Saratoga News

Village Briefs

Opportunities blossom at Hakone Gardens

Saratoga's Hakone Gardens is seeking volunteers to fill three different positions, each requiring just a few hours of time each month. Because of the popularity of the gift shop, more volunteers are needed to help run it. The nonprofit shop raises money for the gardens and various cultural activities at Hakone. Hours are available on Saturdays, Sundays or Tuesdays.

Tour leaders and garden docents are wanted to spend a few hours each weekend to share and explain the gardens' history with tourists. Those who would like to become guides should attend a two-hour informational workshop about the gardens. The classes are taught by historian Marion Card and will be held July 10, 14 and 17. These classes are also open to those who would just like to learn more about the gardens and their history.

Hakone is also seeking green thumbs who like to spend time gardening. Volunteers will learn about Japanese gardens and how to maintain and care for them, while working with Japanese garden specialists.

To volunteer, register for the required classes or for additional information, call the Hakone Foundation office at 741-4994.

New youth opera is directed by Saratoga resident

Dido and Aeneas, a three-act opera of love and tragedy, will be performed by the Basin Choral Workshop and the Silicon Youth Conservatory July 19 and 26 in San Jose State University's concert hall. Saratoga resident and director Michelle Mallinger put together the nonprofit workshop as an educational experience for high school, college and professional singers.

Mallinger said this is the first time many of her students will be involved in an opera because high school drama departments are so limited. The 1993 graduate of Saratoga High School fills nearly half her ensemble with SHS students and graduates.

The shows begin at 7:30 p.m. on both evenings. Admission is $7 general, $5 for students and senior citizens. Checks, payable to Silicon Valley Youth Conservatory, can be mailed to the Basin Choral Workshop, 13039 Ten Oak Way, Saratoga, CA 95070. Tickets will also be available at the door.

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