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April was way busier than I anticipated, but it was a total blast. We recognized National Poetry Month with an ekphrastic poetry exhibit that was the culmination of Ed Lent’s writing workshops, and we wrapped up with slam poet Taylor Mali entertaining a packed house for one of our LIVE @AMP events. At his best, as expected, Taylor read and performed from a rich body of work. So many poems were hilarious, and the brilliant and moving ones were all the more poignant by contrast.
Now, we head into May, my favorite month. The weather is warmer, things are growing, and colors are appearing everywhere. Around AMP, the staff is digging in and preparing for summer programs and tons of action.
We are already anticipating the laughter and noise we will hear inside and outdoors this summer during our enrichment programs for kids and teens. These sounds always draw me away from whatever else I am doing. I kid myself that some of the kids in the outdoor nature playground need my help (they don’t)—just so I can get closer to all that fun.
Let’s get a head start on the merriment at AMP with Family Day on Saturday, May 4th. There'll be lots of activities for everyone the whole day.
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May the Fourth Be With You!
Saturday, May 4
This is the way—to a fun-filled day at AMP for the whole family. Kids can build a Mars Rover, navigate obstacles in the tactile sandbox, and then go on a “Star Tours” scavenger hunt in the mural gallery. Little ones can listen to space explorer stories, and teens can participate in an Improv Workshop just for them (details below).
Admission is free for 18 and under. Activities included.
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All Day
Build a Mars Rover Model + Sandbox Obstacle Challenge
Boldly go where no Rover has gone before! Build your own mini Mars Rover model, then crush the challenges posed by the terrain.
All Day
Star Tours Scavenger Hunt
You’re our only hope! Go on a self-guided space-themed Scavenger Hunt to explore all three levels of the mural gallery and discover special features of the indoor mural.
10:30am
Storytime: Space Exploration
The younger set will love listening to these illustrated space stories, thoughtfully curated and read by our Special Guest Reader, Carol Parent of Beardsley Library.
11:30am
Out-of-This-World Improvisation
For ages 12+. Details below.
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Teen Improv Workshop
Out-of-This-World Improvisation
11:30am
Teens 12 and up will have a blast in this free, hour-long workshop of improv games, interactive challenges, and laughter-inducing activities. Led by Deb Holleran of the Music Theatre of Connecticut, this improv offering is sure to spark the imagination and evoke laughter. No experience is required—just come with an open mind and a willingness to have a great time. Don’t miss out! Arrive by 11:15. The workshop will begin at 11:30am.
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Summer @AMP
Arts & Innovation Programs for Kids and Teens
Register now for an unforgettable summer filled with creativity, learning, and fun. Kids and teens thrive in AMP’s small-group programs, guided by our dedicated teaching artists. All summer programs are held at AMP’s art-enriched, indoor and outdoor campus. Sibling discounts and scholarships are available!
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Weekly Programs for Kids 7–11
STEAM l July 8–12
Fun tech-art activities that spark the imagination.
Grow l July 15–19
Exploring, gardening, and art-making in the natural world.
Dabble in Art l July 29–August 2
Guided artistic play and self-expression—indoors and out.
Programs for Teens (12+)
Outdoor Design & Build l June 24–28, July 8–12
Hands-on carpentry and woodworking. Waitlist only.
Theater @AMP l July 8–11 and July 15–19
Two-week program
Performing arts and stagecraft in a production of Working, The Musical.
Teen Art Studio l July 22–26
Authentic art exploration in a social setting.
Music l July 29–August 2
The ultimate, expansive group rhythm and music experience for ages 13–17.
Secure your spot today.
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Teen Art Studio
Upcoming Dates:
- Saturday, May 11
- Saturday, June 8
On Second Saturdays, from 10:30am to 12:30pm, teens fill AMP’s program room with art, laughter, and creative ideas. This welcoming drop-in program is for 13-to-18-year-olds who want to explore creating art with their peers in a social setting. New teens can join at any time.
In the art studio, teens are mentored by teaching artist Shana Bazelmans and have the opportunity to try new mediums and take their areas of interest to the next level. Participants develop incredible art, deeper connections, and a passion for the artistic process by creating together and independently.
This drop-in program is free with student admission to the mural exhibit ($5) or an AMP student pass. For more information, email michelle@americanmuralproject.org.
Teen Art Studio is made possible in part by Renee Chatelain and Kevin Lyle.
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AMP has many volunteer opportunities—in visitor services, events, education programs, marketing, and fundraising. This month, we spotlight two dedicated supporters, Anne Gerard and Mike Roux, who fulfill two very different volunteer roles at AMP. | |
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Anne Gerard
Board Member, Volunteer at Large
Anne Gerard is one of AMP’s long-time volunteers, a committed member of our board, a generous donor, and an all-around enthusiastic lover of all things AMP. She has served in so many ways over the years that it’s hard to keep track. Anne brings friendship and a sense of humor to every task. Retired from a long career as a psychotherapist, Anne loves contributing her time—not only to AMP but also to the Hartford Town & County Club, LiveWell, and Guiding Light Orphans. Starting off on a ranch in Montana as something of a cowgirl, Anne is a traveler and adventurer and has had a fascinating life.
Thank you, Anne, for the many ways you assist and support AMP!
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Mike Roux
Production Volunteer
A newcomer to the AMP volunteer team, Mike Roux lends his staging and production talents to the LIVE @AMP events. Since graduating from Full Sail University in 2022, Mike has been working as a production assistant on TV programs and films in New York City.
Mike is known for his short films and other creative endeavors. When he showed up at AMP to crew a LIVE@AMP concert with his own earpiece for the walkie-talkies, we knew he was the real deal. His last name rhymes with crew for a reason!
Thank you, Mike, for bringing your production expertise to AMP!
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COMING SOON
Save the dates for these upcoming events!
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CT Open House Day
Free admission for everyone
Saturday, June 8, 10am–5pm
Summer @AMP Open House
Tour the AMP campus and see what makes our enrichment programs so remarkable.
Saturday, June 8, 2–3pm
Make Music Day
Free admission for everyone
Friday, June 21, 10am–5pm
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BUSINESS CIRCLE
Thanks for supporting the businesses that support AMP.
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Home & Cake
450 Main Street l Winsted, CT
Looking for a special gift for Mother’s Day for a friend, relative, or yourself? At Home & Cake you’ll find exceptional home decor perfect for gift-giving. Add flair to your place with European-crafted kitchenware, fine linens and pillows, designer lamps, scented candles, and more.
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R&B Sports World
19 Rowley Street l Winsted, CT
Plan to spend the entire day having fun! There’s something for everyone at R&B Sports World, Winsted’s go-to indoor and outdoor entertainment center. Check out the mini-golf course, take a drive on the go-kart track, b-b-bump in the bumper cars, and take a swing in the batting cages. Kids and teens will love the indoor playground, arcade, and newly opened laser-tag arena. When you’re done with the fun, enjoy a sweet treat at their 35-flavor ice-cream bar. Think birthday party! Or bring a friend for a night of endless fun.
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Our spring appeal is launching, and we're counting on your support to make it a success. You don’t have to wait for our email or card—make a donation or monthly gift today. | Your donation supports AMP’s educational and arts programs for all ages. Thank you for keeping us growing! | |
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CORPORATE SPONSORS
Scope Construction
Northwest Community Bank
R&M Insulation
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PRINCIPAL FUNDERS
Newman’s Own Foundation
AG Foundation
Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation
Department of Economic and Community Development/Connecticut Office of the Arts
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