Antimatter is one of the most fascinating discoveries in modern physics. First predicted theoretically by Paul Dirac in 1928 and experimentally discovered by Carl Anderson in 1932, antimatter revealed that every particle of ordinary matter has a mirror-image partner with opposite electric charge. When matter and antimatter meet, they annihilate and release enormous amounts of energy according to Einstein’s famous relation E=mc^2. Antimatter has become central to modern physics, helping scientists test the foundations of quantum theory, relativity, and cosmology. It also plays an important practical role in medicine through Positron Emission Tomography (PET), one of the most powerful imaging techniques in modern healthcare. This lecture explores the discovery of antimatter, its strange physical properties, how it is produced and studied in laboratories such as CERN in Geneva, and why the mystery of the universe’s missing antimatter remains one of the greatest unsolved problems in science.

During his career Fred Dylla has spent 55 years as an enquiring physicist helping to design and build scientific facilities for fusion energy, nuclear physics, medical and materials research. He spent eight years at MIT earning three degrees in physics followed by research and teaching ventures at Princeton University, the College of William and Mary and two Department of Energy National Laboratories. Fred is currently the Executive Director Emeritus of the American Institute of Physics, a federation of ten scientific societies representing over 120,000 scientists. He served as the Executive Director from 2007 to 2015 concentrating on improving access to scientific publications and educational outreach to the public. Along the way he has enjoyed sharing his love of science and the arts with students, colleagues, family and friends. Fred is a frequent speaker at the Lewes Public Library along with his colleague, Paul Sparrow, who started the library’s Fireside Chat program. He lives in Lewes with his wife Linda, a science writer and co-host of the library’s Science and Society program.

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We may never know for sure, but a famous equation—first written on a chalkboard 65 years ago—offers a way to estimate the odds of intelligent life emerging on a planet somewhere in the universe. Seven Rasmussen’s new book, Cloudy with a Chance of Starships, takes an irreverent tour through the cosmos, using a road map known as the Drake equation to guide readers from the basics of astronomy to the frontiers of planetary science and astrobiology. Along the way, Rasmussen covers topics including the big bang, the formation of solar systems, the origins and evolution of life, and the likelihood of intelligent life emerging on a planet and becoming technological.

Seven Rasmussen is an astrobiologist, author, and science communicator whose work has been featured widely in the media, including Popular Science, Wired, Nature, Scientific American, Inside Higher Ed, Science, and Space.com. She is currently a science instructor at the Tacoma Community College and has previously taught  astrophysics at Columbia University and the University of Washington.

We invite you to support the author by purchasing a copy of their book from Browseabout Books. Call-in orders are accepted at (302) 226-2665 or you can stop by the store to purchase a copy. For store hours, please visit their website.

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Despite our ever-deepening understanding of the physical universe, we have yet to reach a consensus on the nature of time: does it flow like a river, carrying us along, or does it flow past us? What is the meaning of “now”, the ever-shifting boundary between the future and the past? Did time have a beginning and will it have an end? Can it be stretched and squeezed, or even reversed? Some even believe that time is an illusion – a trick of our senses. According to the most fundamental ideas in physics time might even be an emerging concept from something more fundamental, like quantum entanglement. In a lecture based on his new book, On Time: The Physics That Makes the Universe Tick, Jim Al-Khalili will change forever the way you think about the passage of time and your place within it.

Jim Al-Khalili is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Surrey and one of Britain’s leading science communicators. He has written numerous books that have been translated into twenty-six languages, among them The Joy of Science and The World According to Physics. A fellow of the Royal Society, he is a regular presenter of TV science documentaries and is best-known in the UK for his long-running BBC Radio program, The Life Scientific.

We invite you to support the author by purchasing a copy of their book from Browseabout Books. Call-in orders are accepted at (302) 226-2665 or you can stop by the store to purchase a copy. For store hours, please visit their website.

