Connecticut Cultural Heritage Arts Program (CHAP) Director Lynne Williamson will guide the second bus tour in a popular series from CHAP and Manchester Community College, exploring Eastern Connecticut’s vibrant Finnish community.  The Finnish American Heritage Society will host the event, inviting guests to learn about local Finnish history, art, and cuisine.  The tour takes place on Saturday, April 22, 2006, from 12:00 to 6:00 pm.  Advance registration is required through Manchester Community College.

Upon arrival at the Finnish American Heritage Society headquarters in Canterbury CT, tour participants will be welcomed with a light lunch.  Local community members will then lead a tour of Finn Hall, including the theater stage and its newly restored and painted screen backdrop.  Visitors can also investigate an archive of local Finnish history, including books, photographs and other artifacts detailing the group’s history in Finland and eastern Connecticut.  After screening a taped performance of a traditional folk dance group, weavers will talk about their craft and showcase their skills on looms in the Hall.  The day will end as Finnish chefs demonstrate how to make Finnish pancakes, salmon chowder, and cabbage casserole, which they will then serve to the guests. 

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The Institute for Community Research is an independent research institute that conducts applied research and supports community enhancement programs on issues of health, education and cultural heritage. Its Connecticut Cultural Heritage Arts Program encourages and promotes traditional artists and their communities through an active process of documentation, technical assistance, and public presentations to bring their work and the history of their communities to new audiences.