Arts Council of Anne Arundel County

Pollinator-Friendly Gardening Workshop with Homestead Gardens
2026-04-26 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | William Paca House and Garden, 186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Join us for a special Spring afternoon workshop on the Paca House Terrace, presented in partnership with our friends at Homestead Gardens.
Pollinators such as bees and butterflies play a vital role in our ecosystems and food supply, but they need our help!
At this workshop, a Homestead Gardens expert will discuss pollinator-friendly gardening and simple ways anyone can support local pollinators, even with limited space. Learn how to choose pollinator-friendly plants and easy gardening tips for balconies, porches, patios, and small yards.
Participants will create their own Bee & Butterfly Starter Garden Porch Pot to take home, along with a Guide to Growing Pollinator Friendly Gardens and a coupon for Homestead Gardens.
Advance registration required, space is limited. Recommended for ages 13+.

CP open auditions for 10-Minute Play Festival
2026-04-26 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-27 19:00 - 22:00 | The Colonial Players Annex, 2132 Renard Court, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401
This summer, one-acts are back in style and back at CP!
Seven brand-new plays, by seven local voices.
The scripts are under wraps. The characters are waiting. And the only way in… is to audition.
No expectations. No preconceived roles. Just actors, instincts, and possibility.
Sunday afternoon April 26, 2026, 4 sessions starting at 1:00 pm
Monday evening April 27th. 2026, 4 sessions, starting at 7:00 pm
Pre-registration is required for this audition. A maximum of 5 auditioners will be seen during each session. Register here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D44ADAF22ABF8C25-63026513-10minute#/
For full details, see the website: https://thecolonialplayers.org/index.php/get-involved/auditions
Come & Play!

Mozart & Cookies
2026-04-26 15:00 - 17:00 | The Byzantium, 2747 Riva Road, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401
Conducted by ASO Artistic Director José-Luis Novo
Joaquín Turina La oración del torero (The Bullfighter’s Prayer), Op. 34
Malcolm Arnold Sinfonietta No. 1, Op. 48
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Symphony No. 29 in A major, K. 201
After the performance, enjoy fellowship and free cookies from Rise and Shine Bakery!

COMPASS ROSE THEATER MARKS 15TH ANNIVERSARY Theater Celebrates with a Cabaret of Award-Winning Musicals
2026-04-26 16:00 - 17:15 | Unity by the Bay, 4 Pointless Forest Trail, Annapolis, MD, 21409, United States
COMPASS ROSE THEATER MARKS 15TH ANNIVERSARY
Theater Celebrates with a Cabaret of Award-Winning Musicals

Compass Rose Theater, a critically acclaimed professional theater and educational nonprofit in Annapolis, proudly announces Compass Rose Cabaret, running April 10–26, 2026. This musical revue, featuring live piano accompaniment, will showcase some of the theater’s most memorable songs since its founding in 2011.
Opening night, April 10, will include a special Cabaret & Soirée Fundraiser honoring founder Lucinda Merry-Browne. Guests will enjoy drinks and dessert while mingling with the professional cast.
“Our founder, Lucinda Merry-Browne, had a bold vision to bring a professional teaching theater to the Annapolis area, and we’ve been gaining momentum for 15 years. Now, we’re regularly earning prestigious Helen Hayes Award nominations and recommendations,” said Barbara Webber, Executive Director of Compass Rose Theater. “We’ve expanded teaching opportunities—this season collaborating with Anne Arundel Community College for Rent, and this August partnering on our youth production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream with Historic London Town & Gardens for an outdoor, interactive Shakespeare experience.”
Each year, Compass Rose Theater produces 4–5 professional shows, one student production, and offers multiple camps and classes for all ages.
The Compass Rose Cabaret cast features audience favorites from Helen Hayes Award–recommended productions, including: Brady Cherneski (Annie), Jewel Freeman (Annie), Barrett Johnson (Little Shop of Horrors, Annie), Keila Mumphord (Little Shop of Horrors), James Toler (Little Shop of Horrors, Annie), and 17-year-old newcomer to Compass Rose, Lily Glista.
Performers will present songs spanning the company’s history—from its first musical, Oliver, to its most recent, Rent—as well as selections from The Sound of Music, A Chorus Line, Cats, and other Broadway and Compass Rose favorites.
The production is directed by Artistic Director Madeline Austin, with musical direction, original arrangements, and accompaniment by Jack Benedict (Little Shop of Horrors). The original script is by Barrett Johnson, with choreography by Victoria Farnsworth (Annie).
PERFORMANCE DETAILS
Dates: April 10–26, 2026

