April 6-9, 2017
April 6-9, 2017

April 1

  • Volunteer Income Tax Assistance provides free tax help at Jumoke Academy’s middle school (339 Blue Hills Ave.), 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. for people who earned less than $54,000 in 2016. Book an appointment through 211.
  • Free First Saturday at Connecticut Historical Society (1 Elizabeth Street). Free admission to all museum galleries, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. There will be “traditional Finnish kid-friendly crafts” from 10-1.
  • Spring Greenhouse Sale: Purchase plants from the greenhouse at Elizabeth Park, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cash or check only. Bring your own trays to carry out your purchases.
  • Qigong and Tea Ceremony: The qigong starts at 9:30 a.m.; tea and conversation at 10:30. They say: “Qigong is a 2,000-year-old practice from China which helps your body to heal itself naturally. Qigong can provide relief from anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue. It can also improve balance and endurance. The practice involves gentle movement, breathing techniques, and focused intention. According to Chinese medicine, tea clears the mind and circulates the energy of the body. Scientists have found that tea strengthens the immune system.” Deron Drumm will be the instructor for this. They say that he, “has reshaped his life by incorporating intentional living practices. After years of struggling, he found peace and health when he stopped seeing himself as a victim and started to take ownership of his past and present actions. Qigong, yoga, meditation, healthy relationships, positive habits, and nutritious foods have allowed him to live his life free of the destructive behaviors he once engaged in.” This is at Toivo (399 Franklin Avenue). There is a suggested $5 donation. Nobody is turned away for lack of funds.
  • Next to Normal: If you are a student with a valid ID, get free admission today to the 2:30 p.m. performance at TheaterWorks (233 Pearl St.). They describe this play as: “The dad’s an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens. The Goodmans appear to be a typical American family, yet their lives are anything but normal. This brave and breathtaking contemporary musical takes an unflinching look at a family’s struggle with mental illness. Winner of three Tony Awards including Best Musical Score.” Call the box office to secure your seat!
  • Rally to Support Trans Youth: Gather at the Connecticut Supreme Court (231 Capitol Avenue) for this youth-led effort to protect and support transgender, gender-nonconforming, and queer youth. There are a number of organizations serving as host for this event: ACLU-CT, CT TransAdvocacy Coalition, GLSEN Connecticut, New Haven Pride Center, Norwich Free Academy GSA, OutCT, PFLAG Hartford, Triangle Community Center, and True Colors, Inc. This is from 2:30-4 p.m. If you have questions, contact connecticut@chapters.glsen.org 
  • Fools Fall in Love: A Musical Cabaret in Support of Nightfall 2017 — If you were wondering how to do a fundraiser, this is it. One performance after another, featuring: Greg & Julia Ludovici Pistell, Lindsey Fyfe, Keila Myles, Chion Wolf, John Gale, Tangsauce, Joey Batts, Daryl Sullivan, Kate Callahan, Mac Cherny, Gabrielle Witt & The Grace Girls, Greg Garcia, Robin Zaleski, and Matt Fleury. Tickets start at $40. This is at Christ Church Cathedral (45 Church Street), 7:30-10 p.m.
  • April Fools Day Massacre Show: Hanging Hills (150 Ledyard St.) will host The Island of Doubt and The Miths. $5 at the door. 8-11 p.m.

April 2

  • Film 101: The Purple Rose of Cairo — The film begins at 11 a.m. at Real Art Ways (56 Arbor St.); a discussion follows. Admission is $11; less with membership or other discounts.
  • Kundalini Yoga & Meditation: from 12-1:30 p.m. at Toivo (399 Franklin Avenue), $5 suggested donation. They say: “Through a blend of postures, mantras, mudras, pranayama, and meditation that are combined to created sets known as kriyas, energy is generated to access higher consciousness and inner radiance.”
  • Interfaith Film Series: Bombay — A discussion follows the screening of this 1995 film. The film is described as: “A Hindu man and a Muslim woman fall in love in a small village and move to Mumbai, where they have two children. However, growing religious tensions and erupting riots threaten to tear the family apart.” Azra Hussain and Prakash Kashwan  are the guest speakers.The film begins at 2 p.m. at the Wadsworth Atheneum. Admission: $9.
  • Closing of the Untold Stories Project: This closing event began at the end of March. This is the finale of this year’s festival. HannaHs Field opens. This will be followed by storytelling. Somewhere in the day there will be drumming circle and a cacao ceremony. They say: “Storytellers will sit with the audience in a circle to share their journeys through pain, shame, trauma, addiction and more.” This is at Toivo (399 Franklin Avenue), 2-7 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $5-25, but nobody is turned away for lack of funds; there is also a $7 fee for the cacao ceremony. Contact Kristen if you would like to share your story or if you have other questions about this event: 860-455-3384 or krisnls12345@gmail.com 
  • The Earl MacDonald/Felipe Salles Quartet performs as part of the Baby Grand Jazz series at the Hartford Public Library. The hour-long concert begins at 3 p.m. Free.
  • Games Night: Each month a different non-electronic game is selected for this Sunday Salon at Make Hartford (30 Arbor St. #B7). They say: “Card games, strategy games, two-player games, team games, multiplayer games. Find out what Ben Parker has planned each month.” 6-8 p.m. Free.
  • Syllable: The Reading Series — After a hiatus, the reading series is returning. Now, it’ll be at Republic (10 Capitol Ave.), 7-8 p.m. Sophfronia Scott, Yelizaveta Renfro, and Ciaran Berry are the featured readers. If you’d like to read your creative writing here, send submissions to syllableseries@gmail.com.

