Franco Center

River Comics bringing A Better Trip to Franco Center April 5
2023-04-05 18:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | ME
A Better Trip w/ Shane Mauss & Myq Kaplan

Comedy + Science + Psychedelics = A Better Trip LIVE w/ Shane Mauss featuring special guest Myq Kaplan
Be one of the select few audiences to get a sneak peek at a new Vegas show!
In 2016, science podcaster, mental health advocate, and award-winning stand-up comedian Shane Mauss (Conan, Kimmel, Comedy Central, Amazon Prime, Showtime) partnered with MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies) and embarked on an epic, sold-out 111-city psychedelic comedy tour ‘A Good Trip.’ Along the way, a film crew followed him, making the documentary ‘Psychonautics: A Comic’s Exploration of Psychedelics’.
That tour was the inspiration for the animated series Comedy Central’s ‘Tale From the Trip’ where Shane is the most regular and most viewed storyteller.
Now Shane brings his latest work ‘A Better Trip’ to AREA15 in Las Vegas for a residency starting April 23.
In preparation, Shane is doing 10 pop-up one-night-only warm-up shows announced as a last-minute surprise and ​Lewiston is one of the 10 cities!!
As a bonus surprise, select cities will feature special guest opener Myq Kaplan – one of Shane’s oldest comedy friends and trip buddies. And, you guessed it, Lewiston is also one of those cities!
You may know Myq from his numerous TV appearances (Conan, Letterman, Comedy Central …), or his one hour Amazon standup special “Small, Dork, and Handsome” or his two podcasts The Faucet and Broccoli & Ice Cream.
$20 general admission plus ticket fees
TICKETS HERE
FAQ’s About The Show …
Q: Is prior experience with psychedelics necessary to enjoy the show?
A: No experience necessary! You don’t need to try psychedelics to enjoy the music and art that’s inspired by them.

Q: Will you be on drugs while performing?
A: No. Who does psychedelics and then goes to work? What a waste of good drugs.

Q: Are you going to pass out psychedelics to everybody?
A: Umm NO. Obviously. But if you come and support this kind of message, meet like-minded people at the show, and help keep the conversation going; maybe one day these outrageous drug laws will change.
Doors at 6pm. Cash bar available.
Show at 7pm.

Silver Circus coming April 8 to Franco Center
2023-04-08 14:00 - 15:00
LEWISTON—The family-friendly Silver Circus is coming to the Franco Center stage as part of its Riverfront Series at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8, 2023. This one-person circus show led by Andrew Silver will feature spectacular magic, juggling, physical comedy, and audience participation.
Silver’s shows are memorable, not only for the display of his expertise, art, and dexterity, but also for the thematic, story-telling components in every performance. Through his storytelling, he invites the audience to think about what mental and physical habits lead to success and how to deal with failures and challenges in a healthy and positive way.
Tickets in advance are $15 for adults and $10 for children and can be purchased by phone at 207-689-2000, online at francocenter.org/shows or in person when the box office is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tickets at the door on day of show are $20 for adults and $15 for children.
Doors open an hour before the show. The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot. Handicap access to the building is on the Lincoln St. Alley side of the building.
TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE
Thank you to our show sponsor Emerson Chevrolet!

Don Campbell Band Dance Party April 15
2023-04-15 19:00 - 21:00
Join fans and friends for the highly versatile, energetic Don Campbell Band concert on stage in the Franco Center’s Heritage Hall. The concert and dancing start at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 15.
“This is a band that dares to venture down many musical pathways from Don’s own original creations to the music of The Smithereens, Steve Miller, The Eagles, John Cougar Mellencamp, Bruce Hornsby, AC/DC, and Van Halen,” said publicist Kristen DeQuattro.
Joining the Don Campbell Band at the Franco Center is Andrea Timm, a Portland, Maine native. “Andrea is an accomplished artist and musician. Her playing is solid, to the point, and well rehearsed,” said DeQuattro. “Her kindness, smile, and dedication to her family, friends, and craft are all authentic.
“There’s never a dull moment with their presentations so whether you’re ready to dance or just get out with friends, the Don Campbell Band and their high-energy show will be your soundtrack for a good time,” said DeQuattro. “Don’s shows are acclaimed by audiences, critics, and music lovers alike for their ability to execute spot-on engaging performances.”
Doors and cash bar open an hour before the show. Support for this concert comes from Maine Community Bank, Maple Way Dental Care, Bennett Radio Group, Sun Journal, Turner Publishing, and Uncle Andy’s Digest.
Tickets prices range from $15 to $35 and can be purchased online at www.francocenter.org or by phone at 207-689-2000. Tickets can also be purchased in person at our box office between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
The concert will take place in the former St. Mary’s Church, 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot. The building is handicap accessible on the Lincoln St. Alley side.
Combine all of these elements and you get a band that performs “for” the audience, not “at” the audience. A high-caliber, well-rehearsed group who will leave you wanting more when their performance has ended.
46 Cedar Street, Lewiston.
Box office 207-689-2000.
Tier 1 seats are closer to the stage.
Advance – Tier 1 – $30
Tier 2 – $15
Door – Tier 1 – $35
Tier 2 – $20
GET TICKETS HERE
Thank you to our show sponsor Maine Community Bank!

