The Blue Ridge Summer Theatre Festival

Food, wine, live music, and theatre. A perfect combination.

bestkeptsecrets.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/1.jpg”>Summer is approaching in Virginia, and with it comes the return of a unique annual event that until now has remained a secret to some, but a favorite to many. Located amidst the picturesque Sweet Briar College campus, Endstation Theatre Company’s Blue Ridge Summer Theatre Festival offers a summer-long schedule of innovative dramatic productions and outdoor theatrical fun. Whether you are a musical theatre junkie, a parent with kids to enrich and entertain, or a lover of food and wine, the festival offers events to please your palate.

This seasons’s events will be kicked-off with the benefit concert Broadway in the Blue Ridge on May 22 featuring Broadway’s Phantom of the Opera star Sean MacLaughlin. Virginia native and now Raoul in Phantom at the Majestic Theater, Sean comes to Sweet Briar to perform songs from Broadway classics alongside members of the Endstation cast of Assassins, as well as EC Glass High School’s own Phantom production. It is sure to be an exciting night filled with talent and surprises. Read more about Sean in his latest Playbill Article.

The first Blue Ridge Summer Theatre Festival production is one for the kids and the young at heart. In Good Good Trouble on Bad Bad Island, a bad, bad Idol challenges good, good Rosa with a series of impossible tasks — but what happens when she starts doing the impossible? This wildly inventive adventure finds that sometimes family and good goodness can be found in the most unlikely of places. This original play, written by Endstation’s resident playwright Joshua Mikel, premièred at the New York International Fringe Festival in 2010 and was met with sold-out crowds. June 1-4 @7pm, June 5 @ 2pm.

The second festival production, Whole Theatre’s Cry of the Mountain, is an original piece that tackles the issue of mountaintop coal removal in Appalachian coal country. Accompanied by live music, creator Adelind Horan performs pieces constructed from interviews with individuals whose lives are affected in some way by coal removal. June 9 – 11 @7pm, June 12 @ 2pm

And then, for a little music…Endstation brings Sondheim to Sweet Briar with the historical musical thriller, Assassins. This most American of musicals lays bare the lives of nine infamous historical figures, who forged their way into our history books for their assassinations (or attempted assassinations) of some of our American presidents. Assassins explores the American experience in profound and startling ways, with a musical score by one of the most accomplished musical theatre composers, Stephen Sondheim. June 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, July 1, 2 @7pm, June 26, July 3 @ 2pm.

Rounding out the festival is the classic Shakespeare comedy, Twelfth Night. The Blue Ridge Summer Theatre Festival tradition of outdoor theatre has become the company’s most popular and beloved event, and for good reason. Each year, Endstation chooses a unique location on the Sweet Briar campus, and builds a theatrical space around it. Past adventures have included Hamlet set in Civil War Virginia at an old campus dairy barn, and Romeo & Juliet on the balcony of the picturesque Benedict Hall. This summer, the characters of Twelfth Night will play by the old Sweet Briar train station, while the audience watches the tale unfold against the backdrop of the mountain sunset. To enhance this outdoor experience, Endstation will bring in local vineyards for nightly wine tastings, and audience members are encouraged to bring blankets and picnics. An evening of food, wine, and theatre under the stars is a magical experience. July 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 @7pm.

This summer Endstation will also be joining forces with Sweet Briar dining services to enhance the Blue Ridge Summer Theatre Festival experience. For this summer’s production of Assassins, Sweet Briar College will be offering a series of BBQ dinners at the Florence Elston Inn. These dinners will take place prior to the June 25th and July 2nd performances and lunches will take place before the June 26th and July 3rd matinees. To check out these mouth watering menus visit the Endstation website.

On the way to the indoor and outdoor shows, travel through Virginia wine country, hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail, visit Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, or take a drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Blue Ridge Summer Theatre Festival offers a little something for everyone, and provides a truly unique experience. Find out more by visiting www.endstationtheatre.org or calling (434) 381-6537.

The Shoppes at Ashwood

By Zoe Eisenberg

Tucked away on Ashwood Park Road in Forest are The Shoppes at Ashwood, located in the historic Ashwood Manor and offering everything from Avon to Antiques.

For any history buffs out there, the land that Ashwood Manor stands on was once a part of Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, gifted to his daughter Martha as part of her dowry.  The Shoppes at Ashwood provide a fun shopping experience in a unique setting, with a broad collection of new and used products including collectibles, gifts and gift baskets, books and children’s clothes. Be sure to visit the ladies boutique to sort through vintage clothing and accessories, shoes, designer labels and stylish jewelry. The historic mansion also houses a vast selection of home goods such as candles, rugs, furniture, paintings, photography and more. Bring your kids along and let them browse through the collection of toys, children’s books and dolls as you savor a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Shopping is not the only thing you can do at Ashwood Manor.  The shoppes also hold arts and crafts classes, including basic drawing, watercolors, mixed media and more and taught by talented art instructor Karen Mahanes.

