Entertainment: Dance, music, theater

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It’s summer, and the Vineyard is bustling with all forms of entertainment, offering big-town entertainers in an up-close and personal small-town setting. From Shakespeare at the Tisbury Amphitheater, pub bands to headliners, string quartets to orchestral groups, there are enough events going on to keep people happily engaged.

With entertainment venues such as the Tabernacle in the Oak Bluffs Campgrounds, outdoor settings such as those at Featherstone Center for the Arts and Ocean Park, the Agricultural Hall and The Grange for flea markets and festivals, The Yard in Chilmark for contemporary dance, visitors have a wide range of choices.

The Island has become a favorite place for many regional and local bands and performers. In Oak Bluffs, Oyster Bar Grill, Seasons, Offshore Ale Co., The Island House, The Lampost, The Ritz, Sharky’s, The Dive Bar, and Nancy’s may be counted on to keep their customers entertained. In Edgartown, The Wharf, Atlantic Fish and Chop House, Sharky’s, and the Seafood Shanty are popular venues for bands. Play Buzztime Trivia with your friends and family at The Lampost, and both Sharky’s locations. 
Nectar’s (formerly Outerland and the Hot Tin Roof) is a great place to hear live music, from national to local acts. Summer entertainers range from the Island’s 70s cover band The Boogies, to reggae star Barrington Levy. For a full schedule, visit nectarsmv.com.

The Yard, a resident dance colony in Chilmark, begins its 2010 season on June 24, with Opening Night at The Yard: Dance, Theater, and Opera honoring Claudia Miller. Visit dancetheyard.org for more information and a full summer schedule.

The Martha’s Vineyard Film Society screens weekly independent films at the Tabernacle in the summer. Or, see the blockbusters at the Capawock Theatre in Vineyard Haven, the Strand and Island in Oak Bluffs (call 508-627-6689 for movie times), and at Entertainment Cinemas in Edgartown (508-627-8007). 
This is the time of year to meet and greet, make new friends, and be entertained, Vineyard style.