The Court Jesters on stage as part of Cabaret Series April 20
2023-04-20 19:00 - 21:00
The Court Jesters to play at the Franco Center’s Cabaret Night April 20
LEWISTON—
The Court Jesters will perform as part of the Franco Center’s Cabaret Night Series at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 20. The band is made up of two voices, one guitarist, and one tambourine player: John Hasnip and Tina Charest. Hasnip plays guitar, Charest plays tambourine, and both sing.
They perform all over the state of Maine and play a diverse array of original music and cover songs which have included, “Squeeze Box” by The Who, “Hotel California” by The Eagles, “8 Days a Week” by The Beatles, “Cecilia” by Simon & Garfunkel, “Stray Cat Strut” by Stray Cats, “Fat Bottomed Girls” by Queen, and “X’s and O’s” by Elle King.
Shortly after Hasnip moved from England to Maine, he had an opportunity to host open mic nights on a weekly basis, meeting new friends in a strange country. It was in this circle that he met Charest, a Franco-American girl born and raised in New England who “loved to sing more than anything.” Together, with Hasnip’s passion-fueled guitar, Charest’s strong tambourine and their shared love of vocal harmonies, duo magic was created, according to their press release.
Hasnip’s musical influences are Elvis Costello, The Beatles, and Colin Hay; while Charest’s are Linda Ronstadt, Anne Murray, and Karen Carpenter. Together, Hasnip and Charest make up The Court Jesters, bringing you a mix of genres from their diverse backgrounds, and possibly a shenanigan or two. Their gigs are never the same, with energy and shared laughter filling the evening. Cover tunes are blended with their own special style, and their originals are as heartfelt and genuine as they are.
Support for this concert comes from CMP/Avangrid, Roopers, Maple Way Dental Care, Bennett Radio Group, Sun Journal, Turner Publishing, and Uncle Andy’s Digest, according to Franco Center staff.
Doors open an hour before the show. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door day of show and can be purchased online at www.francocenter.org or by phone at 207-689-2000. Tickets can also be purchased in person at our box office between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot. The building is handicap accessible on the Lincoln St. Alley side.
TICKETS HERE
Thank you to our show sponsor Roopers and CMP/Avangrid!

Maine’s Got Talent at the Franco Center April 22
2023-04-22 18:00 - 22:00
Eight incredible musical acts compete for cash prizes in this dynamic live competition and 9th annual fundraiser, featuring three celebrity judges, glitz, glam, laughs and a whole lot of music.
Pre-show reception 6pm – Live music, cash bar, hor d’oeuvres
Show 7pm – Live performances
All proceeds benefit Sandcastle Clinical & Educational Services and LA Hearing Center
TICKETS
Maine’s Got Talent is a dynamic musical competition featuring 8 performing artists competing for cash prizes. 50% of the vote comes from the audience and the other 50% from celebrity judges: Tom Doucette, former MGT performer; Joe Philippon, Lewiston Police Dept.; Celeste, WBLM’s Morning Show. The host for the evening is Molly McGill.
The Maine’s Got Talent fundraising event, is open to all performing artists who live or work in Maine, including out-of-state students attending Maine schools. Cash prizes are awarded to the top three acts the night of the event. The prizes are as follows: First Place: $750.00, Second Place: $500.00, Third Place: $250.00. All proceeds from Maine’s Got Talent benefit Sandcastle Clinical & Educational Services and LA Hearing Center.
This Year’s Performers are:
Anna Van
Ashley Gurney
Emily and the Zealous
Holly McCauley
Jessi and the Cruisers
Kitty and JT
Mahogany Walton
Unique Unknown
Visit Sandcastle at this LINK

Bob Marley returning to Franco Center April 23, 2023
2023-04-23 17:00 - 21:30
Bob Marley is bringing his comedy to the Franco Center on Sunday, April 23, 2023 with TWO SHOWS: 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Doors open an hour early and a cash bar will be available.
Marley has been on the comedy circuit for more than 15 years and has been featured in his own special on Comedy Central. He is one of the few comics to do the complete late-night television circuit: Late Show with David Letterman, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, and The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn.
The Maine native is featured regularly on Sirius XM radio and has won their Superbowl of Comedy award. He has more than 20 comedy CDs and DVDs.
Marley was inducted into The Guinness Book of World’s Records for “the longest stand up comedy show by an individual” at 40 hours of straight standup.
He’s appeared on more than 100 TV shows and costarred in Boondock Saints I and II and All Saints Day, playing Detective Greenly. He has toured the U.S., Europe, Canada, Kuwait and Iraq.
Tickets are available at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?ticketing=franc. Tickets are $37.50 plus fees ($44). Season and media sponsors include Maple Way Dental Care, Bennett Radio Group, Sun Journal, Turner Publishing, and Uncle Andy’s Digest.
Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot. The building is handicap accessible on the Lincoln St. Alley side.

Pihcintu Multinational Chorus to perform April 29 at Franco Center in free concert
2023-04-29 18:00 - 20:30
LEWISTON – The inspiring sounds of the renowned Pihcintu Multinational Chorus will be heard in the acoustically superb performance space at the Franco Center at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 29. The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are still required.
This international choral group brings together refugee and immigrant children from around the world to share their music and stories of their homelands and the experience of being a refugee in Maine.
“Sharing music and stories is a common thread among immigrants and this includes the French Canadian immigrants and their Franco American descendants in Lewiston’s Little Canada,” said Denise Scammon, marketing director at the Franco Center. “Music and song was one tradition that kept the Franco American community together.” Local Franco Americans are known to have had many social clubs and church choirs in which they were united by their language and culture and children were expected to sing or play an instrument.
Since its inception in 2006, the Pihcintu chorus has performed over 300,000 live and hundreds of millions via broadcast and internet media including the Today Show, National Public Radio, Voice of America, Al Jazeera, Univision, UN TV and You Tube. They have appeared at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington DC; The National Cathedral, Washington, DC; and the United Nations, New York, New York; to name but a few of the venues. Over the course of time over 300 girls representing 40 countries have passed through the chorus with 100 percent high school graduation and 85 percent post-secondary education.
The chorus was founded and is directed by Con Fullam, award-winning producer, musician, songwriter, and Maine native, who combined his passion for music with a deep concern for the effect of world issues on children. Fullam is interested in giving Lewiston- and Auburn-area youth the opportunity to hear these stories and discover a human connection with the experiences of these young refugees.
War-torn villages, bloodshed, refugee camps, famine and political turmoil were devastating realities for many of these young singers before being embraced by the warmth, companionship and harmony that Pihcintu provides.
The power of survival eases but never erases the memory of unthinkable atrocities, physical danger and personal tragedy. Portland, Maine, an ever-expanding international resettlement community, was fertile ground to bring together children from diverse backgrounds to sing as one.
This unique chorus of young women from Cambodia, China, Congo, El Salvador, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, Viet Nam, British West Indies, and Zambia, along with children whose families have been here for generations, have formed a powerful and permanent bond.
GET FREE TICKETS HERE
Call the box office for free tickets at 207-689-2000 or order them online at www.francocenter.org/shows. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar Street, Lewiston. Its building is the former St. Mary’s Church, built in 1907 for French Canadian immigrants.

