Peony Tea
— Annually since 1998, for 13 years
The Peony Tea Party is a celebration of the season held every June at Curly Willow Farm, the site of our fine theatrical productions. Our event offers an afternoon of live music by local performers, crafts for children, a maypole dance, tasty sweet treats and refreshments, plus the opportunity to gather a beautiful bouquet of peonies to take home. The Silent Auction has become a star attraction to the other festivities, and can expose your business to many new customers who may be hearing about you for the first time!
Background:
We discovered that on Curly Willow Farm there are four 150 foot rows of peony plants, and we realized it would be an extraordinary sight. So we organized what would be the first of an event that took place annually for 13 years, where people would come and enjoy entertainment, tea and treats, the Puppet Museum, and roaming amongst the peonies picking armloads to take home. Some came dressed in their best. We added a silent auction which became an important fundraiser for the company, supported by many local businesses and individuals.
POPOLEKO BALKAN CHOIR gathered for many years to sing womens’ folksongs from the Balkan region. Characterized by close harmonies, composite rhythms and a sound quality developed to be sung outdoors over distances, their distinctive sound was heard at concerts and fundraisers throughout the valley.
Popoleko also hosted every Peony Tea, along with Runaway Moon’s Board, and were a part of the music for many Runaway Moon events and spectacles.
Directed by Cathy Stubington, the singers included Susan Vignola, Dianne Wells, Gretchen Sonju, Michelle Carriere, Cathy Hay, Sue Kyle, Rosa Saba, Molly March, Jean Brighouse, Karen Durant, Hillary Wallis, Lisa Sterritt and others from time to time.