Fridays & Saturdays: 7:30–9:15 PM
Sat. 3 PM Matinee
Sundays: 4:00–5:45 PM

Location: Unity by the Bay
4 Pointless Forest Trail
Annapolis, MD 21409
Since its founding in 2011, Compass Rose Theater has produced more than 50 professional shows, earning eight Helen Hayes Award nominations and multiple recommendations. Known for its powerful storytelling and commitment to education, the theater serves students of all ages across the DMV region.
TICKETS
Tickets range from $25–$55 and are available until showtime while supplies last. Discounts are offered for students, seniors, military/veterans, and groups of 12 or more. (Soiree fundraiser event tickets April 10 only: $60-100 include drinks and desserts)
The performance will take place in a cabaret-style setting, with drinks and snacks available for purchase. Doors open 20 minutes before showtime, and seating is open. Free parking is available onsite.
Purchase tickets:
https://www.compassrosetheater.org/compass-rose-cabaret
or via InstantSeats
or call 410-980-6662

CP presents Poor Clare by Chiara Atik
2026-04-26 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-04-30 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-05-01 20:00 - 21:30 | The Colonial Players of Annapolis, 108 East Street, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401
Picture it: Assisi, Italy. The year is 1211. Clare has everything — beauty, status, a swoon-worthy rich fiancé, and gifts that scream medieval luxury. Total dream life, right?
So why can’t she stop thinking about Francis — the town eccentric who ditched his wealth, his wardrobe, and basically his entire vibe because he thinks helping the poor actually matters? Everyone else says he’s lost it. Clare… isn’t so sure.
As her perfectly curated world starts to feel a little less perfect, Clare finds herself questioning what success, goodness, and happiness really mean. This hilarious, delightfully anachronistic retelling of the true story of St. Clare asks: what does it really cost to do good — and why, nearly a thousand years later, are the rich and the rest still living in completely different realities?
Thurs-Sat @8PM
Sun @2PM

All Things Great and Small Exhibit
2026-04-27 11:00 - 17:30, 2026-04-28 11:00 - 17:30, 2026-04-29 11:00 - 17:30, 2026-04-30 11:00 - 17:30, 2026-05-01 11:00 - 17:30, 2026-05-02 11:00 - 17:30 | McBride Gallery, 215 Main Street, Annapolis, MD, 21108, United States
On view April 11 – May 24
An Exhibit about scale and the artist’s voice.

This show offers a curated view of work expressed in scales, both big and small. This group show features a variety of styles and mediums for you to enjoy.
Participating Artists
Jorge Alberto, Jill Basham, Chris Best, Kathy Daywalt, Christine Drewyer, Lois Engberg, Micheal Godfrey, Bruce Handford, Matthew Hillier, Liz Lescault, Maria Marino, Abigail McBride, Terry Miller, Barbara Nuss, Julia Rogers & Paula Waterman

