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About:

Lorton Valley Star Newspaper
monthly and on the web
www.LortonValleyStar.com

Covering the greater Lorton, VA area from Fairfax /Franconia Parkway to Prince William Parkway.

Contact Information:

Floyd Harrison,
Publisher, Editor-in-Chief
Lorton Valley Star Communications, LLC

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Lorton Valley Star
P.O. Box 1436
Lorton Valley, VA 22199

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© 2005 Floyd Harrison T/A
Lorton Valley Star Comm.
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Mother's Grieving Heart

On November 10, 2000 Maria's daughter Crystal was killed in a terrible accident. Maria went through what no mother in the world wants or expects to go through.

Go To Site…

To moms who have suffered the loss of a child:

When Maria was faced with the death of her child, all the books she read provided the same answer. This answer was not good enough. She began to write poetry. Her poetry was a way for her to find the answers to the terrible crisis that she could not find in any book. Through writing her poetry, Maria became closer to God and she found during her journey, that God's mercy is a sufficient answer to any crisis or devastating situation.

Those poems are now available in the book, "Crystal, A Mother's Grieving Heart" published by Lorton Valley Star. It is available in Occoquan at the Coffee House of Occoquan and at Attic Treasures. It is also available online from Maria's web site.

Buy the book now…

Copyright © 2003 Maria Carneiro, of Montclair, Prince William County, Virginia, USA

All international rights reserved.

94 Pages
Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1994 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.



Catalog Data:

Carneiro, Maria A.
Crystal, A Mother’s Grieving Heart
Original Publication:
A.D. 2005
ISBN 0-9764770-0-9

Grief, Poetry

Library of Congress Number TXu1-189-869

Cover Art:
Michelle Carneiro
Graphics and Layout:
Floyd Harrison




Publisher:
Lorton Valley Star Communications
P.O. Box 1436
Lorton, VA 22199
USA

See Coffee House

See Attic Treasures

Lazy Susan Casts for Tuna

The Lazy Susan Dinner Theatre is bringing “Greater Tuna” to greater Lorton. For this special production, award winning Frank Shutts of the Little Theatre of Alexandria is directing. To compliment the show, instead of the usual long-standing Pennsylvania-Dutch fair, they are appropriately serving Texas BBQ to capture the flavor of this tour-de-farce.

The play with ‘Tex appeal’ is Friday and Saturday evenings through September 19.

TUNA is the third smallest town in Texas where the Lion’s Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline is immortal. The eccentric characters that make up this town are played by only two performers who play men, women, children and animals. TUNA is even more rural than Lorton where the Lions are tame.

Two of the writers, Jaston Williams and Joe Sears performed this for President George W. Bush in the White House.
The Lazy Susan Dinner Theatre is one of the few surviving dinner theaters that opened its doors in the heyday of “chow-biz” in the early 1970s. Situated atop a hill above the Occoquan River at the intersection of Richmond Highway and Furnace Road in Lorton. The theatre is a great a choice for couples and groups of all sizes where both food and entertainment can be had for the cost of a ticket alone at most theaters.
Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 703-550-7384.

When your arrive at the Lazy Susan and drive up the hill, you notice the Pennsylvania Dutch Farm landscaping features and architectural style of the building. Come right in, The Theatre is arranged with tables on tiers in front of a wide stage. You’ll enjoy the buffet dinner then the actual show starts. This is the regular venue also for the Young People’s Theatre company.

Saddle-Up for St. Jude Trail Ride

Reported by Sam Horchler, communications intern from ODU.
Enjoy a two minute video of Trail Ride at Pohick Bay Regional Park.

Local Film Producer Uses Workhouse

See a one minute trailer for the Anthony Faust short 35MM art film "A Rock and a Hard Place" which was partially filmed at the workhouse cell block part of the Lorton Workhouse Art Center. Learn the sinister plot and see the shocking trailer; Link to the film site here …

Open Mic. Reception at Coffee House in Memory of Carolyn Zakaski

Video of a couple of songs

Saint Patrick's Parade in Alexandria

The closest and best Saint Patrick's parade is on the first Saturday of March in Old Town Alexandria. Enjoy a sample video.

The Kingstowne Area Artists’ Association

The Kingstowne Area Artists’ Association invites new members to share in encouragement and camaraderie. The want to serve your creative side that wants more expression.
The purposes are to network, socialize, learn from each other, and participate in opportunities to show and sell our work. The club is non-juried, which means you don’t need to be judged on your art to join. And you don’t need any particular level of ability or involvement; we welcome all visual artists (including photographers), professional or hobbyist.
You will gain the opportunity to sell your art at one or two day events put on by the club locally and show your work in local venues.
This group meets the second Thursday of the month, at 6:30 pm, at the Kingstowne Active Adult Center located at 6488 Landsdowne Center, Alexandria at the intersection Telegraph and Beulah Roads next to Kingstowne Library.
Dues are a modest $20 a month and you may post your bio and photographs of your work on the KAAA website for a very modest additional fee. For information visit www.kingstowneartists.com or contact Ginny Sywyj at duchessducky@msn.com or Nancy Hannans at nancyhannans@yahoo.com

Opportunities at the Lorton Workhouse

VALENTINE’S DATE NIGHT
Friday, February 12 and Saturday, February 13, 6-11pm, Campus-Wide
Come share your creative side with your partner and join the Workhouse Ceramics, Glass and Dance Instructors for a fun evening on Friday, February 12 or Saturday, February 13 from 6:00-11:00pm. You can choose from a Glass Workshop in Building W-7 or a Ceramics Workshop in Building W-8 from 7-9:30pm. Learn to create Hand-built or Wheel-thrown objects with your friend or partner. Before, during and after the workshops, a reception featuring ballroom dancing, complimentary hors d’ouvres and cash bar will take place in Gallery W-16 from 6-11pm. Ballroom dancing will be hosted by a professional ballroom instructor!

$75.00/Couple or singles w/ friend, includes workshop and dancing

$20/Couple or singles w/ friend, dancing only.