Whether you’re looking to consign any gently used clothing, pick up a few new outfits for yourself or search for the perfect gift, The Shoppes at Ashwood provide a lovely escape from the everyday shopping experience.

The Shoppes at Ashwood are located at 1197 Ashwood Park Road and open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call them at 540-597-7396, find them on Facebook or visit them online to check for specials and events, like their upcoming wine festival!

Renaissance Theatre Lynchburg

The Renaissance Theatre, situated in downtown Lynchburg, is truly exceptional. The history of the physical building is not only a tale in itself, but of course, many stories are told on the stage it accommodates. The theatre company, which is a not-for-profit organization, has a reputation for both the quality of its productions and the unique setting in which they are performed.

The theatre is over 100 years old and situated in the former Bailey Spencer Hardware Store. It was a labor of love for those involved to turn this building into a place where modern safety standards were met, whilst preserving the ambience of a place that has over a century of memories within its walls. The result is an inviting and intimate theatre with exceptional acoustics and a welcoming atmosphere.

The theatre company has produced numerous shows since they opened the doors in April, 2000. The shows include works by well-known novelists and playwrights and also those on the more cutting edge of contemporary literature and plays. No playwright could be more famous than the man known as “The Bard” and in 2010 the company took on the challenge of performing all of his plays within one show! “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” consists of all 37 plays performed in only 97 minutes. Described as a “fast paced romp” the production was a huge success and a novel and entertaining way of showcasing each play in the most succinct fashion!

More contemporary productions have included the Broadway hit “Rent, The Musical”, which deals with matters of money, drugs and death; highlighting the talents and range of the actors who are able to move from one genre to another. The ensemble is taken from local people and open auditions are held periodically to encourage Lynchburg and Virginia residents to be involved. In addition to the actors, the backstage staff put incredible effort into creating the perfect setting. The auditorium holds only 100 seats, so in this small and intimate setting, the audience enjoys every moment of passion, heat and emotion in close proximity, making it all the more powerful.

Watching a play transports viewers into another place and time, where we empathize with characters and feel our hearts beat with anticipation and the thrill of the unfolding story. Often we absorb details that are only recalled after leaving the theatre and reflecting on the show. It`s a wonderful feeling to be entertained by a theatre company who live and love what they do and then to return home and discuss the evening with our companions. There`s nothing better than this late-night debates with friends, relaxing back into the comfort of your Palliser sofa, perhaps with a nightcap in hand and knowing that the evening has created memories to enjoy for many years to come.

Bliss, a fine wedding fair

Today seems to be the age in which people want to connect from their computer or mobile device, and Hill City Bride is  making this possible for area brides. This local blog gives brides-to-be wonderful tips to help them in their wedding  planning along with connecting them to the area’s vendors that can make that dream day happen!

Along with being an online resource, Hill City Bride is hosting an event … Bliss, a fine wedding fair … on Saturday,  February 26th. Jennifer Prince, owner of Hill City Bride states, “I longed to bring something different to the area. Bridal Shows have their purpose, but I want to educate brides and make them feel confident in their planning process.” Bliss is designed to do just that!

With main sessions and seminars hosted by area professionals, brides will hear topics such as utilizing their caterer to the fullest, enjoying their wedding day and even how to have a wonderful honeymoon. For a full listing of the sessions  available visit … http://www.hillcitybride.com/bliss-a-fine-wedding-fair/.

In addition to sessions, there are many other unique things in store such as morning coffee selections, a catered lunch, an Idea Bar designed to inspire creativity, a dessert bar and to cap it off … a grand prize honeymoon in Aruba (for FIVE nights) along with other fun door prizes. Each bride will also receive their own bag full of goodies. All of this for only $15!!

“Brides should leave knowing that they are well equipped to plan their wedding day. Their heads will be full of great ideas, their bodies full of delicious food and their hearts full from all of the fun that they had!” offers Jennifer.

Be sure to visit http://www.hillcitybride.com/bliss-a-fine-wedding-fair/ to register online for this great event, and Hill City Bride hopes to see you on the 26th!

