First, you must come out and see the Dietrich’s new exhibit "The Many Expressions of Folk Art". In this exhibit, Patrick Robinson and other local collectors will display old and new folk art treasures including an eclectic mix of carvings and works for children. Folk art is created outside the typical parameters of art institutions. It is known for its inventiveness, expression, utility, community, individuality and symbolism. During this exhibit we will also display works painted by students in the Dietrich’s Decorative Painting class. If you are unable to see the exhibit on Founders’ Day, this must-see show will be on display at the Dietrich through August during regularly scheduled movie times or by appointment. 

The Dietrich Children’s Theatre will also be back with a new production for Founders’ Day weekend. This time the troupe will explore the gift of generosity as they "travel" to Pakistan for their staged folktale production of "The Gifts of Wali Dad". This tale is about a simple, happy man named Wali Dad. After several years, he finds that he has saved more money than he can possibly use. He wants to do something good so he sends a gift to a deserving queen. The queen sends him a bigger gift in return. Wali Dad cleverly passes this on to a noble king, who sends Wali Dad an even more lavish present. The more Wali Dad tries to give away the more he is rewarded. Please join us to see the antics that ensue and if Wali Dad can ever return to the simple life that he loved. This show will be performed on Friday, June 22 at 10 a.m. and Saturday, June 23 at 11 a.m. Admission is free thanks to grant support from the Pennsylvania Humanities Council. Tickets are available by calling 570-996-1500 or at the door while supplies last.

The Dietrich will also present Poe in the Park at Tunkhannock’s Lazybrook Park on Founders’ Day evening at 7 p.m. During this theatrical event you will experience the intensity, terror and excitement of some of Edgar Allan Poe’s most treasured works including The Raven, The Cask of Amontillado, Annabel Lee, The Masque of Red Death and The Tell-tale Heart. Five actors from Gamut Theatre Group in Harrisburg will use music and movement to bring these and other tales to life in this haunting and memorable original text-adaptation of the original Master of Horror’s most celebrated stories and poems. The show will run for 80 minutes and is recommended for adults and children ages 12 and up. At 6:45 p.m., literary scholar Bill Chapla will present a discussion on Edgar Allan Poe, and following the show, the actors will host a talk-back session with the audience. Admission to Poe in the Park is free, and all who attend are advised to bring their own blanket or lawn chair. For more information, about Poe in the Park, please call the Dietrich at 570-996-1500. 

The Dietrich will also be hosting a basket raffle on Founders’ Day to support cultural and educational classes and events for children at the Dietrich. Each raffle basket will contain delectable and artistic items, including practical items, as well. One will include gift certificates for area restaurants, another will have all kinds of items for your automobile, and the Dietrich will fill a basket containing movie gift bags and other Dietrich items. Tickets will be $1.00 or 6 for $5.00 and all profits will benefit the Dietrich Theater.