The Egg and Palace Theater present Grand Kyiv Ballet’s ‘Giselle’
Albany, N.Y.— On Saturday, February 24th at 7 p.m. and Wednesday, February 28th at 7 p.m., The Egg Center for the Performing Arts (24th) and Palace Theater (28th) present Grand Kyiv Ballet’s “Giselle.”
“Giselle” has stood the test of time, captivating global audiences for more than 180 years. Recognized as one of the greatest dramatic love stories ever told, the ballet recounts the tale of Giselle and the Willis, young unmarried girls betrayed by their lovers who meet their untimely demise. Overwhelmed by sorrow and anger, they transform into the malevolent Willis, seeking retribution and settling scores.
The Grand Kyiv Ballet, consisting of 35 exceptionally talented dancers from Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odessa, has been on a global tour, using their art to express deep emotions and concerns arising from recent events in Ukraine. Despite the challenges, the artists continue to captivate audiences worldwide, having performed at prestigious venues such as the Opera National de Paris, Bunka Kaikan in Tokyo and the National Opera in Oslo. Their performances attract royal families, politicians, and celebrities, serving as a powerful testament to the universal language of art. While artists from other nations have joined their troupe, the essence of the Grand Kyiv Ballet remains rooted in the spirit and resilience of Ukrainian artists.
This extraordinary production will showcase the mesmerizing talents of the Grand Kyiv principal dancers Kateryna Kukhar and Oleksandr Stoianov, both hailing from the National Opera of Ukraine. In addition to their masterful performances, the principal dancers offer an incredible backstory of resilience. A married couple who now call Seattle their temporary home due to the conflict in Ukraine, Kukhar and Stoianov were continents away when the war erupted. Parents to two children, they undertook extraordinary efforts, with the help of friends and family, and worked tirelessly to evacuate their children who were still in Ukraine.
In a commitment to cultural preservation, Grand Kyiv Ballet is proud to announce that a portion of the proceeds from this event will be directed towards the renovation efforts of the Kyiv State Choreographic College. By attending the performance, audiences not only bear witness to a captivating ballet but also contribute to the preservation and enhancement of this esteemed institution which has nurtured generations of exceptionally talented dancers.
The performances are in Albany, N.Y. on Saturday, February 24th at 7 p.m. and Wednesday, February 28th at 7 p.m. at The Egg Center for the Performing Arts (24th) and Palace Theater (28th). Tickets for The Egg run from $29 to $49 and can be found online or by calling 518-473-1845. Tickets to Palace Theater run from $36 to $86 and can be found online or by calling 518-465-4663.
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The Guild of Berkshire Artists presents ‘Woods and Water,’ a new art exhibit at The Colonial Theatre
Pittsfield— Through April, the Guild of Berkshire Artists (GBA) presents “Woods and Water,” a new art exhibit in the lobby of The Colonial Theatre. There is an opening reception this Saturday, February 24th from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m.
“Woods and Water” consists of nine works of art selected from Guild of Berkshire Artist applicants by a jury. Media include oils, acrylics, charcoal, mixed media, textiles, and photography. Styles range from realistic to the abstract, showcasing the artistic strength and stylistic diversity of the submissions.
Featured abstract work for this show includes Kathy Glenn’s evocative acrylic, “Here Comes the Rain,” an evocative painting called “Blue” by Katherine Borkowski-Byrne, Sarah Morrison’s large fiber work “Winter Woods” in wool and silk, and Neil Beckerman’s mysterious photograph, “Foggy Subway,” among others. All works are for sale and a portion of each sale will go to the education efforts of the Berkshire Theatre Group and the Guild of Berkshire Artists.
The exhibit runs through April in the lobby of The Colonial Theatre on South Street in Pittsfield on Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 5:00 p.m. There is an opening reception on Saturday, February 24th from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. More information can be found online.
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The Foundry presents Grosse Isle
West Stockbridge— On Thursday, February 29th at 7:30 p.m., The Foundry presents Grosse Isle, a magical collaboration between three exceptional musicians from Quebec and Ireland.
Together, Sophie Lavoie du Lac-St-Jean (fiddle, piano, vocal), André Marchand (guitar, vocal), and Fiachra O’Regan (Irish bagpipes, whistle, banjo) shine with their rich and enveloping music.
Grosse Isle refers to the story of the 19th century arrival of the Irish on Grosse Île in the St. Lawrence River as they fled the Great Famine. It is a striking encounter between two peoples and two cultures. The result of this harmonious blend of two cultures plus the authenticity and immense talent of the artists is sublime. Fusing Irish and Québécois repertoire with original compositions, Grosse Isle will present their album “Portraits” plus some surprises.
