Reel to Real Recording Studio has been bringing musical dreams to life since 1980. The studio's owner Anthony Marrapese is an expert in the field of audio and video and has experience in music production, video production, radio voice-overs, TV, commercials, live events, sales training, short films and more. This studio regularly records various types of music by local musicians and bands and has a sound proofed vocal booth, piano room and a separated control room filled with professional equipment. Reel to Real also offers programs to local schools for children to create their own CD or movie as well as after school workshops for grades 4 - 6. In addition to recording, Reel to Real can also press and duplicate CDs and DVDs with its in-house CD pressing machine and offer recording-session birthday parties. The studio has no operating hours and is only open by appointment.
The Cranston Historical Society operates out of the Governor Sprague mansion on Cranston Street. The mansion was the home of one of the country's most powerful and wealthiest families of the 19th century. The first farmhouse at the site was built in the 1790s. It was expanded in 1864 to accommodate the Sprague's needs. The Sprague Family owned the Sprague Print Works, now the Cranston Print Works. William Sprague, Governor from 1860-1863 and U.S. Senator from 1863-1875, was born at the mansion in 1830. The Sprague Company was one of the largest and richest textile companies in the Civil War era. Today, the Cranston Historical Society is continually restoring and caring for the structure, which is considered Cranston's most important historical artifact. the building can hold up to 100 people for a reception and 60 dinner guests at private functions. The Cranston Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) organization.
Artists' Exchange is a vital part of Cranston's cultural scene. A nonprofit arts collaborative, it houses The Black Box Theatre, art studios, gallery space, a boutique and cafe.
Located in the center of Rolfe Square, Artists' Exchange is always bustling, with art classes, summer camps, birthday parties and events during the day and music, theatre, art and performances at night.
Music Express provides entertainment for parties and speical events. Services include DJing, video, photography and invitations for your wedding, bar/bat mitzvah or other special occasion. Music Express prides themselves on customer service and typically commits 18-35 hours planning each occasion. Music Express runs several different specials at different times during each month and offers free consultations.
The Cranston Volunteer Firefighters Museum on 470 Hope Road is a tribute to fallen members of the Oaklawn Volunteer Fire Association. Inside the museum are artifacts and equipment worn by f,irefighters from the 1960s through the 1990s that serves as a memorial to volunteer firefighters. This museum also offers a $1,000 scholarship to one student each year that graduates from Cranston High School West.
Mixed Nuts is a group of performers who make cabaret-influenced music and perform at various charities, night clubs and parties around southern New England. At performances, the audience interacts with them by playing along, participating and winning prizes. Mixed Nuts has been featured on radio and television. View the group's schedule and booking information on the website.
Party Time Gift Shop offers practically everything party-related. Party Time carries custom invitations, party goods and supplies, novelty gift items, gift baskets, balloons and much more. This shop is also a full-service florist. Party Time is conveniently located on Plainfield Street near the Atwood Avenue intersection.