Watercolor Pop Up Workshops (Monthly)
2026-04-27 18:00 - 20:30 | ArtFarm Annapolis, 111 Chinquapin Round Rd., Suite 200, Maryland, Annapolis
A Pop-Up Experience for Beginners and Those that want to Keep Painting
Teens and Adults are welcome!
Watercolor – 4th Mondays 6-8/8:30 pm
Discover the joy of watercolor painting in our welcoming, laid-back studio! This beginner-friendly workshop is the perfect opportunity to explore a new creative outlet with no pressure or prior experience needed, and those with experience are welcome to join us and just paint!
Each monthly pop-up workshop will focus on a different theme.
Taught by:
Lindsay: https://www.lbocraft.com/
Cat: https://justeh.com/
Em: Emilyteachesart.com
What to expect:

Demonstration and guided practice to learn essential techniques
Open studio time to experiment and create your own piece
Line drawn designs to use as guides for those of us that don’t feel comfortable drawing on our own. Please let us know if you’d like this!
Personalized support from our instructor whenever you need it – just ask!
All materials provided
A relaxed, judgment-free environment to unleash your creativity
Feel free to bring your own sips to enjoy!

Whether you want to complete a finished piece or simply play with colors and techniques, this workshop offers the freedom to explore watercolor painting at your own pace. Our experienced instructor will be available throughout to offer tips, tricks, and guidance whenever you hit a snag or want to dive deeper.

The Bay Winds Band Spring Concert
2026-04-28 19:30 - 20:30 | St. John Lutheran Church, 300 W Maple Rd, Linthicum Heights, MD, 21090, United States
The Bay Winds Band Presents our Spring Concert“It’s All Fun and Games…”
Free Concert followed by a time of fellowship and sweets at St. John Lutheran Church!

Spring Member Show at MFA Circle Gallery
2026-04-29 - 2026-05-23 | Circle Gallery, 18 State Circle, Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Introducing the Spring Member Show
Maryland Federation of Art (MFA) invites all MFA Members residing in any of the states or territories of the US, Canada, and Mexico to enter our Spring Member Show 2026. Any original 2D or 3D work will be considered and works selected by the juror will be exhibited in MFA’s Circle Gallery from April 29 – May 23, 2026.

Visit Winterthur – A Bus Tour with Historic Annapolis
2026-04-29 07:30 - 17:00 | Maryland Hall, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Join Historic Annapolis for a delightful day trip to Winterthur!
Nestled in the heart of Delaware’s picturesque Brandywine Valley, Winterthur is a premier museum of American decorative arts, renowned for its extraordinary museum, garden, and library. Once the grand home of founder Henry Francis du Pont, the magnificent 175-room house showcases nearly 90,000 objects made or used in America since 1640—displayed much as the du Pont family lived among them. Beyond the house, Winterthur’s 1,000 acres of protected meadows, woodlands, ponds, and waterways create a setting of remarkable beauty, anchored by a nationally celebrated 60-acre garden.
Trip Highlights include two private group experiences:

Library Collections Tour led by Allie Alvis, Curator of Special Collections, featuring rare books, manuscripts, works on paper, photographs, and Winterthur’s archival collections, and
The new Architecture of Independence: America at 250 Tour that explores the founding of the nation through the architecture of the original thirteen colonies.

Following our group tours, enjoy a gourmet boxed lunch & free time to explore Winterthur’s renowned naturalistic garden on foot or via narrated tram ride, or enjoy a self-paced house tour, discovering American history through decorative arts, architecture, and the transformation of a private estate into a national museum.
Your admission fee includes:

Motorcoach transportation from Annapolis to Winterthur
Private Group Guided Tour of the Library & Mansion
Gourmet boxed lunch
Free time to explore!

Spaces are limited – reserve your spot today and enjoy a day filled with beauty, history, and inspiration as we explore one of America’s most remarkable cultural treasures.
Advance registration required; space is limited. Recommended for ages 16+. All participants must sign a liability waiver to attend the trip.

