In the Theatre
From heart-warming comedic performances to stunning musical acts, there’s something for everyone in this spring’s lineup at the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center!
On March 23, CeCe Teneal celebrates the Queen of Soul in Portrait of Aretha, a dynamic musical production that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The award-winning songstress energizes her audience with life lessons from Aretha Franklin’s more than 50-years-long legacy and elicits fond memories through hits from Franklin’s musical catalog.
In Downtown Jazz: Sirens of Song on April 13, cellist and singer-songwriter Shana Tucker joins Christian Tamburr and his band for an evening dedicated to the women of jazz. Tucker takes us on a journey through the music of Fitzgerald, Vaughan, and Simone, inviting you in with her voice and capturing your heart with her unique ChamberSoul style.
Step into the hilarious and magical journey of a wayward Southern belle who went from being a shy child who tried to be invisible to a tacky woman who just won’t shut up in Who Hijacked my Fairytale? On April 15, award-winning storyteller, comedian, and author Kelly Swanson will have you laughing your way through her twisted journey to a happier ever after. And just when you least expect it, prepare to have your heartstrings tugged!
Experience Rodney Marsalis and the Philadelphia Big Brass, America’s premier large brass ensemble on April 29. A group that always reflects the diverse makeup of men and women in the American culture, RMPBB is dedicated to the notion that music is a gift to be enjoyed by everyone.
The Fuquay-Varina Chorale has been bringing the joy of song to our community for just over four years—and they never disappoint! Their annual spring concert, Singin’ into Spring, with two showings on May 5 and 6, promises to provide a wide music repertoire and showcase extraordinary local talent.
Sense and Sensibility by Kate Hamill, on stage May 18, 19, and 20, is a playful new adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel following the fortunes (and misfortunes) of the Dashwood sisters. Set in gossipy late 18th-century England, the play is full of humor, emotional depth, and bold theatricality, all with a fresh female voice.
Purchase tickets today for any and all Fuquay-Varina Arts Center performances at www.fvarts.org.
Mayor Massengill. A Look Back at My First Year in Office
Recently, we asked Mayor Blake Massengill to reflect on his first year in office. Here are his answers to a few questions we posed.
What do you consider the most significant achievements from the past year?
In a recent community survey, 83% of citizens rated customer service provided by Town employees as “Excellent” or “Good.” That’s more than twice the national average. I believe the recent Pay Classification Study the Town implemented helps keep good employees, which continues the cycle of good customer service.
I’m also excited that the Hilltop Needmore Town Park and Preserve Master Plan was adopted, the Community Center North contract has been awarded, and construction will begin soon. I believe both projects will be focal points in our community. Both projects received significant public input, and from the very start of my term, I’ve said that I wanted feedback from citizens, so I’m glad to see that taking place.
The Berk-Tek expansion is a big one for our community. They are doubling their footprint and adding 100 jobs.
Finally, everyone is very excited that T.J. Maxx is coming to town!
What has surprised you most?
From the Mayor’s Chat series and attending so many events on behalf of the Town, I think people recognize Heather and me when we are out in the community. That seems a bit surreal to me at times. But I like that people feel comfortable approaching me to talk and share constructive feedback. What I’ve found over the last year is that most people love Fuquay-Varina and want to see the town succeed.
Any fun moments that stand out?
There have been many fun moments, but one of my favorites was climbing the Fuquay-Varina water tower. I’m a bit of a daredevil.
What are you looking forward to?
I know traffic is the number one concern of our citizens. So, 2022 was the year of designing eight traffic-related projects, and 2023 will be the year we see traffic cones starting to pop up on roads. For a list of projects and timelines, citizens can visit www.DriveFV.org.
Right now, we are working on plans with our partners in surrounding communities to expand water capacity, a vital resource for any growing community. This is important to recruit new high-end commercial development like shopping centers and restaurants and to ensure water capacity for the future.
The Parks and Recreation Department is working on an update on the Facilities Master Plan, which is so essential for our quality of life.
As I always say, “The sun is shining brightly on the Town of Fuquay-Varina.”
Get EGG-cited for April 1 Easter Events
Get hopping! The Town of Fuquay-Varina’s annual Easter Egg Hunt will take place at Fleming Loop Park (503 Fleming Loop Road) on April 1 at 10:00 a.m. Grab a basket and get ready for EGG-cellent fun! Afterward, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., hop on over to Downtown Fuquay or Downtown Varina, where local shopkeepers will fill those baskets with sweets at the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association’s Candy Hop. Keep a close eye out for the Easter Bunny and Spring Chick, and don’t miss a chance to take a photo or two!
Growers Market Opens April 1
If you drove by or visited the Fuquay-Varina Growers Market in 2022, you would have noticed the addition of many new farmers, vendors, and customers over previous years. That growth will only continue this upcoming season as the FVGM welcomes brand new vendors selling meat pies, specialty bread, hydroponically-grown produce, and more! Of course, you will still see market favorites like Ogburn Berries & Produce, R & B Farms, Pipa’s Farm, RB Mason, and Francee Farms, to name a few.
Visit the welcome booth to learn more about the double bucks program and to utilize SNAP/EBT and WIC & Senior FMNP vouchers. The FVGM is a 501(c)3 nonprofit funded by grants and sponsors. The Town of Fuquay-Varina is a partner with the FVGM. Interested in sponsoring the market or getting involved? Visit their website at fvgrowersmarket.com.
