Nicole Williams, author of Girl on Top: Your Guide to Turning Dating Rules into Career Success, has paired with The Limited of Annapolis for an exclusive fashion and shopping event! The best-selling author and career advice expert will be coming to Annapolis on Tuesday, September 14th as part of the “Make Your Mark” tour.

“Make Your Mark” tour is used as a tool for professional women who want to succeed in their careers. The tour has been launched with one of your favorite places to pick up the newest fashions, The Limited. The Limited, as fashion retail brand committed to celebrating women and promoting a message of personal success, will be hosting the event in their Annapolis store.

There will be exclusive event and shopping offers for those who attend the meet and mingle. Between 6 and 8 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to talk to Nicole about dating tips and business or career strategies. Feel free to preview The Limited’s new fall collection as you pursue the store. A one-time-only Fashion Show of the newest wear-to-work styles will take place, also. The announced special offers are:

Exclusive event offers:
-Get a free gift bag (Arrive early. Quantities are limited.)
-See a fabulous Fashion Show
-Enjoy free cocktails and dessert
-Enter the $250 Limited Gift Card Raffle

Special shopping offer:
-40% off of your purchase (Excludes markdowns and gift cards.)
OR
-50% off of your purchase (When you buy “Girl on Top” by Nicole Williams.)

If you’re interested in attending the event, please R.S.V.P. at Thelimited.com/NicoleWilliams and visit our site at www.thelimited.com/nicolewilliams. We hope to see you at The Limited in the Annapolis Shopping Center from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 14th with Nicole Williams!”

By Barbara Pash

If you’ve got a budding Spielberg in your home, Annapolis has a place for him or her this summer. Founded in 2002, Filmsters Academy teaches the art of film-making to children ages 11 to 20 years old.

The academy runs the first two weeks in August only. The reason? Co-founders Patti Obrow White and K. Lee Anderson are Anne Arundel County residents who spend most of their time in Los Angeles, Calif., where they are partners in a production company called Filmsters.

“We do TV and documentaries,” said Ms. White, who, like Ms. Anderson, has extensive credentials in the field and has won numerous awards, including three Emmy’s.

The academy typically enrolls 50 students per season. Most hail from Anne Arundel County although they have had students from Denver (“A family member here heard about us”) and even France and Italy (“They were staying with relatives in town”).

Ms. White credits her son, then a teenager, for her starting the academy. He was interested in film-making but at his age, there weren’t any options.

“There is a big interest in film schools at the college level, but not a lot before then, where you can learn the basic skills,” she said. “People who knew us asked, ‘Why don’t you do something for young people?’”

The academy is divided into age groups and skill levels: beginner, ages 11 to 16; intermediate, ages 14 to 18; and advanced, ages 16 to 20. Beginners usually attend for one week; intermediate, two weeks; and advanced, two weeks and two weekends. Entry to the advanced session is “by invitation only,” meaning prospective students are interviewed and asked about their commitment to film-making.

Whatever the level, all of the students learn how to “pitch” a story, develop that story idea into a script, direct and shoot a short film, and edit it for viewing. The advanced students create a more complex and lengthier film for potential entry into student film festivals.

“It’s not just film-making. It’s the art of story-telling,” said Ms. White. “I love pitch night. That’s when everyone gets up and tells their ideas to the entire camp. It’s so much fun.”

Tuition for Filmsters Academy begins at $745. The academy has a staff of 20, some of whom attend college-level film and writing programs. The academy also has the full complement of film and editing equipment for students to use.

Filmsters Academy is held at The Key School, 534 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis, Md.

This summer, Filmsters Academy begins on August 2. For information about the programs, visit its Web site, www.filmstersacademy.com, email filmsters@filmsters.com or telephone 410-263-3023.

With all of the things to do in Annapolis, deciding how to spend your time can be a daunting task. So let us help you out–here are our suggestions for the must-see, must-do attractions in Annapolis so you can spend less time planning, and more time seeing!

1. The State House

Your Annapolis checklist should include visits to the historic places in town, such as The State House. Built in 1779, this beautiful state house once served as the nation’s capital and is the oldest state house still in use today. When you finish touring the State House, take a walk and admire the many late eighteenth-century brick homes that line the streets down to the waterfront.

Annapolis State House in Spring (courtesy Sandy Cohen)

2. William Paca and Hammond-Harwood Houses

Don’t pass on a visit to the historic 1765 home and garden of William Paca. History majors may remember Paca as one of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, but it’s the beautifully restored garden that attracts people today. Nearby is The Hammond-Harwood House with its breathtaking classic Georgian architecture.

3. Ballet Theatre of Maryland

For the more artsy tourist, the Ballet Theatre of Maryland is a must-see. As Maryland’s only professional ballet company, Ballet Theatre presents four major performances a year during their April- October season. Among the more well-known performances are Carmen, Beauty and the Beast, and The Nutcracker. Tickets for these performances can be found at http://tickets.marylandhall.org.

