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Bluegrass, Jazz, and Shakespeare: This Weekend's Highlights

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, March 13th 2026 at 7:32 GMT by Olean Times Herald
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

A Musical Mosaic: From Bluegrass to Jazz

The local music scene is particularly lively. Kicking off the weekend on Friday, March 15th, The Blue Moon Saloon will host The Rusty Buckets, known for their energetic performances and captivating stage presence. The $10 cover charge ensures an accessible evening of live entertainment. Saturday sees a shift in genre with a free bluegrass jam session at the Olean Community Center at 7 p.m. This event is open to all skill levels, providing a welcoming space for musicians to collaborate and share their talent. Sunday provides a more intimate atmosphere at Murphy's Pub with Acoustic Sunday, showcasing the talents of local singer-songwriter Sarah Miller starting at 2 p.m. No cover charge makes this a perfect, relaxed Sunday afternoon activity. Rounding out the week, The Stage 12 Theater will present the River City Quartet on Wednesday, March 20th, at 7:30 p.m. This $15 ticketed event promises a sophisticated evening of jazz, drawing on the rich tradition of the genre.

Shakespeare Under the Lights and Beyond The theatrical landscape is anchored by The Olean Players' production of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Performances are scheduled for March 15-17 and again on March 20th, offering multiple opportunities to experience this classic comedy. Showtimes at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:00 p.m. matinees on Sundays and Wednesdays, cater to different schedules. Tickets are priced at $12, making it a budget-friendly cultural outing. The continued popularity of Shakespeare in regional theater demonstrates a lasting appreciation for timeless storytelling and theatrical artistry.

Silver Screen Classics and Family Fun

Film enthusiasts will be pleased with the offerings this weekend. The Strand Theater will be screening the iconic film "Casablanca" on Saturday, March 16th, at both 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. With tickets at $8, it's a chance to revisit a Hollywood masterpiece on the big screen. The Olean Public Library caters to families with a special Family Film Day on Sunday, March 17th, featuring a screening of "The Wizard of Oz" at 10 a.m. This free event provides a delightful cinematic experience for all ages, fostering a love of film in younger generations.

Community Spirit and Artistic Expression

The Southern Tier isn't just about performances; it's about community engagement. The annual Spring Craft Fair at the Bradford Community Center on Saturday, March 16th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., will showcase the talents of local artisans and craftspeople. Free admission encourages residents to support local businesses and find unique, handmade treasures. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Salamanca on Sunday, March 17th, will bring color and celebration to the streets, starting at 11 a.m.

For art lovers, the Olean Art Gallery continues to host an exhibit featuring the work of local painter Thomas Bell, running through March 22nd. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing ample opportunity to appreciate Bell's artistic vision and contribution to the local art scene.

A Region Rich in Culture

The diverse range of events happening this week highlights the rich cultural landscape of the Southern Tier. From established venues like the Blue Moon Saloon and the Strand Theater to community spaces like the Olean Community Center and the Olean Public Library, the region offers a platform for artists and performers to connect with audiences. The continued support of these events by local residents and organizations is vital to maintaining a thriving arts community and ensuring that the Southern Tier remains a vibrant destination for entertainment and cultural enrichment.