Since 1968, the RFA has sponsored a Summer Concert Series including artists ranging from classical to country, Broadway to bluegrass.

 In 1975, we expanded the program to include sponsoring performances by various artists for the youth of our community.  In 1985, this program was expanded to a full school series of several performances.  RFA works closely with the school administration arranging workshops and seminars by talented artists and performers.

 The first local musical production was performed in 1976, a condensed version of a popular Broadway musical.  Since then RFA has produced many full length musicals.  RFA considers this effort one of the most important, as it involves the entire community in the arts in the most direct way; as performers and production staff. 

 The RFA initiated the Student Lesson Program in 1980, assisting local students with the cost of private instruction in the arts.  This program is available to all students taking violin, piano, wind instruments, ballet, tap and modern dance lessons.  In 1988, RFA offered its first scholarship to a graduating senior from Rangeley Lakes Regional School who was continuing an education in the arts.  RFA is offering a week long Drama Camp for students again this summer and the Rangeley Community Chorus will present two concerts this summer.

 As RFA continues to grow and nurture the appreciation of the arts in the region, it has become very apparent that there is a great need for a facility that will enable these programs to expand and grow.  The desire is a comfortable “meeting house”/auditorium for RFA programs and other community uses.  The RFA’s long-term goal is to create classroom and studio spaces for learning, creating and displaying all the arts including but not limited to visual, creative, movement, instrumental, vocal and performing.  A 2.7 acre lot has been acquired which abuts the school property.  With the help of our longtime supporters, the RFA hopes to make this facility a reality in the next few years.

 Donations to the RFA are tax deductible and greatly appreciated.  If you wish to direct your donation to the building fund, please indicate this in the memo of your check.  Thank you and enjoy this and all the performances listed in the schedule of events.

 www.rangeleyarts.com

PO Box 333, Rangeley, ME 04970 

 In 2003, some brave souls joined together to start the Rangeley Region Men’s Chorus.  They rehearsed a few times starting after Thanksgiving and performed at the annual “Walk to Bethlehem” a couple of weeks later.  The group was very well received.  At the 2004 “Walk” they were introduced as the “Word Famous …..” because one of the Rangeley residents had extolled about them during a trip to China. 

 Participation in the “Walk to Bethlehem” has continued each year since and will continue this year on December 13, 2009.

 Rehearsals will start after Thanksgiving in the early evening (6:30 – 8:00) and be held at the Rangeley Congregational Church – United Church of Christ.  The current plan is for rehearsals to be on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.  It’s just a short commitment of time so please plan on singing with the group.

 Les Hoekstra is compiling a list of men so sufficient music can be ordered for the first rehearsal.  Neither experience nor music reading skills are necessary – just a joy of singing.  Those who have sung call it a most enjoyable and rewarding experience.  Let this fall be the year you joined the Rangeley Region Men’s Chorus.  Call Les at 864-2963 or email him les.hoekstra1@myfairpoint.net.  Jeff Ellinwood is the director and he can best be reached by email:  jellinwd@localnet.com.