Shelly’s Women’s Activewear Boutique

By Zoe Eisenberg

Most store-owners begin their business with an idea, and then look around for the perfect location. For Shelly Montgomery, owner of Shelly’s Women’s Activewear Boutique, the process was exactly the opposite. When a space opened up next to Snap Fitness in the Village Courts Shopping Center in Boonsboro, Shelly —who originally studied aviation in college— decided it was a great location, and started brainstorming. Nestled next to Snap Fitness and the International Karate Academy, Shelly realized a shop for activewear would do really well, and was exactly what Lynchburg needed to support local women leading active lifestyles. Located in such an exercise friendly zone, the shop often receives traffic from Lynchburg residents coming to the gym as well as daily exercise classes offered at the Karate Academy.

“I love the relationships I get to build with the women who come to shop,” explains Montgomery, who has always been a fitness enthusiast. She opened the shop in August 2010 with the goal of providing comfortable, stylish clothing for women who lead active lifestyles. “Our clothes are really versatile and unique,” says Montgomery, who finds her products all over the country, from California to Canada. “We try to carry lines that you can’t find anywhere else around here.”

Lynchburg’s only exercise boutique, Shelly’s carries high-end activewear lines like Avani and Rese Pilates, offering a variety of tanks, tees, shorts, pants, sports bras and accessories. The merchandise at Shelly’s is not only for the avid exerciser; there is also a selection of comfortable loungewear and everyday wear perfect for hanging around the house or running errands.

With miles of scenic running and biking trails and hikes with breath-taking views of the Blue Ridge mountains, staying active in Lynchburg can be beautiful and fun. To help you look and feel your best while keeping fit and healthy, Shelly’s Women’s Activewear Boutique provides casual and workout wear suitable for walking, running, yoga and Pilates.

Shelly’s Women’s Activewear Boutique is located at 4119 Boonsboro Road, with hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Can’t make it into the shop? Browse Shelly’s online selection at www.Shellys-boutique.com, or call the store at 434-485-8222.

The Dahlia

By Zoe Eisenberg

Ask any old-time Lynchburg local about the Dahlia, and you will get avarietyof responses, ranging from tales of barstool glory days to scrunched-face grimaces. “That was the type of place visited and didn’t tell your wife about,” notes one Lynchburg lifer.
Although the original Dahlia — first opened in 1947— was a staple of Lynchburg’s nightlife, it had the reputation of being a bit of a dive. The spot was closed in 2008 and spent a few years becoming a mossy Bedford Avenue eyesore. However, since being purchased by James West, owner of the neighboring Blue Marlin Seafood, the restaurant has been reopened and revamped.

Since its debut on Christmas Eve, the Dahlia has become a local hotspot. With a terrific feature in the Lynchburg News & Advance, the restaurant and bar has received even more traffic, from the working crowd dropping by for lunch to a rowdier bunch at night. With only eight tables and a handful of bar stools, the space is always packed and alive the buzz of laughter and conversation.

The Dahlia’s menu features unique choices ranging from Beer Cheese Soup to Organic Salmon, so whether you’re a lover of pub-grub, southern style fare (just what exactly is a hoe cake, anyways?) or high quality seafood, you are sure to find something appealing. With a fresh new face and glossy wood interior, the Dahlia is back in business and ready for action.

Stop by the Dahlia, located at 2221 Bedford Avenue, or them a call at (434) 846-0601.

Central Virginia Free Clinic: Providing Health Care in Difficult Economic Times

The free clinic is dedicated to the belief that everyone should have access to health care services. While there is an eligibility requirement, the clinic is unique in that it provides medical, dental, nursing, pharmaceutical and educational services to Lynchburg and the four surrounding counties. A dedicated staff along with a great number of volunteers, both medical professionals and individuals from the community make the clinic a success.

Recently, the clinic was able to arrange for 5 patients whose teeth had to be removed for medial reasons to obtain a complete set of dentures at no cost. While not a normally provided service, it is another example of the power of volunteer doctors who see a need and work hard to find a way to fill it. Every dollar raised from donations or fund raising efforts is multiplied many times thru the efforts of volunteers. Over 450 medical professionals donate services to the clinic, and since 1987 when it opened, the clinic has served more than 20,000 different individuals. The number of patient visits has increased by 50% compared to two years ago because of the economic slowdown.

The upcoming ( February 26th) sixth annual downtown loft tour is a great way to see the growth in downtown Lynchburg, visit the clinic for a tour and provide some financial support.