REGISTER NOW!!!”THE WORKING ARTIST- PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE FOR SUCCESS” BUSINESS SEMINAR WITH MILON TOWNSEND
Saturday, February 13 and Sunday, February 14, 10am-5pm
Another in a series of art/business classes presented by the Workhouse Arts Center: ‘The Working Artist - Principles and Practice for Success’ Glass artist Milon Townsend returns to the Workhouse to address many of the issues facing you as a working artist today. Lecturing throughout the country on art business topics, Milon’s presentations are drawn from his nearly 40 years experience as a successful full time artist. Handouts and worksheets provide detailed information that you will take home, and his interactive style is designed to draw out the specific issues and problems that you will want to address: Imitation, Influence, & Theft; Contracts & Legal Issues; Working with Galleries; 12 Models for Artistic Success; Salesmanship; Pricing; Marketing Tools & Techniques.

These workshops are always in demand and we expect this one to fill quickly. A not to be missed opportunity! Valuable information for all artists working in any media. Cost: $100 for both days, Workhouse Artists and Members $80. For more information and to register please visit www.WorkhouseArts.org. As an added bonus, Milon will be giving a free Flameworking Demonstration February 13 at 7pm, showing his sculptural techniques in the torch.

GALLERY AFTER HOURS PRESENTS WORD BEAT
Saturday, February 20, 7pm, Gallery W-16, Second Floor
Join the Workhouse on Saturday, February 20 at 7pm for an evening of percussion and spoken word poetry from Word Beat. Global jazz percussionist Tom Teasley and acclaimed singer/actor Charles Williams pair inspirational words with inventive percussive sounds. Their performances feature mystic poetry, African proverbs, Harlem Renaissance poetry and the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Gandhi in musical layers of voice, hand drums, shakers and electronics. The duo has performed their critically acclaimed melding of music and voice at prestigious venues and before academic audiences in the U.S. and Europe. Williams and Teasley achieve a true marriage of ancient melody and future sounds, of Africa, the West and beyond. Tickets $15-$25. Cash bar and light fare available.

The Second Annual Mural Painting Project

Again, local artist Joni Relyea will direct a mural project “Hope For Our Children” to raise funds for the mothers at Georgetown Hospital in Guyana. The project POSTPONED 9:am- 4pm  Saturaday at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Lakeridge, and is open to visitors and area children, not just members are encouraged to participate. Please wear comfortable clothing, parents with very young are encouraged to stay to hold their child as they paint the beginning stages. Donations of $5 are suggested. Look for a story in February about the dedication of the work.

February At The
Workhouse Galleries

Gallery and Studio Hours:
Wed.-Sat. 11am - 7pm, Sun. 12 - 5pm
Closed Monday and Tuesday
9522 Workhouse Way, Lorton
www.workhousearts.org
703-495-0001

Workhouse Studio Building Shows
 
Building W-5

Show, “RED”

See the primary color “red” through the eyes of the artists in Building 5.  Their new works explore and express their vision of this powerful hue. Opening reception on February 13 from 6-9pm in collaboration with the Workhouse 2nd Saturday Art Walk.
 
Images:
Hsi-Mei Yates, “Robin and Cherry Blossoms”, Chinese brush painting
Marni Maree, “Tulip Explosion”, watercolor, 22x28
Karen Kozojet Ching, “Dreamweaver”, oil, 8x10
 

Building W-8,

The Ceramics Building has a regular recurring group exhibit of Ceramic Resident Artists work.
 
Building W-10

“Steam-up February with Love and Salsa at Building 10”
 
The Artists of Building 10 at the Workhouse Art Center at Lorton will be steaming up February with the theme of love and salsa.  Influenced by a recent trip to Cuba by artist, Susan Tilt, returned with new salsa music.  P’Delia Chisholm, artist and dancer, will be leading the event with salsa dance moves.  February is filled with romance and Valentine’s…and the theme of “Love” will be created in art!  Join the artists of Building 10 for hot, hot salsa (dance and food) during an artist reception on February 13th, 6-9pm.
 
The Artists of Building 10: John Noffsinger, Patrick O’Brien, Katie Cassidy, Catherine Hillis, Kerin McBride, Suzanne Clark-Clifford, Amanda Lee, Susan Tilt, (AIM – Patti Chisholm, Anita Damron, Louise Gatanas, Melaine Newlon, Victoria McGrath, Gennara Moore, Livingston Rodgers, Kirsten Schneider), Cheryl Parsons, Josh Yavelberg, Bill Firestone, Joe St. Germain.
 
Artists of the Month
 
Building W-6
Irene Tsai and Sue Helmken
 
Join Irene Tsai to celebrate the Chinese New Year in February. Growing up in Taiwan, Irene Tsai has always admired the beauty and the mystery of the mountains and landscapes.  She applies techniques from both eastern and western watercolor on her paintings and creates her own poetic and tranquil world on rice papers. 
  Nature is the inspiration for most of Sue’s art.   Mixing copper wire with yarn, she weaves cloth that can be shaped into 3-D sculptural pieces. These forms mimic natural shapes, suggesting a potential for growth and life. 
 
Attached images:
Irene Tsai, “Tiger”, Chinese Watercolors, 22x36, $500
Sue Helmken, “Wood Spirit”

New Exhibits at the Workhouse
 

Black History Month Exhibition
February 3-27, Gallery W-16, Second Floor
The Workhouse will honor Black History Month in February with an exhibit of works by several well-known African American artists including: Margo Humphrey, Martha Jackson Jarvis, Michael B. Platt, Preston Sampson, Stanley Squirewell, Thermon Statom, and others. The exhibit runs in Gallery W-16 from February 3 – 27, with an opening reception to meet the artists Sunday, February 7 from 2 – 4 pm.
 

Art for a Change Student Exhibition
February 9-28, Gallery W-16, Second Floor
As part of the Workhouse Art Center’s Art for a Change! program, this exhibition provides advanced art students with the opportunity to be considered for a juried exhibition in a professional gallery.  Advanced art students from West Springfield High School and Woodbridge Senior High School will be featured in this exhibit from February 9-28. An opening reception to meet the artists will be held Sunday, February 14 from 2-4pm in Gallery W-16.
 
 Visit www.workhousearts.org for more information.

 Springfield Art Guild

The Springfield Art Guild new show at the Kingstowne Library closes February 18, 2010. To view artwork of Gloria Bendetto, go to the information desk and a staff member will assist you. The community branch at 6500 Landsdowne Centre is open Monday thru Thursday 10 – 9, Friday 10 - 6 and Saturday 10 - 5. Call the library 703-339-4610. For more information about SAG contact Deena Sanks 703-825-1334 Email: deenalynn@msn.com
Also, see an exhibition of many Guild artist works for sale including oil, watercolor, photography, and mixed medium through March 25, at Franconia Government Center, 6121 Franconia Rd. Contact: Reggie Garrett, FGC Show Chair reggiedrew@aol.com Phone: 703-971-6262.

