DEBRA TORRENCE

Arts of the Pamlico has a vibrant menu of options for being part of the arts. This week, music, dance and theater and submission of fine art are front and center at the historic Turnage Theatre.

On Saturday at 10 a.m., the Beaufort County Traditional Music Association kicks off their weekend jam. The jam is free, donations appreciated.

At 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., AOP’s Bubblegum Theatre for Youth takes the stage with its fall production of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” The production is directed by Rachel Isaac with stage management by Crystal Holman. Many thanks to the parents and families of more than 30 youth actors who have been rehearsing their parts and learning their lines for the last month to get ready to present you a great show. Tickets are $7 or $5 cash discount at the door.

At 6:30 p.m., USA Dance Chapter 6046 and Washington-Beaufort Chamber of Commerce members cut the ribbon on the newly donated dance floor in the Turnage Gallery. The chapter raised funds to install a sprung parquet and floating bamboo dance floor in the Turnage Theatre for their monthly dances and for all to enjoy!

Mark your calendars for the next Marquee on Main Film Festival on Nov. 1-2. The festival features films by North Carolina producers and films about North Carolina submitted through Film Freeway and coordinated by AOP’s Crystal Holman. On Nov. 1, the Best Overall Film, “When There’s All That’s Left” and “Take Me Out to the Bulls Park,” by documentary producer Clay Johnson will be shown and Johnson who will offer comments after the films. On Nov. 2, a lineup of films from historic to rap to nature with comments by Blake Scott of STRS Productions are part of the line up from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 or $5 cash discount at the door. The festival is free for AOP members with their card.

Be sure to stop by our sweet shop for tasty treats, from homemade chocolates and toffee to gourmet popcorn and salty sweet kettle corn!

Members and artists: mark your calendars for Nov. 7 for the 55th Annual Fine Art Show juror critique by Rebecca Patman Chandler in the palace theatre at 5:30 p.m., followed by a reception and celebration. Flowers for the reception are being provided by Doug Cutler, food is being coordinated by AOP board member Sue Nicholson and volunteer MJ Peters. Guitar music for the reception is being provided by Frank Taylor. Wine and beer will be offered for purchase during the event.

Not a member yet? Get great perks all year long and support the arts! To join, purchase tickets or learn more about the show, visit www.artsofthepamlico.org or call 252-946-2504. AOP is located in its historic Turnage Theatre at 150 W. Main St. in Washington.

This week’s Art Beat is written by Debra Torrence, the executive director of AOP. Art Beat shares information about programs and efforts of your regional arts council, Arts of the Pamlico, and arts events at the Turnage Theatre and across the county. AOP presents and supports the provision of arts programming for the community and region. AOP also partners with area organizations and groups to leverage the arts to share information and learn about opportunities.