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Birds live all around us, and we love them—whether we keep them as pets, are dedicated birdwatchers, or simply appreciate their beautiful songs and colorful plumage. There are over 10,000 species of birds that share our world, but their legacy goes far back in time, to the age of the dinosaurs. Paleontologist Steve Brusatte—author of the new popular science book The Story of Birds—will recount the remarkable story of birds: a 150 million year journey, which began with the evolution of birds from raptor dinosaur ancestors in the Jurassic Period, through many twists and turns of fate, as these flying marvels endured asteroid impacts and mass extinctions and changing climates, to reach the present day. The story of birds is one of resiliency and adaptability, and Steve will tell that tale—along with his own adventures of collecting fossils and discovering new extinct species—in this engaging talk for families and the general public.

Steve Brusatte is Professor of Paleontology and Evolution at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. He has named and described over two dozen new species of dinosaurs and other fossils, and published over 200 research papers on the anatomy, genealogy, and evolution of extinct species. He is a keen popularizer of science and his books The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs and The Story of Birds have been New York Times bestsellers, and translated into dozens of languages. He is the paleontology consultant for the Jurassic World film franchise and BBC’s Walking With Dinosaurs.

We invite you to support the author by purchasing a copy of their book from Browseabout Books. Call-in orders are accepted at (302) 226-2665 or you can stop by the store to purchase a copy. For store hours, please visit their website.

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Songs, stories, and dance come together in a lively celebration of Irish culture!
Renowned Irish bard Gerry Timlin shares his special brand of Irish folk music and stories, and award-winning dancers from the McAleer School of Irish Dance wow the crowd with their rhythm and artistry.
Timlin was born in Coalisland County Tyrone, Northern Ireland and moved to the United States in the early ’70s. He has been performing for more than five decades in Ireland, Scotland, the United States, and Canada.
The McAleer-Paulson School of Irish Dance was founded by Veronica McAleer, ADCRG, who emigrated from Belfast, Ireland. The school has been jigging around Delaware—and the world—for nearly 60 years, receiving international acclaim.

SummerScape 2025 crowd favorite Linda Harris returns to the stage with David Cole and Main Street Blues! Presented as a living history of blues artistry, this engaging show takes the audience on a journey through the evolution of blues music from its rural Southern roots to its electric and urban transformation.
Renowned throughout the Delmarva region, the performers look to spread joy and connection with everyone they meet through sound and storytelling. A powerful, engaging, and entertaining evening!
This program is part of Lewes 250, a commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, honoring our town’s rich past and bright future. Lewes 250 brings neighbors, visitors, and local organizations together in celebration of the “First Town in the First State.”

Poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist Langston Hughes comes to life like never before in this exciting original one-man show from Daron Stewart.
From busboy and poet to “Harlem’s Wonder,” Langston Hughes became a leading voice of the Harlem Renaissance and an enduring force for civil rights. His famous “I too sing America . . . I too am America” statement is the heart of Daron Stewart’s performance, which also poses the question, “What happens to a dream deferred?”
Washington, D.C.-based Stewart has performed on stages across the United States and abroad. His credits include national and independent film work, television hosting, VOG at the Kennedy Center, and numerous stage performances. Soul of Langston has been staged nationally for festivals, schools, colleges and universities, churches, and conferences.
Join us for a journey into the bittersweet wit and wisdom of Langston’s poetry, the tragedies and triumphs that constructed his life, and the worldwide impact of his literary accomplishments.
This program is part of Lewes 250, a commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, honoring our town’s rich past and bright future. Lewes 250 brings neighbors, visitors, and local organizations together in celebration of the “First Town in the First State.”

