The Dunellen Arts and Culture Commission invites you to “Founders’ Day” on October 28, 2017 at the James Heard Auditorium, 411 First Street in Dunellen for a day of cultural celebration.

Founders’ Day celebrates Dunellen’s 130 years and will host a concert by the renowned Coro Alpino ANA Valtidone (Alpine Male Chorus of Valtidone, Italy) on their first American tour. Their traditional songs about life in the Alpini mountain military corps, love, and the beauty of the Alpine Mountains continuously evoke enthusiasm and emotion in every audience. This event will be the only opportunity for you to see them in New Jersey. The concert will also feature the Dunellen High School Madrigals who will join the Alpine Chorus for two songs.

The event will proudly showcase an exhibit presented by the Dunellen Historical Society on Dunellen’s 130 year history and how Italian immigrants helped develop Dunellen’s community. In addition, photographs of Italian landscapes and culture will also be on display by the visiting choir. The photo exhibit will be open from 5:00pm to 7:00pm and the concert will begin at 7:00pm. General admission tickets for the event can be purchased at the door for $15.00 (adults), $10.00 (seniors), and $5.00 (students). Light refreshments will be for sale.

There is a VIP package available for those interested in a Wine Appreciation Course, which is being taught by an Italian Wine Master traveling with the Alpine Chorus. The course will be held at the Dunellen Public Library from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. This VIP Package is $25.00 per person (21 years of age and up; I.D. will be checked at the door) and provides entrance to the Wine Appreciation Course, the photo exhibit and the concert. Seats are limited and a registration with payment must be submitted prior to event.

The Dunellen Arts and Culture Commission was established in April 2016 by ordinance by Dunellen Mayor Robert J. Seader and the Dunellen Borough Council with the mission, “To provide and encourage programs which afford the public greater opportunities to experience arts and culture in Dunellen.” This nine (9) member commission is made up of Dunellen Residents, Dunellen Business Owners, and Local Arts Organization members, who each serve for five (5) year staggered terms.

The Dunellen Arts and Culture Commission and the Founders’ Day main sponsor, Investors Bank, hope you will join us for Dunellen’s 130th Anniversary celebration. It is sure to be a once in a lifetime experience. For inquiries, please call 732-968-3033 ext. 8 or email artsandculturecommission@dunellenborough.com. You can also find more information by checking DACC’s website or following its Facebook page at: https://dunellenartsandculture.wordpress.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/Dunellen-Arts-Culture-Commission-937684846336799/.