Night

The Observatories at Avalon Nature Preserve, Shep Jones Lane, Stony Brook invite the community to a live observing session (weather permitting) to view Jupiter, Mars and beyond from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free. No registration required. Access is only available from 25A / North Country due to the Harbor Road closure. 631-689-0619

Friday March 28 

WinterTide Concert 

The Port Jefferson Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson closes its WinterTide series with a concert by Andie Juliette Fortier from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join the singer as she releases a new album accompanied by family and friends in an intimate cafe setting. Free will donation at the door. Sponsored by St. Charles Hospital and GPJAC. 631-473-5220

Caroline Church Concert

The free concert series at Caroline Episcopal Church, 1 Dyke Road, Setauket returns at 7 p.m. with a piano recital in the Parish House featuring pianist and composer George Kostopoulous. 631-941-4245

St. Patrick’s Coffee House

Celebrate St. James continues its Coffee House concert series with Floot 4 at 7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of Irish tunes performed by this renowned flute quartet along with your choice of coffees and teas and traditional Irish baked goods. Tickets are $20 in advance at www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, Friday Night Face Off, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages 16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door, cash only. 631-928-9100

Saturday March 29

Train Car Clean Up

Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce will hold a Train Car Cleanup at the corner of Route 112 and Nesconset Highway in Port Jefferson Station from 8 a.m. to noon. Plans are for garbage pick up, flower bed clean up and edging, mulch spreading, and window washing! Coffee and bagels will be served. 631-821-1313

Spring Craft Fair

Time to shop! Newfield High School, 145 Marshall Drive, Selden will host a Selden Craft and Gift Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop for handmade crafts, art, jewelry, chocolates, candles, holiday decor, soaps, clothing and crochet items from over 100 vendors during this indoor event presented by Island Fairs. Free admission. 631-885-1267

Birding by the Beach

Town of Brookhaven continues its free spring nature programs with Birding by the Beach at West Meadow Beach in Stony Brook at 10 a.m. and Cedar Beach Nature Center in Mt. Sinai at 2 p.m. Observe and identify the birds of our shorelines and coastal wetlands during this free program. Pre-registration required by emailing [email protected].

Vietnam War Anniversary event

Join the community for the 50th anniversary celebration marking the end of the Vietnam War at the H. Lee Dennison Building, 100 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge at 11:30 a.m. Featuring a military ceremony, musical entertainment, tributes, military/veterans exhibit and food trucks. Bring seating. Rain date is April 5. Call 631-853-8387 for more information.

SachemCon

Get your cosplay on and share your love of all things anime, manga and comics at the annual SachemCon at Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook from noon to 4 p.m. Play TCGs, make crafts, watch animation demonstrations and performances, join a cosplay fashion show and shop for unique art and collectibles. Open to all. No registration necessary. 631-588-5024.

Pop-up exhibit heads to Middle Country Public LIbrary

The Middle Country Public Library will host “Dazzling Lights: A pop-up exhibit,” today and March 30, from 1 to 4 p.m., at its Selden location, 575 Middle Country Road. Attendees can experience an innovative, immersive environment featuring local historic photos, artwork and animations. Upon entering the space, one will immediately observe dazzling visuals that utilize site-specific projection mapping, video and light.  The creative duo Eric Hurnyak and Michael Zinn have brought this marvelous exhibit consisting of stunning 360 visuals that will morph and change into other images. Visitors will listen to coordinated audio as they are immersed in the “Dazzling Lights” exhibit.  All are invited to enjoy this free event. No registration required. For more information, please visit https://www.mcplibrary.org or call at 631-585-9393.

Cabaret for a Cause

Join Temple Isaiah, 1404 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook for Cabaret for a Cause — A Night of Broadway at 6:30 p.m. Come enjoy a variety of Broadway hits performed by our talented community. $25 per person includes popcorn and a drink. To RSVP, visit www.tisbny.org.

SBU Symphony Orchestra Concert

Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents a concert by the Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra on the Main Stage at 8 p.m. Program will include Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5, Ibert’s Flute Concerto, and Caroline Shaw’s Entr’acte. Come early for a pre-concert lecture in the Recital Hall at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 adults, $20 seniors, $10 students (with SBU ID). To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Sunday March 30

Pop-up exhibit heads to Middle Country Public LIbrary

See March 29 listing.

