Kate Ruddle – Hortus Conclusus


Opening Reception: Friday, May 1, 4-7pm
Artist talk: Saturday, May 23, 6pm

Exhibition Dates: May 1 – May 31, 2026


The Front Gallery
6 Barre St, Montpelier, VT
Gallery Hours: Friday 4-7, Saturday and Sunday 11-5


The Front Gallery of Montpelier, VT is proud to announce Kate Ruddle’s solo exhibition, Hortus Conclusus, running May 1st to May 31st. An artist reception will take place on May 1st from 4-7pm, with an artist talk on Saturday May 23rd at 6pm. All events are open to the public.

Hortus Conclusus, the title of Kate Ruddle’s M   ...

Kate Ruddle – Hortus Conclusus


Opening Reception: Friday, May 1, 4-7pm
Artist talk: Saturday, May 23, 6pm

Exhibition Dates: May 1 – May 31, 2026


The Front Gallery
6 Barre St, Montpelier, VT
Gallery Hours: Friday 4-7, Saturday and Sunday 11-5


The Front Gallery of Montpelier, VT is proud to announce Kate Ruddle’s solo exhibition, Hortus Conclusus, running May 1st to May 31st. An artist reception will take place on May 1st from 4-7pm, with an artist talk on Saturday May 23rd at 6pm. All events are open to the public.

Hortus Conclusus, the title of Kate Ruddle’s May exhibit, is a Latin term meaning “enclosed garden.” Historically, the term references an innermost sacred garden. For this exhibit, Ruddle intertwines a series of multi-media installations to explore both wild and bounded spaces.

Ruddle’s conceptual installations use fabric, paraphernalia, architectural elements, and projections to explore how “society’s fabric” can reveal, define, protect or control social position. Her artworks often draw from multilayered historical sources and explore socially formative norms that are almost invisible.

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Story Songs of the 70s is a seasonal concert series by Maine-based singer/songwriter, Tom DiMenna, and features songs by 3 legendary songwriters of the vinyl era — Gordon Lightfoot, Cat Stevens, and Harry Chapin.

This folk-rock act blends lush vocals, intricate guitar playing and iconic story songs into a sound that’s both intimate and powerful. While rooted in the folk tradition, this special Spring edition celebrates the first day of Spring with the fresh energy of the season (“Morning Has Broken” by Cat Stevens, “Early Morning Rain” by Gordon Lightfoot, “Taxi” by Harry Chapin) and has toe-tapping rhythms, sing-along choruses, and a fully amplified presen   ...

Story Songs of the 70s is a seasonal concert series by Maine-based singer/songwriter, Tom DiMenna, and features songs by 3 legendary songwriters of the vinyl era — Gordon Lightfoot, Cat Stevens, and Harry Chapin.

This folk-rock act blends lush vocals, intricate guitar playing and iconic story songs into a sound that’s both intimate and powerful. While rooted in the folk tradition, this special Spring edition celebrates the first day of Spring with the fresh energy of the season (“Morning Has Broken” by Cat Stevens, “Early Morning Rain” by Gordon Lightfoot, “Taxi” by Harry Chapin) and has toe-tapping rhythms, sing-along choruses, and a fully amplified presence that has charmed audiences all over New England. It’s a carefully crafted presentation of the timeless songs that shaped a generation — performed with heart, humor, and resonance.

In addition: Tom is now officially endorsed by Gibson Guitars and John Pearse Strings, legendary names in acoustic tone.

"Go See Tom!" -Aimsel Ponti, Portland Press Herald

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BLACKOUT: HOW I BECAME WHITE IN AMERICA
Written & performed by Ethelyn Friend

“In the wake, the past that is not past reappears, always, to rupture the present.” Christina Sharpe, In The Wake: On Blackness and Being

A middle-aged trust fund baby inadvertently discovers the origins of wealth in her family and falls into a game of hide and seek with US history. A solo performance reflecting one white woman’s process of facing her direct links to slavery. A somatic, musical, and theatrical exploration of denial, guilt & response. This performance directly addresses “white America“. All are welcome. The 90 min show is followed by (optional) fa   ...

