Vermont Public Community Calendar

Two musical powerhouses boldly reimagine classics by Liszt, Chopin and Schubert.

Renowned for their collaborative spirit, the Grammy Award-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra has played without a conductor since their inception, performing with "edge-of-the-seat intensity" and displaying an "infectious love for making music" ("The New York Times") for audiences around the world.

Marc-André Hamelin, a pianist praised for his "commanding technique" along with his "warmth and affection" ("The New York Times"), shares the stage with Orpheus in his first appearance at the Hop. He navigates the emotionally and physically draining "Wanderer Fantasy" in a newly commissioned orchestration that updates Liszt's concerto version. Hamelin is himself a formidable pianist-composer, as heard in the rich counterpoint of his "Passacaglia". Michi Wiancko's take on fanciful delights by Chopin and the unflinchingly honest final sonata from Schubert allow the orchestra to flesh out sounds and emotions buried within these piano masterpieces.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

An electrifying fusion of sound, storytelling and pure energy.

With his violin in hand, the indie-rock artist weaves together lush, layered melodies that pulse with life. His music stretches across boundaries—symphonic folk, Brazilian jazz, 70s funk, orchestral rock and Japanese city pop—blending them into something new. With a backup band that is pure energy, Kishi Bashi's songs create an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience.

In his latest album "Kantos", the California-based multi-instrumentalist otherwise known as Kaoru Ishibashi, explores the possible end of humanity as we know it in a party album; at turns deeply unsettling and sublimely joyful.

Don't miss a screening of "Omoiyari: A Song Film" by Kishi Bashi about WWII-era Japanese incarceration and what it means to be a minority in America today.

Hop pianist-in-resident and three chamber music friends explore rich, emotionally expansive works by Brahms from his youthful passion to mature mastery.

Brahms' three piano quartets, composed between 1857 and 1875, need no introduction. From the fiery Rondo alla Zingarese of Op. 25, through the broadly lyrical Op. 26 and the darkly dramatic Op. 60, they mine this concise foursome of instruments to its fullest. They are here explored by four consummate chamber music friends and partners from our neighboring New York's Music From Salem Festival.

Sally Pinkas, piano
Markus Placci, violin
Lila Brown, viola
Rhonda Rider, cello

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

Hop pianist-in-resident and three chamber music friends explore rich, emotionally expansive works by Brahms from his youthful passion to mature mastery.

Brahms' three piano quartets, composed between 1857 and 1875, need no introduction. From the fiery Rondo alla Zingarese of Op. 25, through the broadly lyrical Op. 26 and the darkly dramatic Op. 60, they mine this concise foursome of instruments to its fullest. They are here explored by four consummate chamber music friends and partners from our neighboring New York's Music From Salem Festival.

Sally Pinkas, piano
Markus Placci, violin
Lila Brown, viola
Rhonda Rider, cello

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

Led by Director Brian Messier, the ensemble is joined by guest conductor Luis Manuel Sánchez and student artists from UNAM to premiere a Hop-commissioned symphony for band by the preeminent Mexican composer.

They also perform Hop commissions and works by Mexican composers, including the world premiere of "Antrópolis" by Gabriela Ortiz with a new arrangement by Messier, featuring Amy Garapic on timpani. They also premiere Concertino for Harp and Wind Ensemble by Omar Arrellano Osorio and perform a piece by Eduardo Gamboa.

In a landmark creative partnership, the Hop is leading a commission for a new work by Márquez, with many universities and institutions contributing to its creation as consortium partners. In addition, Dartmouth will be commissioning and creating a platform for the winner of the annual Márquez competition.

Craft, move and parade to welcome the Year of the Horse!

Lunar New Year signifies the coming of spring and is celebrated around the globe in East Asian cultures. 2026 will be the Year of the Horse, symbolizing power, beauty and freedom.

Experience crafting, dance and tai chi and then join the parade with our 12-person puppet dragon around the Hop and the Dartmouth Green. Traditional gifts, candies and decorations enhance this celebration in the newly renovated Top of the Hop.

All are welcome for this free family event.
More information here

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.

The hit public radio series is back for an evening of funny, mysterious and poignant short stories about love, performed live by eminent actors.

Just in time for Valentine's, Palentine's and, for you non-believers, a beautiful Saturday in February, "Selected Shorts" returns to the Hop with surprising romances, competing desires and unexpected encounters. Grab your partner, best friends or arch-nemesis for this special night! Stay tuned for casting news.

Selected Shorts was conceived at Symphony Space in New York City in 1985 with one simple premise—great short stories performed by great actors. Flash-forward nearly 40 years and Selected Shorts is broadcast on over 150 radio stations around the country, with more than 100,000 downloads every week. Each Selected Shorts is a completely original and unique evening of literature brought to life.

Performances:
Sat, Feb 14 at 4 & 7 p.m.

Dartmouth's Creative Writing Program will host a short story writing contest open to all undergraduates. The winner will be selected in collaboration with "Selected Shorts'" producers and will be performed as part of the event.

The Junction Dance Festival (TJDF) presents Midwinter Motion, a winter dance showcase and fundraiser at the Briggs Opera House in White River Junction. Doors open at 6:30PM, and the performance runs approximately 75 minutes.

Midwinter Motion brings together local artists for an evening of performance, community, and celebration. Audiences can expect a dynamic mix of modern, hip hop, and improvisational dance, along with a silent auction and time to connect with fellow dance lovers.

Featured Artists: BDB Dance, Rhythm Riderz, Liz Westbrook, Chloe Schafer, Willow Wonder, and Elizabeth Kurylo.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT: Artists Talkback
Saturday, Feb. 14th following the 7:30 pm performance

Join us after the 7:30 PM show for a conversation with the The World is Not Silent company.
Admission is Free to the Public.

Tickets to the performance are NOT included or required for the event.

Chamber music with a wild streak.

Named for "Generation Y," yMusic and their cohort of composer-collaborators represent the vanguard of American contemporary music. Now in its 17th season, this genre-leading American chamber ensemble is renowned for its innovative and collaborative spirit. Since their inception, yMusic has pursued a unique mission: to work on both sides of the classical and popular music divide, without sacrificing virtuosity, charisma or style. They have collaborated with a wide range of artists, including John Legend, Paul Simon, Ben Folds and Caroline Shaw. Their music is lush and cinematic, effortlessly blending classical precision with the energy and aesthetic of pop, rock and folk.

Performances:
Tue, Feb 17 at 5 & 7:30 p.m.

THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT
by DON NGUYEN
directed by REBECCA WEAR
FEBRUARY 4 - 22, 2026

A father. A son. A lifetime of words unspoken. The World is Not Silent tells the funny and poignant story of Don, a first-generation Vietnamese American astrophotographer, and his father, Dau. Don grew up speaking English and never learned his father’s native Vietnamese, so when Dau begins to lose his hearing, their already fragile connection is tested further. Determined to bridge the gap, Don learns sign language, opening the door to a new way of understanding between them. The World is Not Silent explores the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us, and how love finds a way to be heard.