Arts center rocks during Holly Jolly

The Black Mountain Center for the Arts is happy to contribute to this year’s Holly Jolly celebration by participating on a variety of levels. Besides throwing the doors open to the community and decorating the Old City Hall in a manner befitting the season, there is activity on every floor.

From 5-8 p.m. Dec. 4, the arts center’s annual Clay Studio Exhibit and Pottery Market in the Upper Gallery will feature the work of the studio’s instructors and students and will be on display until Feb. 29. In the adjacent room, more than 10 resident potters will have smaller, more affordable work for sale.

On the landing of the gallery level, acclaimed Celtic harpist Sue Richards will be playing. The award-winning harpist who has performed with the Chieftains and Ensemble Galilei teaches harp at the center.

On the theater level that same night, more than six local authors will be at the Arts Center to promote their books and DVDs. The writers will be on hand to talk about their work and autograph sold copies.

The BMCA Dance Troupe will perform in front of the Old Depot at about 6 p.m. The 16 young dancers in the troupe, ages 6-15, will be joining the Owen High School Dance Team, directed by Amanda Arrowood. Watch for the art center’s contingent and the red-shirted dancers in the Christmas Parade as well.

The Black Mountain Center for the Arts is at 225 W. State St.