AUBURN, ME – Maine State Music Theatre is back in Auburn this fall with tribute concerts devoted to recreating the music and energy of some of the most recognizable names in popular music.

Presented at the state-of-the-art Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center at Edward Little High School and with tickets starting at just $25, the concerts offer an affordable way to enjoy an afternoon or early evening of live entertainment close to home.

Taking the stage on Saturday, September 12 at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 13 at 2:30 p.m. will be Frontiers|The World’s Number One Tribute to Journey, turning the focus to one of arena rock’s most familiar catalogs.

Journey dominated radio and record collections with soaring vocals, memorable guitar riffs and songs seemingly designed to be sung by thousands of people at once. The concert features music including “Open Arms,” “Faithfully”, “Separate Ways,”” Wheel in the Sky,” and the song that has taken on a cultural life all its own, “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

Experience Queen with Jesse Agan, celebrating a band whose music was as theatrical as it was musically ambitious, will rock the stage on Saturday, September 26 at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 27 at 2:30 p.m.

Queen moved effortlessly from rock to pop to operatic spectacle, creating songs that remain instantly recognizable decades after they were first recorded. Audiences can expect favorites including “Killer Queen,” “Somebody to Love,” “We Will Rock You,” “We Are the Champions,” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.” It is music built for a live audience, particularly when an entire theater joins in on the songs everyone knows by heart.

These concerts continue Maine State Music Theatre’s presence in Auburn beyond its summer musical theatre season in Brunswick, giving Lewiston-Auburn area audiences another opportunity to experience MSMT programming closer to home.

From the piano-driven pop of Elton John to Journey’s arena-rock anthems and Queen’s larger-than-life sound, the series spans decades of music while sharing one common ingredient: songs people still love to sing along with.

Tickets start at $25. For tickets, subscriptions and additional information, visit msmt.org.

AUBURN, ME – The L/A Community Little Theatre (CLT) has announced that its 87th season will open in October with the acclaimed Kander and Ebb musical “Cabaret.”

This innovative musical explores the decadence of Berlin during the Weimar Republic amid the rising threat of Nazism. Set in a seedy cabaret called the Kit Kat Klub in 1929–30, the show tells the story of two doomed romances set against the emergence of antisemitism and fascism in Germany. Winner of eight Tony Awards during its original run, “Cabaret” has been revived on Broadway during every decade since the 1970s. Musical numbers include “Willkommen,” “Cabaret,” “Don’t Tell Mama” and “Two Ladies.” Brandon Chaloux directs “Cabaret,” which will run October 16-25.

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” an award-winning adaptation of the best-selling novel, is a rich exploration of the touching and bleakly humorous tale of 15-year-old Christopher, his neighbor’s dog, and how best to venture into the adult world. When Christopher is falsely accused of killing the dog, he sets off to uncover the truth, leading to a ground-breaking discovery and a life changing journey. Directed by Lindsay Higgins, this show will run February 19-28, 2027.

An unjustly exiled barber returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge who framed him. “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” is an award-winning stage musical widely regarded as the masterwork of Stephen Sondheim, who crafted its music and lyrics. Incorporating elements of melodrama, romance, and social commentary, the operatic thriller marries black humor with macabre imagery to explore themes of obsession and revenge. Aaron Skolfield and Brandon Chaloux will co-direct “Sweeney Todd,” which will run April 16-25, 2027.

The June production at CLT will be announced with a “special reveal” to be held later this fall. Sophia Wood will direct this show which will take the stage June 18-27, 2027.

CLT will end its 87th season with the Tony and Academy Award winning musical “The Sound of Music.” This timeless and inspirational tale follows an ebullient postulate named Maria who serves as governess to the seven children of the imperious Captain von Trapp, bringing music and joy to the household. But as the forces of Nazism take hold of Austria, Maria and the entire von Trapp family must make a courageous decision. Paul G. Caron will direct “The Sound of Music,” which will run August 13-22, 2027.

All productions will be held at CLT on 30 Academy Street in Auburn. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m. Tickets to “Cabaret” are now available online at www.laclt.com.

