By Edith Morgan
Hello, 2015!
Every year at this time, for just $10, Worcesterites of all ages have a chance to get a taste of talent young and old, and to view some of the many great buildings and churches scattered around the center of our city.
I am talking about Worcester First Night, which offers unlimited access to so many Worcester arts venues on January 31 every year. And it goes on regardless of weather – there is never a rain date.
This year there are numerous innovations: in response to popular comments, there will be one great fireworks display, instead of the two shorter ones – and they will be able to be seen at 10:15 from several of Worcester’s many hills.
And I can hardly wait to ride one of the two trolleys that will take revelers to various Worcester sites open that evening!
I am always amazed, and dismayed, that so many residents have not been to our fair city’s Tuckerman Hall or the Ecotarium, or all the other fascinating venues gathered about the area. But with the First Night button displayed somewhere on your person, you can get into all these places on this night, enjoy a 45-minute program of dance, music, poetry … get a taste of the many performing arts in Worcester year round, and maybe even run into friends and neighbors enjoying it all, too!
Over the years I have accumulated a collection of Worcester First Night buttons – and the sweatshirts emblazoned with that year’s logo. These days I do not volunteer anymore, but for a number of years I did. There is much need for volunteers, as this great spectacle is driven largely by volunteers, under the direction of Howard McGinn. Usually only two hours are required, and then you are free to partake of all the wonderful programs, so different, for every taste.
I would hope that all Worcester residents and people from neighboring towns too would come and see what we have to offer. In my Lincoln/Burncoat neighborhood, school children, groups from Joy of Music and others are involved, and should be supported.
So, come one and all! Enjoy and support our city!
Happy New Year and joy in 2015!