Old Time Country Music Documented at Coffee House of Occoquan

You could hear a rare treat, the founder’s of the National Traditional Country Music Association, Bob and Sheila Everhart, performed a night of genuine old time American acoustical music at the Coffee House of Occoquan, 202 Commerce Street, Saturday night December 5. This is all old stuff.

Bob Everhart founded the non-profit Association in 1975 a time when Nashville had declared “hillbilly music” dead and gone. Well, not so fast, the Association has held week long festivals since.

Country music stands beside Jazz as America’s Musical Heritage including Bluegrass which together came out of the Celtic from two hundred years ago and evolved in somewhat isolation. Not only is the music unique in the world but it tells stories of America. NTCMA has been helping to preserve this music and publishes the informative ‘Tradition’ Magazine available for a $25 membership.

Bob and Sheila Everhart were inducted into the Old Time Music Hall of Fame in 2002. Our own Mike Johnson, also and inductee, yodels about them favorably. We get our information from Joe Arnold, Roughshod Records, Arlington, VA

Coffee House of Occoquan Music Schedule

Friday Nights close at 5:00

Saturdays: Songwriter's Open Mic. 7:00 except holiday weekends.

Young People Love The Beast

Review by Floyd Harrison, Publisher

Look to the Young Peoples Theatre for enjoyable theatre experiences. Last month they produced the musical Beauty And The Beast, Jr. at New Hope Church.
Though the Young People’s Theatre is a upwardly mobile group, the consistent guidance and the fervor of the young people themselves have yet again rendered a quality show. New Hope Church auditorium is a more professional setting and the stage is brighter and more accommodating to YPT than their old venues.

Another way in which their work is easier is that they benefit from rehearsal space at Heart Beats Music & Dance Studio where lots of talent is available. The connection is symbiotic, both being family centered.

The best stories, it seems, have a dark side and Disney gravitates to dark magic. So, it is with Beauty and the Beast but it does illustrate a lesson as a parable would. The Beast is a man cursed by his own cruel self centerdness. The Beauty rejects one arrogant self centered suitor but is drawn to the masked tender side of the Beast. They ask, who could love a Beast but you find yourself rooting for him to be reformed.

In the story, the loser is the arrogant Gaston. But, Heart Beats, New Hope and the Young Peoples Theatre all win. Look for upcoming YPT productions to be previewed in Lorton Valley Star so you won’t miss them http://lortonvalleystar.com. Or get more information at http://www.himcfa.org ; http://www.newhope.org and http://www.yptnva.com

“All My Sons” as Played by NVCC Woodbridge

Review by Floyd Harrison, Publisher

The Woodbridge Players just finished a run of Arthur Miller’s “All My Sons” at the Lake Side Theatre of the NVCC Woodbridge Campus. Saturday matinee is a good time to enjoy this venue and amble beside the lake before curtain and during intermission.

This is another among the serious dramas typical of the College group and of course Arthur Miller. Miller believed that his job as a playwright was from the Greeks to influence and even change society. His setting may be dated but whatever you believe, his message is clear. You might get the idea that the play was about three sons with different involvements in WWII. But, it is about the stresses of war on the family on one level and about decisions people make under pressure and rationalizing conflicted motivations on another level. This play is only as funny as the tragic losers in it. You hear how one decision yielded a whole family of losers over 14 years. The Woodbridge players delivered the message soberly.

The political agenda should remind you that most all playwrights have attitudes and agendas which show up in their scripts somewhere. Just when you are caught in suspended disbelief and think you’re merely being entertained comes the subtle little philosophy to be planted in your sub-conscious. The Greeks may have invented it but TV commercials still use it and calling it subliminal communication make it sound rare and sinister.

The theatre company is part of the Drama department and participants include students, former students with some members of the community. To get involved check out http://www.nvcc.edu/nwtg.

Woodbridge Dance Company Holds Open Dance Auditions

Woodbridge Dance Company, a non-profit organization, cordially invites ALL area dancers to audition for its 7th Annual Winter Dance Concert “A Coffee House Concert Collection” scheduled to be performed at Gar-Field Senior High School Saturday, December 19. Ten young and talented Northern Virginia choreography artists have been selected by WDC to audition local dancers; thereby showcasing the skills, classical to contemporary, of the choreographers as well as to highlight the abilities of the dancers each choreographer chooses to participate in his/her piece. Choreographers include Lucetta Furr, Artistic Director of Woodbridge Dance Company, Kimara Wood who recently appeared on So You Think You Can Dance and was selected to advance to the Las Vegas round of auditions, Joey Salinas, back-up dancer to Britney Spears and aspiring recording artist, and Sabrina Furr, a Washington Redskins Cheerleader.
Auditions will be held Sunday, October 4, 1-4 pm, at Woodbridge Academy of Dance located at 12720 Darby Brooke Court in Woodbridge. Experienced and inexperienced dancers of all ages are encouraged to attend this audition. Please wear appropriate dance attire and bring any and all dance shoes you currently possess to the audition. Each choreographer will set his/her own weekend rehearsal schedule that will run the ten weeks prior to the performance date mentioned above. Mandatory Tech week rehearsals will be held the week prior to performance date. Audition fee is $25 for non-WAD students.
“A Coffee House Concert Collection” Winter Dance Concert 2009 is a collaborative effort that promises to offer sparkling family entertainment in celebration of the Holiday Season. Dancers don’t miss this unique opportunity to shine on stage while working with a gifted group of local choreographers. Families don’t miss this opportunity to attend a dynamic, pre-professional local dance concert. Doors open at 6 pm. Curtains open at 7 pm. Tickets $12 children /$15 adults. Group ticket sales available. Purchase tickets online or at the door.
Woodbridge Academy of Dance is currently accepting and enrolling new students, three years to adult. WAD features all styles of dance including Ballet Technique, Pointe, Modern, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop, Jazz and Ball Room/Partnering. WAD is also home to an award winning competitive dance team that competes locally, regionally and nationally. Woodbridge Academy of Dance is a favored repeat performance troupe at the Spring/Fall Occoquan Craft Shows. WAD recently performed at the 2009 Fall Occoquan Craft Show to an enthusiastic and appreciative audience. Woodbridge Dance Company was named “Best Cultural and Arts Organization of the Year” - 2008 Recipient - by the Prince William Regional Chamber of Commerce.
For additional information call 703.492.7582. Email <studio@woodbridgedancecompany.com>,
Please be encouraged to go online at www.WoodbridgeDanceCompany.com to learn detailed information about Woodbridge Academy of Dance and Woodbridge Dance Company.