Kathie's Fused Glass: Votives or Vases
2026-04-29 14:00 - 16:00 | Maryland Hall, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Wednesday, 4/29, Start Time: 2:00 PM, End Time: 4:00 PM, Room:117A, Price: $129 (WS26KPL7)
Add some sparkle to your table! In this 2-hour workshop, students will make and design 2 votive candle holders. We will explore the basics of cutting and fusing glass. Students will learn the processes of glass fusing, including full and tack fuse, draping, and slumping glass. Students will use sheet and scrap glass, glass stringers, and frit to decorate their pieces. No prior experience needed. Any children under 13 might be accompanied by a registered adult.
Teaching Artist: Kathie Perry-Lynch
Supplies: All supplies are provided and included within the class pricing.
Minimum Enrollment for class to run: 4

Composition and the Sketchbook. Turning sketches into finished paintings
2026-04-29 17:30 - 19:30 | Maryland Hall, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Wednesdays 4/29-5/20 5:30pm-7:30pm. Room:213. Price: $175.95 (WS26CB4)
Using pencils, markers and gouache (opaque watercolor), we learn to take our ideas from a line sketch, to value study, and finally into color with gouache (opaque watercolor). Emphasis is placed on line and value in the design stages (grey scale), and learning to explore various ideas before choosing one to be worked out in gouache (color). This class can be taken more than once building on previous knowledge. It can also be taken as a one off. No pre-requisites are required. This will be combining concepts from my previous sketchbook and gouache painting classes into one class. Ages 15+ unless permission is given by the instructor. Please reach out with questions.
Supplies: all supplies are provided.
Teaching Artist: Chris Best
Minimum enrollment to run: 5

Gentlemen's Quartet to Perform in Harwood, Maryland on April 29, 2006
2026-04-29 19:30 - 21:30 | Southern High School, Southern High School, 4400 Solomons Island Road, Harwood, Maryland, 20776, United States
Acclaimed instrumental quartet, GQ, and accomplished guest vocalist Erin Shields will be performing live in concert at Southern High School, 4400 Solomons Island Road, Harwood, MD 20776 on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

GQ (Gentlemen’s Quartet) is a modern, elegant take on some of the most famous music ever written, fusing together multiple genres in a perfect symphony of sophistication, virtuosity, and humor. Comprised of cello/mandocello, guitar, bass, percussion, piano and violin, with special appearances by vocalist Erin Shields, whose rich tone and stage presence add a sparkling complement to GQ’s signature sound. Their concerts offer audiences a new, often deeper, way of listening to music. Featuring a multitude of musical genres, their repertoire includes selections like “Adagio,” “New York ‘States’ of Mind,” “Don’t Stop Believing,” “Rhapsody Overload,” and much more!

Tickets are available at the door for $30. Student’s age 18 and under will be admitted for FREE. Lobby doors open 30 minutes before the show with open seating. For additional information, visit www.southcountyconcertassociation.org or 410-956-4881.

Podcasting 101 (adults)
2026-04-30 18:30 - 20:30 | ArtFarm Annapolis, 111 Chinquapin Round Rd., Suite 200, Maryland, Annapolis
tep into the host chair of your very own podcast!
Our 4-week Podcasting Class is designed to introduce you to the essentials of podcast creation. Led by John Wist, co-host and producer of his own podcast, this hands-on course will guide you through every step of the process—from developing your concept and honing your storytelling skills to mastering interview techniques, gear setup, audio engineering, and video production.
By the end of the class, you’ll produce a polished episode of your own podcast while collaborating and exchanging ideas with fellow participants. Whether you’re looking to launch a personal project or refine your content creation skills, this class will give you the tools and confidence to hit record and share your voice with the world!
Note: our podcast studio is available to rent after your class, so you can jump right into recording your own podcast in the same space you learned how to do it! To find out more:
https://www.andcreativestudio.com/podcast-studio

Disney's 'The Lion King JR' at Children's Theatre of Annapolis
2026-05-01 19:00 - 20:30 | MD
Celebrate the Circle of Life in this timeless story of courage, friendship, and destiny. The African savanna comes to life on CTA’s main stage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale. The Lion King JR. features classic songs from the Broadway musical and animated feature film, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “He Lives in You,” and “Hakuna Matata.”