April 3

  • Add your reps to your contacts (for us old-timers: put them on speed dial)
  • City Council will hold an informational budget workshop on debt, pensions, and education. The public is invited to listen and observe. This will take place in Council Chambers at City Hall. 6 p.m.
  • Learn how to use YouTube to grow your business. This free workshop is at the Entrepreneurial Center (1265 Asylum Avenue), 9:30-11:30 a.m. Register.

April 4

  • Honest Conversation with Muslim Neighbors: Come to the University of Hartford’s Millard Auditorium to take part in this ongoing series co-sponsored by Maurice Greenberg Center for Judaic Studies; University of Hartford Hillel;
    Muslim Student Association; Catholic Campus Ministry; Protestant Campus Ministry; University of Hartford International Student Center; and UofH’s All-University Curriculum    . They say: “A panel of Connecticut Muslims
    will informally share their experiences and respond to our questions such as: Why don’t we hear moderate Muslims
    speaking out against extremism? Why do some girls and women wear Muslim dress and others do not? What does the Qur’an really say about Christians, Jews and members of other faiths? American Muslims don’t have all the answers, but our guests will respond out of their own experiences, raising issues that concern them as well as us.
    Together, in conversation, we can promote a more peaceful world for everyone.” This event is free and open to the public. 12:15-1:45 p.m.
  • The Great American Give-Away: Stop by the 224 EcoSpace (224 Farmington Ave) from 2-7 p.m. for a community sharing event. What you can give: “Gently used, completely functioning, household, clean items of all sorts. Could be a product or service, a talent such as musical performance or reading, a skill such as a business service like reading resumes, a professional shoulder massage, prayers, just about anything that you can imagine offering as long as it can be of service or of use to someone else.” If you have something to give, give. If you could use something, take. They say: “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spent his entire adult life in service. His last effort, when he was assassinated on April 4, 1968 was organizing the Poor People’s Campaign. The CT Center for Nonviolence is attempting to address the needs of disadvantaged people in the city of Hartford while utilizing this profound day as a call to service. ‘We are keeping Dr. King’s mission in the forefront and building on the strength of the Beloved Community’ said Victoria Christgau, Founder and Executive Director of the CT Center for Nonviolence.” Register by March 27 to volunteer.
  • Come to Cinestudio for a screening of 1984 at 4 p.m. Cinestudio, on the Trinity College campus, is one of over 90 art house cinemas to show this film today. Why? They say: “April 4 was chosen because it is the day George Orwell’s famous protagonist Winston Smith (John Hurt)firsts rebels against his oppressive government in Oceania by keeping a forbidden diary, where he dares to record his disloyal thoughts about Big Brother.”
  • Passover and Politics: How to Lead a Meaningful Seder in These Challenging Times: Rabbi Donna Berman will be leading this workshop at Charter Oak Cultural Center (21 Charter Oak Ave.), 6:30 p.m. They say: “The story of the Exodus from Egypt is extremely political. It is about oppression, revolt and liberation. Join Rabbi Donna Berman, Executive Director of the Charter Oak Cultural Center, for an exploration of the meaning of the holiday, the treasure trove of wisdom the Haggadah brings to bare on our present situation and practical ways to enhance your Seder experience and create a safe space for the kind of deep conversation the Seder is designed to inspire.” Register. $18 suggested donation.

April 5

  • Friends of CT Parks Day at the Capitol: Stop by the Legislative Office Building concourse (300 Capitol Ave.) from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. They say: “Meet the Friends groups who volunteer and support 25 different State Parks, see their displays, and encourage your Legislators to take action to protect your public lands, and generate funding for your State Parks.” Free and open to the public.
  • Flight Night! — This is a start-up pitch event hosted by reSET (1429 Park St.), 5:30-7:30 p.m. They say: “As part of the audience, you’ll see pitches from 8 start-up teams that are building businesses for profit and purpose and you’ll also have an opportunity to engage with the entrepreneurs and other members of the state’s start-up ecosystem. The night will feature a panel of expert guest judges providing feedback, audience input, and prizes! Light dinner with non-alcoholic beverages and a cash bar will be served.” If you want to pitch, make sure you click that option when you register. This event is free, but registration is required.
  • Get HYPEd: This month’s casual networking event will be at The Russian Lady (191 Ann St.), 5:30-8:30 p.m. No cover. Bring business cards. They say: “At this Get HYPEd, our Community Involvement committee will be hosting a community collection. All of the donations will be given to Mercy Housing and Shelter Corporation. Their needs are:
    •       New:  Men’s & women’s underwear & socks
    •       New:  Sweatshirts, sweaters
    •       New: Winter hats & gloves
    •       Trial Size/Hotel Size: Soap, Shampoo, Deodorant, shaving cream, razors, toothbrushes & tooth paste
  • How To Start Your Own Small Business: this is a free workshop offered by the Entrepreneurial Center (1265 Asylum Ave.), 6-8:30 p.m. They say: “Are you an aspiring entrepreneur?  Move your ideas into action!  In this workshop you will learn the steps to get started.” Register.
  • MakeHartford Open House: Meet the makers, check out the space, and get feedback on your projects. Drop by 30 Arbor Street, B7 from 6:30-9 p.m. Free.