Season subscriptions are also available online. Subscribers to CLT’s new season can enjoy savings of 20 percent, priority seating, one free flex pass, and free ticket exchange. For more information, contact the box office at boxoffice@laclt.com or leave a message at 783-0958.

L/A Community Little Theatre is a volunteer, non-profit organization that has produced live theatre since 1940. It strives to provide affordable and quality entertainment in the performing arts as well as education, training, and experience in theatre for area youth.

AUBURN, ME – Central Maine Community College kicked off the new academic year by celebrating championship achievements, welcoming a new class of student-athletes, and recognizing the coaches and staff who have helped build one of the region’s most successful small-college athletics programs.

Maine Senator Bruce Bickford, representing Senate District 20, and Representative Laurel Libby, representing House District 90, joined the CMCC community to formally recognize the Mustangs men’s soccer team with a Legislative Sentiment honoring their second consecutive USCAA Division II National Championship. The recognition provided an opportunity for state officials to honor the team on campus after the Mustangs were unable to travel to the State House for recognition last semester.

“It was great to see these student-athletes and a pleasure to present them with this well-deserved honor. Winning back-to-back national championships is an incredible accomplishment, and they have made CMCC and our entire community proud,” Bickford said.

“I’m honored to have CMCC and the Mustangs in my district, and proud to represent you in Augusta. Congratulations to the men’s soccer team on their national championship and continued athletic achievement! This recognition is well deserved, and I look forward to our next national championship,” Libby said.

The men’s soccer team completed an undefeated 2025 season with a 16-0-3 record, defeating Cincinnati-Clermont 2-0 in the national championship game in Pittsburgh. The victory gave the Mustangs back-to-back national titles under Head Coach Dalton Wing.

Members and coaches of CMCC’s 2025-26 women’s basketball team were also honored during the event, receiving their national championship rings. The Mustangs captured the 2026 USCAA Division II National Championship with a decisive 74-46 victory over Miami-Hamilton, finishing the season 29-1 under head coach Andrew Morong. The championship was the fourth national title in program history.

New CMCC President Susan Rogers welcomed returning Mustangs and this year’s incoming student-athletes, encouraging them to build on CMCC’s strong tradition of achievement both in competition and in the classroom.

“Our student-athletes are among our highest performers, on and off the field,” Rogers said. “You are joining a prestigious tradition of champions, and I have every expectation that you will continue that tradition with heart, dedication, and mutual respect for your teammates and coaches.”

Rogers also recognized CMCC Athletics Director Dave Gonyea, the Athletics staff, and Mustang coaches for building programs that consistently compete at the highest levels while supporting student success in the classroom and beyond.

“The success of our teams does not happen by accident,” Rogers said. “Our coaches and Athletics staff put tremendous energy into developing these young men and women as students, athletes, teammates, and people. Their commitment is a big part of what makes CMCC Athletics so special.”

With two national championship teams celebrated on campus and a new group of student-athletes beginning their CMCC careers, the event marked an enthusiastic start to a new year of academic and athletic opportunity for the Mustangs.

“Thank you for becoming part of what makes the CMCC Athletics program such a special and valuable part of who we are,” Rogers told the student-athletes. “I wish you all the best of luck this academic year. Go Mustangs!”

AUBURN, ME – The Auburn Community Concert Band has announced that rehearsals for their Fall season will begin on Wednesday, September 9th. This is an ideal opportunity for former high school and college band musicians to again experience the enjoyment of making music and performing in front of large audiences. Currently, the Auburn band has a specific need for tuba and trumpet players.

New members must be able to read music, and have their own instruments. Band membership requires a commitment to the group’s weekly schedule of Wednesday evening rehearsals. Rehearsals take place every Wednesday from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the High Street Congregational Church, located between High and Pleasant Streets, in Auburn.

For the next couple of months, the band will be preparing for its annual holiday concert, which will take place on Wednesday, December 16th at the Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center located at Edward Little High School in Auburn.