Bruce Springsteen—baby, he was born to run! Join us for an exciting evening exploring The Boss’s incredible songwriting journey.
Monmouth University’s Kenneth Womack and Kenneth Campbell share highlights from Springsteen’s musical legacy, drawn from their new book Bruce Songs: The Music of Bruce Springsteen, Album by Album, Song by Song, in conversation with LPL Distinguished Lecturer Ron Collins. The book weaves together historical context, literary insight, and meticulous research, featuring in depth explorations of each album, essays on their cultural significance, and a chronological examination of every studio song.
Following the discussion, Nate McCormick from The Listening Booth will perform Springsteen’s music.
This event is co-hosted by the library, Singers+Songwriters, and Browseabout Books. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

An inspiring evening of songs and stories celebrating an American dream come true!
Renowned songwriter Bobby Tomberlin returns to Lewes to discuss his new book, I’ve Lived Country Music, an extraordinary story of humble beginnings, big dreams, and remarkable journey in country music.
Tomberlin will be interviewed by LPL Distinguished Lecturer Ron Collins about his uplifting, witty, and heartfelt memoir. He will also perform several patriotic songs in honor of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.
A CMA, ACM, and Grammy Award nominee, Tomberlin’s songs have been recorded by Blake Shelton, Willie Nelson, Barbra Streisand, Faith Hill, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, The Oak Ridge Boys, and many more.
This event is co-hosted by the library, Singers+Songwriters, and Browseabout Books. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

Join us for an incredible performance honoring the traditions of Native American and Indigenous peoples.
The Nanticoke Indian Dance Troupe presents a traditional cultural sharing, highlighting Native American dances, their cultural meaning, and the importance of oral tradition. The dances reflect values such as respect, honor, community, and our connection to the Creator, the earth, and one another.
Storytelling is woven throughout the presentation, helping the audience understand how dance carries memory, identity, and tradition.
The Troupe consists of Native American Dancers of all ages, who proudly demonstrate their individual dance styles, sharing with the audience the importance of the different styles, along with traditional ways.
This program is part of Lewes 250, a commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, honoring our town’s rich past and bright future. Lewes 250 brings neighbors, visitors, and local organizations together in celebration of the “First Town in the First State.”

DUE TO THE PREDICTED HEAT, THIS PROGRAM WILL BE INDOORS IN THE LARGE MEETING ROOM
SEATING IS FIRST COME, FIRST SEATED
DOORS OPEN AT 6:00 PM

A powerful theatrical celebration of independence, community, and the shared “embers of freedom” that connect us all.
Delaware Shakespeare invites audiences to reflect on a timely question: “What sparks your sense of freedom?”
In this expansive and engaging performance, Del Shakes presents a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence that explores this question—and weaves in the voices that were left out of its creation. The performers will share writings from former slaves like Frederick Douglas, poetry from Indigenous perspectives, stories of queer joy, and more.
Del Shakes is the region’s premier professional Shakespearean ensemble. Since 2003, the Wilmington-based troupe has performed a wide array of Shakespeare’s works and Shakespeare-adjacent projects across Delaware and beyond.
This program is part of Lewes 250, a commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, honoring our town’s rich past and bright future. Lewes 250 brings neighbors, visitors, and local organizations together in celebration of the “First Town in the First State.”

DUE TO PREDICTED INCLEMENT WEATHER,
TONIGHT’S SUMMERSCAPE PERFORMANCE HAS BEEN MOVED INDOORS TO OUR LARGE MEETING ROOM
DOORS WILL OPEN AT 6:30 PM | FIRST COME, FIRST SEATED

Experience the joy, rhythm, and rich tradition of bluegrass music in a performance that celebrates America’s musical roots.
With origins in Irish, English, and Scottish folk styles, bluegrass music has been an integral part of American culture since its arrival in the 1600s. Rooted in rural traditions and shaped by slave songs, gospel, and blues, bluegrass evolved into a uniquely American art form.
Jake’s Americana Bluegrass Band, a four-piece ensemble of guitar, banjo, mandolin, and bass plays music true to the foundations of bluegrass. They share the very best of classic and contemporary bluegrass, country, and folk music in this lively performance.
This program is part of Lewes 250, a commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, honoring our town’s rich past and bright future. Lewes 250 brings neighbors, visitors, and local organizations together in celebration of the “First Town in the First State.”

