WATERFORD, CT — Waterford's own weekend calendar is a quiet one this stretch, but the town sits close enough to New London's museums and stages that a short drive turns Thursday through Sunday into a full arts weekend. Between a brand-new exhibition on New London's whaling-era portrait painters, an illusionist billed as "America's Rock Illusionist" and a last chance to catch a Connecticut College-curated show before it closes, there is plenty worth the trip. Here is what is on.
Magic Rocks: Illusionist Leon Etienne — Saturday, Sept. 26 at 8 p.m. Billed as "America's Rock Illusionist," Leon Etienne — a veteran of "America's Got Talent" and "Penn & Teller: Fool Us" — brings sleight-of-hand, grand illusions and comedy to the Garde's main stage in a family-friendly show. Venue: Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London.
Felicia Rose — Sunday, Sept. 27 at 2 p.m. Presented by Mezza Stage + Studio in the Garde's intimate Oasis Room, singer-songwriter Felicia Rose performs an afternoon of meditative, devotional and electronic world music alongside percussionists Tam Zezulka and Kevin Gallagher II. Venue: Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London.
Prefer to stay closer to home for a movie night? Regal Waterford, right in town at 123 Cross Rd, keeps its lineup current week to week — check its listings directly for what's playing this weekend.
Between a whaling-history exhibit just settling in, a Connecticut College show taking its final bow and a magician who's fooled Penn & Teller on national TV, this is a weekend where a quick drive into New London pays off. Round up the family and go see it before America's 250 closes for good.