ROCKLAND – The Strand Theatre is presenting  The Sunshine Series, a new series of outdoor performances for kids and families taking place at the Safe Harbor Gazebo at 60 Ocean St in Rockland.

Featuring a stellar line-up of circus acts, puppet shows, musical guests, and cultural activities, the series is open to all ages and admission is Pay-What-You-Can ($0-20). The performances are presented by J. Edward Knight Insurance and co-produced by the Coastal Children’s Museum, with event sponsors OUT Maine, Rockland Rotary, Safe Harbor Rockland, and the Rockland Harbor YMCA.

The Sunshine Series opens on Thursday, July 11, at 10:30 a.m. with The Silver Circus presented by Andrew Silver.

How do you do something as big as a circus when you’re only one person? In The Silver Circus, Andrew explores the concept of perseverance as he is faced with the daunting task of presenting a full circus show all by himself.

Featuring magic, juggling, physical comedy, and tons of audience participation, Andrew will present a one-of-a-kind exhibition of skill and comedy. Andrew Silver is a variety circus artist based in Southern Maine, and has performed in many distinguished venues including the Stonington Opera House, MIT, Franklin Opera House, and Maine State Music theater, among others. 

Additional shows in this summer series are Everybody Loves Pirates, a puppet show from the Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers on Thursday, July 25, at 10:30 a.m.; ShinDaiko, a Japanese taiko drumming ensemble performing on Sunday, August 11 at 1 p.m.; and Ants on a Log, a duo that performs folk music for all ages, on Thursday, August 29 at 10:30 a.m.           

Each performance is 50-60 minutes long, and appropriate for all ages. Seating is on the concrete floor of the gazebo, so blankets and chairs are welcome. Attendees may use the restroom facilities at the Rockland Harbor YMCA. In case of inclement weather, the performance will take place indoors at the Strand Theatre. Check the theater’s website and social media the day of the event for weather updates. 

Tickets are available at  rocklandstrand.com, by calling 207-594-0070, or at the lobby box office when the theater is open for shows. Advance ticket reservations are recommended for all, but required for groups over 20. All group inquiries can be directed to our Education Manager, Brittany Parker at brittany@rocklandstrand.com. The Strand Theatre is at 345 Main Street, Rockland.