Maine Music Society’s Broadway Meets Hollywood concert
2023-05-13 19:30 - 21:30
Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 14, 2023 at 3:00 pm
This Maine Music Society Pops Concert will be a collection of music from movie musicals. Join MMS as they take you through decades of music theater and celebrate a true American art form. This concert will be filled with memories and promises something for everyone!
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Maine Music Society’s Sunday concert: Broadway Meets Hollywood
2023-05-14 15:00 - 17:00
Sunday, May 14, 2023 at 3:00 pm
This Maine Music Society Pops Concert will be a collection of music from movie musicals. Join MMS as they take you through decades of music theater and celebrate a true American art form. This concert will be filled with memories and promises something for everyone!
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Midcoast Symphony Orchestra concert May 20
2023-05-20 18:00 - 21:00
French Impressions

Hiroya Miura, Guest Conductor
Program:
Lili Boulanger: D’un matin de printemps
Jean-Philippe Rameau: Les Indes Galantes, Suite No. 1
Maurice Ravel: La Valse
Modest Mussorgsky/orch. Maurice Ravel: Pictures at Exhibition

Performance Dates:
Saturday, May 20, 2023 – 7:00 p.m. – Riverfront-Franco Center

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

The Dance Center Student Recitals
2023-06-02 18:00 - 21:00
Recital Information:
The Dance Center’s Recital will be held at The Franco Center in Lewiston.
Friday, June 2nd, 2023 & Sunday, June 3rd, 2023
Tickets will go on sale Wednesday, May 3rd. Children 2 and under sitting on the lap will be free.
Tickets for children (3 and up ), students, adults, and seniors will be $16, no tiered pricing. As well as a $3 convenience fee to cover the cost of The Franco’s Restoration Fee and the Ticketing Software Fees.
For handicap seating please call, 207-346-7738
First time at The Franco Center? Watch this Instructional Video so you can easily know where to go!
The Dance Center 2023 Student Performance
SHOW # 1 Friday June 2, 2023 6:00 pm
Ticket Link Show 1
SHOW # 2 Saturday June 3, 2023 10:00 am
Ticket Link Show 2
SHOW # 3 Saturday June 3, 2023 3:00 pm
Ticket Link Show 3
All Dress Rehearsals and Performances will be held at the The Franco Center,
46 Cedar Street, Lewiston
For more information, visit The Dance Center’s website at: Welcome to The Dance Center – The Dance Center (thedancecenterla.com)

The Dance Center Student Recitals Day Two June 3
2023-06-03 10:00 - 21:00
Recital Information:
The Dance Center’s Recital will be held at The Franco Center in Lewiston.
Friday, June 2nd, 2023 & Sunday, June 3rd, 2023
Tickets will go on sale Wednesday, May 3rd. Children 2 and under sitting on the lap will be free.
Tickets for children (3 and up ), students, adults, and seniors will be $16, no tiered pricing. As well as a $3 convenience fee to cover the cost of The Franco’s Restoration Fee and the Ticketing Software Fees.
For handicap seating please call, 207-346-7738
First time at The Franco Center? Watch this Instructional Video so you can easily know where to go!
The Dance Center 2023 Student Performance
SHOW # 2 Saturday June 3, 2023 10:00 am
Ticket Link Show 2
SHOW # 3 Saturday June 3, 2023 3:00 pm
Ticket Link Show 3
All Dress Rehearsals and Performances will be held at the The Franco Center,
46 Cedar Street, Lewiston
For more information, visit The Dance Center’s website at: Welcome to The Dance Center – The Dance Center (thedancecenterla.com)

Midcoast Symphony Orchestra concert with Motor Booty June 10
2023-06-10 18:00 - 21:00
Classical Night Fever

MSO will team up with Motor Booty Affair, Maine’s own 70s disco/funk tribute band. You’ll leave this show with a big smile on your face and a new appreciation for this great era of popular music, where dance music and the symphony collide to create something special.
These special concerts are not part of MSO’s 2022-23 Classical Season.

