Actress Gwendolyn Quezaire-Presulti is a living history artist who brings the stories of African Americans to life. In its Winter Performing Arts Series, the Center for the Arts is showcasing Gwendolyn as she portrays the true story of Harriet Tubman, at 2 p.m. at Whipple Hall, 25 Seamans Road in New London, on Jan. 13. I Can’t Die But Once tells the story of Harriet Tubman, a woman of unique qualities and abilities who even though illiterate, maintained an unblemished record of vigilance, legacy of sacrifice and struggle. Gwendolyn, as Harriet Tubman weaves a tale of truth, pain, courage and determination that take the audience into her life – enslaved – eventual escape and the United States Government soliciting her unique talent – evading capture behind enemy lines. She was enlisted as a scout and spy for the Union cause, and she battled courageously behind enemy lines during the Civil War. The elementary school version may be more palatable, but the real Tubman is far more inspiring. Lisa Marcinkowski, director of education at Mystic Seaport, Conn., enthusiastically stated, “In my museum career, I have seen numerous historical character presentations and I rank her among the best. Not only is her performance compelling, it reflects a tremendous amount of the primary source research necessary to be historically accurate.” This program is appropriate for all ages and one you will not want to miss. Tickets can be purchased at Morgan Hill Bookstore or Tatewell Galleries in New London, or at CenterForTheArtsNH.org. This program is the first of a series of four to be presented this winter.
The Massabesic Audubon Center would like to invite its friends and neighbors to its 20th Anniversary celebration Jan. 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. There will be crafts and refreshments all day and live animals will be on display from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free snowshoe rental, snowman building, a nature scavenger hunt and many other activities will be available. Two programs are also scheduled, “Winter ID of Trees” and “Nature Trail Cams,” at an additional cost.