By Carol Fisher-Linn
Tours of the Basilica
What would Pope Francis in Rome, Italy, possibly have to do with a church in Olean, New York? It turns out this Pope designated Holy Name of Angels R.C. Church a “Basilica” for its exquisite art, architecture and history. How did it happen? The pastor at the time, Rev. Gregory Dobson initiated the application process in 2016 with a hundred-page petition, and on Valentine’s Day, 2017 the designation was signed. Look for free group tours of the Basilica on most Fridays between 1-2pm and call for more information (716) 372-4841. It is located at 202 South Union Street, Olean.
Gala at Gowanda’s Historic Theater, April 17
Do you have a hankering for some honest-to-goodness dress-up time? Like black tie dress up? Like wear your finest (perhaps vintage?) formal and most exquisite jewelry dress-up? Well, dust those duds off and order your presale tickets https://www.EventBrite.com/ for an April 17th classic Hollywood glamorous gala. Join Gowanda’s Historic Hollywood Theater (listed on both the NYS and National Register of Historic Places) at 39 W. Main Street to kick off their 100th year! Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, red carpet and Jazz from the Springville Jazz Orchestra. Sadly, neither Hi Henry’s Troubadours, organist Dennis James nor other vaudeville acts were available for a golden anniversary reprise!
Nashville Nights in Ellicottville, April 17-19
Go from Gala to Groove that same weekend (17th through 19th) in Ellicottville. Ditch the fancy duds and grab your cowboy hat and your boot-scootin’ boogie boots to enjoy “Nashville Nights” at Madigan’s, Balloons and throughout Evl’s legendary hotspots. You’ll find live country music throughout various venues, themed food and drink specials and, for a complete country feel, grab a carriage ride led by gorgeous aristocratic Clydesdales from The Little Red Barn Farm 12-7pm Saturday. That’s worth the visit to Evl on its own.
Catch a Glimpse of The King in Fredonia, April 14
On Tuesday, April 14, take a ride to Fredonia – browse Barker Commons, the SUNY Campus, or map out an early trip to the historic 1875 (rebuilt from original 1826) Dunkirk Lighthouse and Veterans Park Museum. But get to the Fredonia Opera House (9 Church Steet, Suite 2) early to get a good seat for the 7:30 showing of “EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert.” Elvis, yes, The King himself, comes to Fredonia on long-lost film footage where he sings and tells his own story like never before. Captions will be visible on the screen. The film is called “a riveting, immersive experience that brings The King back to life for one last show.” The Hollywood Reporter calls it “a transcendent theatrical experience, an exhilarating party, a giddying visual and sonic blitz.” And, of course, for the generation that grew up with Elvis, AARP Movies for Grownups says “it’s crammed with Elvis in performance, an experience that could have you dancing in the aisles (if not throwing panties at the screen).” This entire Chautauqua County experience is worth getting up early and spending the day. Elvis tickets at the door. Hearing impaired accommodated.
Murder Mystery at Lucille Ball Little Theater Last Weekends in April
Who doesn’t like a little murder mystery now and then? The Lucille Ball Little Theater on 2nd Street in Jamestown presents Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. Can you help Hercule Poirot solve the murder of Ratchett, an American tycoon found dead in his LOCKED compartment, stabbed TWELVE times on the snow-stalled train? What’s this? Could he have been tied into the tragic Daisy Armstrong kidnapping case with TWELVE fellow travelers seeking vengeance? Will the position of door handles give Poirot a clue? This play struggles with religious and moral themes of the time, leaving Poirot grappling with his final decision. A must see. Get your tickets soon and plan for a suspenseful, entertaining evening. This is one of Agatha Christie’s finest works. Show times: April 17th, 18th, 24th & 25th at 7pm, April 19th & 26th at 2pm. For information call (716) 483-1095 or email boxoffice@LBLTJ.com
Amazing Bubble Factory, at the Reg Lenna CFA
If murder and mayhem is a bit too heavy for you, consider The Amazing Bubble Factory Live. Prepare to be mesmerized and feel lighter than, well, a bubble. The Amazing Bubble Factory presented by self-proclaimed Bubbleologist Jamie entertains patrons with humor and showmanship as he produces bubbles from the size of a pea to the size of a … minivan! No matter your age, 5 or 95, you will certainly be transported to a light-hearted age of blowing bubbles and having not a care in the world. Now, who doesn’t want to be there, if only for a few hours? The show takes place Apr 22, 6-7:15pm at the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts, 116 East Third Street, Jamestown. Call (716) 484-7070 for more details.