Hopeless Romantics: Free Arts & Culture Festival Aug 22, 2026

Hopeless Romantics Arts & Culture Festival

Saturday, August 22, 2026 • Ten Broeck Mansion

Presented with Capital Repertory Theatre and regional & national artists

Free community event

Join us at the Ten Broeck Mansion for a day-long celebration of Romanticism across poetry, art, theatre, and music — all in one of Albany’s most historic settings. Enjoy workshops, tours, and performances that highlight creativity across disciplines. All programs are free, registration required.

Schedule

10:30–11:30 am • Poetry Workshop

  • Led by Dr. Tammy Ellis Robinson (University at Albany).
  • “Poetic” dress encouraged (floppy hats, parasols, walking sticks), but not required.
  • Separate workshop available for children.

12:00–1:00 pm • Art & History Tour

  • Explore Romantic-era portraits, artworks, and special collections rarely seen at the Ten Broeck Mansion.

2:00–3:00 pm  Outdoor Performance: The Magi

  • Featuring composer Eli Pafumi with Brittain Ashford and Scott Redmond (Capital Rep).
  • Selections from The Magi, blending original music, storytelling, and humor.

3:00–4:00 pm  Outdoor Jazz Performance

  • Prize-winning vocalist Shiri Zorn with guitarist/composer Chad McLoughlin.

Event Details

Support: This festival is supported by the New York State Council on the Arts, the Upstate Theatre Coalition for a Fairgame Arts Grant, the Music Performance Fund, and members of the ACHA like you.

Weather notice: In case of inclement weather, outdoor performances will move indoors for the first 30 attendees. Thank you for your understanding.