April 6

April 22: March for Science
April 22: March for Science
  • Broaden your horizons
  • Today is the first day of the Trinity International Hip-Hop Festival. Highlights include viewing photo exhibits — “Girl Power International Graffiti,” “History of Russian Hip Hop,” and “Hartford Hip Hop History” — in Mather Hall at Trinity College. This is free and open to the public. This is free and open to the public. If you can’t make it today, no worries…these exhibits will be on view through the festival.
  • Hartford National College Fair: Free opportunity for students and parents to talk with college admission reps. 9-11:30 a.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Connecticut Convention Center.
  • River Day: Check out the “Art, architecture, policy and science displays about water and the North Branch Park River,” find out how to get more involved in environmental conservation, and sample maple tree juice. The Audubon Society will bring birds of prey from 12-1:30. From 2-2:30 there will be a discussion of the large floor map of the North Branch Park River.  At 3 take a walk along the North Branch Park River. This whole event is from 12-4:30 p.m. in Regents Common in the Shaw Center at the University of Hartford (200 Bloomfield Ave.). Free.
  • Rhyme & Reason: opening reception for an exhibition of Artist Fellowship Recipients — Andrew Buck, Insook Hwang, Karla Knight, Kerri Quirk, Alyse Rosner, and Chip Rutan. 4:30-6:30 at The Gallery at Constitution Plaza (One Constitution Plaza, 2nd floor). Meet the artists, view their work, and enjoy refreshments. Free
  • Art After Dark: This event at the Wadsworth Atheneum is $10 for non-members; $5 for members. College students get in free with ID. They say: “Neon lights up a night of music by DJ Jamm, art activities, a scavenger hunt, complimentary snacks and Insomnia Cookies, cash bar, and a 6pm gallery talk with curator Patricia Hickson in Keith Sonnier: Three Neons/Three Decades. Join a Poetry Slam at 6:30pm, and then watch award-winning poet and University of Hartford professor Benjamin Grossberg will read from his current work at 7pm. Come dressed in your best neon—prizes will be awarded to the top outfits! Costume contest participation is optional.” All of that is from 5-8 p.m. At 8 p.m. The Last Days of Disco starts.
  • With Justice For All? Mass Incarceration in America: The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center (77 Forest Street) is hosting this free conversation from 5:30-7:30 p.m. They say: “Equal justice under law” is engraved on the U.S. Supreme Court building. What does it mean in practice? What does it mean in 2017? Join us for a conversation on criminal justice, equity, and law with featured guests: Maureen Price-Boreland Esq., Executive Director, Community Partners in Action; State Senator Gary Winfield; and Trevor Johnson, Lecturer, Criminology & Criminal Justice, Central Connecticut State University.” Refreshments are at 5:30; program begins at 6. Reservations are requested.
  • Fighting on Two Fronts: The Puerto Rican Experience in WWII — This program will take place in the Center for Contemporary Culture at the Hartford Public Library, 5:30-7:30 p.m. They say: “Dr. Harry Franqui-Rivera of Bloomfield College, New Jersey will deliver a talk focusing on the experience of Puerto Ricans in the United States military in the 20th century, addressing issues of nation building, national identities, citizenship, military institutions and imperial-colonial relations. Veterans from the Hartford area and surrounding communities are invited to attend, share their experiences and contribute to program topics. Program will be bilingual (English & Spanish).” Free.
  • Nails and Wagging Tails: bring your pup to Naturally Dogs and Cats (10 Trumbull St.) from 6-8 p.m. for nail trimming. $5 for each dog.
  • The Hartford Improv Festival returns for a fourth year! This festival attracts performers from Connecticut to Baltimore to Toronto. Admission varies by the type of ticket you purchase (single show, whole day, or entire festival). Today’s entertainment begins at 7 p.m. See the Hartford Improv Festival website for complete schedule and venue locations.
  • The POSSM and friends perform at Peppercorn’s Grill (357 Main St.), 8-11 p.m. No cover charge.

April 7

  • IceBike/Walk/Bus to Work Meetup: This is a casual breakfast meetup for people who use more eco-friendly means to commute, whether this means car/vanpool or train or telecommuting. The Hartford meetup location is Sarah’s Coffee House, at the corner of Ann and Asylum Street. There are bike racks in front and a bunch more at the opposite corner; this is on a bus route. 7-9 a.m. Free, but you’re responsible for buying your own breakfast/coffee.
  • Hartford National College Fair: Free opportunity for students and parents to talk with college admission reps. 9-11:30 a.m. at the Connecticut Convention Center.
  • The Trinity International Hip-Hop Festival continues today. Highlights include viewing photo exhibits — “Girl Power International Graffiti,” “History of Russian Hip Hop,” and “Hartford Hip Hop History” — in Mather Hall at Trinity College. There are a number of lectures, panel discussions, and a keynote throughout the day: “Brazilian Graffiti Movements,” “Independent and Political Hip Hop in Cuba,” “Hip Hop Loves Foundation,” “Under the Curtain: Russia-USA Hip Hop Exchange,” “Russian Hip Hop Culture,” “10 Years of Temple of Hip Hop at Trinity,” and “From the Griot to Hip Hop:  The Oral Tradition as Critical Liberatory Praxis in Islamic Black America.” These are free and open to the public. This is free and open to the public.
  • The Hartford Improv Festival continues today with entertainment starting at 7 p.m. Admission varies by the type of ticket you purchase (single show, whole day, or entire festival). See the Hartford Improv Festival website for complete schedule and venue locations.

