Looking for something to do in Gettysburg? Just Improvise

​Looking for something to do in Gettysburg? Just Improvise

I’ve always been told that I have a quick wit. A snappy comeback to someone’s comment has always come easy for me. Growing up, I think that it’s amused my Mom, and sometimes I think it’s annoyed her. But guess what, Mom? I’m going to try and put this skill to good use.

I was having coffee with my dear friend Karen Land, the director (or “side coach” as she calls herself) of the Improv Troupe at Gettysburg Community Theatre. I asked her “what is Improv?”. I mean, I do have the basic gist of what it is and how it should work. However, I thought I’d ask the professional. So as we’re talking, I’m thinking that I could certainly try my hand at Improv. I’m rarely caught off guard; always try to be on my toes. I could put that quick wit to good use.

So I’ve already committed to Karen that I’ll attend the audition for the Improv Troupe at the Theatre. Auditions are Sunday, September 12, 7pm at Gettysburg Community Theatre at 49 York St. (you must be 18 years or older to audition). No experience is necessary to audition. You’ll have a great “side coach” who will help you.

Another creative outlet for me has been singing – well, actually, karaoke. The Gettysburger on Chambersburg St. has karaoke every Tuesday night from 9pm-12am. I’ve done karaoke at many different places, but I must say that The Gettysburger is the best. Everyone sings! No one is shy, no one laughs just because you may sing off key. Everyone is clapping and supportive. When you’re there, you’re singing amongst friends. Start your evening there with a great dinner and homemade dessert before belting out Freebird.

If being on stage or performing in front of others isn’t your style, there’s still plenty of fun things to do this month.

Saturday evenings the Gettysburg Heritage Center comes to life with their series “Night at the Museum, 1863”. You can find out what life was like during the battle for the townspeople of Gettysburg. We all remember civilian Jennie Wade, but we tend to forget about the others living here during those three days and beyond.

September 4th marks the opening of the Gettysburg Foundation’s Children of Gettysburg 1863 museum (formerly known as The Rupp House) on Baltimore St. Children and adults will learn what life was like for the youth of Gettysburg during the battle. The museum offers a hands-on historical experience.

Saturday, September 25th is the 54th Annual Fall Outdoor Antique Show on the streets of downtown Gettysburg. There’s a lot of work that goes into organizing the spring and fall shows. The morning of the show we start bagging the meters at 3:30am. By 5am the vendors start settling into their spots so they’re ready for business come 7am when the show officially starts. It’s a tiring day for all involved but a great way to increase downtown traffic for our restaurants and shops. 2022 dates are May 21st and September 24th.

Visit www.gettysburgretailmerchants.com for a list of GARMA members. Are you a business interested in becoming a GARMA member and you’re located within 5 miles of Lincoln Square? Contact us at info@gettysburgretailmerchants.com.
 
Jennie Dillon is the President of GARMA and owner of Artworks on York St.

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