Castaways Performing ‘Angel Street’

The Castaways Repertory Theatre is performing “Angel Street” at the Ferlazzo auditorium in Woodbridge during the first three weekends of October.
The script by Patrick Hamilton and directed by Marji Jepperson tells the story of the Manninghams who live on Angel Street in the 19th Century. When the curtain rises, all appears to be peaceful. It is soon apparent that Mr. Manningham, a suavely sinister and handsome man, is slowly torturing his gentle, devoted wife Bella, into insanity under the guise of kindness. While he is out, Mrs. Manningham has an unexpected caller: amiable, paternal Inspector Rough from Scotland Yard. Rough is convinced that Manningham is a maniacal criminal wanted for a murder committed fifteen years earlier in this very house. Gradually the hearty and understanding Rough restores Mrs. Manningham’s confidence in herself and they build up evidence against Manningham, managing this exciting and fascinating task shrewdly but not succeeding until the author has built up and sustained some of the most brilliant suspense in the modern theatre. The secret of the dimming gaslight and the mystery of the hidden rubies will captivate all.
Performances are October 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 at 8:pm with a Matinee on the 10th at 1:00 pm at the Ferlazzo building, 15941 Donald Curtis Drive, Woodbridge VA 22193. Tickets:  $14 General Admission; $10 Matinees,  Groups of 10 or more, Seniors/Students/Military/Prince William County employees. See: www.castawaystheatre.org

ACCT Presents "Inherit the Wind"

On October 16, 2009 at 8:00pm, Aldersgate Church Community Theater (ACCT) will present the opening of “Inherit the Wind” in Wesley Hall, Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1301 Collingwood Road, Alexandria, VA 22308.
  “Inherit the Wind”, by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee, portrays, in partly fictionalized form, the famous and dramatic courtroom “Monkey Trial” battle between two famous lawyers (Clarence Darrow = Henry Drummond and William Jennings Bryan = Matthew Harrison Brady) who volunteered to heatedly argue both sides of the case for 12 days, including two weekends. The story centers around the issue of evolution vs creationism, in the prosecution of a 24 year-old Dayton High School math teacher for violating state law (the 1925 Butler Act) by teaching the Darwin’s Theory of Evolution in a state-funded school. The play’s title was taken from the Biblical book of Proverbs 11:29:  “He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind.”
October 16, 17, 23, 24, 29, 30 & 31 at 8:00pm and October 18 and 25 at 2:00pm (note the added Thursday performance and change of time for matinees) For information and tickets, call: 703-660-2611 or on-line www.acctonline.org
Directed by Roland Branford Gomez, this thought-provoking production brings together a cast of adults and young actors -- all combining their acting talents and skills to enchant the ACCT audience.

Dead Men’s Hollow is Workhouse Repeat

Dead Men’s Hollow is coming to the Lorton Workhouse on October 24 for a musical concert at 7:30 in building W-16 for the Gallery After Hours.
Their music is a mix of old-time, bluegrass, Americana and country blues and has been compared to the likes of Alison Krauss and Union Station. Their most recent album, ‘Death Must be a Woman’ was named Bluegrass CD of the Year and the band was also named Bluegrass Group of the Year by the Washington Area Music Association. Enjoy a fresh take on Americana.
The six members of Dead Men’s Hollow, four ladies and two guys, came together in ‘03 exploring the melding of close female harmonies against a stringed-instrument backdrop. These days, they’re as at home playing in a church as we are a big festival, and they’ve developed a solid a cappella repertory, a stash of traditional fiddle tunes, and many gospel standards along the way.
Only the name is depressing; That’s the gag. The performance is fun, bright and lively. They are local; Perhaps they’ll ad Mason Neck, Lorton, Occoquan to their song lore. For more info about Dead Men’s Hollow, browse www.deadmenshollow.com.

“So You Want To Be A Star…”
The truth behind the dream
 
Renowned New York Talent Scout Peter Sklar knows a thing or two about helping aspiring child stars achieve success. His list of protégés includes Sara Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon, and Mischa Barton, to name a few, along with many current and former Broadway, TV, and film actors, singers and dancers.

Reality shows like American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance have springboarded some of the most talented kids in the nation into super stardom. But with so much available talent, what really sets one kid apart from another?

According to Sklar, an arts career is about two things: self-image and health. He argues that these qualities outweigh looks, training, connections, and even talent.

In “So You Want To Be a Star…” a free lecture for aspiring dancers, singers and actors, and their parents, Mr.Sklar explains why his views are in synch with the needs of top New York and Hollywood agents and casting directors.

Local lectures are currently scheduled for Thursday, March 26th at 2:00 pm and Saturday, March 28th, 2009 at 4:00 PM at HeartBeats Music & Dance, 8060 Rolling Road.  The Thursday lecture is targeted for the large local home school community and is offered in cooperation with Northern Virginia’s Young Peoples Theatre.

“The people who sit behind the table are trying to decide two things: do they like you, and do they believe you,” Sklar tells young audiences. “If you don’t feel good mentally and physically, you won’t open up and show us who you really are. That means you’ll be artificial. When that happens – no matter how good you are, how pretty, or who you know – we’ve already lost interest.”

Alluding to a dramatic rise in self-destructive behavior, such as smoking, drinking, drugs, and eating disorders among so-called “happy” teens, Sklar marvels at how often these activities secretly co-exist with good grades, good behavior, and virtually every other outward sign of stability.

 “The kids I interview are the smartest and most talented- the highest achievers in the nation,” proclaims Sklar. “And they’re often the most unhappy, unhealthy, and least employable.”
Sklar boasts an Ivy League pedigree (Concert Piano at Julliard and a Masters Degree in Education from Harvard University), and four decades of experience. He’s been the subject of multiple feature-length articles in the New York Times, appeared as a guest expert on Donahue, was interviewed on E! True Hollywood Story, and has had his work presented on the Bravo Channel, Good Morning America, and dozens of other media outlets.