Performance Dates:
Saturday, June 10 2023 – 7:00 p.m. – Riverfront-Franco Center
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

La Rencontre to feature Denny Breau in noon time concert June 22
2023-06-22 10:00 - 13:00
Denny Breau will be the featured musical artist on Thursday, June 22 as part of the La Rencontre series at the Franco Center. Doors open at 10 a..m. with an 11:30 a.m. lunch followed by entertainment. Lunch will be announced when the information is available. Tickets are $15 each and must be purchased on the Monday prior to the event so that all meals can be prepared as needed. Call 207-689-2000 for tickets or stop in to our box office from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
TICKETS ONLINE HERE
The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar Street in Lewiston. Parking is in the mill lot. Handicap parking is near the elevator on the alley side of the building.
Sponsors are TV5Monde, Quebec Delegation Boston, and FACE Foundation. Thank you for your support!
More about Denny Breau:
Denny Breau – A Musician’s Musician
Denny Breau’s rhythmically flawless and dazzlingly clear style allows him to do amazing and stunning things with a six-string guitar. He first draws in an audience with a finely arranged melody and then slides effortlessly into scorching fingerwork that sets ears aflame. The lighting fast guitar lines that seem almost humanly impossible to accomplish are balanced with those that have a quiet intimacy and wrap tenderly around his carefully crafted songs. He mixes genres with ease — folk, Delta blues, country and jazz — “creating a totally accessible musical mélange that captivates as it entertains,” according to Lucky Clark writing for the Kennebec (Maine) Journal.
Guitarists in the audience often suspect that they have been left in the dust and regularly tell Denny that they might as well hang up their guitars! As Denny greets concert-goers and shakes hands following his performances, guitar players invariably ask how he performs certain techniques and Denny, who has a passion for teaching, is happy to show them. This is especially true when demonstrating the guitar style of Chet Atkins, who was a family friend and major influence. Shows usually include a “smartly executed Chet Atkins medley by Breau who truly does the late Atkins proud,” according to a review in Dirty Linen magazine.
It is not an exaggeration to say that Denny was born to the instrument on May 26, 1952. His parents, Hal Lone Pine and Betty Cody, were popular country performers and RCA recording artists beginning in the 1940s. His older brother, the late Lenny Breau, is considered a jazz guitar giant. A recent Dirty Linen review of Denny’s solo CD of “neighborly song portraits of weathered souls” said that “listening to Denny nimbly bend his acoustic steel strings…one can hear a jazz player’s elegant fluidity.”
Denny started playing guitar when he was 9 years old and was performing professionally by his early teens. During more than 30 years as a full-time musician, he has performed with many well-known artists and picked alongside outstanding guitarists including Bryan Sutton, Harvey Reid, J.P. Cormier, Pat Donohue, Dan Crary and Steve Kaufman. He has long been in demand as a studio musician and has done jingles and sound tracks for radio and television as well as recorded and produced albums for other artists. Denny was a member of roots music trio Turkey Hollow with Tom Rowe and Tom’s son Dave starting in 1998. Since Tom’s death in early 2004, Denny and Dave have continued to perform as Turkey Hollow on a limited bases. Denny was inducted into the Maine Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004, the youngest inductee in the history of the organization.
In addition to an active solo career, Denny gives private guitar lessons and teaches music clinics. He also fronts the Denny Breau Trio. Both in solo and trio performances, musical boundaries disappear as Denny takes his music to wherever the joy and spirit of the moment leads him.
Denny is a triple threat: a consummate picker, evocative songwriter, and a singer with a ” voice that is warm and inviting but completely unpretentious— much like the singer himself,” according to Lucky Clark. Mainers have long considered Denny a “must –see,” but they are happy to share a favorite son with those “from away.”
Sponsors are TV5Monde, Quebec Delegation Boston, and FACE Foundation. Thank you for your support!

Free French conversation meet-up every other Thursday
2023-06-29 10:30 - 12:00
The free Parlez-Vous? French conversation meet-up will take place at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 29, at Franco Center, 46 Cedar Street in Lewiston.
All who speak French are welcome to attend this meet-up. You do not need to register. Bring a coffee, tea, or snack!
The group talks about subjects they find important. You do not have to attend every meet-up. Some weeks have seven people in attendance and other weeks you’ll find 25 people around the tables.
The meet-ups are held every other Thursday morning at the Franco Center. Park in the mill lot across the street and use Heritage Hall doors.
Next meetings are every other Thursday, July 13 and July 27.
For more information about the French club, contact Jan Sullivan at 207-239-0063 or Joanne Ducharme at 207-713-8324.

The Cobblestones to perform June 29 at Franco Center
2023-06-29 19:00 - 21:00
LEWISTON—The Cobblestones will perform in concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 29, at the Franco Center, 46 Cedar Street, in Lewiston’s Riverfront Island district. The event is part of the Riverfront Performances & Events Series: Cabaret Nights.
The band hails from Western Maine and plays a variety of songs from artists such as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Natalie Merchant, Mellencamp, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fleetwood Mac, Bonnie Raitt and many more.
Band members feature Carolyn Plourde on lead vocals; Michael Plourde on vocals and guitar; Danielle Tran on keyboards and harmony vocals; Mark Plourde on drums; and Steve Moore on bass and vocals.
“We specialize in great songs featuring passionate vocals, guitars, and tight harmonies,” said Plourde. “You’ll recognize many songs, but you won’t hear the same songs that other bands play. In addition to hits old and new, you’ll hear beautiful songs that are little-known classics, and we’ll introduce you to some of today’s most talented songwriters.”
Support for this concert comes from Ouellette & Associates, CPAs; Roopers; Maple Way Dental Care; Bennett Radio Group; Sun Journal; Turner Publishing; and Uncle Andy’s Digest, according to Franco Center staff.
Doors and cash bar open an hour before the show. The dance floor will be open all night. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door day of the show and can be purchased online at www.francocenter.org or by phone at 207-689-2000. Tickets can also be purchased in person at our box office between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
The venue is the former St. Mary’s Church, now a performing arts and events center at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot. The building is handicap accessible on the Lincoln St. Alley side.
Visit The Cobblestone’s website here: thecobblestones.net
Thank you to our show sponsors: Roopers and Ouellette & Associates!
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Free French conversation meetup July 13
2023-07-13 10:30 - 12:00
The free Parlez-Vous? French conversation meet-up will take place at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 13, at the Franco Center, 46 Cedar Street in Lewiston.
All who speak French are welcome to attend this meet-up. You do not need to register. Bring a coffee, tea, or snack!
The group talks about subjects they find important. You do not have to attend every meet-up. Some weeks have seven people in attendance and other weeks you’ll find 25 people around the tables. Last meet-up there was something funny being talked about because everyone was laughing loudly and having a great time.
The meet-ups are held every other Thursday morning at the Franco Center. Park in the mill lot across the street on Oxford Street and use the double orange Heritage Hall doors.
Next meeting is Thursday, July 27.
For more information about the French club, contact Jan Sullivan at 207-239-0063 or Joanne Ducharme at 207-713-8324.

