Redfern Kicks Off 30th Year With Celebration

Keene, NH, August 25, 2011: Today, the Redfern Arts Center on Brickyard Pond at Keene State College announces the kick off for its 30th year of performances with a new director, Shannon Mayers. The Redfern’s 30th anniversary season offers a range of performances - from Antarctic explorers to wisecracking mathematicians; from Irish storytellers to dancing neuroscientists. The performance series starts off with a bang when the electrifying musicians of Asphalt Orchestra march from downtown Keene through Keene State College on Wednesday, October 5th.

The Redfern will open the year with a kick off celebration at the Redfern on Friday, September 16th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., which will include refreshments and performances from acclaimed contemporary dancer Adele Myers, Music Department faculty Don Baldini and Jose Lezcano, and a dance trio of Theatre and Dance students Deirdre Lewis, Riley Ahern, and Amanda Jones. The event is free and open to the public. If you would like to attend the celebration, please RSVP to 603-358-2168 or boxoffice@keene.edu.

“I am thrilled to welcome Shannon Mayers to the Redfern, and Keene State College. The Redfern is clearly a leader in New Hampshire’s performing arts, and under her direction it will continue to grow even further,” said Dean of Arts and Humanities at Keene State College, Nona Fienberg. “This year’s performance lineup is incredible - it is truly has something for everyone. I look forward to celebrating thirty years of innovation and creativity at the Redfern with Shannon. There are many more successful years to come.” For more background on Mayers, visit the Keene State College announcement.

About Redfern Arts Center on Brickyard Pond
The Arts Center is named in honor of Dr. Leo F. Redfern, Keene State College (KSC) President from 1969 to 1979 for his vision, commitment, and eloquence on behalf of the arts that made funding and construction of the facility a reality. In 1981, KSC inaugurated this new performing arts center, with the goal of providing unforgettable artistic encounters for the campus and community. Since then, the Redfern stage has hosted hundreds of amazing shows, from internationally renowned artists to emerging young talents to KSC’s own student performers.

Over the years, the Redfern has expanded its outreach programs and community partnerships, becoming an indispensible resource for the Keene community and beyond. An exhibit celebrating the 30th anniversary is currently on display at the Redfern. The exhibit includes articles and photos of the ground breaking and construction of the Arts Center as well as posters and photographs of performances through the years by the Music, Theater and Dance, and Art departments. Visit www.keene.edu/racbp for more information on the season and to purchase tickets.

About Keene State College
Founded in 1909 as a two-year normal school to meet New Hampshire’s need for well-educated and effective teachers, Keene State College has evolved into one of the most predominant liberal arts colleges in the nation. With more than 40 programs of study, including a new nursing program, Keene State College prepares students to think critically, act creatively, and serve the greater good. Keene State College: Wisdom to make a difference.