Thru May 15: Artist Jylian Gustlin’s background isn’t rooted in art. In fact, the San Fransisco native is well versed in the technological and scientific languages so common in Silicon Valley. Yet she takes both of these elements and blends them into her paintings. The works on display at the Canfin Gallery present a rapturous vibe and all bear her signature resin finish. Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 39 Main St., Tarrytown. 914-332-4554; www.canfingallery.com
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May 3: In order to get ahead in today’s professional world, one needs more than just talent, one needs the grit and perseverance to stay the course. Such is the advice given by Angela Duckworth, a leading researcher who has interviewed some of society’s most successful individuals — from J.P. Morgan CEO James Dimon and cartoon editor of The New Yorker Robert Mankoff to Seattle Seahawks Coach Pete Carroll. In her talk at the Chappaqua Library, Duckworth discusses her findings and offers tips that are detailed in her bestselling book, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. 7 p.m. Free admission. 195 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua. 914-238-4779; www.chappaqualibrary.org
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May 6: Founded in 1994, Step Afrika! is the first African American dance troupe dedicated to the art of stepping. The percussive dance style (practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities) blends with South African Gumboot and traditional Zulu dance. The result is a show filled with lively songs, humor, storytelling, and even audience participation. 10:30 a.m. & 7 pm. $10, $6 children. Bardavon 1869 Opera House. 35 Market St., Poughkeepsie. 845-473-2072; www.bardavon.org
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May 7: Brush up on your theater history with Theater On The Road’s production of A Taste of Shakespeare. This one-act play features key scenes from four of the masterful playwright’s most famous works — Romeo and Juliet, The Taming of the Shrew, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Macbeth. Prior to each staging, the Bard gives a brief introductory monologue, explaining the context and providing a bit of background. Then, he even inserts himself into the scenes, taking on some of the key roles. 2 and 7 p.m. $10, $8 seniors and students. Columbia-Greene Community College. 4400 Rte. 23, Hudson. 518-828-4181, ext. 3344
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May 14: The Hudson Valley Philharmonic has been a local favorite since its creation in 1932. Their latest performance, entitled Fantastique! includes a repertoire featuring the overture from Cosi Fan Tutte. Also taking the stage is Robert Anenome, winner of the 2015 Hudson Valley Philharmonic Strong Competition, with selections from Stravinsky. Closing the performance is the Berlioz symphony. 8 p.m. $34-$56, $20 student rush. Bardavon 1869 Opera House. 35 Market St., Poughkeepsie. 845-473-2072; www.bardavon.org