BLACKOUT: HOW I BECAME WHITE IN AMERICA
Written & performed by Ethelyn Friend

“In the wake, the past that is not past reappears, always, to rupture the present.” Christina Sharpe, In The Wake: On Blackness and Being

A middle-aged trust fund baby inadvertently discovers the origins of wealth in her family and falls into a game of hide and seek with US history. A solo performance reflecting one white woman’s process of facing her direct links to slavery. A somatic, musical, and theatrical exploration of denial, guilt & response. This performance directly addresses “white America“. All are welcome. The 90 min show is followed by (optional) facilitated community processing and conversation.

http://ethelynfriend.com

70% of all proceeds will go to local Racial Justice Organizations and Reparations Initiatives

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The family and friends of Louvenia Dorsey Bright, in conjunction with the Friends of the Vermont State House and the Vermont State Curator’s Office, is proud to announce the unveiling ceremony for a portrait of former Rep. Louvenia Dorsey Bright, the first African-American woman and women of color to serve in the Vermont Legislature. Bright represented South Burlington in the Vermont House of Representatives from 1989 through 1994.

Governor Phil Scott and members of the Bright family will take the lead in reflecting on Bright’s service and lifting the drape from her portrait in the House Chamber of the Vermont State House on Tuesday, May 5 at 4:00 pm. Remarks by artis   ...

The family and friends of Louvenia Dorsey Bright, in conjunction with the Friends of the Vermont State House and the Vermont State Curator’s Office, is proud to announce the unveiling ceremony for a portrait of former Rep. Louvenia Dorsey Bright, the first African-American woman and women of color to serve in the Vermont Legislature. Bright represented South Burlington in the Vermont House of Representatives from 1989 through 1994.

Governor Phil Scott and members of the Bright family will take the lead in reflecting on Bright’s service and lifting the drape from her portrait in the House Chamber of the Vermont State House on Tuesday, May 5 at 4:00 pm. Remarks by artist Ayana Ross and legislative leaders, friends and colleagues will follow, culminating with thanks to the many donors who made the portrait possible by Friends of the State House chair Thad Gibson. After the ceremony, all are welcome to attend a reception in the Cedar Creek Room from 5:00 – 6:30 pm. The painting will hang in the West Corridor on the 1st floor. The event is FREE and open to the public.

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and   ...

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and a sense of wonder while fostering self-confidence and empathy for all living things. Join us for 2 hours of spontaneous play, exploration, discovery, song, nature inspired crafts, and oral storytelling.

Play, dig, build and grow alongside your child
Learn how to stay comfortable while getting messy in any weather
Connect with other families with young children
This program is entirely outside, so be prepared with water, snacks, and clothing for staying comfortable and getting wet!

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

The Vermont State Curator’s Office and the Vermont State Parks present - Together Across Time: A Century of Vermont State Parks – Photographs by Lenny Christopher at the State House Cafeteria Gallery. An opening celebration will be on May 7 from 3:00 – 5:00 pm. Free and open to the public. The exhibit runs through May 29.

To mark the 100th anniversary of Vermont State Parks in 2024, photographer Lenny Christopher traveled and documented all 55 parks through photography and video, creating a lasting visual archive that celebrates their beauty, history, and ongoing legacy. Christopher's images are both a personal journey and a public gift, documenting his travels with   ...

The Vermont State Curator’s Office and the Vermont State Parks present - Together Across Time: A Century of Vermont State Parks – Photographs by Lenny Christopher at the State House Cafeteria Gallery. An opening celebration will be on May 7 from 3:00 – 5:00 pm. Free and open to the public. The exhibit runs through May 29.

To mark the 100th anniversary of Vermont State Parks in 2024, photographer Lenny Christopher traveled and documented all 55 parks through photography and video, creating a lasting visual archive that celebrates their beauty, history, and ongoing legacy. Christopher's images are both a personal journey and a public gift, documenting his travels with his family across the state. His work serves as a valuable historical reference and will help entice future generations to explore and steward Vermont's landscapes. These images celebrate the variety, complexity, and joy of Vermont State Parks. To learn more about Vermont State Parks, visit www.vtstateparks.com.

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The Great Greening is upon us! Let's SING!

"Singing with the Green" is a community sing for All

with...

David Ruffin (song leading),
Joanne Garton (fiddle),
Pat Lambdin (guitar),
Liana Nuse (cello).