The concert is on Thursday, February 29th at 7:30 p.m. at The Foundry on Harris Street in West Stockbridge. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. Tickets and more information can be found online. Parking is limited at the venue so please utilize the three public parking lots in town. To avoid a parking ticket, visit the Foundry online for further details.
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Jewish Federation of the Berkshires presents ‘Luminous: An Artist’s Story as a Guide to Radical Creativity’ with author Linda Frimer
Pittsfield— On Thursday, February 29th at 7 p.m., Jewish Federation of the Berkshires presents ‘Luminous: An Artist’s Story as a Guide to Radical Creativity’ with author Linda Frimer, as part of the “Jewish Literary Voices: A Federation Series” in collaboration with the Jewish Book Council.
“Luminous” takes us on a journey through the heart and soul of an artist. Frimer’s life story is enriched with insights into its historical context and the cultures and colors that her amazing abilities enabled her to perceive even as a young child.
In her memoir, artist Linda Frimer traces the layered histories of art and the artists of each era alongside her family’s journey from Eastern Europe to the wilderness of western Canada. Born in Wells, and later spending her childhood in nearby Prince George, Frimer’s development as an artist was intimately impacted by her upbringing in the Cariboo region of British Columbia. It was there that Frimer developed a deep empathy and reverence for the First Nations of Canada, who were on this land thousands of years before European colonization.
It was also there that Frimer first realized that nature and culture rose inseparable in creation, and that she had a responsibility to both. Throughout her book, Frimer strives to break down barriers between varying perspectives, while guiding the reader through a series of artistic exercises designed to cultivate imagination and to foster cultural and environmental healing through creativity.
Accompanied by her acclaimed artwork, close examination of art history and theory, and exploration of Jewish spirituality, Frimer explores the power of color, the symbols that help to give life meaning, and the importance of creativity in not only protecting, but ennobling existence. “Luminous” aims to inspire each of us to become the artist of our own story.
The free virtual presentation is on Thursday, February 29th at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Registration and more information can be found online.
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Hudson Hall presents ‘Movies On Mainstreet: It’s Basic’
Hudson, N.Y.— On Wednesday, February 28th at 6 p.m., Hudson Hall presents “It’s Basic,” as part of its “‘Movies On Mainstreet” series.
“It’s Basic” profiles several pilot programs launched in the United States and the effects of providing everyday people with an extra $500 to $1,000 monthly, with no strings attached. Directed by Marc Levin and executive produced by Mayors for a Guaranteed Income founder Michael Tubbs, the film explores the power of money, the importance of dignity, and the ongoing work of providing an income floor through the eyes of guaranteed income recipients who have witnessed firsthand the life-altering effects of financial stability.
The free screening is followed by a panel discussion with Hudson Mayor Kamal Johnson, Susan Danziger of the Spark of Hudson and co-founder of HudsonUP, HudsonUP Ambassador and participant Lira Campbell, and Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood Executive Director Joan Hunt.
The free event is on Wednesday, February 28th at 6 p.m. at Hudson Hall on Warren Street in Hudson, N.Y. Reservations are recommended. Reservations and more information can be found online.
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Berkshire Museum presents ‘Wingmasters: World of Owls’
Pittsfield— On Sunday, February 25th at 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., Berkshire Museum presents ‘Wingmasters: World of Owls.’
Featuring a variety of live owls, this captivating and informative program shows how owls use their specialized powers of sight, hearing, and flight to survive and thrive. A wealth of facts and folklore about these masters of the dark explains the natural and unnatural history of owls.
This educational program is presented by Wingmasters, a partnership of two licensed raptor rehabilitators dedicated to increasing public understanding and appreciation of North American birds of prey.
The shows are on Sunday, February 25th at 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. at Berkshire Museum on South Street in Pittsfield. It is recommended for ages 5 and up. Tickets include museum admission and are $20, $13 for children, and $5 for members. Tickets and more information can be found online.
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The Lee Library presents a composting workshop with Mary Strickland and Linda Cysz
Lee— On Saturday, February 24th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Lee Library presents a composting workshop.
Mary Stucklen, owner of TOMMY’s Composting Service, and Linda Cysz from the Lee Land Trust will share their knowledge and experience about recycling food waste to generate nutrient dense soil while keeping food waste out of the trash.
The workshop is on Saturday, February 24th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the J. Peter Scolforo Gallery and Meeting Room at the Lee Library on Main Street in Lee. It is free and open to anyone interested in learning about home and commercial composting.
