Diverse cultures, performing arts, and languages come together at the Gendron Franco Center during La Rencontre (the gathering) starting at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 10, at the center, 46 Cedar St., in Lewiston. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m.
Traditionally, in Franco culture, big celebratory meals included live music provided by members of the family and their neighbors. Many families made sure their kids each learned to play an instrument in order to entertain at such gatherings — and so, accordingly, the Gendron Franco Center invites local musicians to provide live music for its guests.
The 11:30 a.m. lunch will consist of a traditional Irish meal of corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, dinner rolls, and dessert. After lunch, Present Company will provide the entertainment. Members of this trio are three Franco-American cousins from Lewiston: Lorna Jollymore, Diane Meservier, and Margaret Dix. They have been performing together in public as Present Company for almost 35 years. Their singing will be accompanied by Jollymore on the keyboards.
Ticket cost $15 and includes meal and entertainment.

Tickets will not be sold at the door and must be purchased by noon Monday, March 7. To purchase a ticket, visit francocenter.org or call 207-689-2000.