In 1998 a quiet five-acre field just east of the village of Rhinebeck became the home of Rhinebeck's Center for Performing Arts, an intimate space to enjoy community theatre and educational programs. For four summers before its permanent home was finished--now affectionately known as "The Barn"-- performances took place on the same site in the tent shown below. The Center will commemorate its tenth anniversary of theatrical excellence this fall with a special community celebration on Saturday, September 27 from 4 to 10pm. The public is invited to attend this family event, which will feature free food and entertainment.

Meanwhile, the Center opens its fall season with an original, complete staging of Lerner and Loewe's musical Camelot. Pictured above are Alex Heresimtschuk as Sagramore and Katlyn McManomon as Lady Anne. This CENTERstage production is directed by Andy Weintraub, with musical direction by Lee Stowe, choreography by Laurie Sepe Marder, and costumes by Krista Thomson. Tickets may be purchased on-line at centerforperformingarts.org or by calling the box office at 845-876-3080 (11am-5pm Tuesday to Friday and 1-5pm Saturday).

The only thing crazier than climbing on the back of a 2,000-pound bull is hopping in the ring to photograph someone riding one. "The viewfinder won't protect you from a charge," local photographer Molly Ahearn laughs, "I had to leap onto the fence to avoid getting gored several times. I still can't believe promoters let me do it." In the early 90s Ahearn followed the women's rodeo circuit in the west. By day, she developed and hung film to dry in her pop-up camper. By night, she and her husband went to the rodeo. Ahearn's cowgirl images are for sale at the Millbrook Winery from September 1 through November 10 with an opening reception Saturday, September 13 from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. The exhibit is part of the Art in the Loft series sponsored by the Dutchess County Arts Council. (Millbrook Winery, 26 Wing Road, Millbrook; 845-454-3222 or info@artsmidhudson.org.)