The ARTx3 Campus, which comprises the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, the ARTSpace on Main and ART WORKS on Main, presents the following events in April:
Live@5: UAPB Jazz Ensemble — April 3
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Jazz Ensemble will perform as part of the monthly Live@5 concert series from 5-7 p.m. April 3 in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St.
The university’s premiere jazz group, the UAPB Jazz Ensemble performs styles including swing, contemporary, funk, progressive and the standards. They tour locally and nationally, according to a news release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Admission to the concert is $10 for ARTx3 members and $15 for nonmembers. This event is for ages 18 and older, with a valid student ID required for ages 18-20. Complimentary beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages are included for ages 21 and older. A valid ID is required to be served alcohol.
Live@5 is presented by MK Distributors. Additional support is provided by Simmons Bank. Details: Lindsey Collins, assistant director, at lcollins@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Golden Hour: Puzzle Competition — April 17
Ages 50 and older are invited to put their problem-solving skills to the test during Golden Hour: Puzzle Competition, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 17 at the ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St.
People may work independently or as a team to complete puzzles while enjoying conversation, laughter and a little friendly competition, according to a news release.
“No experience needed — just bring your curiosity and enjoy the challenge,” according to the release.
The event is part of ARTx3’s Golden Hour programming for ages 50 and older. The event is free, but registration is required by April 14. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org, or call the center.
Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class — April 18
The ARTx3 Campus will host Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class from 10:30-11:30 a.m. April 18 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas.
“Led by Melanie Madkin, the class is a joyful, interactive experience that nurtures early reading skills through movement, music and play. Created especially for children ages 3-6, this class invites young learners and their caregivers to explore stories, letters, sounds and language in a fun, welcoming environment,” according to the release.
The program is free, but registration is required by April 14. The program is sponsored by McFarland Eye Care. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org, or call the center.
Start Your Day The Movie Way: ‘Over the Hedge’ — April 18
The ARTx3 Campus will host a screening of the DreamWorks animated film “Over the Hedge” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 18, in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas.
“As the animals venture into the neighborhood, they encounter both opportunities (easy access to junk food) and dangers (humans, pets and exterminators). Along the way, they learn important lessons about teamwork, trust, and the difference between natural living and human influence,” according to the release.
The event is free, but registration is required for the screening and the Saturday Family FunDay event that follows. The event is sponsored by Simmons First Foundation. Details: Stephanie Johnson-Carlton, STEAM education director, at sjcarlton@artx3.org, or call (870) 536-3375.
Saturday Family FunDay: Over the Hedgehog — April 18
The ARTx3 Campus invites all ages to its next Saturday Family FunDay, from 1-3 p.m. April 18 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. The event is free.
Participants can create a hedgehog using their own handprint. Kids will trace, cut and assemble their hands to form spiky backs, then add details with simple craft supplies. The activity follows the screening of the animated film “Over the Hedge.”
Saturday Family FunDay offers monthly hands-on arts and science activities in which visitors create art, complete science projects, or perform dance, music or theater. The Ben J. Altheimer Charitable Foundation and the Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation sponsor the event. Details: DaQuaron “DQ” Dale, arts engagement coordinator, at ddale@artx3.org, or call (870) 536-3375.
Auditions: ‘Shrek the Musical’ — April 19-20
The ARTx3 Campus will host open auditions for “Shrek the Musical” from 2-8 p.m. April 19 and 6-9 p.m. April 20, at the Arts at Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St.
“‘Shrek the Musical’ is a hilarious and heartwarming stage adaptation of the beloved DreamWorks film, bringing the fairy-tale world of Far Far Away to life with big songs, bold characters, and lots of laughs. The story follows Shrek, a grumpy but lovable ogre whose quiet swamp life is turned upside down when a group of misfit fairy-tale creatures are banished there. Alongside a fast-talking Donkey, Shrek sets out on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona — only to discover that true beauty comes from embracing who you are,” according to the news release. “Packed with catchy music, clever humor, and a powerful message about self-acceptance, ‘Shrek the Musical’ is a fun-filled show for all ages.”
Performances are July 24-26 and July 31 through Aug. 2. The production is sponsored by Simmons Bank. Bethany Gere directs, with musical direction by LaLeata May, choreography by Grace McKissic and stage management by Emily Jackson.
Participants must be at least 12 years old at auditions. Details: Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Ways of Watercolor Workshop — April 25
Patrons may explore the versatility and beauty of watercolor with Ways of Watercolor, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 25 at The ARTSpace on Main.
This hands-on workshop is taught by Gary Alexander. Participants will learn a variety of techniques, including washes, layering, color blending and texture, while developing confidence and personal style.
This class is open to all experience levels and offers a supportive, creative environment for anyone looking to expand their watercolor skills or try the medium for the first time, according to the news release.
The event is for ages 15 and older. The cost is $30 for ARTx3 members, $40 for nonmembers, and $25 for students. Register by April 21 on the ARTx3 website or by calling (870) 536-3375. This program is sponsored by McFarland Eye Care. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org, or call the center.
Details are available at https://www.artx3.org/home.
