The Becket Arts Center presents “Dance”, drawings from Jacob’s Pillow” by Carolyn Newberger
Becket— From July 13th through July 31st, the Becket Arts Center presents “Dance”, drawings from Jacob’s Pillow” by Carolyn Newberger.
On many summer evenings you will find Carolyn Newberger, sketchbook on lap and pen in hand, in the front row of a darkened theater at the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival in Becket. As the performance unfolds, her hand flies across the paper, tracing the arch of a dancer’s back, the tension and release of a pas de deux, or the collective energy of an ensemble. Her husband, Eli sits beside her, taking notes. Together, they turn her images and his observations into dance reviews for The Berkshire Edge.
“Dance” is a sampling of these drawings, impelled and inspired by the passion and artistry of some of the best dancers, choreographers, and musicians in the world today.
The exhibit runs from July 13th through July 31st at the Becket Arts Center on Booker Hill Road in Becket. There is a reception on “Community Day”, July 15th from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit the Becket Arts Center online.
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Chesterwood presents “HEARD – World Jazz Arts Alive!”, a jazz collective for dancing
Stockbridge— Saturday, July 29th at 5:30 p.m., Chesterwood presents “HEARD World Jazz Arts Alive!”, a jazz collective for dancing.
Energetic & upbeat, “Heard” will open your ears and hearts, and get you up and dancing! Heard is a collective of musicians that bring their skills and passion for world music, jazz, and improvising together to create irresistible grooves set in a unique sonic tapestry. Together for 15 years, their vibrant sound incorporates influences from West Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, and beyond. Their debut album, “Karibu” reached #15 on the World Jazz charts. “Heard” is a four time Eddy Music Awards nominee in the World Music category.
The performance is on Saturday, July 29th at 5:30 p.m. at Chesterwood on Williamsville Road in Stockbridge. Tickets are $25 general admission, $20 for members, and free for those age 18 and under. Tickets to this performance include an artists talk with featured artist-in-residence from West Africa, Georges Adeagbo, who is presenting his newly installed work “Create to Free Yourselves: Abraham Lincoln and the Freeing of Slaves in America”. Tickets and more information can be found by visiting Chesterwood online.
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The Dorset Playhouse presents ‘STILL’ by Lia Romeo with Tim Daly and Jayne Atkinson
Dorset— From July 21st through August 5th, the Dorset Playhouse presents “STILL” by Lia Romeo, a witty, realistic, and revealing world premiere comedy about how people change… or don’t.
Thirty years ago, Helen and Mark broke up, but they never completely forgot about each other. When they meet for dinner to catch up, the flame is rekindled… but Mark is running for Congress, and Helen has a secret that could derail his bid. Lost love is revisited and an avocado goes flying in Lia Romeo’s whirlwind world premiere comedy about getting older, political divisions, and roads not taken. A story for anyone who’s ever wondered, “what if?”
Stars abound! The role of Mark is being played by Tim Daly (“Madam Secretary”, “The Fugitive”, “Private Practice”, “Wings”, and “The Sopranos”, for which he was nominated for an EMMY) and the role of Helen is being played by Jayne Atkinson (“House of Cards”, “Madame Secretary”, “Criminal Minds”, and multiple TONY-nominated roles on Broadway).
The performances run from July 21st through August 5th at the Dorset Playhouse on Cheney Road in Dorset, Vt. Tickets and more information can be found by visiting the Dorset Playhouse online. This production includes adult language and mature themes.
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Methuselah Bar & Lounge continues their monthly “Pride Nights” and DJ Pup Daddy is putting the spotlight on Tina Turner
Pittsfield— On Thursday, July 6th, Methuselah Bar & Lounge continues their monthly “Pride Nights” and DJ Pup Daddy is putting the spotlight on Tina Turner.
Anna Mae Bullock, aka Tina Turner, was the Queen of Rock and Roll and sadly we lost her on May 24th at the age of 83. Tina’s powerful gravelly vocals, swagger, sensuality, and unstoppable energy is what made her “The Best”. Come celebrate Tina Turner’s musical legacy via her hits of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s along with some unexpected covers, remixes and duets. Plus, there will be a guest appearance by the one and only Bella Santarella! It’s going to be a night to remember.
A casual, rustic, chic, and award-winning bar, Methuselah specializes in craft cocktails, craft beer, sustainable/organic wines, and succulent tapas served in a friendly and warm environment.
The celebration is on Thursday, July 6th at Methuselah Bar & Lounge on North Street in Pittsfield. More information can be found by visiting Methuselah online.
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The Otis Historical Commission and Otis Preservation Trust (OPT) hosts Robbins-Zust Family Marionettes Company
Otis— On Saturday, July 29th at 11 a.m., the Otis Historical Commission and Otis Preservation Trust (OPT) are hosting the fourth “Notice Otis” cultural event of the 2022-23 season featuring the Robbins-Zust Family Marionettes Company.
Two shows will be performed, “Three Little Pigs” and “Rumpelstiltskin” with a one hour break at 12noon. Picnics, blankets, and lawn chairs are welcome and ice cream will be available.
Genie Zust and her late husband, Richard Robbins found the Robbins-Zust Family Marionettes in 1971 after they moved to the Berkshires from New York City. The family used wooden and plaster puppets to bring fairy tales to life for local children. Their son Dion remains the only family member to stay with the business.
Many of the family’s 100 puppets, which vary in size from a foot to 2-feet in height, are handmade. The marionette bodies were whittled from wood by Richard Robbins over the years, a skill he learned from a book checked out from the Berkshire Athenaeum. The heads were cast in plaster molds by Robbins and Zust, who also made their clothing and wrote the scripts.
The free event is on Saturday, July 29th at 11 a.m. at the Otis Town Hall Green on North Main Road in Otis. Registration and more information can be found by visiting the Otis Preservation Trust online.
You can also find the Robbins-Zust Marionettes on the outside patio of Dottie’s Coffee Lounge’s in North Street in Pittsfield for a limited engagement on Friday mornings in July and August. Performances are free with a different charming and enchanting tale every week. For more information, visit Dottie’s Coffee Lounge online.
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Cantina 229 reopens for Flying Cloud Institute fundraiser
New Marlborough— On Monday, July 24th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Cantina 229 restaurant which officially closed in February after 8 years of service, will be reopening for one night to raise funds for Flying Cloud Institute’s creative learning programs.
Chef Josh Irwin will serve smoked brisket, chicken, and pulled pork alongside cocktails created by Moon Cloud’s Billy Jack Paul. Flying Cloud alum DJ Jules Jenssen will provide music. Participants will be able to bid on auction items and be treated to fun surprises throughout the night.
General admission for one person is $150 and includes dinner, two drinks, and entertainment. There will be general seating on the porch, inside, or lawn, and guests may bring their own blankets. A reserved table for six people is available for $1,500.
“We are so appreciative of this amazing opportunity to celebrate with our community! Thanks to Josh and Billy Jack for this special fundraising event, which will allow Flying Cloud Institute to continue to bring inspirational science and art to children and educators throughout the Berkshires,” remarked Executive Director Maria Rundle.
Flying Cloud Institute’s mission is to inspire young people and educators through dynamic experiences with science and art that ignite creativity. The institute offers an array of programs in the arts and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) that serve over 2,000 youth and local educators annually.
The special event is Monday, July 24th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Cantina 229 restaurant located at 229 Hartsville-New Marlborough Road in New Marlborough. Advanced tickets are required. Tickets and more information can be found by visiting the Flying Cloud Institute online.
