KEN YOUNG
If you’re looking for some artistic inspiration, or a chance to enjoy diverse and beautiful art created by local artisans, look no further than Kent County, Maryland and its dynamic Arts and Entertainment District. Featuring numerous galleries, studios and theaters, this historic county provides visitors with the opportunity to be captivated, inspired, and entertained.
From theatrical performances to world-renowned musicians, Kent County, is a destination for live entertainment, bringing together its unique history and culture in its local theaters, and its thriving arts scene. Check the calendar to explore the latest events and reserve tickets for a show, because experiencing the Arts in Kent County is sure to make your trip to the Upper Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay a memorable one.
Garfield Center for the Arts at the Prince Theatre
Mariya Filippova
A block from the Chester River, you can’t miss the vintage marquee and façade of the Garfield Center for the Arts at The Prince Theatre in downtown Chestertown. With plays, musical performances, guest lectures, open mic nights and more, Garfield Center welcomes a diverse audience. Currently, the theatre is operating virtually, and you can find many of the historic and upcoming performances online.
Chestertown Art Walk
Chestertown is home to a collection of art galleries, working studios, and creative events such as the Art Walk. The Chestertown Art Walk will be held on Saturday, April 24th. Stroll the streets of this lovely, historic town while live music enlivens the sidewalks as art lovers (and browsers) follow an event map to a dozen galleries, studios, and pop-up spaces throughout Chestertown’s Historic District. There will be local professional musicians tinkling the ivories of a new Arts & Entertainment community piano. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore and meet the artists and artisans who are happy to chat about their works.
The Mainstay
Music soothes the soul and over the last year, there’s been an increased appreciation for art particularly in the form of music. While Chestertown is a mecca for printed art and craft artisans, Rock Hall is the place for those that are looking for a listening venue as comfortable as your living room, but surrounded by a variety of friends. Known for an eclectic collection of performers with an emphasis on Jazz, The Mainstay, located in Rock Hall, is your destination. This community theatre welcomes world-renowned musicians throughout the year. From Americana to folk, bluegrass and blues, a performance at The Mainstay is best described as “magical” by those who have experienced it.
Famous jazz guitarist, Charlie Byrd, played several concerts at The Mainstay. Byrd’s legacy continues to attract musicians from Brazil to Canada and across the U.S. for memorable performances. “Mainstay Mondays” is a staple and features a different performer weekly. Hosted by noted pianist, Joe Holt, Mainstay Mondays showcases local artists from varied musical genres.
Arts Community
“The arts make people and communities whole”. This statement is the perfect articulation of what sums up Kent County as a thriving arts community. Chestertown, a state designated Arts & Entertainment District, is home to several arts organizations such as Chestertown RiverArts and Kent Cultural Alliance. RiverArts offers programs for all ages from painting to pottery. The Kent Cultural Alliance is a center for cultural expression and artistic interpretation offering an “Artist is Residence” program currently featuring the works of Jason Patterson.
Be sure to put Kent County on your must-visit list as a cool arts destination. Learn more about the arts in Kent County here.