Car Show & Swap Meet

Long Island Cars presents its first car show of 2025 at Long Island Community Hospital Amphitheater at Bald Hill, 1 Ski Run, Farmingville from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with classic and collectible cars, custom vehicles, street rods, antiques, muscle cars, exotics, and imports; a swap meet; and cars for sale. $10 adults, free for children 12 years and under. Free parking.  Call 631-567-5898.

History of Caumsett HIke

Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a History of Caumsett hike from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. On this hilly 2 mile long walk you will study the park’s social, economic, architectural and political history. Adults only. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 631-423- 1770.

Stories in Stone

The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents Stories in Stone: Celebrating Women’s History at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. Join the staff for a spring walking tour through St. John’s Memorial Cemetery. Get acquainted with some of cemetery’s permanent residents with a focus on Women’s History. For adults and kids ages 12 and over. $15 per person, $10 members. Registration required by visiting www.cshwhalingmuseum.org. 631-367-3418.

Le Petit Salon de Musique concert

Back by popular demand! Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket presents a Le Petit Salon de Musique concert featuring virtuoso vocalists Ron and Julie Anne Meixsell, with pianist Doris Anne McMullen at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students with ID, $10 children under 12 at the door (cash only) or in  advance at http://www.lepetitsalon.org/.  631-751-0297

Hallockville Museum Farm lecture

Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead hosts a special Women’s History Month presentation, “Carrie’s Letters,” about the life of an East End farm wife and mother between the years of 1880 and 1910 at 2 p.m. Author Debby Warner Anderson will explain how the discovery of a shoebox of letters written by her great grandmother Carrie Warner of Baiting Hollow launched Debby on a journey through local history, family genealogy and a woman’s life on Long Island around the turn of the 19th century. Admission is free, but reservations are required at www.hallockville.org. 631-298-5292

Janice Buckner in concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook  presents a “Seekers and Dreamers” concert by Janice Buckner at 3 p.m. Her cabaret performances feature original songs and poems, and interpretive renditions of a wide pallet of genres. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org

Ridotto Concert

Huntington Jewish Center, 510 Park Ave., Huntington presents a Ridotto concert featuring the East of the River Ensemble at 4 p.m. Titled Ija Mia: Music of the Sephardic People ‘Daughter of Mine’, the concert is a journey braiding the rich musical traditions of the Sephardic diaspora through North Africa and the Ottoman Empire. Infectious Eastern rhythms mix with the unique timbres of the instruments. Tickets are $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 members, $12 students. For reservations, call 631-385-0373, or email [email protected].

Jazz Rising Stars concert

Join St. John’s Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington for a Jazz Rising Stars — Next Generation Jazz Showcase celebrating live music and young artists at 5 p.m. featuring short sets of innovative jazz music by trombonist Sam Margolis and saxophonist Gabriel Nekrutman and their respective bands. Free tickets are available with registration at https://www.stjohnshuntington.org/concerts.

Monday March 31

Community Blood Drive

St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, 50 Route 25A, Smithtown will hold a New York Blood Center blood drive in the Medical Office Building, Lower Level, from 7 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. To make an appointment, visit www.nybc.org or call 631-469-0989.

Tuesday April 1

NSJC Social Club event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a presentation by Saul Fathi who will talk about Nostradamus, the 16 th century
astrologer, physician, and reputed seer at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Healthy Cooking Class

St. Gerard Majella R.C. Church Parish Hall, 300 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a free Healthy Cooking Class from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Learn how to make healthy spring meals with Cornell Cooperative Extention’s nutritionist Melek Baba. To register, call 631-473-2900.

Tap Into Soul at the Engeman

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its Special Events series with Tap Into Soul at 8 p.m. Solomon Jaye combines multi-octave vocals and world-class tap dancing with a soulful setlist of classic and contemporary hits. From James Brown to Al Green to Bruno Mars and  Ed Sheeran, this high-energy show blends music, dance, and surprise instrumental solos, transporting audiences from the 1950s to today. Tickets are $45. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

Wednesday April 2

Barnes & Noble Grand Opening

(Rescheduled from March 26) Join Barnes & Noble, 301 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station for a grand opening and ribbon cutting with special guest New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey at 9 a.m. followed by a book signing. For more information, call 631-350-5503.