Open House at the Franco Center July 14 and July 15
2023-07-14 10:00 - 2023-07-15 17:00
The Franco Center will host a two-day Open House with activities for everyone to enjoy! There will be music, dancing, eating, heritage tours, local artist work on display, and other fun stuff! Free admission.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 15 activities planned:

Activities for the whole family
Food and drink: Hot dogs $2 / hot dog meal $5. Cotton candy $3 bag. Sodas and waters $2 each.
Meet staff and board members
Heritage tours of our building
Local artist work on display: Anita Poulin and Jeanelle Demers. Plus Tree Street Youth art from summer campers!
Wicked Illustrations Paint & Sip party at 1pm Saturday, July 15. Get tickets here CLICK
Cash bar with special drinks
4-H display
Women of the Somali Bantu Community will have baskets displayed for sale.

Our staff will be on hand to talk about renting our building for YOUR special celebration! So all engaged couples and bridal parties should visit during the open house and talk to Caitlyn, our event manager, to learn more about having your wedding and reception at the Franco Center. We have a few openings remaining in 2023!
Our staff will also be on hand to talk to musicians and band promoters about renting the Franco Center for YOUR concert! Jake, our production manager, will be here to answer your questions about the types of equipment (light and sound) we have and to see if we are a good fit for your production.
Our Open House coincides with the Riverfest in Simard-Payne Park! Enjoy outdoor activities in the park and inside activities at the Franco Center! It’s a short 7-minute half-mile walk between the two sites. The Franco Center has parking across the street in the mill lot and the park has public parking available in the parking garages.
Come out and support everything happening in our neighborhood on July 14 and July 15. There’s something for everyone!
Sponsor: Auburn Savings

Sponsor: Lisa Laliberte, State Farm Insurance

Sponsor: Maine Community Bank

Sponsor: Rinck Advertising

Please download a PDF of our poster, print, and share. Thank you!
8.5×11 Poster CLICK HERE
11×17 Poster CLICK HERE

Free concert featuring Greg Boardman, Chris Robley July 14
2023-07-14 13:00 - 14:30
Free concert at Franco Center July 14 featuring fiddle and guitar

PHOTO CAPTION: Chris Robley and Greg Boardman are pairing up for a concert at 1 p.m. Friday, July 14, at the Franco Center, 46 Cedar Street, Lewiston. The duo will perform on fiddle and guitar with some singing and foot-tapping music. RSVP at https://forms.office.com/r/0DMsaGjHsc Submitted photo.

LEWISTON–The Franco Center is thrilled to announce that Greg Boardman and Chris Robley will perform as a duo in concert at 1 p.m. Friday, July 14, during its open house. The duo’s combined talents include playing the fiddle and guitar, singing, songwriting, and audience engagement.

Greg Boardman is a longtime fiddler and teacher in the Lewiston and Auburn, Maine community, having been employed as an elementary strings teacher in Lewiston for several decades. He also teaches at Maine Fiddle Camp, which he helped found in 1994, and plays as a concert, dance and church musician as much as reasonably fits in his schedule. His love of Franco American fiddling was nurtured by his fiddling elders, such as Simon St. Pierre, Ray Frechette, Lucien Mathieu and Ben Guillemette, each a legend in their own right.

Chris Robley is a singer-songwriter and award-winning poet who’s made his home in the mill town of Lewiston, Maine. His orchestral indie-pop and folk music has been reviewed and praised by The LA Times, The Boston Globe, NPR’s Second Stage, Performer, and other publications. Skyscraper Magazine said Robley is “one of the best short-story musicians to come along in quite some time.” Robley’s poetry has been published in POETRY Magazine, Prairie Schooner, Poetry Northwest, Beloit Poetry, and more. He is the winner of Boulevard’s Poetry Prize for Emerging Writers, a recipient of a Maine Literary Award in poetry, and was selected by Robert Pinsky as a finalist for the Dorset Prize. “Chris Robley is at the top of his game with his new work.” – KCRW. “Beatlesy goodness featuring deft wordplay delivered through McCartneyish melodies with a Lennonesque rasp.” – Willamette Week.

Admission to the 1 p.m. Friday, July 14 concert is free and takes place during the Franco Center’s two-day open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, July 14 and Saturday, July 15. Reservations are required for this concert. Fill out the RSVP form at https://forms.office.com/r/0DMsaGjHsc

A cash bar will be available both days. The open house coincides with the Chamber’s RiverFest down the street in Simard-Payne Park. The Franco Center’s venue is at 46 Cedar Street, Lewiston, a short half-mile, seven-minute walk from the Park. Visitors are encouraged to spend the day in the Riverfront neighborhood attending events at both venues.

