This Weekend in Lyme and Old Lyme, April 30-May 3

On Stage at Gillette Castle

A theatrical performance of the East Haddam Stage Company’s “Osaki-san, William Gillette’s Gentleman Valet” continues through Sunday.

The solo performance features actor Taku Hirai portraying Osaki as the elderly man reflects on his life, from his arrival in America in the late 1800s to his years working alongside Gillette. The 60-minute performance takes place in the castle’s main living area, offering an intimate setting for about 48 people.

Get inspired to attend with this theater review from professor and author Eric D. Lehman.

Tickets are $40–$50 and available at gillettecastlefriends.org. The castle itself remains closed to general visitors until its seasonal reopening on May 23, though the park grounds are open year-round.

Jewett Preserve Hikes

Jim Natale, a Groton-based horticultural specialist, will lead two guided hikes for different ability levels at Jewett Preserve on Saturday.

• 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Rugged Ramble: A more strenuous trek covering swamps, wetlands, and rocky terrain. Participants should bring water, lunch, and snacks.
• 3 to 5 p.m. — Moderate Walk: A shorter, less demanding exploration of the preserve.

Lyme Pollinator Pathway, Lyme Public Hall, and Lyme Garden Club are co-sponsoring the event.

To register, email openspace@townlyme.org.

Hands-On CPR Training

On Saturday, a Hands-On CPR training session from Lyme EMS offers participants the chance to learn or refresh lifesaving techniques in a practical, instructor-led setting. The program emphasizes real-world readiness and is designed for community members of all skill levels.

The training will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Lyme Public Hall, 249 Hamburg Road.

Registration is required. Click here to sign up.

CT River Museum Director Speaks

At Sunday’s Griswold Forum in Old Lyme, St. Ann’s Episcopal Church will host a presentation by the director of the Connecticut River Museum.

Elizabeth Kaeser will deliver an illustrated presentation focused on the museum’s recent Environmental Summit, which convened scientists, policymakers, academics and cultural leaders to explore challenges facing the Connecticut River watershed. Her talk will delve into key themes from the gathering and the museum’s broader role in fostering environmental awareness and stewardship.

Going Dutch

Four hundred years ago, the Dutch and English were vying for control of the Connecticut River Valley and Long Island Sound. On Sunday, Historian and geologist Johan Varekamp will share the hidden history at Hadlyme Public Hall’s annual meeting.

Refreshments will be served, and the public is invited to attend.