April 8

  • Ninth Annual Mothers United Against Violence March and Memorial Rally: Gather at the intersection of Albany Avenue and Main Street at 9:30 a.m. March starts at 10. Rally at Connecticut State Capitol starts at 11.
  • The Trinity International Hip-Hop Festival continues today with a live graffiti exhibition, a town hall discussion on “The New Black – Hip Hop’s revolutionary renaissance,” premier of documentary film She’s Not a Toy, and screening of Girl Power. Tonight is the main event — the hip hop concert. MC Lyte is the headliner. Let’s say that again. MC LYTE. The concert will also include Revolution Records (Egypt), Bavubuka Allstarz (Uganda), Siimba Liives Long (Ethiopia/USA), Escuadron Patriota (Cuba), DJ Kool Flash (DC), Leadra & the Dream and Marvalyss (Hartford) with DJ Boo and co-hosted by Keysha Freshh (Canada) and Delta (Australia). The festival is free and open to the public. Most events are at Mather Hall at Trinity College.
  • Second Saturdays: Free admission to the Wadsworth Atheneum from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. There are several family-friendly tours during that timeframe, with the day’s theme being “important moments in African American history.”
  • The Hartford Improv Festival continues today with workshops beginning at noon and entertainment starting at 2 p.m. Admission varies by the type of ticket you purchase (single show, whole day, or entire festival). See the Hartford Improv Festival website for complete schedule and venue locations.
  • Grass Moon Sacred Fire Circle: This child-friendly event at Toivo (399 Franklin Ave.) is a sober/dry event. They say: “Through the transformational alchemy of fire, dance, drumming, and community we will be releasing that which no longer serves us on our path and connecting to Mother Earth and the energy of the Full Moon as we dance and drum around the sacred fire. The last of our indoor circles until winter comes around again! Excited but thankful to Toivo for hosting us and being our winter home! Drummers, musicians, poets, dancers, flow artists, and fire tenders all welcome! This is a child-friendly event. There will be candles lit on the fire altar, so any small children will have to be kept away from it, however, for safety’s sake.” People are invited to bring chairs, snacks, and rhythm instruments. The event begins at 5 p.m. with an Intro to Fire Circles class; then continues with Prayer Tie making, Lighting of the Fire Altar, Gratitude Circle, and drumming. Wraps up around 10 p.m. Suggested $10-20 donation per person; children free.
  • Chez Est (458 Wethersfield Ave.) celebrates its 40th anniversary! Congrats! Festivities begin at 7 p.m. with a complimentary Happy Hour Buffet. Call (860) 525-3243 for details about cover charge.

April 9

  • Traffic Skills/Safe Cycling 101: Improve your safety as a cyclist through a combination of classroom instruction, drills, and an on-road ride. 8:30-5:30 at BiCi Co. (95-97 Park Street). Class fee varies based on income.
  • Today is the final day of the Trinity International Hip-Hop Festival. Today’s highlight is the open graffiti painting from 12-4 p.m. Get there early if you want paint. This is free and open to the public.
  • The Hartford Improv Festival continues today with workshops beginning at noon and entertainment starting at 5 p.m. Admission varies by the type of ticket you purchase (single show, whole day, or entire festival). See the Hartford Improv Festival website for complete schedule and venue locations. Today is the final day of the festival!
  • Monthly CT Robotics Society meeting at MakeHartford (30 Arbor St., B7). 1-3 p.m. Free and open to the public.
  • Nicki Mathis performs as part of the Baby Grand Jazz series at the Hartford Public Library. The hour-long concert begins at 3 p.m. Free.
  • The Great Hummus Challenge: This is the moment you have been waiting for. They say: “Bring your “A” game for making the best blend of hummus with the secret ingredients that your team applies for. Sign up a team of 4-6 people through your chapter or organization. The proceeds go to Jonathan’s Dream Reimagined – a playground that is being built right down the street for children of all abilities.” This is held in Konover Market’s Great Room on the University of Hartford campus. It is $30 to register a team. If you are only interested in sampling the recipes, the fee is $5 per UH student, or $10 for community members. 2-4 p.m. Contact info@hartfordhillel.org to register your team and request secret ingredients.

April 10

  • Marketing Matters: Take a free workshop at the Entrepreneurial Center (1265 Asylum Avenue) to learn “focus on ideas and strategies that you can utilize in order to develop a strategic marketing plan that will help take your business to the next level.” 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Register.

April 11

  • Being Muslim in Trump’s America: Come to Trinity College’s Rittenberg Lounge (Mather Hall) for a discussion, 12:15-1:30 p.m. They say: “Muslims have been at the center of much political debate throughout last year’s presidential campaign and have received much attention since President Trump came to office in January. The discussion will focus on some of the consequences for the Muslim community on campus, in Hartford, and around the country. The speakers are Peter Gottschalk, Haroon Moghul, and Omar Tawil..” This is free and open to the public.

or, at the same time just down the hall…

  • What’s Driving You? Talk with Retired NBA Player Keyon Dooling: This event had to be rescheduled due to a snowstorm. Here are the details: “Retired NBA player Keyon Dooling will deliver a talk titled, “What’s Driving You? How I Overcame Abuse and Learned to Lead in the NBA.” In 2012, Dooling faced a life-altering moment of choosing life over career. Formerly of the Boston Celtics, Dooling experienced a serious mental health breakdown due to PTSD suffered from keeping secret his childhood sexual abuse. Overmedicated, paranoid, and hallucinating, Dooling entered a Boston-area hospital. He began to talk about his abuse and to heal. Today, Dooling speaks publicly, examining issues of masculinity, sexual abuse and assault, PTSD, and recovery. A book sale and signing will follow the discussion. Light refreshments will be served, with a Kosher option available. The event is free and open to the public.” This will be in the Washington Room of Mather Hall at Trinity College, 12:15-1:30 p.m.
  • Open Mic: This is a group poetry reading and open mic at Hartford Public Library. Bring a poem (yours or someone else’s) to read. Refreshments at 5:30; reading at 6 p.m. This is in the ArtWalk Gallery. Free.

