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Performers Liven the Stage at Freeport Community Library

Sept. 25, 2008

The appearance of a live tarantula caused some excitement at the Southern Maine Library District’s Performer Showcase held September 17 at the Freeport Community Library for a standing room audience of library staff and trustees.

Not everyone was anxious for a close-up look at the tarantula as his handler Jim Nutting from Lewiston paraded the spider down the aisles, although he assured the audience that he had never been stung by any of his insects during the many years he has been conducting programs. Most of his collection of butterflies, arachnids, and walking sticks were safely enclosed in attractive glass cases. Nutting provided background information about their habits, country of origin, and how he acquired them.

The showcase was conducted to help library staff book performers for open houses, holiday events, anniversary celebrations and family programs. Each of ten invited performers was allowed 15 minutes for a demonstration.

Fiddler Ed Pearlman demonstrated the difference between a violin and a fiddle (none) and told the fascinating story of his 1700s violin. To the delight of the audience, Pearlman’s wife and nine year-old son accompanied the fiddler with special dances, including a sword dance with traditional costume.

Other performers included Peter Boie, magician; Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers; Jackson Gillman, stand-up chameleon; Meg Gilman, storyteller; Sammie Haynes, children's singer/songwriter; Matt Loosigian, singer/guitarist; Karen Montanaro, mimist/dancer; and Jake Parris, cartoonist.

Library Director Beth Edmonds was on hand to welcome the group, provide background information on the library, and conduct tours of the spacious facility.

The program, which included time for block booking and distribution of promotional literature, was free and open to members of the Maine Regional Library System. Planning committee members included Mary Lou Boucouvalas, Graves Memorial Library, Kennebunkport; Beth Edmonds and Holly Elliott, Freeport community Library; Brooke Faulkner, McArthur Public Library, Biddeford; and Shirley Helfrich, Southern Maine Library District/Maine State Library.

Further Information: 871-1766 or SMLD@portland.lib.me.us   

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