He’s currently developing an original musical based on his experiences entitled The Kid Who Played the Palace, to be directed by William Martin, (Broadway’s The Lieutenant, recipient of five Tony Award nominations).

“So You Want to be a Star…” is open to teenagers, young adults, older children, and parents. There is no charge for admission, but reservations are strictly required. Nobody under age six (6) will be admitted with or without a parent, and nobody under age eighteen (18) will be admitted without their own mother, father or legal guardian. (Substitute non-legal adult guardians are not permissible.)

RESERVATIONS:  703-440 – 9000 or email rockley@hbeats.com  For More Information, visit www.hbeats.com

Review:

You Can’t
Take It With You

The Vanderhoff family isn’t too hick, they are, however inexplicably eccentric. They are industrious but given to a bizare assortment of crafts. The big story is the rub of shoulders as a romance brings them together with the stuffy, stiff, stressed, wall street, speculator. It’s a funny story but a bit slow on the drama. Eventually, the banker mellows but not before half of them spend a night in the slammer. It’s a happy ending; These days, we’d like all of our bankers to come down to Earth but this is from 1930.
Katherine Bisulca is a young producer, new to Castaways Repertory Theatre and the community theater circuit. It looks like she’s done a wonderful job with this production. She not only produced but worked hands on with the set. She’s well rounded having participated in technical crews as well and has produced a few plays with her own company. The night we reveiwed, she was filling in on sound for a Valentine exception. She will be working on Prince William Little Theatre production of ‘Noises Off’ this Spring.
Castawys Repertory Theatre is producing ‘Plaza Suite’ by Neil Simon in May at the Ferlazzo Building. Look for details in the LortonValleyStar.com/Events calendar.

Cirque Eloize Presents Third Part of Sky Trilogy at George Mason

Review by: Lori Craddock
 
Cirque Eloize, the Quebec-based company performed at George Mason University this month with its third part of the sky trilogy called Nebbia: A Magical Fog.  This last installment of the trilogy, represents the sky descending like a mantle to cover our shoulders and protect our dreams.  It was written and directed by the renowned Daniele Finzi Pasca, in collaboration with his dance and theater company, Teatro Sunil.  Other parts of the Cirque Eloize trilogy were named Nomade, representing anything being possible and reality becoming a dream, and Rain, representing a shower of nostalgic freedom falling, in chronological order. 

  Cirque Eloize has been a contemporary-circus leader since 1993.  The magic of this circus is in its combination of circus acts, music, dance, theater and performance art that a re woven into a beautiful story that expresses theatricality and humanity.  The performance is very Cirque du Soleil-esque if you have ever seen one, which is no wonder as the author also wrote and directed a Cirque du Soleil show called Corteo.  However, make sure to see this performance before you see a real Cirque du Soleil show as it is a more amateur version at this point in time and would pale in comparison to the bigger, highly-funded and well-established shows.  Although, do not let me dissuade you as it is worth seeing nonetheless.

  The formula is the same between both Cirque Eloize and a Cirque du Soleil show. You see a magical scene at the beginning that brings you into a seemingly other world, in this case the fog.  A set of clowns are introduced to bring comedy and begin the story telling, hence the European funny family of men welcoming you into stories of their small town.  The next artsy scenes shows circus feats wrapped with strange artistic backgrounds, costumes, and props that follow a theme. Characters are introduced in each scene a few at a time and then they all gather in the final scene to bring the story full circle.

  The highlight of the circus acts was a beautifully crafted piece in a butcher shop with simple props of a few hanging legs of meat and a butcher table that a girl proceeds to use as a gymnast bench as she balances, contorts, and moves with sheer grace. 

The following scenes were interesting, but I do not think they captivated the audience as much.  There was a scene with a contortionist in a crowd of merry onlookers playing cultural upbeat music.  There were scenes I found beautiful that I heard some say they did not understand like the people innocently frolicking through fields of metal wires that they spun plates on until the entire stage was full of spinning plates.  Or the funny music players that were hit in the head with ping pong balls, one by one, as they played until the entire floor was covered with them.  The last scene was widely mentioned as being the most misunderstood with its disturbed male character in a skirt, a reoccurring them, which is the funny clown from the beginning only now a pale comparison of the character firs t portrayed.

Regardless of whether the story was really a dream in a disturbed child’s brain or a part of how he got that way as pondered by some viewers, the scene was breathtaking with bubbles floating in the air, beautiful music, and caring faces of all the other characters.  One thing is for sure, that this company knows how to captivate the audience and take them on a journey. 

"Signature Show" at the Loft

In 1986, The Loft Gallery began in a tiny room above what used to be a general store in historic Occoquan. Marcia Weidler and Jackie Paetzold hung a few paintings on the walls and opened the door to their new gallery.  Today, The Loft Gallery occupies the entire second floor at 313 Mill Street and includes The Loft Art Center studios and class room.
Exhibiting quality fine art by local artists remains the mission of the gallery in its 23rd year,
The Anniversary “Signature” Show celebrates each artist’s “Signature” work Tuesday, March 3 through Sunday, April 5.  Join the celebration and meet and talk to the artists at the Opening Reception, Sunday March 8, 1-4 pm.  Visit artists at work in their studios and watch gallery artists giving demos.
Original oil, watercolor, and acrylic paintings, fine art photography and colored pencil, sculpture and original prints fill the gallery.
Loft Gallery Hours: Tues.-Fri.11- 4, Saturday 11 - 5, Sunday 12 - 5 Call the gallery 703-490-1117. www.loftgallery.org

Art and Charity:

Woodbridge Children to the World

They came, they drew, they conquered. Woodbridge children from age 3 to teens, learned a little art technique, while contributing to a charity project and learning that they can make a difference in the World providing hope and awareness. The event at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church was master minded by local artist and activist Joni Relyea and raised funds for the women of South American country Guyana while creating the gigantic canvas over a couple of weekends.

The children came a group at a time. They saw a photo of the water fall got a real quick instruction and tried their hand at the technique on a small practice canvas then lined up to do their part on the actual work, a huge representation of beautiful 750 foot high Kaieteur Falls. Literally, every child made his or her mark demonstrating artistic ability. You could see who the inspired artists were because some were just happy to take their turn and others lit up like they’d have done the whole thing if you let them.