4. Schooner Woodwind

The summer months are a perfect time to experience sailing in Annapolis. Pack a lunch and board the Schooner Woodwind which departs daily from dockside at the Mariott Hotel. For the romantics out there, why not surprise your significant other with a unique “Boat and Breakfast” aboard the Schooner-Woodwind. Every Saturday night during the summer months couples will board the yacht in the evening just in time to see the sunset. Wake up and say ‘good morning, beautiful’ just in time for a Continental breakfast. Book your dates now for May-September at www.schoonerwoodwind.com.

5. Fourth of July Celebration

There are endless ways to spend your family summer vacation in Annapolis and there is no better time to go than early July. Annapolis celebrates the Fourth of July with a traditional parade, concert, and spectacular fireworks display on the waterfront starting at about 9:00 P.M.

6. Sandy Point State Park

Get back to nature at Sandy Point State park. Grab your hiking shoes, fishing pole, and bathing suit and enjoy the warm weather at this 786-acre state park. Hiking, crabbing, fishing, swimming, picnicking are just a few of the things you can do to fill your day. Be sure to pack a beach chair and enjoy the scenic view of the Bay Bridge.

7. City Dock

You can’t see Annapolis without making a visit to the historic city dock. The center of all things nautical, the City Dock is an ongoing fashion show of boats and yachts. This is one of the main attractions in Annapolis as visitors and locals alike grab a cup of coffee from Old City and watch the boaters saunter by.

8. The Seafood Cuisine

Annapolis is crab country so join the party and get ready to eat crabs so fresh they were alive just minutes before you ordered them. An Annapolis favorite is the Ram’s Head Tavern featuring famous crab cakes and cold beer, not to mention an outdoor music venue with musical acts almost every night of the year.

9. Historic Inns and Hotels

Experience the historic 18^th century, but with the convenience of present-day, at one of the many newly renovated inns and hotels. These converted historic homes offer a feel for a different time in history (but you won’t be far from a fitness center and a Starbucks).

10. U.S. Naval Academy

Finally, a trip to Annapolis wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the US Naval Academy. Start your visit at the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center, where you can watch a short film and see the actual Freedom 7 Space Capsule. Continue your visit with a walking tour of “the Yard” where you will walk from dock to dock and see the ships where our future sailors learn the ways of the water. On your way out stop by Bancroft Hall, the largest dormitory in the U.S.

“People who enjoy theater will find it right here in Annapolis,” declares Susan Steckman, the effervescent V.P. of Communications for the Annapolis and Anne Arundel County conference and Visitors Bureau.

Steckman, who admitted an affinity for acting given her college days as a theater major, loves “the whole gamut of opportunities here in Annapolis, all within walking distance. And another real treat for theater lovers—if you come for a day trip, you can park your car and enjoy attractions like the State House, the Naval Academy, the home of Declaration of Independence signer William Paca, the shops along Main Street and Maryland Avenue, and then just walk to your favorite theater. How convenient is that?”

The Bay Theatre Company

Says Steckman, “The Bay Theater Company offers professional theater with equity cardholders on a year round basis and is conveniently located on West Street.”

Now entering its third season, The Bay Theatre Company is a professional regional company located at 275 West St. Annapolis, on the lower level of the West Garrett office building. Lucinda Merry-Browne is the artistic director. The Bay Theatre Company performs 6-8 productions each year in conjunction with the Bay Theatre Studio, the educational wing of the theatre, including works by Shaw, Ibsen, Chekhov, Williams, Wilder, Albee, Mamet, Shepard, McNally, Durang and others.

Ticket prices range from $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and students with valid ID. Call 410-268-1333 or visit www.baytheatre.org.

Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre

“The Annapolis Summer Garden Theater gives people the opportunity to enjoy musicals under the starts—that’s a wonderful way to enjoy theater, right on the city docks. Prior to the show you can enjoy a waterside meal at one of the local restaurants of your choice, all different cuisines from roll-up-your-sleeves steamed crabs to white table cloth dining. After the musical you can walk along city dock or the streets of Annapolis—enjoy the outdoors at America’s family capital,” Steckman said.

Located in the courtyard of the Old Shaw Blacksmith Shop at 143 Compromise Street, the Annapolis Summer Garden Theater is an outdoor, 200-seat theater on the city dock that presents three shows a year during the summer months (last week of May through the first week of September). The property boasts a 300 year history and is a registered historic and cultural landmark. The 2010 season features “Forever Plaid,” “The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” and “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story.” For more information, call 410-268-9212.

The Colonial Players of Annapolis

Photo Courtesy of David Colburn

“The Colonial Players on East Street offer wonderful performances—every year they do A Christmas Carol. On the day tickets go on sale, the lines are around the block and down the street of people waiting to purchase. For many, it’s become an annual tradition, for family and generation of families. Plus, there’s a full slate of plays available throughout the year,” Steckman said.

With its first production in 1949 (The Male Animal), the Colonial Players today features a 5-show season including classics, comedies, dramas and musicals, as well as experimental theater, children’s plays, works by new playwrights, theatrical workshops, and more. Known for their annual production of “A Christmas Carol,” The Colonial Players perform in a 180-seat arena theater located in the heart of downtown historic Annapolis at 108 East Street. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and full-time students with ID. For more information, call 410-268-7373 or visit http://thecolonialplayers.org.