Currently, the ACCB has 55 members, ranging in age from late-teens to early eighties. These members collectively represent a total of 15 central and western Maine towns. Before joining this organization, many of the group’s volunteer musicians had last played in a school or community band some 10 to 20 years ago, according to band director Milt Simon. “New members are often nervous when they first join, because of the lapse of time since they last practiced,” said Simon. He added that “most people regain their playing skills relatively quickly.”

New members should email their intentions to Auburncommunityband@gmail.com prior to attending their first rehearsal. Prospective members, who are unable to participate in any of the September rehearsals, will have a second opportunity to join the band during the group’s next “Open Membership Month”, happening in January.

The concert band is currently celebrating its 45th season. The organization was established by Simon back in 1981. Additional information regarding membership can be found on the band’s website at www.auburncommunityband.com.

AUBURN, ME – As summer winds down and students prepare to return to the classroom, the Auburn Police Department is reminding families, motorists, and community members to take extra care on the roads to help ensure a safe start to the school year.

STAY ALERT IN SCHOOL ZONES & NEIGHBORHOODS

With more children walking, biking, and waiting for buses, drivers are urged to slow down and stay alert – especially in residential neighborhoods and school zones. Take the time to look for children at intersections, crosswalks, medians, and curbs. Enter and exit driveways carefully, and watch for kids traveling to and from school during morning and afternoon hours.

Drivers should also reduce distractions inside their vehicles. Staying focused on the road – and never talking or texting while driving – helps keep everyone safer.

A COMMUNITY APPROACH TO SAFETY

As students head back to school, Auburn Police Chief Jason Moen says officers will be paying close attention to traffic and pedestrian activity in and around school zones.

“Back-to-school is an exciting time for students and families, and we want everyone to start the year safely,” said Moen. “Our officers will be out in school zones, but keeping kids safe is something we all share responsibility for. Slow down, put the phone away, watch for pedestrians, and always stop for school buses. A little extra patience and attention can make a big difference. When parents, students, motorists, and police all do their part, we create safer streets and help make sure everyone gets to school – and back home – safely.”

SAFETY TIPS FOR STUDENTS & FAMILIES

While riding the school bus:

Wait for the bus to stop completely before approaching.

Look for traffic before crossing the street.

Make sure you stay in the driver’s line of sight.

Follow all directions from crossing guards.

Always board and exit the bus at safe, designated locations.

When biking to/from school:

Always wear a helmet—every ride, every time.

Ride on the right, following traffic.

Stop at lights and stop signs.

Wear bright, visible clothing.

Know and follow the rules of the road.

For children walking to school:

Choose a safe route with trained crossing guards at each intersection. Consider your child’s age and maturity – young children can be unpredictable around traffic and may not be ready to walk alone. If your child is attending a new school, plan to walk the route with them during the first week to build confidence and ensure they know it well. Brightly?colored clothing helps children stay visible to drivers.

WORKING TOGETHER FOR A SAFE SCHOOL YEAR

The Auburn Police Department encourages parents, guardians, and all residents to make back?to?school safety a priority.

“Our goal is simple: we want every child in Auburn to start the school year safely and successfully,” added Moen. “That means slowing down, staying alert, and following school-zone speed limits. If we all give a little extra attention and patience, we can help make sure our students get where they’re going safely every day.”

AUBURN, ME – For nearly seven decades, Maine State Music Theatre (MSMT) in Brunswick has served as a cultural anchor in midcoast Maine, producing critically acclaimed stage shows, concerts, and over 90 educational and outreach events each year.

In an effort to spread the magic of the arts and live music to wider audiences, MSMT’s Auburn Concert Series is set for the beautiful Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center in late August and September. Norway Savings Bank is pleased to serve as the series sponsor for 2026.

“We are thrilled to have NSB associated with this series and Maine State Music Theatre,” said Curt Dale Clark, Artistic Director of MSMT. “The support is invaluable as we continue to grow MSMT’s reach past the summer and engage greater numbers of people.”

The Auburn Concert Series features tributes to legends of popular music and will be held on three weekends:

Yellow Brick Road — A Tribute to Elton John

Saturday, August 29, at 5 p.m., and Sunday, August 30, at 2:30 p.m.