An unveiling presentation will be made before Ambassador Bayney Karran at the embassy in D.C. The painting, now complete, will be auctioned off on a program on XM Serius radio sponsored by Bob Gaudio, songwriter, singer, and creator of the Jersey Babies - music for kids and the 60’s famous Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. All funds will be given to the Georgetown Hospital in Guyana to provide treatment for women with breast cancer so that their children can have their mothers. So, in that way the gift is from children to children.
The image calls attention to God’s gift in the monumental landscape and the bountiful rainforest. It includes a couple of birds which species are colorful and numerous. The painting is titled “Hope For Our Children”.

Aszure Barton & Artists

Review by Floyd Harrison

Aszure Barton & Artists opened their 2009 tour at the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center in December. In the intimate gallery space of the Workhouse with no stage, the audience connected with the drama presented by the dancers. This was a rare opportunity to be so close to the action and catch every expression. It was gratifying to see how totally focused they were into the plot.

Aszure, cool spelling, is a world class choreographer who has worked with other dance companies including Mikhail Baryshnikov and Martha Graham just to mention the most recognized names. Her works have been show internationally. So Lorton got a New York show to a dusting of snow without the tension of inner city transportation.
Relative to other modern dance, this program was more definitely acting out a plot which the audience could get and still have room for their own experience to interpret. The company loved to come out after the show and hear what some of the patrons read into it. Rather than wearing a company costume, and being that they were actual characters, they dressed individually kept to their own parts using minimal props. The action included a snippet of ballroom dancing with Aszure’s sister Cherice in a dress that would fly. It was not as colorful as many shows but it was art everyone could feel and understand.

The set was projection screens showing the characters in supporting scenarios. Sounds confusing but it worked. The lighting was simple but supported the drama by defining scenes like acts of a play. The moves were acrobatic enough to clearly demonstrate that these dancers were very agile and well trained. They were working not prancing.

Aszure, herself, did not actually dance in this show. We might have liked to see that. But, the team was working well and even bonded together. If anyone viewing this had aspirations of being a dancer, this would have defined for them where the art is and what it would take to get there. This performance would be a target challenge. Which is why young people need to be encouraged to attend Lorton Arts Events. To find out more about the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center browse http://www.workhousearts.org. or call 703-548-2900.

Leahy Rosins-Up The ‘Bows’ For A Celtic Christmas

Review by Floyd Harrison

The Scot-Irish Canadian family Leahy brought “A Celtic Christmas” to George Mason U. Concert Hall. They pack the house and seem to have improved over last year. This is the one concert to see to kick off a genuine traditional family Christmas with a mix of Celtic medleys and true carols. Leahy, makes the point that you are joining their family with a sofa on stage which they use if a member is sitting out for a number.

The Leahy’s received broad recognition when they opened for fellow Canadian, Shania Twain’s world tour. They are so diverse in their musical experience that they seasoned the program with bits of Bluegrass and Jazz.

The siblings were brought up near Lakefield, Ontario, Canada, just the place for a broad musical exposure and no distracting TV. The children shared the available instruments so that learning was competitive. The result is that they all play each other’s instruments. In concert they have specialties but during the éncore, which was it’s own production, they switched around to the delight of the audience. Erin, the keyboardist, not only played the fiddle but did it well with the instrument held up-side-down. That’s no trivial feat considering bow pressure.

By the way, it was also an astounding Irish Step dancing exhibition. Something else they can all do. They have been credited with out-shining River Dance. Usually, it was Angus and Maria who illuminated the concert with their mesmerizing hard shoe flailing footwork. Their precision is impeccable.

Another treat was that they introduced some of the next generation of family talents. Emily, only 14, demonstrated her spectacular voice in “Go Tell it on The Mountain”. Adel and Mauri, just six, showed that they are also accomplished at step dancing.

For talent and energy in a Celtic program, there is no beating Leahy even in the realm of Celtic Festivals. For a Christmas program, they demonstrate their upbringing in the sacredness of the season.

The only other talent in this league is Natalie McMaster of Nova Scotia and she married into the Leahy’s so there’s just one extended and growing world class Canadian export. Find out more about Leahy at http://www.leahymusic.com
Find George Mason Center for the Arts 2009 schedule at http://www.gmu.edu/cfa

Lorton Workhouse Exhibit

A New Works Exhibition featuring original works created just for this exhibition by students, faculty and staff of the Workhouse will be exhibiting January 7 through February 15 in the Gallery Building second floor. The exhibit is free and an artist’s reception to celebrate this e

“Memories Die Hard”

By Mike Johnson
Review by the late Wild Bill Halbert

“A long distance trucker gets a temporary break from his exhausting schedule and drops in on an old Vietnam Navy buddy living just south of Tucson, Arizona. Their reminiscing takes them back to a secret operation behind enemy lines and forces them to finally lay old bones to rest. A sudden death in the friend’s family calls them to Phoenix for the funeral and the trucker sets out on one of the family’s horses to enjoy a couple of days of camping in the Sonoran Desert.

Tracking an old man who had raided his camp one night, the trucker finds himself witnessing a real life “wild west” drama. The camp raider, an old man tending to his sick grandson, was being acousted by two “coyotes” who had intended on them burying in the desert instead of smuggling them across the U.S. border. Swinging his Winchester into action, the trucker is also bitten by a hidden rattlesnake, and while being treated by the grateful pair the he slips in and out of consciousness and travels back in time to some hair-raising adventures of his youth.

Memories Die Hard is woven several stories in one. You’ll feel the pain and sorrow over the loss of loved ones, gag on the styfling the stench in a Viet Cong rat tunnel, and find yourself wiping the sticky jungle sweat from your skin. The beauty of the flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert will captivate you and the discovery of large pug marks alongside a cool stream will wisk you away on a spear hunt with a famous South American Jaguar hunter of yore.

Each experience in one’s life contributes to the makeup of the soul and how one chooses to handle those experiences is up to the individual. “Memories Die Hard” projects the author’s inner visual perception and puts one in the midst of his recollections, subtly convincing us that while some memories fade with time, others die hard.