Healthcare Enrollment Assistance

Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station will hold a Healthcare Enrollment Assistance event on Wednesday, April 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Health & Welfare Council of Long Island’s certified Navigators will help you apply for health insurance. Includes Medicare Savings Program and Medicaid Application Assistance for the 65+, blind and disabled population. To make an appointment, call 516-505-4426. 

Starry Nights at SBU

The beloved Starry Nights concert series returns to Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts’ Recital Hall 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook at 7 p.m., where the enchanting world of chamber music comes alive under the vision of artistic director Colin Carr, along with world-class musicians from the Stony Brook University Department of Music. The program will include works by Schubert, Schoenberg and Schulhoff and feature Colin Carr, cello, Jennifer Frautschi, violin and Matthew Lipman, viola. Tickets range from $49 to $56. To order, call 631-632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.

Thursday April 3

Game Night at the LIM

As a companion program to its Voices and Votes exhibition, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook presents an American Experiments Game Night from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. featuring a series of games developed by the Smithsonian Institution. Drop in to view the exhibition and participate in meaningful discussions about ideas that are critical to our democracy, all in a fun and engaging format. Adults and children are welcome to stop by and play! Free admission.No registration required. 631-751-0066

Gallery North Art Reception

Gallery North , 90 North Country Road, Setauket invites the community to an opening reception for Lori Horowitz: Undergrowth from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibition, which runs through May 11, features mixed media sculptures, reliefs, and photographs inspired by the study of the pristine and precious environment surrounding the artist’s home, and the cycles of nature and the social complexities that threaten the delicate balance. For more info, call 631-751-2676.

Audubon Society Lecture

Join Four Harbors Audubon Society for a Spring presentation, Paved Paradise: The Ecological Impacts of America’s Road System with guest speaker Ben Goldfarb,  via Zoom at 7 p.m. In his talk, Goldfarb will discuss the ecological harms wrought by transportation and the movement to redress them — and how we can create a better, safer world for all living beings. To register, visit www.4has.org.

Film

‘Facing the Wind’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Facing the Wind at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on March 27 at 7 p.m. The film examines the connection forged between two women as they care for their spouses stricken with Lewy Body dementia. Director Deirdre Fishel will join the post-film discussion in person with Cindy Morris of the Benson Agency. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

‘Home Court’

In partnership with Independent Lens, the Greater Port Jefferson-Northern Brookhaven Arts Council will host an Indie Lens Pop-Up screening of the documentary Home Court by Erica Tanamachi at the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook on April 1 at 7 p.m. The film traces the ascent of Ashley Chea, a Cambodian American basketball prodigy whose life intensifies amid recruitment, injury, and triumph throughout her high school career. The screening will be followed by a panel of SBU and local high school athletes and coaches. Free but registration is required by visiting www.gpjac.org.

Made in Huntington Film Festival

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington will host the Made in Huntington Film Festival at various times from April 3 to April 6. Explore 36 selections ranging from a Public Service Announcement, animation, a silent film, bundles of short subjects and multiple feature length films. Tickets are $20, $18 members. For the full schedule, visit www.madeinhuntington.com/screenings.

‘Man From Pretentia’

The Port Jefferson Documentary Series continues its spring season with Man From Pretentia, a tender portrait of “quirky” art dealer, Paul Bridgewater, who became a fixture of the Downtown NYC art scene, at the First United Methodist Church, 603 Main Street, Port Jefferson on April 3 at 7 p.m. Followed by a Q&A with the director, Chih Hsuan Liang, and producer, Steve Zehentner. Tickets are $10 at the door (cash only) or at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com.