By Dave Gardner

Dave Gardner is a board member of the Free Clinic of Central Virginia. He is also the owner/photographer of D.R.Gardner Photography. He provides a complete photography services from weddings, events, commercial promotion, basic education. He has exhibited his photographs in Lynchburg and sell Fine Art photographs. More information can be found at www.drgardnerphotography.com

Dolce Vita

By Zoe Eisenberg

Dolce Vita, located at 1102 Commerce Street downtown Lynchburg, is the premier spot  for any aspiring chefs or foodies. Store-owner April Wood Farmer, prior owner of Fresh, the healthy eatery previously located in the downtown community market, opened the tiny shop with the hopes of offering high-quality kitchen and home products to Lynchburg’s expanding crowd of gourmet food-lovers.

The shop, which opened November 19^th 2010, sells everything from candles to spices, including wine accessories, aprons, scarves and serving platters sure to impress the guests at your next party. Located above Shay’s Jewelry and Gifts, Dolce Vita carries both imported and locally made products, from Spanish pottery to Virginia jams, as well as fresh baked quiche and locally made bundt cakes.  Check out their unique selection of spreads, with flavors like Carrot and Peach Orange Clove.

With limited hours, make sure to plan a visit to the store, open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.For more information, visit www.yourdolcevita.com or call (434) 455-5510.

Boudoir- Lynchburg’s Fine Lingerie Boutique

By Zoe Eisenberg

Kasey Forehand was having lunch with her husband in November, 2009, when they decided that what Lynchburg really needed was a high quality lingerie shop. Flash forward to October, 2010 and the opening of Boudoir, a lingerie and sleepwear boutique located in the Boonsboro Shopping Center, 4925 Boonsboro Road .

“My goal for our selection is to have at least one thing for every possible kind of woman who could walk into the shop,” Forehand explains. From your typical black lace negligees and hosiery to cotton loungewear, shapewear and pajama sets, Boudoir covers a large range of style and taste.

While robes and pajama sets were best sellers over the holidays, Boudoir’s designer bras fly off the shelf faster than any product in the store, and with Valentine’s day just over a month away, Boudoir is already stocking up.  For the holiday, the boutique will be transformed into a one-stop-shop with fresh flowers, homemade chocolates and spa certificates to Bodyworks Day Spa and Salon. The shop will hold extended hours from Friday, February 11^th to Monday, February 14^th.

The boutique’s atmosphere is pure girl, from its hot pink and black décor to its plush sofas and a floor space just begging for a fashion show. Looking to spoil the special woman in your life, or searching for the perfect location for your next girly pow-wow? Boudoir After-Hours, the shops private event service, allows you to host your next bridal shower, baby shower, lingerie shower, private fitting or girl’s night out at the boutique. You can choose from pre-packaged events or pick options a la carte, from sweet treats to champagne and photo packages.

The shop holds hours Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call them at 434-384-2722, visit them online, find them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @votreboudoir.

Inklings Bookshop and the White Hart Café

By Zoe Eisenberg

Inklings Bookshop and the White Hart Café, home to a selection of books, coffee and  food, opened its doors for the first time in 1995. Located on Main Street in downtown Lynchburg, the shop’s name was inspired by the informal literary group known as “the Inklings,” which consisted of C. S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and several other writers. Founded as merely a bookstore, the shop quickly expanded to include the adjoining White Hart Café.

The store’s vision is to promote “the good, the true, and the beautiful,” and the bookstore boasts a selection of hard to find, out of print, used, and rare books, which can be browsed online at www.inklingsbooks.com. While the shop’s book collection hangs heavy on topics like philosophy, literature, history and religion, they also offer a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction, as well as health, wellness, children’s books and classical education.

With free wi-fi, an outdoor patio and cozy couches perfect for lounging on rainy afternoons, the White Hart offers organically grown and fairly-traded coffee and house-made pastries. The café’s selection of coffee and espresso are roasted to order by Counter Culture Coffee in Durham, NC, and their vast selection of loose-lead teas hail from Teasource in St. Paul, MN. Arguably more exciting than excellent coffee and tea, the White Hart also carries beer, including imports and microbrews. Wine, both red and white, can be ordered by the glass or bottle.

Offering sandwiches with interesting names like the Fitzwilliam, the Mugwumper and the Pequod, the café also serves breakfast with choices ranging from free-range eggs and bacon to turkey sausage and grits. Options like Fish and Chips, Fried Mushrooms, Beignets and Cajun style red beans and rice spice up the menu.

Inklings Bookshop and the White Hart Café are open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and host a bi-monthly Celtic music open jam and a monthly old-time music session, with live music performances most Friday and Saturday nights, and a monthly open mic night. For a schedule of events, visit them online at www.inklingswhitehart.com. For more information call 434-455-1659 or stop by the shop, located at 1208 Main Street, downtown Lynchburg.

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