April 12

  • Green Drinks Hartford: “If you drive a vehicle, how can you reduce your carbon footprint by driving less? How can you contribute ideas for how to improve transportation developments in the Hartford region?” Learn about the new Transport Hartford Academy, an initiative of Center for Latino Progress. This is a casual event at Sutra (391 Main Street), 6-9 p.m. No fee to attend.
  • MakeHartford Open House: Meet the makers, check out the space, and get feedback on your projects. Drop by 30 Arbor Street, B7 from 6:30-9 p.m. Free.
  • Shaping Social Change: Loving — Talk at 6:30 p.m.; screening at 7. The film is described as: “The true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple whose challenge of their anti-miscegenation arrest for their marriage in Virginia led to a legal battle ending at the US Supreme Court.” $9 regular admission to this event at the Wadsworth Atheneum.

April 13

  • Leadership for the Future: Becoming a Mindful Leader — reSET (1429 Park St.) is hosting this event with Matt Thieleman. They say: “Technology is eating the world. (And that’s OK, but …) In order to be a successful leader tomorrow and beyond, you’re going to need to be equipped to handle everything coming our way. What do we need? Mindful leaders: Fully present, aware of themselves and their impact on others, and focused on achieving the goals of their team. In this session we’ll discuss the characteristics of a mindful leader, tools for becoming more mindful and how you can lead your team to success.” 5:30-7 p.m. Free, but register.

April 14

  • If you have not managed to see Hidden Figures yet, you have your chance at 7:30 p.m. at Cinestudio (300 Summit St.)  Tickets are $10 with some discounts available.
  • Sophistafunk and Maggie Koerner perform at Arch Street Tavern. Doors open at 9 p.m.; show starts at 10. Tickets are $10-12.

April 15

  • Tax March Hartford: from 1-2 p.m. at the Connecticut State Capitol. They say: “Throughout the presidential campaign, Donald Trump promised that he would release his tax returns ‘later.’ Then, just a few days after Trump assumed office, his top adviser, Kellyanne Conway, said that he wouldn’t release his tax returns ever, because the American people ‘don’t care.’ We’re here to say that we do care.“
  • Art reception at EBK Gallery (218 Pearl St.) for Stass Shpanin’s Coltland Souvenir Shop, 6-8:30 p.m.
  • What’s Your Problem? — a live advice show! This is at Sea Tea Comedy Theater (15 Asylum St.), so expect some unprofessional advice and some professional comedy. They say: “Write down your problem ANONYMOUSLY, put it in the big box, and [the host] will help you figure it all out with her panel of unqualified yet enthusiastic, thoughtful humans – including a random volunteer from the audience! At the end, we’ll welcome advice from the crowd. Very mature children are invited, and immature adults appreciated. Profanity likely. The audio of each show will be recorded live and released later as a podcast.” 7-8:30 p.m. Tickets are around $12.

April 16

  • Easter Jazz Brunch: Enjoy the music of Robin Lyn Treger and High End Jazz while having brunch at the Wadsworth Atheneum. The menu includes “Chef’s egg dish of the day, homefries, root vegetable hash, bacon, sausage, bagels and assorted cream cheeses, Belgian waffles with fixins’, and assorted breakfast pastries” along with one complimentary mimosa or bloody mary. There are two seatings — 10:30 and 12:30. $25 for museum members; $35 for non-members.
  • Watch The Loving Story at Wadsworth Atheneum. This is described as: “A racially-charged criminal trial and a heart-rending love story converge in this documentary about Richard and Mildred Loving—set during the turbulent Civil Rights era—about whom the film Loving is based.” The film begins at 2 p.m. $9.
  • Make Hartford (30 Arbor Street) is hosting its Sunday Salon: String Thing and Fixers’ Co-op. You will have access to tools and advice, but nobody will fix things for you (unless you ask nicely and arrange for this in advance). Or, if you’re here for the fiber activities, bring your yarn/string/what have you and work on a project with company. 6-8 p.m. Free.

April 17

April 18

  • Foreclosure Prevention Clinic: Come to University High School of Science and Engineering (351 Mark Twain Drive) from 5:30-8 p.m. to learn. They say: “The clinics will offer homeowners information about the judicial foreclosure and mediation process along with guidance on preparing for court from the Connecticut Fair Housing Center, and guidance on the resources for homeowners facing foreclosure from state agencies. Following presentations, homeowners may meet one-on-one with volunteer attorneys to discuss their situation” This is free. No registration required.

April 19

  • Hartford/Ocotal Sister City Project Reading Group Discussion: Three Nicaraguan folktales — The Invisible Hunters/Los Cazadores Invisibles: A Legend from the Miskito, Trisba & Sula: A Miskitu Folktale from Nicaragua, and The Butterfly Workshop — will be the subject of this discussion. Read the tales in advance and come to chat. This is at the Hartford Public Library, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the second floor study room 8. Bring your own lunch.
  • HYPE Leaders on Board orientation: This Leadership Greater Hartford program matches people with non-profits that are looking to fill their Board of Directors. This orientation “provides an overview of board governance and member roles and responsibilities. The session is designed for those who are new to board service but also for those who can benefit from a refresher session. The workshop will cover fiduciary leadership, and legal and financial responsibilities. This will also be a great opportunity to talk with others about serving on a board of directors and to hear from a lawyer whose expertise is nonprofit governance.” After taking this step, participants would take place (another day) in an express match session; the orientation is required for those wanting to be matched. The orientation is from 5:30-8 p.m. at MetroHartford Alliance (31 Pratt St. 5th floor). Registration is $10 for HYPE members; $20 for non-members.
  • MakeHartford Open House: Meet the makers, check out the space, and get feedback on your projects. Drop by 30 Arbor Street, B7 from 6:30-9 p.m. Free.

