McCraney-Cottle season opens this week

By Leigh Anne Butler

The McCraney-Cottle Arts Council kicks off their upcoming season Thursday evening with the 313th Army Band Brass Quintet concert at the new Tallassee High School Performing Arts Center. Guests will enjoy an evening of music featuring varied repertoire from light classical, traditional to pop tunes. The event is free of charge and will begin at 7 p.m.

“These are professional musicians, and a brass quintet is quite exciting,” Jerry Cunningham, executive director of The McCraney-Cottle Arts Council stated.

“I hope people will come because it will be enjoyable and I certainly think being in the new venue will work out extremely well,” Cunningham continued. “I’ve asked for a mix of traditional concert pieces but also some pop tunes that people would enjoy. It should be a very eclectic mix of music.”

Tallassee High School history teacher, William Green is a member of the 313th Army Brass Band and will be playing the trombone during the concert.

The McCraney-Cottle Arts Council is celebrating their 60th season. Established in 1963, the organization’s mission has been to promote and encourage the arts in Tallassee and the surrounding areas by presenting appearances of visiting artists and by sponsoring local artistic endeavors.

The McCraney-Cottle Arts Council has a full line up of unique events scheduled for this performance season.

"A Christmas Carol" at Restoration 49 last December

· Charles Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol” will be performed in an adaptive format Friday, Dec. 8 at Restoration 49. The event will have limited seating and hor d’oeuvres will be served.

· The Missoula Children’s Theatre will return to Tallassee Jan. 8-13. “The Secret Garden” will be performed by local students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade.

· The Auburn University Chorale and Auburn University Singers will perform Tuesday, April 2 at the Tallassee High School Performing Arts Center. A select ensemble will perform a cappella choral music and The Auburn University Singers will present pop and show choreographed tunes.

· Restoration 49 will be the venue for an “open mic” format poetry, art and music event on Thursday, April 11. This event will showcase artists in an impromptu format. Local children’s artwork will also be on display.

· The 4th annual Mt. Vernon Gospel Homecoming celebration will take place on Saturday, August 3rd at the Tallassee High School Performing Arts Center. The event will feature local talent and guest performances.