This weekend, the Concord City Auditorium opens for its 105th year with a season opening gala, and you're invited to join the festivities. The event takes place on Sept. 13 starting at 6 p.m. and features the following fun activities:
– Audi party and arts fair: Look for the tent outside for displays of area arts organizations.
– Arnie's ice cream social: Tom Arnold, owner of Arnie's Place on Loudon Road, will serve up homemade ice cream to the crowd.
– Concord Coach: The Concord Coach Society will show off a real-deal Concord Coach for guests to check out. See costumed drivers and passengers.
– Gala raffle: Purchase a ticket for the chance to win one of 10 jumbo mugs filled with more than $3,000 in restaurant gift certificates and show tickets.
– Gala variety show: This is the main event. Every group scheduled to perform at the auditorium over the coming season is invited to present three to eight minutes of its best work, giving attendees a preview of upcoming shows. Production staff keeps things moving for a lively, fast-paced performance. You'll see the 1944 Big Band Comedy Canteen, scenes from “Godspell,” Steve Martin's “The Underpants,” “Big” the musical and dancers from Concord Dance Academy and Gen's Dance Studio. Musical performances include the Strathspey & Reel Society of New Hampshire, Opera Idol and a preview of the 50th annual barbershop festival. The event will be emceed by Sen. Sylvia Larson.
Tickets are only $5 and are available at Ballard's Novelty Shop, 7 Broadway, and Gibson's Bookstore, 27 S. Main St..
For more information, call 225-7474 or visit theaudi.org.