Step into the circle and feel the beat!
Mister Boom Boom delivers an immersive, hands-on musical experience for children, families, and music lovers of all ages, celebrating the power and spirit of African drumming. The high energy program highlights the djembe, the heart of West African rhythm, alongside a vibrant collection of global percussion instruments rooted in African traditions.
Mister Boom Boom is the stage persona of Frank Coates, founder of Play Patrol Company and creator of Mister Boom Boom’s Music Room. Known for high energy, interactive performances, Mister Boom Boom blends music, movement, and humor to create engaging and unforgettable experiences.

A tribute to the spirit of America brought to life through show stopping songs from Broadway’s greatest composers.
Acclaimed Broadway singer and producer Tina Marie Casamento, accompanied by several special guests, performs a selection of Broadway songs that capture the American experience through the works of some of the theater’s greatest composers. Musical director David Libby leads a program featuring favorites from 1776, Hamilton, West Side Story, and The Music Man, as well as “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy” from Little Johnny Jones.
Historian Paul Sparrow will provide background and context for each song and offer a perspective on how Broadway both reflected and helped shape public opinion.
This event is sponsored by The Inn at Canal Square.
This program is part of Lewes 250, a commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, honoring our town’s rich past and bright future. Lewes 250 brings neighbors, visitors, and local organizations together in celebration of the “First Town in the First State.”

Spend an intimate evening immersed in world class music and dance shaped by the passion and elegance of flamenco artistry.
Washington, D.C.’s SonDeBaril presents a vibrant performance of the Spanish tradition of flamenco, where music, song, dance, and rhythm come together in emotional storytelling. This inspiring program showcases breathtaking flamenco artistry and the raw, electrifying energy of an art form steeped in tradition yet continually evolving.
Led by dancer Ela Razon and musician Yiyi Orozco, the SonDeBaril flamenco company is known for bold, original productions that merge music and dance into transformative flamenco experiences. With performances rooted in collaboration, community, and deep tradition, SonDeBaril is devoted to nurturing flamenco and expanding its presence in the region.

A show-stopping grand finale to close out an incredible season!
First State Ballet Theatre returns to the SummerScape stage for an unforgettable season finale. Featuring classical ballet favorites reimagined through the company’s signature style, this performance provides a breathtaking celebration of dance and artistic expression at its finest.
First State Ballet Theatre is the region’s premier professional ballet company. Originally founded as a dance school in 1999 by Pasha and Kristina Kambalov, the troupe quickly established a reputation for outstanding artistic success. In 2008 it debuted as the region’s first professional company and now employs a full company of 22 dancers along with educational, management, and production staff. 

Join our exploration of the influence of nature on the arts during the romantic period with Kristen Matulewicz, Curator of Rockwood Park and Museum in Wilmington. Focusing on William Louis Sontag Jr.’s The Misty Rocky Mountains, among others, she will trace the evolution and influence of the Romantic Movement in art as it mutates into the uniquely American style of Hudson River School Painting. And Matulewicz will finish by case-studying Rockwood as a rare example of how the concept and aesthetics of Romanticism was cultivated in daily life.

Kristen Matulewicz, familiar to Spoken Word Society audiences for her work with the library the past several years, has a fun and entertaining style of presenting research with significant depth. She holds a BFA in fine arts specializing in practicing Performance and Installation Arts, a BA in Art History with a focus on Pre-Raphaelitism, and an MA in Art History and Visual Studies, with a specialty in Victorian escapism and immersive environments. Before joining Rockwood as a Curator, she had a 12-year career in Museum Education working across a range of museum sizes and types including history, science, historic houses, and art museums. Kristen’s strong background working with local communities, under-served populations, and practicing artists to create opportunities for accessible learning saw her awarded the Delaware Art Educators Association’s Educator of the Year in the field of Museums.