Theater

Festival of One Act Plays

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents the 26th annual Festival of One-Act Plays at The Ronald F. Peierls Theatre on the Second Stage from March 8 to April 5. Featuring the world premieres of 7 one act plays. Tickets are $25. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Menopause the Musical’

It’s back! Menopause the Musical returns to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from March 15 to April 6. A hilarious celebration of women and The Change, this musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. Tickets are $61.50, $56.50 seniors. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Ring of Fire’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its Mainstage season with Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Musical Show from March 1 to March 30. From the heart of the songs of singer-songwriter Johnny Cash  comes a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family. The show captures America’s legendary Man in Black in an exhilarating, tuneful, foot-stomping celebration. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Waitress The Musical’

John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress The Musical from March 13 to April 27. Based on the 2007 movie, it tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears she may have to abandon the dream of opening her own pie shop until a baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s handsome new doctor offer her a tempting recipe for happiness. To order, call 631-261-2900 or go to www.engemantheater.com.

‘Into the Woods’

Lighthouse Theatre Company presents the Tony award-winning musical Into the Woods at St. James Episcopal Church, Mills Hall, 490 North Country Road, St. James on April 4 and April 5 at 8 p.m. and April 6 at 3 p.m. Stephen Sondheim’s masterful score soars in this poignant dark-comedy featuring all your favorite fairytale characters as you’ve never seen them before. Proceeds benefit Celebrate St. James. (CSJ). Tickets are $35 adults $30 seniors/veterans, $25 CSJ members and includes dinner and dessert. To order, visit lighthousetheatrecompany.com/tickets

CALENDAR DEADLINE  is Wednesday at noon, one week before publication. Items may be mailed to: Times Beacon Record News Media, P.O. Box 707, Setauket, NY 11733. Email your information about community events to [email protected]. Calendar listings are for not-for-profit organizations (nonsectarian, nonpartisan events) only, on a space-available basis. Please include a phone number that can be printed.

 

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Maya

MEET THE MAGNIFICENT MAYA!

This week’s featured shelter pet is Maya, a lovable domestic short-haired beauty available for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.

Approximately four years old with a striking brown and tabby coat, Maya came to the shelter from a home with many other cats, and while her journey hasn’t been the easiest, this resilient little lady is ready to find the forever family she deserves—one that will show her the safety, care, and affection she’s always longed for.

Maya

Though she may seem a bit shy at first, patience is the key to unlocking her affectionate and playful personality. Maya loves a good scratch behind the ears, a warm snuggle, and sometimes a little solo time to recharge. She’s sweet, she’s sassy, and she’s sure to bring joy, laughter, and comfort to the lucky home that welcomes her in.

Maya is a great match for most households, including those with other cats, older children, and possibly well-mannered dogs. She has a mild neurological condition, likely Cerebellar Hypoplasia, which affects her coordination and balance—but don’t let that fool you! It’s not painful, not contagious, and certainly doesn’t stop Maya from living her life to the fullest.

Come meet Maya at the Smithtown Animal Shelter and discover just how wonderful life can be with a little more purr-sonality in it! Interested potential families for the magnificent Maya must first fill-out an application to schedule a time to properly interact with your prospective soul mate in a domestic setting.

For more information regarding other rescue animals available for adoption visit:. TownofSmithtownAnimalShelter.com 

URGENT – Foster Opportunity:

If you have no other pets or young children at home, and are looking for a way to serve your community, please consider signing up to be a foster. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens, and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for extended periods of time.

Download the Foster Application at:

https://www.smithtownny.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4325/Foster-Application

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

 

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By Heidi Sutton

It looks like some book lovers will have to wait a bit longer. In TBR News Media’s Arts & Lifestyles on March 20 it was announced that the new Barnes & Noble in  Huntington Station at 301 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station would hold a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, March 26.

Author Tessa Bailey will attend a ribbon cutting at 9 a.m.

Now the retail store has issued a statement that the grand opening has been pushed to April in a Facebook post, writing “Hello BN NY Huntington Shoppers! Unfortunately, due to technical difficulties, BN NY Huntington’s Grand Opening will be delayed until April 2nd. We thank you for your continued patience while we make this store perfect for you! We will post an update soon about opening day events, so keep an eye out!”