For more information about the concert or open house, call 207-689-2000 or visit www.francocenter.org.

The open house is sponsored by Auburn Savings; Lisa Laliberte, State Farm Insurance; and Maine Community Bank.

Wicked Illustrations Paint & Sip party at the Franco Center July 15
2023-07-15 13:00 - 15:00
Join in the fun at the Franco Center when Wicked Illustrations brings its Paint & Sip parties to 46 Cedar Street from 1 to 3 p.m. for an afternoon of art, drinks, and friends!
Melanie Therrien and her wickedly awesome Paint & Sip party will bring everything needed for 20 guests to have a fabulous afternoon of fun and friendship! You can sign up for the limited seating by going to this link on the Wicked Illustrations website and purchasing your tickets: CLICK HERE.
Cash bar and concession stand open during the event. Franco Center will open its doors at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Take a free tour of the building while you’re here.
Also, half-mile down the street at Simard-Payne Park is the Chamber’s Riverfest! Have fun the whole day with painting at the Franco and outdoor activities at the park!
The Franco Center has parking for its activities in the mill across the street. The Riverfest parking is in the parking garages and city-owned lots.

Dance Lessons 10am with Jake Aug. 23
2023-08-23 10:00 - 11:30
10am Wednesday, Aug. 23
Our Production Manager Jake Hodgkin is bringing back dance lessons!
Cotton Eye Joe
The Macarena
Stayin’ Alive
Y.M.C.A.
September
Cupid Shuffle and more!
Great exercise!
Meet new people!
Come with friends!
$5 suggested donation at the door for dance lessons.

Line dancing lessons with Jake in the evening
2023-08-29 18:00 - 19:00
DANCE LESSONS WITH JAKE
6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29
10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30
Great exercise!
Meet new people!
Come with friends!
$5 suggested donation at door
Cotton Eye Joe, The Macarena, Stayin’ Alive, Y.M.C.A., September, Wobble, Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, and other dances!
Other dance lesson dates for Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m.:
Sept. 20, Oct. 11, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, Dec. 20.
One evening dance lesson has been scheduled for 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29.

Line dancing lessons with Jake in the morning
2023-08-30 10:00 - 11:00
DANCE LESSONS WITH JAKE
10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30
Great exercise!
Meet new people!
Come with friends!
$5 suggested donation at door
Cotton Eye Joe, The Macarena, Stayin’ Alive, Y.M.C.A., September, Wobble, Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, and other dances!
Other dance lesson dates for Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m.:
Sept. 20, Oct. 11, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, Dec. 20.

Noon Tunes concert Sept. 7 at Franco Center to feature Marc Mailhot
2023-09-07 10:00 - 13:00
PHOTO CAPTION: Noon Tunes will feature musical artist Marc Mailhot in a noontime concert Thursday, Sept. 7, at the Franco Center at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Tickets are $17 per person and include lunch and entertainment. Buy tickets at www.francocenter.org/shows or 207-689-2000. Submitted photo.
Noon Tunes concert to feature musical artist Marc Mailhot Sept. 7 at Franco Center
LEWISTON—The Franco Center opens its 2023-24 Noon Tunes live musical entertainment series at its quarterly La Rencontre luncheon Thursday, Sept. 7. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for socializing. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. followed by featured musical artist Marc Mailhot.
This event is open to everyone including the community of Franco-American and French-speaking families in the area. It is an opportunity for everyone to connect with each other and with their neighbors of diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds. Meals and stories will be shared, friends will be reunited, and memories will be made.
“Language is a common thread between the French Canadian immigrants of the mid 1800s and the immigrants of today,” said Denise Scammon, marketing/development director of the Franco Center. “We embrace the differences in cultures and languages of our neighbors today. This luncheon is an opportunity to bring the community together.”
The menu includes lasagna, vegetables, rolls, and dessert.

In 2023, Noon Tunes La Rencontre entertainer Mailhot will be starting his 64th year as a performing musical artist. He began his musical career in September 1957 at age 6, formally studying piano under the late, renowned Maine music teacher Louis Sirois for 11 years. Mailhot played his first formal public performance in a piano recital in May 1960.
Mailhot began playing drums in 1964, inspired by his father and the British invasion beginning with The Beatles. He continues playing, performing, and teaching both instruments today. In 1967, Mailhot was chosen to represent Westbrook High School as a tenor in the All-State Concert and in 1968 sang “Edelweiss” from “The Sound of Music” as a solo with the Westbrook High School Chorus in the All-City Concert.
During his musical career, Mailhot has performed thousands of gigs with pioneering Maine bands Love, Inc. and Pegasus in the 1960s and ’70s. He performed with The Chapparals and currently performs with Get Back, a Beatles ‘60s tribute band, and as a solo pianist and singer. Mailhot has also written, recorded, toured extensively, and produced music releases.
As a member of Love, Inc. in 1968, Mailhot opened for well-known Boston groups The Orphans and Ultimate Spinach. When performing with Pegasus in the 1970s, he opened for national artists Bob Seger and Edgar Winter. Love, Inc. was the first Maine pop band to record an album in 1970 and chart three singles in 1969, 1970, and 1971.
Pegasus recorded their only single at Record Plant East in New York City, in the same Studio where Don McLean recorded “American Pie.” The band’s producer was Dan Turbeville who co-produced the first Woodstock album, and engineer Dennis Ferrante who engineered George Harrison’s “Concert for Bangladesh” album.
Mailhot taught keyboard and drums at Starbird Music in Portland, Maine in the 1960s and early ’70s.
Long-time patrons of the Franco Center may recall that from 2015 to 2017, Mailhot was part of the “Connie Combo” for the Connie Francis Tribute Show.
Tickets are $17 and include the meal and entertainment. All seats are reserved. Tickets must be purchased by noon Tuesday, Sept. 5, so we can plan the number of meals to prepare. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
Call the box office at 207-689-2000 or visit between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Purchase online at www.francocenter.org/shows.
The Noon Tunes La Rencontre series is sponsored by FACE Foundation, TV5 Monde, and the Quebec Delegation Boston.
“French programs at the Franco Center are supported by TV5Monde, FACE Foundation, and the Quebec Delegation Boston,” said Scammon. “In addition to the Noon Tunes La Rencontre Series, they sponsor our free Parlez-Vous? French conversation meetup every other Thursday morning.”
The Franco Center offers tours of the former St. Mary’s Church with stories and exhibits about the French Canadian immigrants; miscellaneous French entertainment throughout the performance year; a French library with diverse resources including oral histories; and a Franco Trail L-A map which highlights significant Franco American locations in Lewiston and Auburn.
The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is in the Oxford Street mill lot. Handicap access in on the Lincoln St. Side of the building.
LINK TO SCROLL THROUGH ALL SHOWS AND BUY TICKETS: CLICK HERE
Click here for La Rencontre TICKETS