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Join us as we explore the beginnings of Romantic Music from Handel in the 18th century to Elgar in the 20th. When we think of Romantic music we usually think of the 19th century greats, such as Beethoven, Schumann, Wagner, or Tchaikovsky. As with all the arts, one period grows out of, and blends with, contemporaneous forms. The beginning cannot be pinned down nor the end detected. In fact it is still very much with us. We’ll explore how Beethoven exploded out of the Classical period and how Elgar summed up the Romantic era in the aftermath of The Great War.

Lani Spahr, professional oboist and world renowned audio restoration engineer and producer, is well known to Lewes audiences from his popular program Performance Insights presented through Coastal Concerts. Formerly a leading performer on period oboes in the US, he was a member of Boston Baroque and the Handel & Haydn Society Orchestra of Boston and  appeared with many of North America’s leading period instrument orchestras, including Tafelmusik, Philharmonia Baroque, Tempesta di Mare, and many others. As a modern oboist, he was the principal oboist of the Colorado Springs Symphony Orchestra, the Colorado Opera Festival, the American Chamber Winds, the Maine Chamber Ensemble and made his European solo debut in 1999 playing John McCabe’s Oboe Concerto with the Hitchin Symphony Orchestra in England. Spahr served on the faculties of Colorado College, Phillips Exeter Academy, and the University of New Hampshire Chamber Music Institute. He toured throughout North America, Europe, and the Far East on period and modern oboes and recorded for Telarc, Linn, Koch, Naxos, Vox, Music Masters, L’Oiseau Lyre and Musica Omnia. Accomplished on the bagpipes as well, Lani is the Official Piper of Fort Miles.

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Join local scholar Dr. Michael Redmond for “Storm, Stress, and the Soul: The Romantic Rebellion,” an exploration of how the Romantics figures like Hamann, Wordsworth, and Coleridge rose up against the cool confidence of the Enlightenment’s faith in reason, science, and mastery of nature. Together we’ll trace how nature shifted from whirlwind and mystery, to clockwork machine, to something alive, numinous, and a source of wisdom and wonder—and how this transformation still shapes our views of authenticity, spirituality, and the environment today. Along the way, we’ll meet some fascinating characters, hear vivid literary and philosophical passages, and end by asking a personal question: in your own life, are you more a child of the Enlightenment or of Romanticism—and what might it mean to live well between the two?

Dr. Michael D. Redmond is a distinguished higher education leader and former president of Bergen Community College, bringing four decades of experience in academic leadership, governance, and institutional innovation. He holds a Ph.D. in Theological and Religious Studies from Drew University, and an M.A. in Philosophy from Rutgers, complemented by graduate work in computer science and mathematics. A dedicated teacher and scholar, Dr. Redmond served as Professor of Philosophy and Religion for nearly 40 years and helped build one of the largest and most successful philosophy and religion programs in the nation at a community college. He has published and presented widely, from academic journals to national conferences, on topics both in the philosophy of Religion and political philosophy as well as on technology, and his excellence in teaching and leadership has been honored with the NISOD Excellence Award and two National Endowment for the Humanities Summer Seminar appointments.

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Join us for an evening of the Sublime and the Dramatic as the Spoken Word Society’s Reader’s Theatre Troupe performs poetry and prose from authors and poets working in the Romantic movement. Featuring works by Keats, Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, Wordsworth, Coleridge, Charlotte Smith, Felicia Hemans, Emily Bronte, and Poe, we will journey through emotional peaks and valleys in a compelling evening of spoken word artistry.

The Spoken Word Society’s Reader’s Theatre Troupe features Jane Okma, Roxanne Farrar, Sally Boswell, Peter Stoehr, Christopher Marks, Michael Redmond, and Rich Harris. This performance is directed by Jane Okma and features musical underscoring and effects by David White.

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