You’ll surely enjoy this if you like adventure and aren’t squeamish about death, destruction, and bad situations told complete with the language of the events, which at times is a bit vulgar, but not for vulgarity’s sake. Exciting drama, laced with the love only an outdoor adventurer can have for everything and everyone. This is one of the best reads you’ll ever have.”
See more information at http://www.freewebs.com/blackyodelno1/memoriesdiehard.htm December 1999 Review by the late Wild Bill Halbert [17 August 1920 * 8 August 2003], Publisher of Sharing & Caring Magazine, Wills Point, Texas. Courtesy of MAJJ P.O. Box 100933, Arlington, VA. 22210

Story of the Fourth Magus

By Noble Johnson

Review by Floyd Harrison

Who is the Fourth Magus; Was he a wise man? Who is The Little Drummer Boy and where did he come from? What other pure hearts surrounded the compound miracle we call Christmas? 'The Fourth Magus' audio CD would make an inspiring gift for a thoughtful person this Christmas season.

The first Christmas story in the Gospel of Matthew tells us of three kinds of gifts that were opened before the holy child. How many Magi and shepherds is left to legend along with the Little Drummer Boy. The story of 'The Fourth Magus' fills in the origin of our other Christmas traditions. Is he Arteban?

'The Fourth Magus' will likely come to take a prominent place among our other holiday traditions as it presents a delightful unification of legends. It gives us the untold story of the Little Drummer Boy. Noble Johnson’s story is sure to bring a blessing of joy to your holiday observance.

This inspirational family time program is written and performed by the consumate story teller Noble Johnson. Lortonites know his daughters, Heather and Rebecca as the local musical group Ceylon which entertained us at the Lorton 4th of July Parade, the Coffee House of Occoquan and Skinifatz. The girls continue in their musical careers. Heather is the Producer, Editor and Sound engineer for the Album.

'The Fourth Magus' is available at The Coffee House of Occoquan, The Golden Goose, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church and at the Fort Belvoir General Store and online at http://cdbaby.com/cd/noblejohnson

Living Bethlehem

Start off the season right by sharing this wondrous story with your family. Think of it as a gift that you don’t have to buy - one you can both give and receive. Follow the path that Joseph and Mary took to Bethlehem.  Witness the appearance of Angel Gabriel, haggle with the shopkeepers,  register with the census taker, and join in the joyous celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Join us for Living Bethlehem on the Aldersgate United Methodist Church grounds from Sunday through Tuesday, December 7-9, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.  1301 Collingwood Road, Alexandria, VA  22308.  Need directions?  visit www.aldersgate.net  Living Bethlehem is held out-of-doors on the church grounds.

Celtic Here and There

Review and Preview by Floyd Harrison

Celtibillies performed a wonderful Celtic and Appalachian music concert at the Workhouse Art Center last month amid the featured artist show. I highly recommend them where ever you find them.

The Workhouse bills this as the Concert Series that Celebrates the Union of Music and the Visual Arts and is intended as a fundraiser for the just opened arts center in Lorton. Enjoy a reception with deluxe hors d’oeuvres followed by the live musical performance by IONA. All for a donation of $150 guests will receive one 10”X10” original piece of work, determined by a drawing from the designated collection to take home that evening.

Visit WorkhouseArts.org for more information.
IONA is known as the main musical billing of the Annual June Potomac Celtic Festival in Leesburg for years running. Their high energy Pan-Celtic repertoire includes traditional numbers as well a mix of modern compositions. Reception, art and the IONA performance amid the featured small works exhibition makes this fundraiser a cultural bargain right here in Lorton. Find out more about IONA http://www.ionamusic.com
For more information or to reserve tickets to the Collector’s Society Event, send an e-mail to tickets@lortonarts.org or call 703-584-2900.

Comparing venues, the Workhouse is like Lorton’s Torpedo Factory plus performing arts and GMU Center for the Arts is like Lorton’s Kennedy Center. There’s no need to go inside the beltway; Save on gas and the big tickets while enjoying the arts in Lorton.

Entertainment for Hope

A Bluegrass Christmas Extravaganza benefits Habitat for Humanity, Saturday, Dec 13, 7:pm, Concert Featuring three premier groups: The Bluegrass Gospel Express, All4Hym, and Sonrise. Traditional bluegrass ballads had their roots in the mountains of America when early immigrants from Ireland, England, Scotland and the slaves from Africa, sang about their daily struggles, their hopes, fears, and faith in God. New Hope Church, 8905 Ox Road, Lorton. This event and your generous donations collected before intermission, will go to Habitat for Humanity.  Join us for a peaceful and uplifting night of entertainment!  visit http://www.newhope.org.

Artist Relyea Designated Ambassador

Joni C. Relyea, known in Lorton for her “First Bloom” paintings, umbrellas and other artistic fund raising endeavors in support of breast cancer research has received another recognition. Joni, a graduate at Saint Thomas Aquinas College, Sparkill, New York was designated Ambassador to their Arts Program as a mentor in New York, and Va.
She is also recognized by the The Joni C Relyea Commenorative Scholarship for $5,000 Award. She has donated over five thousand original paintings to various cancer organizations and her “First Bloom: paintings are presented on stage over the years for Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Tim the Painter

Tim Mentzer sometimes paints walls to keep body and soul together but lives to paint art. Some of his artworks can be seen at the Coffee House of Occoquan. His love of Marvel Comics subjects come through in the vibrancy of these images. So, whether you are refreshing a house for the Real Estate Market or want to liven up a boring table top, stop by the Coffee House of Occoquan to preview his work. Call Tim the Painter and have your fantasy interpreted on your boring surface for a reasonable price. Appointments
571-991-2576

Idiot's Delight

The Northern Virginia Woodbridge Theatre Group played “Idiots Delight” to a receptive crowd at the NVCC Woodbridge Campus theatre.

The play by Robert E. Sherwood, set in pre-war Italian Alps near Austria, is a window into the suspended lives of those caught in a military border closing. It allows the characters to ponder war while trying to make the best of the inconvenience. They get to express the playwrite’s opinion of war, the title, an “Idiots Delight”. Other than the human interest, it’s not a complex script.

Meanwhile the characters are captive audience to a traveling show, in which the Woodbridge players enjoy dancing in their lusty costumes. The students always get the lusty costumes and parts right. Along with that Amanda Moore as Irene was a pretty saucy character.