MSO musicians & friends to perform at Franco Center Sept. 10
2023-09-10 13:00 - 15:30
Photo Caption: Members of MSO and Friends of the Franco Center will perform in a fundraising concert at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 10. Tickets can be purchased at www.francocenter.org/shows and 207-689-2000. The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston.
Musicians band together to create fundraising concert for Franco Center Sept. 10
LEWISTON– Musicians who support the Franco Center’s mission work and the performing arts in general, got together to create a fundraiser concert for all the positive things the Franco Center brings to the community. The Members of Midcoast Symphony Orchestra and Friends of the Franco Center fundraising concert will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 10.
Tickets are free for 17-under accompanied by an adult. Advance tickets for adults are $20 and $25 at the door day of show.
Doors and cash bar open at 1 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in person between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesday, at www.francocenter.org, and 207-689-2000.
The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. It is handicap accessible on the Lincoln St. Alley side of the building. Parking is in the mill lot across the street.
LINK TO SCROLL THROUGH ALL SHOWS AND BUY TICKETS: CLICK HERE
CLICK HERE for this concert’s tickets.

Lewiston author Suzanne Roy to speak on local Franco American history Sept. 13
2023-09-13 11:30 - 13:00
PHOTO CAPTION: At noon Wednesday, Sept. 13, local author Suzanne Roy will discuss the Franco American history on which she based her novels “The Enclave” and “The Legacy.” Admission is free.
Lewiston author Suzanne Roy to speak about her books based on local Franco American history
LEWISTON—The Franco Center has announced a new program called Books and Stories Series at noon on Wednesdays. Admission to these author talks is free. The Books and Stories program features an author who will read from his/her book, have books available for purchase and signing, and follow up with questions and answers following the presentation.
“The program brings people together of all ages and backgrounds to explore and share ideas about culture, heritage, and historical identities through storytelling events with authors,” said Denise Scammon, marketing and development director at the Franco Center. “This is a new program for the Franco Center and it has been funded in part by the Maine Humanities Council and Maine Arts Commission.”
At noon Wednesday, Sept. 13, Suzanne Roy, author of “The Enclave” and “The Legacy” will discuss her books that follow a fictional French-Canadian immigrant girl who attempts to keep her dreams alive as she grows into womanhood in the “Little Canada” enclave her culture created to protect itself from the American melting pot. The girl’s journey toward self-discovery and self-determination is one that women of all cultures are still struggling to complete. “The Legacy” In this stand-alone sequel to the “The Enclave.”
Roy, a retired independent compliance consultant, taught English at University of Maine Orono from 1972 to 1974 and later taught writing as a member of the adjunct faculty of UMA. She wrote the bilingual children’s television series “La Bonne Adventure” in the mid 1970s, did Franco American research housed at University of Southern Maine, taught a local history class at St. Dom’s in 1980, and wrote several plays about Franco Americans, two of which were produced and won awards in Australia. Roy is a native and resident of Lewiston and is currently working on her third historical novel.
Other dates, authors, and books in the series will be announced. It is suggested that participants buy the featured books ahead of the book talk at Amazon or other online book stores.
Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Presentation is at noon. The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot. The building is handicap accessible on the Lincoln St. Alley side.

Dance lessons with Jake in the morning
2023-09-20 10:00 - 11:00
DANCE LESSONS WITH JAKE
10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20
Great exercise!
Meet new people!
Come with friends!
$5 suggested donation at door
Cotton Eye Joe, The Macarena, Stayin’ Alive, Y.M.C.A., September, Wobble, Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, and other dances!
Other dance lesson dates for Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m.:
Oct. 11, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, Dec. 20.

Inspired Voices: Count on Me
2023-09-23 18:00 - 22:00
Inspired Voices is a magical evening of performances where we celebrate the spirit and strength of those who struggle with the effects of mental illness, substance misuse and developmental challenges.
Reception at 6 p.m. Show at 7 p.m. Get your tickets today at https://IV2023.eventbrite.com
Performers share their talents, tell their stories and move our audience to believe in the ability of the human spirit. Tri-County Mental Health Services hosts this annual event to showcase our clients as they strive and succeed in the face of extraordinary challenge. Since its debut performance in 2006, Inspired Voices seeks to end the stigma associated with mental illness, substance misuse and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Each year brings new and powerful stories of the obstacles faced by those we serve and the inspiring ways those challenges are overcome. The proceeds of this joyful and stigma-busting event go to support the needs of TCMHS clients and their families.

