Luzerne County is set to mark its 240th anniversary with a grand celebration that echoes its rich history and cultural heritage. County Manager Romilda Crocamo emphasized the importance of commemorating the county’s long-standing legacy with an event that resonates with both its past and its vibrant community.
Tracing the Roots of Luzerne County
Established in 1786, Luzerne County was carved out of Northumberland County by a resolution of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. It carries the name of Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, a French soldier and diplomat who served as the French ambassador to the fledgling United States. Over the years, Luzerne has seen divisions creating new counties, including Bradford, Susquehanna, Wyoming, and Lackawanna, the state’s newest county.
As part of the celebration, Crocamo announced plans for an evening at the historic Kirby Center featuring the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic. “On Sept. 25th, we will gather at the historic Kirby Center for a celebration behaving 240 years of history, featuring special performances by our own Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic,” she stated. “It’s a fitting way to honor this county, bringing our community together under one roof in one of our most treasured landmarks, to celebrate everything that makes Luzerne County home.”
An Artistic Tribute to History
The NEPA Philharmonic’s concert will not only celebrate Luzerne County’s milestone but also coincide with the opening of the orchestra’s 55th season and the 40th anniversary of the F.M. Kirby Center. Chason Goldschmitz, the orchestra’s executive director, highlighted the significance of the event, remarking, “The arts are the best way to celebrate anything, anytime. Art, song, dance, music, visual art, film, it all helps us come together.”
Program Highlights and Local Involvement
Scheduled for September 25, the concert will feature performances of Aaron Copland’s compositions, including “Lincoln Portrait” and “Appalachian Spring.” The latter will showcase a multimedia presentation with contributions from the Wilkes-Barre Preservation Society, Knot Just Any Day, and Dance Theater of Wilkes-Barre. Local historian Tony Brooks is set to narrate “Appalachian Spring,” while the narrator for “Lincoln Portrait” remains to be announced.
In addition, Broadway star Celia Hottenstein, a Luzerne County native, will perform alongside her husband, Travis Taber. The event will also spotlight local talent Gracie Jane Sinclair, who will perform two original songs with the orchestra. Philharmonic board president Adam Thalenfeld emphasized the event’s inclusivity, stating, “Just because you’re seeing an orchestra doesn’t mean you have to show up in a suit and know classical repertoire.”
Educational Initiatives
The main program at 7 p.m. will be complemented by a Young People’s Concert at 10:30 a.m., tailored for students in grades 3-12. The educational concert will feature “Appalachian Spring” and aims to engage young audiences with the county’s history through music.
Tickets for the evening event start at $16 for students and $24 for adults, available at NEPAPHIL.org. Schools and homeschool families interested in attending the Young People’s Concert can reach the Philharmonic Box Office at 570-270-4444.