The Children’s Theater of Annapolis (CTA)

The Children’s Theater of Annapolis offers two or more full productions each year with casts of up to 40 children on the theater’s Main Stage. Founded in 1959, CTA is located at 1661 Bay Head Road in Bay Head Park, Annapolis. CTA features arts education for ages 5 to 18 and also offers a scholarship program. Technical stage training, internships, and apprenticeships in the theatrical arts are available for young people. About 7,500 families in the region are impacted by CTA annually. The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People will be featured June 25-27^th followed by The Fantasticks, July 29-Aug. 8^th.

Other Venues

For those interested in ballet, there’s the Ballet Theatre of Maryland at 801 Chase Street which offers both ballet productions and educational and training courses. Seasonal productions, such as for Halloween and Christmas, are featured, as well as works relating to such themes as Latin romance or adaptations of literary works like “The Scarlett Letter.”

The Chesapeake Arts Center at 194 Hammonds Lane is a 58,000 square foot, multi-discipline arts facility that presents plays, concerts, and creative arts events as well as instruction in music, dance, drama, visual arts, and more. The CAC features the 904-seat Hammonds Lane Theatre, a 110-seat Studio 194 Theatre, gallery space, ceramics lab, dance studios, music room, resident artists’ studios, scene-shop and classrooms.

The Talent Machine Company features youth actors in three full-length musicals each year, performed in a large theater for the general public, as well as at school fairs, fundraisers, community events, parades, etc. TMC’s mission is to encourage young people to learn about the performing arts and to present quality productions to the public.

“It’s all right there—every night you have choices, whether it’s a concert under the stars, to catch some professional theater, relax in an intimate setting with the Colonial Players. If you have young children, why not expose them to theater and take advantage of these offerings? Who knows what seeds you’re planting with your young people that may come to fruition, for those seeking a career in theater or just cultivating a love of theater throughout their lives,” Steckman said.

Along with its many other charms, Annapolis is home to a number of art galleries and craft stores. They’re perfect places to pick unique gifts or purchase items that you simply fall in love with.

For starters there is the Maryland Federation of the Arts (18 State Circle, Annapolis, 410-268-4566), which received the local newspaper’s—The Capital—Reader’s Choice 2010 Best Art Gallery. Since 1963, this non-profit membership organization has dedicated itself to supporting the needs and education of younger artists as well as more established ones.

The federation holds monthly shows—four of them reserved for its own members. Running through June 13 “Artful Photography,” a national open juried exhibition, shares space with works by members of the Potters Guild of Annapolis in the Circle Gallery. That will be followed by the members’ summer show from June 16 to July 11, and from July 15 through August 15, the gallery will host “Collage and Found Objects,” a national open juried exhibition.

Another popular spot is Annapolis Pottery (40 State Circle, Annapolis, 410-268-6153). Dating back to 1969, this is the only working pottery studio/store in the historic district. A way fun place to visit, visitors have the opportunity to watch the ceramicists at work and talk with them about their crafts. Owners Melanie and Patrick Murphy pride themselves in the work of local artisans, but they also represent award-winning craftsmen from all over the United States. Along with bowls and mugs, one can purchase unique items, such as ceramic birdhouses!

Pretty much all ceramic techniques—hand-built, slab, thrown—can be found here and there are a wide variety of styles from which to choose. Featured artists include Hank Goodman, Betty Hedman, and Donna Toohey, among others.

Celebrating its 30^th anniversary on June 13, McBride Gallery (215 Main St., Annapolis, 410-267-7077) not only offers artwork, but one can also take advantage of its custom-framing department and its art restoration and art appraisal services. Visitors can visit on-line for a number of paintings: Categories include landscapes, the U.S. Naval Academy, sights in Annapolis, portraits, still lifes, flower arrangements and more.

A few of the many artists that are represented by McBride Gallery include Bill Schmidt, Julia Rogers, Chieh-Nie Cherng, and David and Line Tutwiler.

Running through June 30^th is the gallery’s anniversary show. On June 12, there is a plein air landscape workshop at the Historic Sinking Spring Herb Farm and August 19^th a watercolor demonstration and exhibit by Stewart White.

ARTFX (3 Church Circle, Annapolis, 410-990-4540) is pronounced “art F X.” And for those not in the know, F X is the Hollywood term for special effects. ARTFX represents more than 100 artists who work in a wide variety of media, including fused and blown class, jewelry, beeswax candles and vitreography, among others, and every first Sunday of the month ARTFX opens a new exhibit.

This is the place to stop for exquisite ceramic crab platters, crab dip bowls and crab soup bowls by Marcia Sheeter or the folk art paintings of Eastern Shore-raised Jimmy Reynolds. With a father who was both a painter and an architect, Jimmy had all the needed materials to begin painting at a young age.

John Horm’s nature photography includes stunning works of native flora and fauna, while Booker Morey is known for his etched leaves.