By Tony Segura, Eye on the Arts

After a very busy July, the art scene winds down during the final month of summer, but still offers some unique entertainment and opportunities for individuals and families alike. Whether you are looking for some outstanding art, learning more about quilting, going back in history and learning about Freeborn County, or auditioning for a play, it’s all available here during the month of August.

Albert Lea Community Theatre will open its 48th season with the wonderful comedy “The Dixie Swim Club” in October. Auditions will be held Aug. 27 and 28 at 7 p.m. at the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center. This delightful comedy calls for five middle-aged women who are seen at ages 45, 50, 55 and 77.

The story tells of five women who used to be on their college swim team together. They have gotten together every year since at a cabin for some “girl-time away” from their families. We learn about how their lives have gone uphill and down with many funny and unexpected twists and turns along the way. This show promises to be a great fun evening for all. It will run Oct. 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19 and 20. The show will be directed by Glen Parsons who is excited to be a part of this fantastic show! For more information on ACT, check out their website www.actonbroadway.com.

The Freeborn County Historical Museum, Library & Village will have extended hours during the Freeborn County Fair, which runs July 31 to Aug. 4. The museum will stay open until 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Access to the museum will be through the main doors or through the village side entrance by the church. Be sure to check them out, it is sure to be a unique and exciting experience.

The Albert Lea Art Center has a wide range of events planned for August. Along with the Northbridge Mall, it is co-sponsoring the “Riverland Community College” exhibition. This will be held Aug. 6 to Sept. 22 in the center court at the Northbridge Mall. The exhibit will feature a small portion of the college’s permanent collection, comprised of student work, purchased and donated art. This event kicks off with an open house Aug. 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. The exhibit hours will be Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Meet the Artist: Art on Broadway” at the Albert Lea Art Center gives you the opportunity to meet its newest artist, Karl Haglund, who paints large streetscapes in acrylic, charcoal and oils and phenomenal guitar art of famous musicians. This event kicks off with an open house Aug. 7 from 5 to 7 pm. The exhibit runs through Aug. 31 during regular Art Center hours.

The Godtland Lecture Series feature Cathy Porter with the Art of Quilting. Listen to Cathy discuss her passion Aug. 16 at 7 p.m.

The final event planned by the Albert Lea Art Center is featuring the mesmerizing portraits by Eric Anfinson Aug. 28 to Sept. 15. An open house kicks off this event on Aug. 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. The gallery can be viewed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Wind Down Wednesday will be held for the second time Aug. 15 in downtown Albert Lea. This summer market and music festival offers a wide range of art, crafts, food vendors and entertainment. Be sure to come out and support these unique vendors on Broadway Avenue from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

As summer winds down, there are many opportunities in the art community in Albert Lea to enjoy in this August!

 Tony Segura is a member of the Albert Lea Community Theatre.