Come join your neighbors for an informal evening of singing in community. We’ll sing simple, soulful songs for the season’s turning, enjoy some rich harmony and some poetry, too.

Songs of remembering, resistance, and revival. Songs that hold space for all we’re carrying in this time of re-emergence. Songs that help us feel the renewing power of spring more fully.

This is    ...

The Great Greening is upon us! Let's SING!

"Singing with the Green" is a community sing for All

with...

David Ruffin (song leading),
Joanne Garton (fiddle),
Pat Lambdin (guitar),
Liana Nuse (cello).

Come join your neighbors for an informal evening of singing in community. We’ll sing simple, soulful songs for the season’s turning, enjoy some rich harmony and some poetry, too.

Songs of remembering, resistance, and revival. Songs that hold space for all we’re carrying in this time of re-emergence. Songs that help us feel the renewing power of spring more fully.

This is for all—so bring your family and friends, and don’t give a second thought to whether you’re a “singer” or not. Singing together makes us all sound better :)

Donations are gratefully welcomed in support of the space and musicians.

Hope to see—and sing with you—soon!

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

A casual, fun, and free meet-up for women, trans, & non-binary folks in construction, design, and the trades hosted by HELM Construction Solutions, Vermont Works for Women, Efficiency Vermont, and Timberhomes Vermont. Join us to connect, share experiences, and build a supportive community. The construction industry remains largely male-dominated, with women representing only 4% of tradespeople on jobsites and trans and non-binary professionals often invisible in industry data altogether. These gatherings aren't just about community, they're about retention, leadership, and changing the industry. Feel free to bring a friend or colleague — the more the merrier! We’ll provide non-alcoho   ...

A casual, fun, and free meet-up for women, trans, & non-binary folks in construction, design, and the trades hosted by HELM Construction Solutions, Vermont Works for Women, Efficiency Vermont, and Timberhomes Vermont. Join us to connect, share experiences, and build a supportive community. The construction industry remains largely male-dominated, with women representing only 4% of tradespeople on jobsites and trans and non-binary professionals often invisible in industry data altogether. These gatherings aren't just about community, they're about retention, leadership, and changing the industry. Feel free to bring a friend or colleague — the more the merrier! We’ll provide non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and   ...

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and a sense of wonder while fostering self-confidence and empathy for all living things. Join us for 2 hours of spontaneous play, exploration, discovery, song, nature inspired crafts, and oral storytelling.

Play, dig, build and grow alongside your child
Learn how to stay comfortable while getting messy in any weather
Connect with other families with young children
This program is entirely outside, so be prepared with water, snacks, and clothing for staying comfortable and getting wet!

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

How well do you know your Vermont trivia? Come show it off!

Saturday, May 16 / 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Montpelier Performing Arts Hub
35 College Ave., on the Greenway Campus (formerly VCFA).
Presented by The Bridge and Montpelier Historical Society
Celebrating America's 250th / Questions provided by the Vermont Historical Society

Cash bar and free desserts (YUM!) / $200 in prizes.

Sign up at: https://thebridgevt.org/trivia/
You must register to save your spot. We sold out last year, so sign up early!

If you are attending as a team, please sign up as a team, not individually. Maximum team size is   ...

How well do you know your Vermont trivia? Come show it off!

Saturday, May 16 / 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Montpelier Performing Arts Hub
35 College Ave., on the Greenway Campus (formerly VCFA).
Presented by The Bridge and Montpelier Historical Society
Celebrating America's 250th / Questions provided by the Vermont Historical Society

Cash bar and free desserts (YUM!) / $200 in prizes.

Sign up at: https://thebridgevt.org/trivia/
You must register to save your spot. We sold out last year, so sign up early!

If you are attending as a team, please sign up as a team, not individually. Maximum team size is six.
Solo attendees will be asked to join a team.

   Find Out More   

Over the last quarter century, GMYS has made music with more than 800 students and shared dozens of performances across the state. From first notes to final bows, we’ve watched young musicians grow in confidence, creativity, and connection. Our 25th anniversary is a celebration of the students, families, educators, and supporters who have made these moments possible. It is an invitation to gather, listen, and look ahead to the next 25 years of music-making together.

