The (Poetry) Circus Is In Town

BETHEL — The Wednesday Night Poetry Series sponsored by Bethel Arts Junction is doing something special this weekend: In addition to its regular readings and programs, the series will present “Barnum & Buddah: A Poetry Circus” on Sunday, July 16, at BAJ’s art gallery.

“Barnum & Buddah” will offer visitors four hours of entertainment including poetry, music and stories. The event will run from 2 to 6 pm at 5 Depot Place, the site of the town’s former train station. Bethel Arts Junction is now leasing the building from the town and has put the building through a gorgeous renovation. In addition to the Wednesday Night Poetry Series, BAJ now also hosts ongoing art shows that change every four weeks.

“Barnum & Buddah” will feature among its performers Billy Barnum, one of the last performing descendents of P.T. Barnum. The legendary showman was a native of Bethel.

For additional information, Bethel Arts Junction can be reached by calling 798-2193. The art gallery is in the old red train station building just off the train tracks, between One Front Street and Greenwood’s restaurants in downtown Bethel.