Author: Chris Speicher
If you have kids, you know that with a little imagination, a wooden spoon becomes a microphone, a raised fireplace becomes a stage, and sometimes…a wall becomes a canvas. Looking to nurture and encourage that spark you see (maybe without the whole repainting thing)? Looking to enjoy a little music, theatre and art of your own – right in your backyard? An arts-friendly community like Olney sounds right up your alley.
- Involve Your Kids: Teens that have gotten bitten by the acting, music or art bug will be thrilled with the area high school’s offerings. From the annual spring play and improv theatre, the many bands and choirs, and stellar art department, Sherwood High School has something for everyone. The school even puts on the annual Rock ‘n Roll Revival show which has been rocking the community for 42 years – a true testament to local talent and the commitment to the program.
- Rock Out in the Community: Nestled in the heart of downtown Olney, the Rocketeria welcomes music lovers of all ages, tastes and levels of knowledge. The shop is tucked away on quiet Hillcrest Avenue, but the Rocketeria is anything but quiet with guitar-lined walls and stacks of vinyl. The Rocketeria, led by owners, Dave Peers and Ariana Patterson, have provided the area with music sales, lessons, rentals and repairs for more than seven years.
- Catch a Professional Play: Seventy-five years of rich theatre history are within walking distance of most Olney neighborhoods in the form of the stunning Olney Theatre Center. The regional theatre puts on professional shows and is a great place to go for date night after dinner at one of the area’s finest eateries, or for an afternoon show with your kids.
- Connect with Local Artists: A local favorite, the Olney Farmers and Artists Market – now open in the winter at Sandy Spring Museum – is another haven for creative types. Painters, potters, jewelry-makers, woodworkers, photographers and more gather on Sundays to share their wares and connect with other like-minded locals.
For a home that can make your living room feel like the big Broadway stage for the budding artist in your family – or one close enough to make a night at the theatre or an afternoon at the artists’ market a little less rare – let us know how we can help!