Run Time: Approximately 60-75 minutes with a 15-minute intermission
Performances: May 1-17, 2026

Fridays @ 7:00 p.m.
Saturdays @ 11:00 a.m.* & 4:00 p.m.
Sundays @ 2:00 p.m.

* No 11:00 a.m. performance on Saturday, May 2, 2026

** SPECIAL EVENTS **

Post-Show Q&A + Backstage Tour: Saturday, May 2 after the 4:00 p.m. show
Simba’s Sundae Social *: May 3 @ 12:30 p.m.
Kids Night Out *: Friday, May 8 @ 6:30 p.m.
^^Relaxed Performance: Saturday, May 9 @ 11 a.m.
^^ASL-Interpreted Performance**: Saturday, May 9 @ 4 p.m.
Post-Show Q&A + Backstage Tour: Saturday, May 9 after the 4:00 p.m. show
Sarabi’s Mother’s Day Tea Party *: Sunday, May 10 @ 12:30 p.m.
Kids Night Out *: Friday, May 15 @ 6:30 p.m.
N-CHAT African Drums Performance *: Saturday, May 16 @ 12:30 p.m.
Post-Show Q&A + Backstage Tour: Saturday, May 16 after the 4:00 p.m. show

*Tickets sold separately at events/ticketleap.com/tickets/cta-md

^^ For details about these events, please click here to visit our Accessibility web page or copy & paste the following link into your web browser: https://www.childrenstheatreofannapolis.org/theatre/#accessibility

Student Auditions Open for A Midsummer Night's Dream
2026-05-02 | Historic London Town & Garden, 839 Londontown Road, Edgewater, Maryland, 21037
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is Shakespeare at his most playfully chaotic. Four young lovers wander into the woods, where a group of fairies—who really should not be in charge of anything—decide to intervene in their relationships. Thanks to one well-meaning but unreliable sprite, everyone ends up briefly in love with the wrong person. Meanwhile, a troupe of very sincere (and very untalented) actors attempts to stage a play.
By morning, things are mostly sorted out, dignity is lightly bruised, and the whole experience feels a bit like a dream no one can quite explain.
This interactive, fun, outdoor production will be staged at Historic London Town & Gardens in Edgewater, MD, produced in partnership with Compass Rose Theater. Students ages 10-18 are encouraged to apply!

Clare's Parent & Child: Mother's Day Gifts
2026-05-02 10:00 - 11:30 | Maryland Hall, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Saturday, 5/02, 10:00am-11:30am, Room:117A, Price: $64.00 (WS26CS17)
Beginner class for parent and child. Students will learn how to decorate and layer the art glass using stencils, stringers, confetti, repurposed glass, and frit to form a beautiful glass Mother’s Day gifts. Simple instructions help all students create by designing from their own imagination, with help as needed from the instructor. No experience necessary for this 1.5-hour class. Each person registers individually.
Teaching Artist: Clare Shepherd
(For more information, please contact the instructor at clare.p.shepherd@gmail.com)
Supplies: All supplies are provided and included within the class pricing.
Minimum Enrollment for class to run: 3

Holly's Family Art Jam: Polymer Clay Flowers & Plants
2026-05-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Maryland Hall, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Saturday 5/02 10am-12pm. Room: 117B. Price: $93.32 (WS26HR14)
This family-friendly workshop is ideal for mothers day. Each participant will create their botanical-themed artwork out of polymer clay! The teacher will guide you through modelling techniques to create lifelike flowers, plants, and foliage, while you personalize and texture your artwork. All materials will be provided to create your beautiful art garden in a mini planter! Each registration includes a seat for a parent and child, and each participant makes their own work. Polymer clay is baked at home in a conventional oven.Please bring art-friendly clothes, and a water bottle. Smocks available on request. More info is available at: hollyrosario.com/MHFAQ
Supplies: all supplies are provided.
Teaching Artist: Holly Rosario
Minimum enrollment to run: 3

Musical Theatre Kids Workshop
2026-05-02 10:00 - 12:00 | MD
This workshop includes foundational musical theatre skills like voice, movement, stage direction, and physical awareness, along with acting and performance techniques. The curriculum aims to build confidence, concentration, imagination, and creativity through a mix of theatre games, production, and group activities.