April 20

  • Open Planning Studio focused on Rail Station Planning and the I-84/I-91 Interchange Study: Come to the Hartford Public Library to learn more. Open house from 4-8 p.m.; presentation at 5:30 p.m.; workshops at 6:15 p.m.
  • A Celebration of The Muslim World Special Issue on Hindu-Muslim Relations: Hartford Seminary is hosting this free, open-to-the-public event at 7 p.m. Professors Lucinda Mosher and Yahya Michot of Hartford Seminary and Shaunaka Rishi Das of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies are the speakers for the evening. Register for the event and read the articles in advance. This will take place in the Hartford Seminary Meeting Room (77 Sherman St.).
  • Kat Wright performs at Arch Street Tavern. They describe her voice as “sultry and dynamic, delicate yet powerful; gritty but highly emotive and nuanced.” Doors open at 8:30 p.m.; show at 9:30. Tickets are $10-15.

April 21

  • Karuna 2017: A Dialogue on Human Connection —  This is an all day conference at The Artists Collective (1200 Albany Ave.). They say: “Are you seeking to strengthen your ability to promote healing, while increasing your connection with others? Join us as we learn from internationally recognized thought leaders who will offer insight into the state of psychiatric treatment, peer-approaches for supporting a person who is experiencing emotional distress, along with integrative practices that promote health, wellness, and an improved quality of life! The keynote speaker is the award-winning journalist Robert Whitaker. In 1998, he co-wrote a series on abuses in psychiatric research that was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Public Service. He is the author of four books. His most recent one is Anatomy of an Epidemic: Magic Bullets, Psychiatric Drugs, and the Astonishing Rise of Mental Illness in America.” This is $35, but contact michaela@advocacyunlimited.org if you would like to know more about scholarships. Registration is required. 8-4:30 p.m.Free massage, Reiki, and acupuncture sessions will be offered at the conference. First come, first served.
  • Comings & Goings: This is a Spring art exhibition at Art Connection Studio (56 Arbor St., Suite 206), 4-8 p.m.
  • Listen to Audio Jane perform live at Hanging Hills Brewery (150 Ledyard St.), 7:30-9:30 p.m.
  • A Purple Party: Celebrate the music of Prince — This is at Sully’s (2071 Park St.), 9:30 p.m. – 2 a.m. They say: “We will gather on this day, Friday, April 21, 2017 to celebrate the music of His Royal Badness, His Purple Majesty: Prince. He left this world on April 21, 2016, but his music lives on. In the spirit of Paisley Park, this will be a Purple Party for the ages, ‘cause life is just a party, and this party is meant to last! Dig if you will this picture: choice selections from Prince’s expansive catalog, all played by the band Purple Luscious Love which includes musicians JME Strchild, Dexter Pettaway, Doug Wilson III, Lawrence White, and features special guests Deb Piccolo (Dee-Lish), Rachel Tonucci (Shaken, Gear Mama), and Carla Peirera and Gio Blanco (Shu-Sho).” $10 cover.

April 22

  • STEAM Career Expo: Stop by MLK Elementary School (25 Ridgefield St.) from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. for interactive career exploration with professionals in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. This is for youth in grades 5-12 and is presented by the Urban League of Greater Hartford Young Professionals. Free.
  • March for Science: Hartford — Stop by the Riverfront Plaza from 12-3 p.m. to participate in what the local chapter of a national movement has planned. They say: “Our message is a non-partisan celebration of science and empiricism. In tumultuous times, when everything seems to be an opportunity for partisan divide, we aim to show that science is not an issue that separates people or politicians on either side of the aisle. We can all unify behind the precept that observation, deduction, reproducible results, and peer-review mark the pinnacle of human intellect and that the scientific method is what has created our way of life as we know it today. It will be what makes our tomorrow even better. We are scientists and science enthusiasts. We come from all races, all religions, all gender identities, all sexual orientations, all abilities, all socioeconomic backgrounds, all political perspectives, and all nationalities. What unites us is a love of science, and an insatiable curiosity. We all recognize that science is everywhere and affects everyone. Join us this Earth Day April 22nd, as we celebrate science. We will have some of Connecticut’s prominent scientists speak, children from local schools give poster presentations of their scientific work, interactive experiences for the whole family put on by local organizations, and more.” This is free to attend, but they are raising money to cover the permitting costs from the State and City, sound equipment, police officer standby, garbage/recycling/cleanup, science-related activities for children, safety equipment, and more.
  • As I Am: Black Women UnMasked — This conference is at the 224 EcoSpace (224 Farmington Ave.), 1-5 p.m. Tickets start at $25. They say: “During our time together we will celebrate Black women and sisterhood. We will also discuss self-care in the face of fear & oppression. Through workshops and activities we will inspire, encourage and empower. You will not leave the same way you came in! Wherever you are on your journey this conference will benefit you. No shaming, competition, or social hierarchy. Just an opportunity to connect, reflect and grow while in the company of your sistas! Current activities and workshops include: The unmasking: an activity geared to assist women in realizing the many things they are holding onto and hiding behind. Workshop: Loving yourself as a black Woman As I am: Steps for self-care renewal and rejuvenation. Also hear from: Althea Bates CEO of Project Resiliency and enjoy the Art work and creativity of Joy Monroe (creator of Conference logo). Light refreshments. Vendors raffles and prizes!”
  • Community Easter Egg Hunt: This event at Keney Park’s Pond House (383 Edgewood Street), is co-sponsored by Rainbow Soul, True Colors, LCS (Latino Community Services), Spectrum (University of Hartford), PRIDE (Capital Community College), and Black Student Union (Capital Community College). Egg hunters need to BYOB (bring your own baskets). There will be family-friendly music and performances. People are encouraged to picnic and grill at the park. Hartford Public Allies will be hosting a resource fair inside the Pond House during the event. This is free. The egg hunt is for the kids. 2-5 p.m.; egg hunt starts at 3.
  • Paper Artists Gathering: 3-5 p.m. at MakeHartford (30 Arbor St., B7). They say: “This is an opportunity for anyone interested in making, building or doing something with paper to get together to share ideas, projects and dreams. This is an informal session for paper artists who is doing or wants to be doing anything in the paper from making paper to origami. Come and share!  Come and listen!  Come and learn! Please note that the material we will talk about is geared toward professional artists or generally those with a serious interest in the study of the paper arts. Those with little paper experience who want to see what we’re doing are welcome so long as they understand and are patient.” Free.

