Kelly’s Paradise Picks for 2016

Faribault is so lucky to have the Paradise Center for the Arts in our beautiful historic downtown! They offer classes, galleries, have a lovely shop, host plays, comedians and music performances. With so many amazing programs at the Paradise Center for the Arts, I just can't fit them all into my schedule, but I always make room for as many as I can. Here are my top choices for the year! Check them out, and then check out the Paradise Center for the Arts for yourself!

• Pints and Vines on February 27. I wasn't able to attend this year, but this event is a fun evening filled with wine and beer tasting, tasty food, and live music. Plus you could win a wall of wine or a wall of beer.
• The Crown Jewels A Tribute to Queen on March 5. Freddie Mercury and Queen are legendary, and the Crown Jewels is known for their outstanding replication of  the rock group.
• The Odd Couple March 11-19. Are you neat and tidy, or a bit of a mess? Either way, you'll be laughing at the Paradise Community Theater's production of the Neil Simon classic.
• Comedian Scott Novotny on April 15. It's been said that laughter is the best medicine, so grab a ticket to this stand-up comedy show laugh away the evening.
• Big Hats Big Hearts Kentucky Derby Party on May 7. Last year was my first time attending the annual event, but the racing, the auction, the huge hats and the fun have me planning to attend again!
• Church of Cash on July 15. Singing songs from Johnny Cash's catalog, Church of Cash is said to be a do-not-miss show for fans of the Man in Black.
• Tonic Sol-Fa on July 22. Bringing a capella music to the Paradise, this trio is known for outstanding shows.
• The Little Mermaid July 29-August 6. Based on the Disney film, the Paradise Community Theater adapts the tale of a young mermaid to a play that the whole family will enjoy.
•  Blue Collar BBQ and Arts Festival on August 13. One of the best events of the summer, this festival is a full day of music, food, and an art festival. Mark your calendar for this block party.
•  A Tribute to "The Boss," Bruce Springsteen. Classic rock fans won't want to miss this performance.
• The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe October 28-November 6. The Paradise Community Theater travels to Narnia to bring you this stage version of the C.S. Lewis classic.
• Wine, Women, and Comedy on November 12. A night out on the town with your gal pals is even better with a few laughs. Join comedian Maxine Jeffris for an evening of fun.

These are listed in chronological order, and this is just a small selection of the programs scheduled for the year. For this list I chose to focus on events, but the Paradise is also home to wonderful gallery exhibits and classes.