FOR THE FAMILY: The Bank of America Skating Center offers unique family fun throughout the winter season. The BoA Skating Center is located in the heart of downtown Providence, nestled between Kennedy Plaza, Burnside Park and the iconic Biltmore Hotel. General admission is $6 for adults and $3 for seniors and children (under 12) and $2 admission for school groups. Skate rental is $4. The rink is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. More info at http://www.kennedyplaza.org/skating-information/
FREE FUN: Warwick boasts a series of light displaysthis year, but the one not to be missed is that assembled by long-time resident, Frank Picozzi. Picozzi works year-round on his display, which he has been constructing for several years. His dazzling lights dance in time to music, which can be heard on car radios or by pedestrians standing outside his Warwick home.The display lights up nightly at 75 Gristmill Road in Warwick, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 5:30 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Also, the Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket will be offering a free screening of “The Polar Express” on Friday night at 7 p.m. For more information visit www.stadiumtheatre.com.
FESTIVE ACTIVITIES: Hop aboard the Polar Express, right here in the Blackstone Valley! From $40-45, children and their parents will enjoy a ninety minute train ride while sipping hot chocolate and chatting with Mr. and Mrs. Claus and the Conductor. Plus, each child will receive a special gift from Santa! Tickets and more info at http://www.blackstonevalleypolarexpress.com.
PROFESSIONAL/ SEMI PRO THEATER:“The How and the Why” continues at Trinity Repertory’s Dowling Theater (note: “A Christmas Carol has sold out through Dec. 29 and “Winter Wonderettes” and“SantaLand Diaries” continue at Ocean State Theatre Company in Warwick through Dec. 30.
OFF BEAT: AS220 will host its first holiday benefit show at the black box on Empire Street in Providence. Called “The Coincidental Hour Christmas Magic Special,” the event will feature performances from AS220 and 95 Empire favorites. The event is $10 and starts at 8 p.m. on Sunday. More information at www.as220.org.
Kim Kalunian
An award-winning journalist and theater critic, and a performer at heart. Kim’s talents have taken her from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NY, to stages in Boston and Providence’s own Trinity Repertory.
