April in Payson

Story and photo by Carolyn Wall

Bring on the music, the drama, the art

April in Payson - junipers in blossom, yard sale tables under the trees.

April in Payson, there goes my heart - bring on the music, the drama, the art.
Bring on the butterflies, bring on the bees.

(With apologies to songwriter Vernon Duke and "April in Paris")

Rim Country residents will be showered this month with a variety of activities, breaking out of the winter doldrums with First Friday on Historic Main Street Friday, April 1.

• On West Main, popular singer/musician John Carpino will entertain the crowd in front of Bootleg Alley while down the street at Down the Street Gallery, Minette celebrates five years in business as a cooperative art gallery with cake and a "bubbly toast" and artists demonstrating their talents. Businesses along Main open their doors to the public until 8 p.m. and offer refreshments, music that offers something for everyone, and treasures of all kinds.

• John Carpino continues to please his fans on Saturday, April 8 at Cardo's and joins "The Hot Cappucinos" on Sunday, April 9 at the Buffalo Bar and Grill.  

• Colleen Brown and "The Starlighters" provide music for easy listening at MoJoe's every Friday and Saturday night.

• The East West Exchange has an "Acoustic Jam" and invites the public every Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• Payson Friends of Jazz, now in their 32nd season, presents a concert by percussionist Paul McDermand April 15.

• More music, this time from the popular Broadway show, "Hello Dolly",  will be offered by Drama Troupe #4972 from Payson High School on April 7, 8 and 9. 

• The high school drama club presents "Up the Down Staircase" later in the month, April 28, 29, and 30.

• A different kind of drama takes place at Green Valley Park Friday April 29 and Saturday, April 30, when hundreds of classic autos will be on display at the 18th Annual Beeline Cruise-In Charity Auto Show.

Ladies and gentlemen, start up your engines - spring is here and Payson is in full swing!

For a calendar of events go to the The Payson Daily Bugle's Arts and Entertainment Page. We will provide an ongoing list of activities. We invite our viewers to contribute information on arts and entertainment in the Rim Country by email to carrienettie@yahoo.com.