Three cultural fundraisers bring fun to Lyons residents, January to March (photo spread)
The Friends of Lyons Library put on a program featuring a selection of Silent Films in March, and they got a “stand-room only” crowd! In addition to four hilarious, slapstick, and/or harrowing short films featuring Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd and Charlie Chaplin, they got a special treat courtesy of Rodney Sauer. He not only introduced the silent films, and played his piano during each one, but he also treated the group to a dinosaur cartoon that he interacted with.
Originally the “Gertie the Dinosaur” film had the dino interacting with the live presenter in his vaudeville act; but over the years, text was added, eliminating the speaker. Rodney took the film back to its origins, and he stood by it speaking his lines. As the film started, Gertie poked her head out of a cave, and he said “Gertie can you come here…” At one point he tossed an “apple” to the screen for her. Sometimes the dinosaur would oblige and other times would be obstinate. We thank him for such great entertainment, and helping bring in a few dollars to the Friends of the Library that they spend on free programs and workshops during the year. Rodney has a five-piece chamber ensemble that performs at festivals across the country.
Erin Puzo Hay brought her kids to the Lyons Winter Wonderland Concert in LaVern Johnson Park in January. It is now re-located to Bohn Park because the ice rink could not get enough freezing days to keep it frozen and functional. But no matter where the concerts take place, it draws many residents for the quality, fun music.
Kristin Barnes enjoyed the fire pit on the chilly day. She joined others in some of the many way there were to stay warm during the concerts — including hot chocolate or cider, energetic ice skating and dancing.
………….The final concert is this Saturday, March 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. in Bohn Park, featuring Ian Brighton. —- Thank you to Lyons Community Foundation for the funding, and the Lyons Parks Department for the coordination of the three concerts! A great community gathering event.
Ian Taylor, Lyons, said: “Wow! Who else had the privilege of seeing “Vasalisa” this weekend? Esther van Zyl did such an amazing job directing the play. It was so completely heartwarming and the kids did an amazing job! At the end, Esther gave all the little girls their own dolls and flowers. I don’t think there was a single person in the audience that didn’t cry. Where else does such a small town have so much heart and talent!?”
……..Three performances, March 17-18, Friday and Saturday, at the Lyons library… telling the story of a young girl’s adventure into the dark forest, the fantastical challenges she faces, and the courage and wisdom she discovers is with her at all times… Open to all ages — Thank you to sponsors Lyons Arts & Humanities Commission; and supported by the Lyons Regional Library.— Attendees paid a donation fee at the door to support LAHC many arts projects around town.