It’s a nice setting with the theatre just a walk up from the campus lake. The production is on a shoe-string but you don’t mind that as the cast makes a good effort and the price is right. This set was improved over some. Snacks are available at intermission which sales also help support the theatrical program. I just have to say that in general the Woodbridge Theatre productions are often not where you'd take the kiddies.

Too bad you missed this one. We’ll keep an eye out for more NVCC Woodbridge productions.

Workhouse Arts Center Open
and Ready for Business

By: Lori Craddock
 
The Workhouse Arts Center, a program of the Lorton Arts Foundation, held its grand opening in September, which included free workshop classes as a sample of the full classes offered to the public throughout the year.  Beginner and advanced classes are available.  The mission of this new center is to enrich the lives of all within its reach by creating a vibrant cultural community that fosters a diverse offering of arts, education, social, and entertainment experience for all ages.

The center is built upon the remains of the D.C. Correctional facility that was once commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt.  The historic buildings have been transformed into galleries, studios, and stages and the ongoing transformation is set in a phased approach.  Artists can rent studios to work in and sell their creations, while visitors can wander through interacting with artists and viewing their work.  The public will eventually be able to rent space within the center for events.

Teachers consist of professional artists who are open to truly teaching their craft and sharing trade secrets with willing students.  Although classes can be expensive, this can be a more in-depth experience than an art class at a local college where students are only taking the course as an elective to graduate and the teacher is less inclined to explain detailed information that an aspiring artist might need.  The classes at the Workhouse Arts Center are small with hands on experience and an atmosphere that allows the student and teacher to learn from each other.  

An art store is said to be opening on site at the center so that students have easy access to supplies they need.  This center is a welcomed addition to the Lorton area as seen by the big turnout at the grand opening.  For more information about the Workhouse Arts Center visit www.workhousearts.org or call (703) 495-0001.

Coffee House of Occoquan Music Schedule subject to change

December
Friday 5 starts 7:00pm Icemen
Saturday 6 starts 7:00pm Open Mic.

Friday 12 starts 7:00pm Celtic Marc
Saturday 13 starts 7:00pm Open Mic.

Friday 19 starts 7:00pm Rough Draught
Saturday 20 starts 7:00pm Open Mic.

No Music until after New Year

Gentle Jana Plays Old Town

Janna Audy, known to the patrons of the Coffee House of Occoquan, (seen above) is announcing that her new CD 'The Human Race' is now ready for purchase online at CD Baby!  Get your copy today, in digital format or hard copy.  And, the CD packaging is eco-friendly!  No plastic, no shrink-wrap, and printed on recycled board. 

The Human Race was just loaded on iTunes! For you Apple-lovers, you’re a mere click away. Take a listen, download a song, gift it to a friend. 

Also hear Janna Saturday 10/25, 8PM-10PM, St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Del Ray/ Alexandria. Smoke-free and family-friendly. 

PWAS Opportunities

The Art Society is currently selling Holiday note cards for their Scholarship fundraiser. For more information on the above activities, call Alice at 703-494-7708.
For more information about the art society, call (703) 494-7708 or email pwas2@yahoo.com or visit http://www.PrinceWilliamArtSociety.org. The Prince William Art Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and promoting the Visual Arts in Prince William County and surrounding areas.

Young Peoples Theatre
‘Fiddler on the Roof’

Young Peoples Theatre is pleased to announce the opening of their fall show, “Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.”, on Saturday, November 1st at New Hope Church located at 8905 Ox Road, Lorton, Virginia  22079.  Performances are November 1st and 7th evenings, with matinees on November 2nd and 8th.

  Transport yourself to the little village of Anatevka in 1905 with The Young Peoples Theatre (YPT) version of the beloved musical, “Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.”  The kids of YPT will sing, dance and charm their way into your heart as they tell the story of Tevye, a dairyman, who tries to raise his five daughters with age-old traditions in a rapidly changing world. The show’s charm, humor, and warmth are sure to delight people of all ages with its talented and energetic cast belting out memorable tunes such as, “If I Were a Rich Man,” and the hauntingly beautiful, “Sunrise, Sunset.”  Young Peoples Theatre has been entertaining audiences of all ages since 1994, and “Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.,” marks its 31st production.

For further information and reservations, visit YPTNVA.com, or call 703-866-3546. All seats are $10 with reservation. (Unreserved seating is $2.00 more.) Group rates and military discounts are available.  Reserve early.  Use your PayPal account for easy pay option.

Lorton Poetry Venue Includes Youth

By: Lori Craddock

The September gathering of the Inspirational Poetry Open Mic at the Daily Grind Coffee House and Café in Lorton brought a bigger crowd than ever. Let’s see if Lorton can keep the artistic spirit alive.  Calling all poetry enthusiasts!!! Mark your calendars for October 25 which includes a NEW Youth Poets Open Mic from 5:30-7:00 p.m. followed by the regular adults’ Inspirational Poetry Open Mic from 7:00-9:00 p.m.  For any questions regarding the event, contact the founder, Karen Caldwell, at (703)-371-3431 or e-mail her at Karen@karenmariserose.com.

Lorton Artists’ Works in Juried Show

Three Lorton artists have had works accepted into the juried Exhibition beginning September 27 at the Candy Factory Center for the Arts in Manassas.
David Ernst got two pieces in, “Too Busy”, top & “Yesterday’s Lunch” and Jane Ernst got one in, “Mount Vernon Tree”.  See their web site at www.ernstvisiion.com. Ken Holt got one work accepted, Christ in Glory, left.
The Show continues through the end of October and all works are for sale.

About Lorton Arts Foundation

The Lorton Arts Foundation’s Workhouse Arts Center is a transformation of the former D.C. Correction Facility at Lorton.  The Workhouse Arts Center is in Phase I of development—10 of the 30 buildings where prisoners slept and worked are now being turned into art studios and gallery space. The total cost for the entire project is $150 million.  Phase I will cost $40 million.  The Workhouse has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Through ‘adaptive reuse’ of the prison facility, the new Workhouse Arts Center promises to be an extraordinary 55 acre cultural arts center designed to promote, facilitate and provide visual and performing arts exhibition and studio spaces and programs that will include over 150 artists, a cooperative studio, theatre venues and dedicated gallery space.  The center will integrate history arts, education and recreation within a facility that will become one of the Washington area’s premier venues for performing and visual arts.  Phase I of the renovation is slated to be complete in late 2007.  For more information, visit www.lortonarts.org