April 23

  • Hartford Pro-Choice Brunch: Gather at a home on Kenyon Street to support NARAL and brunch. They say: “Please join NARAL Pro-Choice Connecticut for Sunday brunch prepared by pro-choice elected officials from the Greater Hartford area. This is the only opportunity to find out which of our elected representatives bakes the best muffins, while also supporting our efforts to protect reproductive rights in Connecticut. Donations received at this event will be used to further NARAL Pro-Choice Connecticut’s efforts to elect and re-elect pro-choice legislators, and continue the work of reproductive health and education for all. Support our vital legislative work and buy your ticket or sponsor the event today!” The chefs expected for brunch include: Senator Richard Blumenthal, Comptroller Kevin Lembo, Secretary of the State Denise Merrill, Mayor of West Hartford Shari Cantor, State Senator Beth Bye, State Senator Cathy Osten, State Representative Matt Lesser, State Representative Matt Ritter, State Representative Derek Slap, State Representative Melissa Ziobron, and Commissioner of Consumer Protection Jonathan Harris.
    Tickets are $50 general; $35 for “young professionals.” Get tickets and more details on the event registration page.
  • Sacred Earth Day: Vasu has organized a free community event at Elizabeth Park, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Activities include: an opening ceremony, all-levels yoga class, gratitude meditation, sound meditation, and community picnic. Participants are invited to bring food, percussion instruments, and hula hoops to this family-friendly event.
  • Gluten-Free Pop-up Tasting & Market: Sample treats from Flex Bakery and liqueurs from Hartford Flavor Company, 1-5 p.m. at Hartford Flavor Company (30 Arbor St., Suite107). Children are allowed. Enter from rear of building. Free.
  • Joe Teichman Acoustic in the Afternoon: Come to Hanging Hills (150 Ledyard St.) for some alt country, Americana, and folk. 2:30-5:30 p.m.
  • Theresa Wright performs as part of the Baby Grand Jazz series at the Hartford Public Library. The free hour-long concert begins at 3 p.m.
  • MakeHartford Members and Guests Social: UFOs — Come to MakeHartford (30 Arbor St., B7) with your UFO (UnFinished Object), 6-8:30 p.m. They say: “Bring a project-in-progress or one that needs some assistance. Whether it’s appropriate for String Thing or Fixers’ Co-Op, the project is welcome! Depending upon who comes, we may put on a film or watch some YouTube videos. A group project may be announced, at a small charge for non-members, or may become its own workshop.”

April 24

  • Kizomba Public Mondays: Free community dance event, 6-8 p.m., in the Great Room of Union Station. Contact 860.231.0184 or KizombaHartford@gmail.com to confirm details of the event.

April 25

  • Common Hour Classical Concert: Student instrumentalists and vocalists enrolled in Trinity College’s Department of Music’s program of private lessons perform a free lunchtime concert. This is at Austin Arts Center’s Gruss Music Center. 12:15-1 p.m.
  • Public Budget Hearing: This is a presentation of Mayor Bronin’s recommended budget. If you have comments to make, you can do this. The event begins at 6 p.m. Arrive early to sign up if you are interested in speaking. These can go for hours. This will take place in the auditorium of Bulkeley (300 Wethersfield Ave.).
  • Book Talk: A Socially Responsible Islamic Finance — Author Umar Moghul will explain how and why he wrote this book which “explores how, through spirituality and the development of character, Islamic financial institutions and Muslim communities can integrate their businesses with contemporary social responsibility initiatives to produce positive social and environmental impact.” This is in the Hartford Seminary Meeting Room (77 Sherman St.) at 7 p.m. Register for this event.

