Vermont Public Community Calendar

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 Julian Scott Memorial Gallery is pleased to present an MFA student exhibit featuring Jay Haywood. Born and raised in NYC, Jay is a fashion photographer and designer.

The exhibit runs from January 20 to February 20, 2026, with a closing reception and artist talk on February 19th from 12-2 pm.

The gallery is located on the Vermont State University Johnson campus. For more information, follow us on social media at: VTSU-Johnson Campus Art Department or call. (802) 635-1469. 

PALS for Life welcomes anyone who has been affected by breast cancer, with a doctor referral and physical therapy consult after 6-8 weeks post radiation and chemotherapy.

• FREE UVAC Membership with full use of the facilities and equipment
• FREE land and aquatic fitness classes
• Camaraderie, personalized attention
• Lymphedema Seminar and nutritional information provided by staff from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center
• Motivation and coaching provided by ACSM Cancer
Specialists

Tuesday & Thursday, January 13 – April 2 @ 10:00 am.

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 Julian Scott Memorial Gallery is pleased to present an MFA student exhibit featuring Jay Haywood. Born and raised in NYC, Jay is a fashion photographer and designer.

The exhibit runs from January 20 to February 20, 2026, with a closing reception and artist talk on February 19th from 12-2 pm.

The gallery is located on the Vermont State University Johnson campus. For more information, follow us on social media at: VTSU-Johnson Campus Art Department or call. (802) 635-1469. 

The soul of Mama Afrika meets the fire of Motown and soul in a pint-sized powerhouse.

Nomfusi is one of South Africa’s most sought-after performers. Immense in voice and presence, she brings charm and intensity to every stage.

Often compared to a young Miriam Makeba with a touch of Tina Turner, the multiple SAMA and Metro FM Award nominee blends her African heritage with the soul and Motown sounds she grew up with. Her performances are cathartic and electrifying, praised worldwide for their raw emotional force.

Nomfusi has shared the stage with Lionel Richie at Germany’s Stimmen Festival and was selected to portray Miriam Makeba in Long Walk to Freedom, the Nelson Mandela biopic described by The Hollywood Reporter as “the largest South African production ever mounted.”

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.

With his signature beard and African headgear, Billy F. Gibbons is instantly recognizable and best known as the centerpiece of ZZ Top.

BFG is widely regarded as one of the world’s finest guitarists working in the blues-rock idiom. The sound originates from the uncanny knack to squeeze unheard of sounds out of the electric guitar with the blues, pop, R&B, country, gospel, western, hillbilly and West Africa. That BFG down ‘n dirty growl is unmistakable heard on such hits as “La Grange,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Cheap Sunglasses."

Billy F. Gibbons is much more than an iconic guitar slinger with a monumental length of chin whiskers… He’s an internationally recognized collector of guitars and cars, noted in the best-selling book, Rock + Roll Gearhead.

The Julian Scott Memorial Gallery is pleased to present an MFA student exhibit featuring Jay Haywood. Born and raised in NYC, Jay is a fashion photographer and designer.

The exhibit runs from January 20 to February 20, 2026, with a closing reception and artist talk on February 19th from 12-2 pm.

The gallery is located on the Vermont State University Johnson campus. For more information, follow us on social media at: VTSU-Johnson Campus Art Department or call. (802) 635-1469. 

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

As Seen on AMERICA’S GOT TALENT, Puppy Pals Live is a family fun action-packed show where adopted and rescued dogs perform spectacular stunts and breathtaking feats. Watch as Puppy Pals Live leads the puppies and audience through challenging and comical tricks as the pooches show everyone who is really boss! Full of canine stunts and laugh-out-loud canine comedy it is no surprise this show has been a hit all over the USA!

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.

Join the Red Knights International Motorcycle Club – Vermont Chapter 4 for a fun-filled night of music, dancing, and community support!

✨ Event Highlights:
🎸 Live music by The Cobras
🍹 Cash bar & light refreshments
🎟️ 50/50 raffle, door prize & local raffles
🎫 Advance tickets recommended

All proceeds support local individuals and families in Addison County, including scholarships, gas cards for medical travel, holiday assistance, and more.

Come dance the night away and support a great cause! ❤️

Pete Francis is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for blending eclectic genres and collaborating across the musical spectrum. Initially one-third of the legendary New England indie band Dispatch, Pete and the group sold over 700,000 albums and achieved monumental live success, including five sell-outs at Madison Square Garden and a record-breaking 100,000-person crowd at Boston’s Hatch Shell. During Dispatch’s near decade-long hiatus, Pete launched a solo career in 2001, releasing seven albums through his Dragon Crest Collective label and establishing himself as an emotive and dynamic artist.

Following Dispatch’s reunion in 2011, Pete balanced solo projects with his band role. In 2019, he left Dispatch to fully embrace his solo career. His 2023 album PTRN SKY! marked a major shift as his first self-recorded and self-produced effort. The album blends vibrant electronic beats with his signature style and was recorded in his home studio alongside Grammy-winning producer Scott Jacoby. Since then, he’s released several home-recorded singles and EPs, including Neon Light Blind, the self-titled Pete Francis EP, and Hurricane Candle, a heartfelt tribute to his late father.

As of 2025, Pete is gearing up for new releases, including remixes of his Summer 2024 hit Smile, featuring G. Love and Demarco, and an upcoming album with producer Mikey Bar-Lavi. He’s also regularly performing at iconic New York and New England venues, where he continues to connect with both longtime fans and new listeners.

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 soul of Mama Afrika meets the fire of Motown and Soul… in a pint-sized packet of dynamite. After a mere six years in the industry, and with over twenty international tours under her belt, Nomfusi has become one of South Africa’s most sought-after performers worldwide. Indeed, there is nothing small about the tiny songstress with the gigantic voice and tons of charm. With sheer will and determination, she has risen from the squalor of South African squatter camps to some of the finest stages of the world.

Likened by critics to a young Miriam Makeba with a twist of Tina Turner, the multiple SAMA and Metro FM Award nominee embraces both her African heritage and the sounds of Soul and Motown she grew up with. Like a purifying wild fire that cuts through the bone, her cathartic performances have been praised across the globe.

Supported by Mid Atlantic Arts.

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.