Core skills and techniques:

Voice and movement: Exercises focus on breath support, vocal projection, and public speaking along with physical awareness in a performance based environment.
Imagination and concentration: Group exercises and games are used to build focus and concentration plus explore with the imagination.
Character development: Techniques are taught for creating believable and authentic characters.
Collaboration: Students will learn to work with one another to create a cast/team setting to achieve a common goal.

This workshop concludes with a live performance on our main stage free for family & friends to attend.

APPEARANCE: Students must dress appropriately for movement. Shoes should be either dance shoes or sneakers secured with laces or velcro. No open-toe shoes, flip-flops, sandals, or crocs.

NOTE: Bring a healthy snack + a water bottle with your student’s name on it.

AGES: 5-10 (Level: Beginner-Intermediate)
WHEN: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.; Saturdays, April 18-May 30, 2026 (6 sessions). No class on May 23. Performance: May 30 @ 12:00 p.m.
TUITION: $165.00 (must have current 25/26 annual registration) + processing fee
TEACHING ARTIST: Jason Kimmell

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ANNUAL REGISTRATION POLICY: All participants must pay an annual registration fee ($20 for one or more students within the same family) to participate in a workshop/camp. Valid from July 1st through June 30th annually.
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CANCELLATION POLICY:

Minimum of 3 weeks prior to class: Full refund minus.
2 weeks prior to class: Refund minus $95 ($75 administrative fee + $20 annual registration fee)
First day of class or later: No refund.

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Brewer Hill Cemetery Tour with Historic Annapolis
2026-05-02 13:00 - 14:00 | MD
Join us for a guided walking tour of Brewer Hill Cemetery. Learn the origins of this historic African American burial site. Hear stories of those interred here including military veterans, activists and local luminaries. Learn about current preservation and documentation projects at the Cemetery today and how you can get involved!
The net proceeds from this tour will be donated to Brewer Hill Cemetery.
Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as the tour is held rain or shine. The tour route is approximately 1/2 miles long and includes elevation changes and uneven walking surfaces.
Recommended for ages 13+.

CP Open Auditions for Our Town
2026-05-02 13:00 - 17:00 | The Colonial Players Annex, 2132 Renard Court, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401
AUDITIONS for Our Town, written by Thornton Wilder, directed by Rick Wade.
Performance Dates: September 11 – October 3, 2026
All roles are open and non-paying. This show requires ~25 performers. Actors of all races and ethnicities are encouraged to audition. Our goal is a town of rich diversity.
Show Synopsis:
Set in the small New England community of Grover’s Corners, Our Town follows the lives of the Webb and Gibbs families as they navigate love, marriage, and loss. Guided by the ever-watchful Stage Manager, the play reveals the extraordinary beauty hidden in everyday moments. Our Town invites us to pause, reflect, and rediscover the simple connections that bind a community together—onstage and off.
For full details and timings please visit our website.
https://https://thecolonialplayers.org/index.php/get-involved/auditions/1299-our-town-auditions

Kathie's Fused Glass: Dazzling Dichroic Jewelry
2026-05-02 14:00 - 16:00 | Maryland Hall, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
Saturday, 5/2, Start Time: 2:00 PM, End Time: 4:00 PM, Room:117A, Price: $90 (WS26KPL8)
Add some bling to your life! In this 2-hour workshop, students will be taught the basics of cutting and fusing glass. Students will use dichroic and colored glass to create 2 sets of earrings and 2 pendants. The instructor will add the bails and settings after the pieces come out of the kiln. Children under 10 will need to be accompanied by a registered adult.
