Two people hold the hands of a young child as they explore a colorful artist studio. tools and works in progress lay on the table next to them.

TAKE THE CHANCE TO MEET ARTISTS IN THEIR STUDIOS SECLUDED IN NATURE

Removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life, the Monadnock Region is an escape for artists to focus on their craft and be one with the beauty of nature. Many prolific and award-winning artists keep their studios here, and many arrange visits by appointment! What kinds of studios could you visit in the Monadnock

A group of artists works on easels in a classroom setting.

LET YOUR CREATIVITY FLOW FREELY IN WORKSHOPS, CLASSES, AND OPEN MICS

During a visit to the Monadnock region, take the opportunity to make beautiful things in beautiful surroundings. There are countless studios, makerspaces, and art centers dedicated to all kinds of crafts for this very purpose. Look out for beginner-friendly craft and beers, paint and sips, hands-on classes for all levels, or boldly take the stage

Thornton Wilder's Our Town performed outdoors and presented by the PEterborough Players. Three actors perch wistfully on two ladders on the set of the play.

DIVE INTO A PERFORMING ARTS SCENE OF CIRCUS, DANCE, AND THEATER

The love of performing arts runs rampant in the Monadnock region. From plays, musicals, and operas to circus performances and, of course, the holiday ballet staple The Nutcracker, there’s a show here for all ages and occasions. The Peterborough Players have a deep love for high caliber theater. Share in that enthusiasm with a visit

a string quartet performs, looking engagingly at one another

WITNESS EXCELLENT CLASSICAL MUSICIANSHIP IN BEAUTIFUL RURAL SETTINGS

The Monadnock region has a deep love for music of all kinds, and classical music is no exception! Excellent musicians with love for community outreach and teaching have set up their practices here. During a visit, take an evening or a matinee to be swept away by enchanting compositions in local churches, town halls, and

three musicians perform at the coffee house stage of Nova Arts, surrounded by art installation of glowing whales suspended from the ceiling

EXPERIENCE HOW THE ARTS BREATHE LIFE INTO NEW ENGLAND HISTORIC BUILDINGS

For those of you who are captivated by New England history, find remnants of the Monadnock region’s industrial past preserved in buildings overtaken by the arts. You’ll find some wonderful surprises! From lunchtime concerts to film screenings and site-specific installations, Epsilon Spires makes the most of a renovated 19th-century Victorian Gothic and Gothic Revival church

two people proudly pose with wooden cutting boards that they designed

Arts Spotlight: MAXT Makerspace

NICOLE S. COLSON If there is an organization in the Monadnock Region that is purely of the community and for the community, it’s MAXT Makerspace in Peterborough.  When Peterborough native Roy Schlieben moved back to his hometown nearly a decade ago, he joined a committee exploring the idea of opening a makerspace there.  A makerspace

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Viva Bach Peterborough Announces 2023 Festival Program

Viva Bach Peterborough is pleased to announce its 2023 festival, which will take place at the Peterborough Town House from October 20th – 22nd under the artistic direction of Veronika Schreiber. Building on its highly successful 2022 inaugural season, Viva Bach Peterborough will once again bring renowned musicians from across the country to play a

summer campers pose outdoors on and around a small building

Arts Spotlight: Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music

NICOLE S. COLSON Cellist Javier Caballero first came to the Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music as a student 25 years ago. The inclusive environment he found there led him on his life path.  The non-profit arts organization, founded 52 years ago, is situated on 100 acres of fields and woodlands in Nelson. Apple Hill

a group of middle schoolers smile in front of a mural of a train

Arts Spotlight: Historical Society of Cheshire County

NICOLE S. COLSON Dusty objects on museum shelves are relics of the past. In order to become a community resource for tourism statewide, the county historical society’s goal is to bring its collection to life in the 21st century.  Jennifer Carroll is director of education at the Historical Society of Cheshire County, a private educational

cabaret cast poses on stage in dark blue light

Arts Spotlight: Peterborough Players

NICOLE S. COLSON The pandemic gave many arts organizations the time and opportunity to think deeply about their mission and the future. In the case of Peterborough Players, it was a chance to determine the best ways to reach the largest number of theater patrons. Above all, increased access ensures its longevity far past the