There will be musical performances, light refreshments, drinks available for purchase, and a fun silent auction featuring items to bid on in support of GMYS. Throughout the evening, we’ll also honor the ded   ...

Over the last quarter century, GMYS has made music with more than 800 students and shared dozens of performances across the state. From first notes to final bows, we’ve watched young musicians grow in confidence, creativity, and connection. Our 25th anniversary is a celebration of the students, families, educators, and supporters who have made these moments possible. It is an invitation to gather, listen, and look ahead to the next 25 years of music-making together.

There will be musical performances, light refreshments, drinks available for purchase, and a fun silent auction featuring items to bid on in support of GMYS. Throughout the evening, we’ll also honor the dedicated leaders and instructors who have inspired generations of young musicians.

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and   ...

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and a sense of wonder while fostering self-confidence and empathy for all living things. Join us for 2 hours of spontaneous play, exploration, discovery, song, nature inspired crafts, and oral storytelling.

Play, dig, build and grow alongside your child
Learn how to stay comfortable while getting messy in any weather
Connect with other families with young children
This program is entirely outside, so be prepared with water, snacks, and clothing for staying comfortable and getting wet!

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

Eve Jacobs-Carnahan and Glen Coburn Hutcheson open their studios in the upper floors of the historic Clothespin Factory on Granite Street to the public as part of the Vermont Crafts Council's Open Studio Weekend, May 23 - 24. Jacobs-Carnahan is new to the building this year. Hutcheson moved in during the summer of 2023.
Jacobs-Carnahan makes narrative sculptures reflecting on American democracy incorporating the softness of yarn and knitting to invite conversation. She will have the collaboratively knitted Vermont State House, part of her Knit Democracy Together project, on display during Open Studio Weekend. Hutcheson's studio practice includes experimental sculpture, painting, w   ...

Eve Jacobs-Carnahan and Glen Coburn Hutcheson open their studios in the upper floors of the historic Clothespin Factory on Granite Street to the public as part of the Vermont Crafts Council's Open Studio Weekend, May 23 - 24. Jacobs-Carnahan is new to the building this year. Hutcheson moved in during the summer of 2023.
Jacobs-Carnahan makes narrative sculptures reflecting on American democracy incorporating the softness of yarn and knitting to invite conversation. She will have the collaboratively knitted Vermont State House, part of her Knit Democracy Together project, on display during Open Studio Weekend. Hutcheson's studio practice includes experimental sculpture, painting, wood-block prints and drawing. Visitors can try out his camera obscura, a traditional drawing tool installed this spring.
The two are among the most recent artists to establish studios in the Clothespin Factory, which now houses six studios. Clar Construction occupies the ground floor.
The Vermont Crafts Council Open Studio Weekend offers locals and visitors an opportunity to enter the world of art studios, talk with artists, watch craftspeople at work, and purchase art and craft directly from the makers.

6-7pm Family Friendly Potluck and sharing community organizing opportunities

7-8pm Optional SURJ Leadership / Organizing Meeting (open to your participation)

The Central Vermont chapter of SURJ (Showing up for Racial Justice) invites white folks interested in coming together for racial and economic justice to gather for a family friendly potluck. If you would like to, please stay after the potluck for a SURJ leadership team meeting to help strategize about mobilizing other white folks for racial and economic justice.

Please bring your family and friends, as well as any announcements of community organizing opportunities or invitations to take    ...

6-7pm Family Friendly Potluck and sharing community organizing opportunities

7-8pm Optional SURJ Leadership / Organizing Meeting (open to your participation)

The Central Vermont chapter of SURJ (Showing up for Racial Justice) invites white folks interested in coming together for racial and economic justice to gather for a family friendly potluck. If you would like to, please stay after the potluck for a SURJ leadership team meeting to help strategize about mobilizing other white folks for racial and economic justice.

Please bring your family and friends, as well as any announcements of community organizing opportunities or invitations to take actions together.

Please bring your own plates/bowls and cutlery. Please bring a potluck dish if you can.

This is a FREE community event for building connection and solidarity, and taking action against racism and classism. Join us as we work on appreciating and respecting differences, building skills to interrupt racism and classism, creating community, cultivating trust, learning about our own privilege and how to share it. We engage in this work so that truly everyone can live with dignity, good health, honor, joy, security.