April 26

  • Preserving History in Hartford and Beyond: Issues & Solutions — This free event at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center (77 Forest St.) does require reservations. They say: “What does preservation mean for a city? How does preservation intersect with issues of housing, sustainability, and economics?  As a city with a long history, Hartford faces significant decisions about historic preservation. Join the conversation with Leah Glaser, Associate Professor of History, Central Connecticut State University and Laura Settlemyer, Blight Director for the City of Hartford.” This is from 6-7:30 p.m.
  • Trans Community Dinner on Housing Insecurity: Enjoy a free meal at True Colors (30 Arbor Street). They say: “Do you identify as transgender, non-binary, gender non-conforming, agender, queer, genderqueer, or anything other than cisgender? Have you or are you currently experiencing housing insecurity or homelesness? The Connecticut Fair Housing center would like to invite you to a roundtable dinner discussion about the obstacles faced by transgender people facing housing insecurity as well as possible solutions to problems they have encountered in emergency housing and other housing resources.” Contact Matthew to RSVP — mbrush@ctfairhousing.org or 860-560-8949. This event is from 6-8 p.m.
  • MakeHartford Open House: Meet the makers, check out the space, and get feedback on your projects. Drop by 30 Arbor Street, B7 from 6:30-9 p.m. Free.
  • Help support the West End Farmers’ Market by coming to the Bowling and Bingo fundraiser at Ducks on the Ave (572 Farmington Ave.), 6:30-9 p.m. The $15 ticket price includes shoe rental, one game of bowling, and a drink.

April 27

  • Stitches United: convention for knitting, quilting, sewing, and more. Admission varies. This is at the Connecticut Convention Center.
  • Participate in a roundtable discussion of World War I and America edited by A. Scott Berg. You are encouraged to read the selections in advance. Marcus Lawson of Capital Community College, Dr. Carlita Cotton of Goodwin College, and Dave Ionno, City of Hartford Veterans Committee will lead the discussion. Email jeagosto@hplct.org or call 860-695-6367 to register for this free event. This begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Hartford History Center (Hartford Public Library’s 3rd floor).
  • HPD Public Comstat: The Hartford Police Department have been hosting a series of public meetings to share information about crime trends, along with their predicitive and preventative efforts. This is an opportunity to share your questions and comments with the police. This is at the police department (253 High St.), 5:30 p.m.
  • The Art of Active Listening and Giving Positive Feedback: The Entrepreneurial Center (1265 Asylum Ave.) is offering a free workshop from 6-8 p.m. They say: “Do you know the 5:1 rule of positive-to-constructive feedback?  How often do we actually apply it to motivate and sustain positive behavior? In this experiential workshop, learn to differentiate between different types of feedback, experience the art of active listening, identify areas of emotional hijacking and emotional comfort, and leave with a plan to transform a challenging relationship in your own life.” Register.
  • Heathers: The Musical — In the event of your inability to remember the plot of the classic, here it is: “Westerberg High is ruled by a shoulder-padded, scrunchie-wearing junta of Heather, Heather, and Heather, the hottest and cruelest girls in all of Ohio. But misfit Veronica Sawyer rejects their evil regime for a new boyfriend, the dark and sexy stranger J.D., who plans to put the Heathers in their place—six feet under.” So, this, but with song! This is free, but you will need to call the box office for tickets (860) 297-2199. Catch the show at Trinity College’s Austin Arts Center at 7:30 p.m.

April 28

  • Stand Against Racism: Women of Color Leading Change — Free breakfast with a keynote speaker at YWCA (135 Broad Street). Register for the event. 7:30-9 a.m.
  • Stitches United: convention for knitting, quilting, sewing, and more. Admission varies. This is at the Connecticut Convention Center.
  • Nevertheless, She Persisted: Resistance in the Trump Era: Linda Sarsour, Women’s March on Washington Organizer, will be speaking at Trinity College in Mather Hall, 7-9 p.m. This is free and open to the public.
  • Heathers: The Musical — This is free, but you will need to call the box office for tickets (860) 297-2199. Catch the show at Trinity College’s Austin Arts Center at 7:30 p.m.

April 29

  • Stitches United: convention for knitting, quilting, sewing, and more. Admission varies. This is at the Connecticut Convention Center.
  • Sound Energy Healing: Jill Mattson will teach sound healing techniques, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., at Toivo (399 Frankin Avenue). $5 suggested donation.
  • Heathers: The Musical — This is free, but you will need to call the box office for tickets (860) 297-2199. Catch the show at Trinity College’s Austin Arts Center at 7:30 p.m.

April 30

  • Stitches United: convention for knitting, quilting, sewing, and more. Admission varies. This is at the Connecticut Convention Center.
  • Walk Hartford: and New Britain! — this occasional social, slow-paced walking event is going to take a field trip via bus to New Britain for the Little Poland Festival. Meet up by the carousel in Bushnell Park; short walk in downtown Hartford begins at 11 a.m.; then, everyone hops on the bus for New Britain. There will be a short walk through downtown New Britain to get to the festival. No charge to attend, but bring money for the bus. More info on the Facebook event page.
  • The Alvin Carter Project performs as part of the Baby Grand Jazz series at the Hartford Public Library. The free hour-long concert begins at 3 p.m.
  • Last chance to view the WOOD./WORD. exhibit in Hartford Public Library’s ArtWalk Gallery
  • Music of Johann Sebastian Bach performed by CONCORA and members of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra: This concert begins at 4 p.m. at Immanuel Congregational Church (10 Woodland St.). The two-hour performance will feature Bach cantatas 29, 190, and 191 Tickets: $15-60, with some discounts available.

DISCLAIMERS

This information is accurate as of publication to the best of our knowledge. Keep in mind that events are sometimes cancelled or postponed, and that incorrect details are at times given to us. Verify with the venue if you are concerned about last minute surprises or want to know what the plan is for inclement weather.

To get an event published for next month, send details to realhartford@gmail.com by April 25th. Nothing is added after the calendar is published.

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