Frontiers — The World’s Number One Tribute to Journey

Saturday, September 12, at 5 p.m., and Sunday, September 13, at 2:30 p.m.

Experience Queen with Jesse Agan

Saturday, September 26, at 5 p.m., and Sunday, September 27, at 2:30 p.m.

To learn more about the shows or purchase tickets, visit the MSMT’s Auburn Concert Series page at www.msmt.org/auburn-concert-series or call 207-725-8769.

LEWISTON, ME – Maine State Music Theatre (MSMT) and The Public Theatre have announced the cast of their upcoming co-production of Million Dollar Quartet, bringing four of rock ‘n’ roll’s biggest legends to the stage August 26 through September 13, 2026, at The Public Theatre in Lewiston.

Inspired by an extraordinary true story, Million Dollar Quartet takes audiences inside Sun Records in Memphis on December 4, 1956, when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins came together for an impromptu jam session that would become one of the most legendary nights in music history.

Maine native Scott Moreau leads the cast as Johnny Cash, a role he has performed extensively across North America. Moreau also serves as director and music director for the production, marking his 21st Million Dollar Quartet production. During the Lewiston engagement, Moreau is expected to reach another milestone: his 1,300th performance of the show.

Moreau previously starred as Johnny Cash in MSMT’s 2018 production of Million Dollar Quartet, which became an audience favorite and one of the company’s most requested return engagements.

Joining Moreau as the legendary quartet is Corey McKinney as Elvis Presley, Jeremy Sevelovitz as Carl Perkins, and Brady Wease as Jerry Lee Lewis. Each brings extensive Million Dollar Quartet experience to Lewiston, creating a cast Moreau describes as “the best of the best.”

“I have assembled an amazing cast of the best of the best of the quartet and some of my very dear friends that have been doing the show with me over the last few years,” Moreau said. “I could not be more excited to share this show and this amazing cast with you.”

McKinney comes to Maine directly from Paramount Theatre’s immersive production of Million Dollar Quartet at the Stolp Island Theatre in Aurora, Illinois, where he stars as Elvis Presley inside a custom-built recreation of Sun Records. He has previously worked with Moreau as a director and has extensive experience portraying Elvis in both Million Dollar Quartet and Heartbreak Hotel.

Wease arrives in Lewiston after starring as Jerry Lee Lewis in Theatre SilCo’s production of Million Dollar Quartet in Silverthorne, Colorado. An accomplished actor-musician and pianist, Wease has made Jerry Lee Lewis one of his signature roles, performing the part in productions at theatres across the country.

Sevelovitz, a multi-instrumentalist with more than 20 regional productions of Million Dollar Quartet to his credit, most recently portrayed Carl Perkins at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival at DeSales University. His extensive history with the musical also includes productions at Orlando Shakes, Lone Tree Arts Center, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, and other theatres nationwide.

Rounding out the company are Sam Little as Sam Phillips, Caroline Hanks as Dyanne, Clay Arthur as Brother Jay, and Brady Jacot as W.S. “Fluke” Holland.

Understudies include Nathan Roberts, Kasie Buono, Alex Burnette, and Silas Johnson.

Together, the company will bring the legendary Sun Records session to life through a score packed with some of the most recognizable songs in rock ‘n’ roll, including Blue Suede Shoes, Walk the Line, Great Balls of Fire, Fever, Hound Dog, and more.

This marks the second consecutive summer collaboration between Maine State Music Theatre and The Public Theatre following the sold-out success of The Irish and How They Got That Way in 2025. It also marks the first time Million Dollar Quartet will be performed on The Public Theatre stage.

The creative team includes Scenic Designer William James Mohney, Lighting Designer Courtney P. Smith, Sound Designer Shannon Slaton, and Costume Coordinator Debra Susi. Adam P. Blais serves as Production Stage Manager.

Million Dollar Quartet begins previews August 26, opens August 28, and runs through September 13, 2026, at The Public Theatre, 31 Maple Street in Lewiston.