COVID & Wellness practices: We're asking folks to mask as desired or needed, including if you have been in close proximity to anyone who is sick (covid or otherwise). Please stay home if you are sick, we'd be happy to welcome you at the next monthly gathering!

For more information email [email protected].

Learn more about Showing Up for Racial Justice at https://surj.org/

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and   ...

Wednesday, April 1
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Wednesdays April 1 – June 10 (no session April 22)
For children ages 0-5 with parent or caregiver
Free (donations welcome) | registration not required

dad and child play with bubbles at robin's nest nature playgroupRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.

Engaging with nature’s seasonal offerings stimulates curiosity and a sense of wonder while fostering self-confidence and empathy for all living things. Join us for 2 hours of spontaneous play, exploration, discovery, song, nature inspired crafts, and oral storytelling.

Play, dig, build and grow alongside your child
Learn how to stay comfortable while getting messy in any weather
Connect with other families with young children
This program is entirely outside, so be prepared with water, snacks, and clothing for staying comfortable and getting wet!

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

Central Vermont Refugee Action Network (CVRAN) is holding a musical benefit at the Unitarian Church Montpelier on Friday evening from 6:30 to 9:00. Founded in 2015, CVRAN is a nonprofit which supports the transition and resettlement of refugees and asylum-seekers from across the world.
Music at the event will be provided by Small Axe, a local folk/roots band who have performed at many venues and benefit concerts over the past two decades. They feature acoustic-oriented songs especially suited to help support the ongoing struggle for freedom, including originals, traditionals, and relevant anthems by Dylan, Bob Marley, Woody Guthrie, and more. Just Food Hub will also be providing t   ...

Central Vermont Refugee Action Network (CVRAN) is holding a musical benefit at the Unitarian Church Montpelier on Friday evening from 6:30 to 9:00. Founded in 2015, CVRAN is a nonprofit which supports the transition and resettlement of refugees and asylum-seekers from across the world.
Music at the event will be provided by Small Axe, a local folk/roots band who have performed at many venues and benefit concerts over the past two decades. They feature acoustic-oriented songs especially suited to help support the ongoing struggle for freedom, including originals, traditionals, and relevant anthems by Dylan, Bob Marley, Woody Guthrie, and more. Just Food Hub will also be providing their goods for sale with a portion of profits shared with CVRAN.
CVRAN has provided a critical lifeline for individuals and families looking to escape political persecution and deprivation in their countries of origin; and--especially in 2026--they are in need of help and hope as they try to navigate in a constantly changing world.
There is a suggested donation of $10, all ages are welcome, with all proceeds going directly to CVRAN. Doors will open at 6:15.

   Find Out More      Email the organizer   

All three members of the hilarious troupe known as “The Kingdom Kids” grew up in the Northeast corner of Vermont. Two of them (Natalie Miller and Nathan Hartswick) married each other, and now co-own and operate Vermont Comedy Club in Burlington, while the third (Brian De La Bruere) has been performing with them for over a decade.

In this joyful show (which they perform regularly at VCC), The Kingdom Kids solicit stories from audience volunteers about the places they grew up, then use those stories as inspiration for a spontaneous, freewheeling and wildly entertaining comedy show.

And don’t worry! They only interact with audience members who wish to ta   ...

All three members of the hilarious troupe known as “The Kingdom Kids” grew up in the Northeast corner of Vermont. Two of them (Natalie Miller and Nathan Hartswick) married each other, and now co-own and operate Vermont Comedy Club in Burlington, while the third (Brian De La Bruere) has been performing with them for over a decade.

In this joyful show (which they perform regularly at VCC), The Kingdom Kids solicit stories from audience volunteers about the places they grew up, then use those stories as inspiration for a spontaneous, freewheeling and wildly entertaining comedy show.

And don’t worry! They only interact with audience members who wish to talk to them — so they won’t be picking on anyone who just came to watch and laugh.

With a shared sense of humor that is smart, sarcastic and silly, this homegrown troupe of professional comedians puts on an unpredictable show that is enjoyable for any audience. Don’t miss it!

Rated PG-13 for some adult content.

   Find Out More