The retail store lost its lease in the Huntington Square shopping center in East Northport and moved to the current location last year in the space formerly occupied by Johnson Fitness & Wellness. The new store has about 14,000 square feet of space and features books, toys, games and gifts and an updated B&N Café.

“While we were saddened to leave East Northport, we could not be happier with the space we have found in Huntington,” said James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble. “Here we bring the community a completely updated Barnes & Noble and, fittingly, do so right next to the birthplace of one of the greatest American poets.”

“We are so excited to bring Barnes and Noble back to the community of Huntington and surrounding areas,” said Store Manager Kyle Goehle, Barnes & Noble Bookseller of five years. “I can’t wait for all the new memories our customers will make with our brand-new bookstore and café!”

Special guest, New York Times bestselling author Tessa Bailey, will attend the ribbon cutting on Wednesday, April 2 at 9 a.m. followed by a book signing. For more information, call 631-350-5503.

 

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Chessa Metz (Jenna) in a scene from 'Waitress'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
LaRaisha DiEvelyn Dionne (Becky), Chessa Metz (Jenna) and Kalea Leverette (Dawn) in a scene from 'Watiress' Photo from John W. Engeman Theater
Chessa Metz (Jenna) and Gregory North (Joe) in a scene from 'Waitress'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Chessa Metz (Jenna) and Jack Cahill - Lemme (Dr. Pomatter) in a scene from 'Waitress'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
The cast of 'Waitress.' Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater

By Julianne Mosher

The Engeman’s latest production is as sweet as, well, pie.

Now on the main stage of the Northport-based theater, Waitress, written by Jessie Nelson with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles, is based on Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 indie movie of the same name. 

This production, however, was directed by Marc Tumminelli and stars an all-star cast that creates an atmosphere that will surely have you dancing in your seat.

The show starts off with Joe’s Diner. Three waitresses, Dawn (Kalea Leverette), Becky (Laraisha Dievelyn Dionne) and Jenna (Chessa Metz) slave away at the local joint off a highway in a small town. Dawn is a nerdy hopeless romantic who soon falls for Ogie (Matthew Dengler), while Becky is a strong-willed independent woman who has a secret (spoiler alert: it involves Cal (Adam Du Plessis), their boss). 

But the biggest secret of all is that Jenna is pregnant by her terrible, deadbeat and abusive husband, Earl (Trevor St. John-Gilbert). Devastated, and unhappy, Jenna finds solace in making pies, just like she did with her late mother (Ashely Margaret Morton). And she’s good at it, even winning over old Joe (Gregory North), the diner’s owner, who is not a fan of much else.

Jenna heads to the OBGYN to confirm the pregnancy and there she meets Dr. Pomatter (Jack Cahill-Lemme) who she soon falls in love with. The two start an affair. From then on, we see the ups and downs of Jenna’s life as she tries to navigate her friendships, her unhappy marriage and the few things that bring her joy: sneaking around with Dr. Pomatter and imagining new, exotic pies, and planning her escape from this small town.

Each actor does a phenomenal job of bringing Shelley’s characters to life on the big stage. From the set design, which is made up to look like an old-school diner, to the costumes, you’ll truly believe you’re watching drama (with a dash of music and choreography mixed in) unfold over your own breakfast.

Metz shines bright as Jenna, with an amazing voice that literally wowed the audience as she held extended notes. The supporting cast, too, brings their own fun flair to the show like Dionne and Du Plessis’ hilarious, and surprising, chemistry and Leverette’s adorable quirkiness (that’s then matched by Dengler’s Ogie). You’ll even love to hate Earl. Even though he’s a bad guy, St. John-Gilbert’s portrayal of him is outstanding. Joe, who seems like you’d dislike the old man for his attitude, actually becomes a special character who makes your heart melt by the end of the show thanks to North’s talent.

But what was most fun to watch, though, was the fun Metz and Cahill-Lemme had together on stage. As Jenna and Dr. Pomatter, they were a perfect match.

So, let the theater whisk you away to a story that will make your heart feel good. Just like a warm piece of pie, Waitress is a sweet one.

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Waitress through April 27. The season continues with Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific from May 15 to June 29 and Footloose the Musical from July 10 to August 24. For tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

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