Tickets are on sale now through both The Public Theatre and Maine State Music Theatre box offices. For more information, call 207.725.8769.

Left to right: Scott Moreau, Jeremy Sevelovitz, Brady Wease, Corey McKinney. Photo: MSMT

BANGOR, ME – Day’s Jewelers announced supporting the Flagg brothers last week for their inaugural Flagg Brothers Golf Classic, a tournament held in benefit of the Donovan Kurt Memorial Foundation.

The tournament brings together golfers and community members for a cause with deep personal roots. Donovan Kurt was a friend to the Flagg brothers, and the Foundation established in his memory works to support families facing a similar diagnosis, helping cover costs like meals and hotel stays during treatment. Donovan’s mother, Trisha, opened the tournament with remarks before the first tee shot.

Day’s fielded a foursome for the day, including President Joe Corey, Creative Director Brian Chick, Topsham Store and Territory Manager LT Sierra, and Topsham sales associate Stephanie Roderique. On-site, the team ran a bracelet booth introducing guests to the Gratitude Bracelet, a new piece designed by Dee Berkley and set with labradorite in gray, a color chosen to represent brain cancer awareness. Profts from every bracelet sold go directly to the Donovan Kurt Memorial Foundation.

“Day’s Jewelers has been part of our families story for a while now and we are grateful that we were able to join forces for a meaningful cause with proceeds benefiting the Donovan Kurt Memorial Foundation. We look forward to positively impacting and lessening some of the burden for families in Maine dealing with the pediatric cancer.” – The Flagg Family

“Supporting the Flagg brothers with this tournament means something to our whole team,” said Nikia Levesque-Meyer, VP of Marketing at Day’s Jewelers. “Donovan’s story is the kind that stays with you, and the Foundation’s work is the kind you want to stand behind for the long haul. The Gratitude Bracelet gives people a way to carry that support with them every day, not just on the day of the tournament.”

The tournament also featured the Ace’s Ace activation at hole 11, where the first golfer to record a hole-in-one would win a certified pre-owned Rolex, provided by Day’s Jewelers. No golfer claimed the prize this year. The closest attempt came from Ralph Flagg, father to the Flagg brothers.

The Gratitude Bracelet was originally produced in limited quantity for this year’s tournament. After the few remaining bracelets were released to the public on Tuesday, they sold out within just a few hours. Following the overwhelming response and continued interest, the Kurt family has agreed to extend production, and Day’s Jewelers will release an additional batch of Gratitude Bracelets next week. Stay tuned for availability.

PORTLAND, ME – The American Red Cross continues to urge donors of all blood types to act now and make an appointment to give blood or platelets amid the ongoing national blood crisis. Just three additional donors at every blood drive could help further stabilize the blood supply and ensure patients continue receiving lifesaving care.

Governor Janet Mills is calling on residents to help ensure patients can continue to receive the care they depend on. She underscored that maintaining a stable blood supply is essential for trauma care, cancer treatment, and everyday medical emergencies across the state.

“The American Red Cross and its network of volunteers and partners have always been there for Maine people in times of need,” said Governor Janet Mills. “With blood donations at a four-year low, Maine people can return the favor by rolling up their sleeves, giving blood, and helping save lives across our state and the country.”

Since issuing only the second blood crisis in Red Cross history in late July, thousands of generous donors have stepped up to help save lives. At the same time, the blood supply remains under severe pressure, just as many communities transition to back-to-school schedules and people enjoy final summer plans. When fewer donors are available to give, the impact on available lifesaving blood products can be significant — especially when the blood supply is already facing a four-year summer low.

Keep up the momentum and help reverse the blood crisis. Book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those who are unable to donate can still make an impact by encouraging eligible friends, family members and colleagues to give blood. As a thank-you, all who come to give?Aug. 1-31, 2026, will receive a?$20 Amazon Gift Card by email.?For details, visit?RedCrossBlood.org/August.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities

Androscoggin

Auburn

8/24/2026: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., East Auburn Baptist Church, 560 Park Ave

Livermore Falls

8/31/2026: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Livermore Falls Town Hall, 2 Main Street

LEWISTON, ME – Ten summers ago, Summer Fun & Films began with a simple idea: bring families together for a free outdoor movie and create an opportunity for neighbors to connect.