Watch Inspired Voices on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nM1lq_KxJQ0

Come join us for this years’ Inspired Voices as we travel through an extraordinary journey of hope, healing and recovery!

Email Leslie Ogilvie for more information.

Don’t miss Davidson County Line at Franco Center Sept. 30
2023-09-30 18:00 - 21:30
PHOTO CAPTION: Davidson County Line band will perform Sept. 30 at the Franco Center, 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Tickets can be purchased at 207-689-2000 or www.francocenter.org/shows. The band performs a mix of rockabilly, blues, rock, and country music. Submitted photo.
Davidson County Line to perform at Franco Center Sept. 30
LEWISTON–With much excitement from staff, the Franco Center has announced that Davidson County Line will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30. Davidson County Line is a three-piece band established in 2015 from Central Maine. They perform a mix of rockabilly, blues, rock, and country music. All members have over 30 years of experience and the mix of music is a “crowd pleaser,” according to Jake Hodgkin, Franco Center production manager.
The various musical hits they play are by Johnny Cash, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry, and many more from the 1950s and ‘60s. Davidson County Line performs on diverse stages including cruise lines, casinos, antique car shows, and county fairs in Maine, Massachusetts, and New York.
Members of Davidson County Line include Nashville recording artist on guitar and vocals “Eddie” Jones who began playing violin, mandolin, and banjo at age six in Nashville. He started performing at the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium from an early age. Jones was one of Nashville’s youngest mandolin players. He soon began playing both guitar and bass, and has been performing professionally for more than 40 years with a number of well-known artists. He worked as a studio session player in Nashville and is considered a “Guitar Slinger.” Jones relocated to Maine in 2010. His natural southern drawl enhances his ability to sing the songs of his second cousin, Johnny Cash.
Marty Lang on guitar joined the lineup in 2019. His musical career began in 1971 playing guitar for The Country Squires, performing weddings, and at various venues in Maine. Lang had the honor of performing with Dick Curless at a benefit. In 1979, Lang performed with the Country Troubadours, and the band won the title as the number one country band in Maine. After time spent in the United States Navy, he joined several bands, while attaining his associate degree in music at the University of Maine in Augusta. From there, Lang furthered his studies at the University of Maine at Gorham, studying classical music. Lang has a studio in his home where he produces music.
“Bub” Lynch on drums joined Jones and Lang in the spring of 2023 and is a welcomed asset to the lineup. Lynch began playing drums in 1970 while attending college at State University of New York, SUNY Potsdam. He relocated to Maine in 1976 and performed with several different groups. Lynch had the amazing opportunity to perform in the warm-up band for the legendary Buddy Guy. Lynch has also performed and won in the Road to Memphis Challenge in 2000 with Blue Steel Express, 2011 with Zac Pomerleau Blues Band, and again in 2018 performing with Matt and the Barnburners. Lynch continues to perform in several bands in the Northeast.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door day of show and can be purchased through the Franco Center’s box office in person from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays or call 207-689-2000. Ticket purchases can be made online at CLICK HERE to purchase tickets for this show.
Doors and cash bar open at 6 p.m. Concert is at 7 p.m. The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar Street, Lewiston. Parking is in the mill lot across the street. Handicap access is on the Lincoln Street Alley side of the building.
Music by Davidson County Line can be heard at this link:https://photos.app.goo.gl/ibY4Wgyxgdw12sGE6

Author Paul Dionne to speak about his books' topic: Religious subordination Oct. 4
2023-10-04 11:30 - 13:00
PHOTO CAPTION: At noon Wednesday, Oct. 4, local author Paul Dionne will discuss his books “The Priestess and the Pope” and “Madeleine’s Inquisition.” Both books have the theme that the religious subordination of one sex to the other is wrong. Admission is free. The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Call 207-689-2000 for more information.
Lewiston author Paul Dionne to speak about his books’ topic: religious subordination
LEWISTON—The Franco Center will host Lewiston author Paul Dionne at noon Wednesday, Oct. 4, in its Books and Stories. Admission to this author’s talk is free.
Dionne, author of “The Priestess and the Pope” and new “Madeleine’s Inquisition” will discuss the basic theme of his books which is that the religious subordination of one sex to the other is wrong. About “Madeleine’s Inquisition,” Dionne writes, “Madeleine Moreau, poverty stricken and alone, struggles to provide for herself and her children, her future bleak, foreboding and empty. She draws strength in her darkest hour when the Monsignor of Paris charges her with witchcraft and threatens to tear her family apart.”
“The Priestess and the Pope” is “a gripping story around the history of women leaders in the early church and the scandal of their subordination in the rise of Christianity. Across eras, readers learn the fate of rebellious churches and women priests as they move through the life and death of Jesus, the fall of the Roman Empire, and the systematic purging of history by the Vatican,” according to Dionne.
Dionne was born in Lewiston, Maine, and graduated from Lewiston High School and Kents Hill Preparatory School where he played hockey and baseball. He then graduated from Providence College where he received his bachelor’s degree in history followed by a commission as a Lieutenant in the United States Army (1966-1968). He saw action in Vietnam. After his discharge, he returned to Maine and attended the University of Maine Law School where he received a Juris Doctorate degree. He practiced law in Maine and was elected as Mayor of Lewiston (1980-1984).
It is suggested that participants buy the featured books ahead of the book talk at Amazon or other online book stores.
The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot. The building is handicap accessible on the Lincoln St. Alley side.
The Books and Stories program features an author who will read from his/her book, have books available for purchase and signing, and follow up with questions and answers following the presentation. The Books & Stories program at the Franco Center has been funded in part by the Maine Humanities Council and Maine Arts Commission.
