On Friday, I had a terrific time walking around Troy at Troy Night Out. The truth of the matter is I did hardly any walking. The events I attended were concentrated near Memorial Square so mostly all I had do was cross a street. That I could spend three hours od'ing on culture while staying within a block of downtown Troy, tells just how much there is to do at the event. It also tells why you can return month after month. You cannot do it all in one night.

My night started out about 6 pm. at Clement Art Gallery at 201 Broadway where Charles Steckler's "Collage" was on exhibition. I've known Charlie for over 25 years - primarily for his inventive and insightful scenic designs. It was a pleasure to see this playful side of his art as the small collages were often as whimsical as they were thoughtful. Another benefit of TNO is I also wandered the gallery and discovered the work of other local artists.

It was a short walk across the street to the Arts Center to view the "Battlesight" exhibit curated by Tim Cahill. It is as powerful as it is brilliant. It should be visited by everyone. I intended to write more about the exhibit in another blog, but don't wait. Do see it at 265 River Street. It's there through December 19.

We remained at the Arts Center moving into the black box theater at about 7:30 p.m. where the members of the Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company performed under the name "At First Glance." I've long admired the work of Ellen Sinopoli and believe that had she chosen to live in a major market she would be a national figure in the world of dance. She's that good.

This modern dance concert, performed and choreographed mostly by members of her company, illustrates her abilities as not only an artist but as a teacher. The work by the young performers was skilled, thoughtful, ambitious and touching. Most of all, it was true to Sinopoli in that the works were all accessible and emotionally gratifying. You don't have to be a student of contemporary dance to get most of what was going on in the five pieces performed at the Arts Center. You could enjoy and almost touch the emotions of the action on stage. At the same time, you were touched by the energy and commitment of the performers and choreographers.

When the concert was over, it was nearing 9 p.m., a time when most of the events wrap up -so we did what TNO is intended to do. We gave a local establishment some business. We stopped for a quick snack and a short drink at Judges on Broadway. We enjoyed the music by the performing band and had some good food and a beverage and left at a reasonable time.

I was both surprised and delighted at the number of people I ran into on Friday night. I was proud and happy that so many members of the arts community came out to support their fellow artists. But I was happier still to see how many "civilians" are taking advantage of the cultural delights that are offered in Troy on a daily basis and spotlighted by Troy Night Out once a month.

Check it out. In November the last Friday of the month is November 26, the day after Thanksgiving. Should be fun.