Today, that simple idea has grown into one of Lewiston’s largest free family traditions.

Summer Fun & Films is celebrating its 10th season in 2026, marking a decade of free movies, family entertainment, community partnerships and thousands of memories created for children and families throughout Lewiston.

Since launching in June 2016, Summer Fun & Films has scheduled 51 community events, with only one canceled because of rain. What began with fewer than 100 people at Marcotte Park has grown into five large community events each summer, with recent seasons welcoming approximately 6,000 people annually.

But founder and organizer Joseph Philippon says the program has never really been about movies.

“The movie is what gets everyone to the same place, but the community is what makes these nights special. For 10 years, people, businesses, schools, nonprofits and volunteers have chosen to invest in one another and create something for our kids that they can look forward to every summer.”

From a Pickup Truck to a Community Tradition

The first Summer Fun & Films event in 2016 was a modest operation.

Equipment was transported in a pickup truck. Tables, chairs and a generator were brought to the park, and a popcorn machine was borrowed from the Androscoggin Bank Colisée.

The inspiration came from an outdoor movie experience Philippon had witnessed where children were handed free popcorn. He was struck by how something so simple could create a positive interaction and bring people together.

That idea became the foundation for Summer Fun & Films: create welcoming spaces where families can have fun together regardless of their financial circumstances.

Over the next decade, the program steadily grew.

Today, Summer Fun & Films events feature inflatable attractions, DJs, performers, face painting, bubbles, animals, community organizations, food, giveaways and other activities before each movie. What was once a simple outdoor movie has evolved into what some families have described as a “Disney-like” experience in their own community.

And the events remain free.

“There are children in our community who may not get to visit a theme park or take a family vacation,” Philippon said. “But for one night, we can give them something that feels really special. Every child deserves those moments.”

Built by the Community

Summer Fun & Films has always relied on partnerships.

Lewiston Public Schools has become a major partner in the program, helping connect students and families with the events while creating opportunities for school staff and community organizations to remain connected with children throughout the summer.

Local nonprofits and service providers also participate, giving families an opportunity to connect with educational, recreational, health and social-service resources in an informal and welcoming environment.

Businesses, sponsors, volunteers, artists, entertainers and community organizations have contributed funding, equipment, food, staffing and countless hours of work over the past decade.

Partners and supporters over the years have included Lewiston Public Schools, the Lewiston Education Association, Walmart, Androscoggin Bank, Central Maine Federal Credit Union, Healthy Androscoggin, the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club of Lewiston-Auburn, John F. Murphy Homes, Valley Beverage, Community Credit Union, Bates College, local businesses, nonprofit organizations and dozens of volunteers and community partners.

The program is fiscally sponsored by the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

“I’ve never looked at this as my program,” Philippon said. “It’s a program built by the community, for the community. Every sponsor, volunteer, school employee, entertainer, nonprofit and family that shows up has helped build what Summer Fun & Films has become.”

More Than a Movie

As Summer Fun & Films enters its second decade, its purpose remains much the same as it was at that first event in 2016: create positive experiences, strengthen relationships and give families a place where everyone belongs.

For some families, Summer Fun & Films is one activity among many during the summer.

For others, it may be one of the few major family outings they are able to experience.

That is why keeping the program free has remained one of its defining commitments.

“Summer Fun & Films is proof that when a community genuinely chooses to invest in one another, something pretty magical can happen,” Philippon said. “Ten years later, I still believe something as simple as handing a child a bag of popcorn can be the beginning of a connection.”

By the Numbers

– 10 seasons serving Lewiston families

– 51 community events scheduled since 2016

– Only one rain cancellation in 10 years

– Five free community events each summer

– Fewer than 100 attendees at the first event in 2016

– Approximately 1,200 attendees per event in recent seasons

– Approximately 6,000 visits each summer

– Thousands of children and families reached during the program’s first decade