La Rencontre brings culture, performing arts, language to the region

Gendron Franco Center, Thursday, March 10, 2022

LEWISTON–Diverse cultures, performing arts, and languages come together at the Gendron Franco Center during La Rencontre (the gathering) starting at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 10. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets will not be sold at the door and must be purchased by noon on Monday, March 7. Purchase online at www.francocenter.org or by phone at 207-689-2000.

Traditionally, in Franco culture, big celebratory meals included live music provided by members of the family and their neighbors. Many families made sure their kids each learned to play an instrument in order to entertain at such gatherings — and so, accordingly, the Gendron Franco Center invites local musicians to provide live music for its guests.

The 11:30 a.m. lunch will consist of a traditional Irish meal of corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, dinner rolls, and dessert. After lunch, Present Company will provide the entertainment. Members of this trio are three Franco-American cousins from Lewiston: Lorna Jollymore, Diane Meservier, and Margaret Dix. They have been performing together in public as Present Company for almost 35 years. Their singing will be accompanied by Jollymore on the keyboards.

The ticket price of $15 includes meal and entertainment. The Gendron Franco Center is at 46 Cedar Street, Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot; handicap parking is located near the elevator entrance in Lincoln St. Alley.