Saturday, December 6, 2025

News and Ideas Worth Sharing

BITS & BYTES: Alec Mapa at The Foundry; ‘A Christmas Carol’ at the Unicorn Theatre; Jenny Herzog at The Clark; Cantilena Chamber Choir presents Christmas concert; WERQSHIRES at The Foundry; Christmas at Chesterwood

Alec Mapa is an actor and comedian with 40 years of credits from Broadway (“M.Butterfly,”) Television (“Desperate Housewives,” “Ugly Betty,” “Doom Patrol,” “RuPaul's Drag Race”) and Film (“Connie and Carla,” "Queen Bees.”)

The Foundry presents ‘The Buttcracker,” an outrageous hour of comedy with Alec Mapa

West Stockbridge— On Sunday, December 7th at 7:30 p.m., The Foundry presents “The Buttcracker,” an outrageous hour of comedy with Alec Mapa.

Alec Mapa. Courtesy The Foundry.

Alec Mapa is an actor and comedian with 40 years of credits from Broadway (“M.Butterfly,”) Television (“Desperate Housewives,” “Ugly Betty,” “Doom Patrol,” “RuPaul’s Drag Race”) and Film (“Connie and Carla,” “Queen Bees.”) He has filmed multiple stand up specials including “Alec Mapa: Baby Daddy” for Showtime. He appears in the Netflix documentary chronicling the rise of LGBTQ comics, “OUTSTANDING, A Comedy Revolution.” 

A tireless activist for LGBTQ causes and kids in foster care, Alec has headlined fundraisers for the Human Rights Campaign, The Matthew Shepard Foundation, LAMBDA Legal, Family Equality, and Raise A Child.

The show is on Sunday, December 7th at 7:30 p.m. at The Foundry, located at 2 Harris Street. The doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets and more information can be found online. 

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Berkshire Theatre Group presents ‘A Christmas Carol,’ one of Berkshire County’s most cherished holiday traditions, at the Unicorn Theatre

Stockbridge— From December 4th though the 21st, Berkshire Theatre Group presents “A Christmas Carol,” one of Berkshire County’s most cherished holiday traditions, at the Unicorn Theatre.

Courtesy Berkshire Theatre Group.

Follow the transformation of the cold-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by four mysterious spirits who guide him through his past, present and future, revealing hard truths, forgotten joys, and the hope for redemption. Step into the magic of Victorian England as Charles Dickens’ legendary story comes to life on stage in a dazzling production filled with festive carols and the spirit of the season. Overflowing with theatrical wonder and a message that resonates as deeply today as it did in Dickens’ time, this classic holiday journey is the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends. 

Performances run from December 4th though the 21st at the Unicorn Theatre, located at 6 East Street in Pittsfield. There is a sensory-friendly performance on December 10th. Tickets and more information can be found online.

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Clark Art Institute presents vocalist and tap dancer Jenny Herzog in concert to kick-off Holiday Walk Weekend

Williamstown— On Friday, December 5th at 6 p.m., the Clark Art Institute presents vocalist and tap dancer Jenny Herzog in concert to kick-off Holiday Walk Weekend. 

Jenny Herzog kicks off the season in style with a spirited concert blending the Great American Songbook, tap dance, and holiday classics. Herzog celebrates the long relationship between improvisational tap dance and jazz. Joined by interdisciplinary pianist Jacob Hiser, this duo promises to get your toes tapping and your spirits lifted, just in time for the holidays!

The concert is on Friday, December 5th at 6 p.m. at the Clark Art Institute, located at 225 South Street in Williamstown. More information, including a full schedule of Holiday Walk Weekend events, can be found online.

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Cantilena Chamber Choir presents annual ‘Christmas at Trinity’ concert featuring award-winning author Kevin O’Hara and the Zion Lutheran Handbell Choir

Lenox— On Sunday, December 7th at 3 p.m., the Cantilena Chamber Choir presents its 22nd annual “Christmas at Trinity” concert featuring award-winning author Kevin O’Hara and the Zion Lutheran Handbell Choir.

Courtesy Cantilena Chamber Choir.

This beloved holiday tradition combines centuries-spanning choral masterworks with contemporary compositions and special guest readings. The program features a rich tapestry of Christmas music from Renaissance master Tomás Luis de Victoria and J.S. Bach to Benjamin Britten’s beloved Christmas portion from “In the Company of Heaven.” Contemporary works by Erik Esenvalds, Paul Halley, and Wayne Oquin will showcase the evolving tradition of sacred choral music. The concert culminates with the exhilarating “Worthy is the Lamb” final chorus from Handel’s Messiah. 

This year’s special guest is acclaimed author Kevin O’Hara, recipient of the 2012 John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Award. O’Hara will share readings from his latest work, “A Christmas Journey Volume Two.” Known for his appearances on TV and radio stations throughout New England and his engaging performances at libraries, colleges, and Irish pubs, O’Hara brings warmth and storytelling magic to the holiday season. Signed copies of his book will be available for purchase at the event.

The concert is on Sunday, December 7th at 3 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 88 Walker Street in Lenox. More information can be found online.

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WERQSHIRES presents ‘A DRAG Christmas Story’ at The Foundry 

West Stockbridge— On Friday, December 5th at 7:30 p.m., WERQSHIRES presents “A DRAG Christmas Story” at The Foundry.

WERQshires, the Berkshires’ newest drag sensation and trio of award winning local queens Bella Santarella, Poppy DaBubbly, and Vuronika Baked, puts holly, jolly, hijinks, and their own sparkling, hilarious spin on “A Christmas Story,” packed with holiday favorites and musical fun. Prepare for a night of glitter, laughter, and unforgettable festive flair!

Courtesy WERQSHIRES.

The show is on Friday, December 5th at 7:30 p.m. at The Foundry, located at 2 Harris Street in West Stockbridge. The doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets and more information can be found online.

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Christmas returns to Chesterwood

Stockbridge— From December 8th through the 22nd on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Christmas returns to Chesterwood.

Listen to stories of the French Family’s Christmas traditions while visiting the historic studio and ground floor of the residence, decorated in style for the holidays. The family-friendly visits include complimentary hot cider and doughnuts. 

Courtesy Chesterwood.

The celebration runs from December 8th through the 22nd on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Chesterwood, located at 4 Williamsville Road in Stockbridge. Tickets and more information can be found online.

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The Edge Is Free To Read.

But Not To Produce.