Clark Art Institute presents Nathalie Joachim Trio
Williamstown— On Wednesday, July 17 at 6 p.m., The Clark Art Institute presents Nathalie Joachim Trio, as part of its outdoor concert series celebrating the French Caribbean.
Grammy-nominated performer and composer Nathalie Joachim is a Haitian-American artist whose creative practice centers an authentic commitment to storytelling and human connectivity while advocating for social change and cultural awareness.
Joachim is Assistant Professor of Composition at Princeton University and is regularly commissioned to write for orchestra, instrumental and vocal ensembles, dance, and interdisciplinary theater. Joachim’s highly-anticipated sophomore album “Ki moun ou ye, an intimate examination of ancestral connection and self” was co-released by Nonesuch Records and New Amsterdam Records in February 2024.
The free concert is on Wednesday, July 17 at 6 p.m. on the reflecting pool lawn at The Clark Art Institute on South Street in Williamstown. Bring a picnic and your own seating. More information can be found online.
***
The Mac-Haydn Theatre presents Jonathan Larson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning musical ‘Rent’
Chatham, N.Y.— From July 18th through July 28th, The Mac-Haydn Theatre continues its summer season with Jonathan Larson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning musical “Rent.”
The groundbreaking story inspired by Puccini’s “La Bohème” captivates audiences with its raw, resonant storytelling and remarkable rock score that defined contemporary musical theatre. Rent’s Tony-winning score includes unforgettable anthems such as “Seasons of Love,” “I’ll Cover You,” “Take Me or Leave Me,” and the iconic “La Vie Boheme.”
This is the season’s inaugural production for Artistic Director John Saunders following his recent success from last season’s sell-out “Jersey Boys.”
The performances run from July 18th through July 28th at The Mac-Haydn Theatre at 1925 NY-203 in Chatham, N.Y. “Rent” is not recommended for audience members younger than 13. Tickets and more information can be found online.
***.
Chesterwood presents ‘Director’s Insight’ with Tina Packer
Stockbridge— On Saturday, July 20th at 5 p.m., Chesterwood continues its popular performing arts series, “Arts Alive!” with a special evening with Shakespeare & Company’s founder and director Tina Packer.
Packer will bring her cast of “The Winter’s Tale” to the garden at Chesterwood to share her insights into the play and her methods of directing during an open rehearsal.
“The Winter’s Tale” is an odyssey through a world where kingdoms collide, betrayal weaves its web, and love battles against all odds. Featuring magic, mystery, and a man-eating bear, the play examines the consequences of jealousy and the power of forgiveness.
Tina Packer is the founding artistic director of Shakespeare & Company. She has directed most of Shakespeare’s plays, acted in seven, and taught the entire canon at multiple colleges and universities, among them Harvard, MIT, and Columbia. Ms. Packer was an Associate Artist with the Royal Shakespeare Company in England, and worked at the Royal Court and Aldwych theatres in London, Leicester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other regional theatres, as well as for BBC and ITV television. Her performance piece “Women of Will” has traveled across the world.
The presentation is on Saturday, July 20th at 5 p.m. at Chesterwood at 4 Williamsville Road in Stockbridge. After the presentation, meet the cast at a complimentary reception. Tickets are $25 and free for youth under age 18. Tickets and more information can be found online.
***
Jewish Federation of the Berkshires presents ‘Lessons from the Olive Tree’ with Biblical Ethnobotanist Dr. Jon Greenberg
Pittsfield— On Thursday, July 18th at 10:45 a.m., Jewish Federation of the Berkshires presents TorahFlora botanist, author, and teacher Jon Greenberg, Ph.D. with “Lessons from the Olive Tree for Families, Jewish Unity, and the Social Security System.”
The menorah was not the original symbol of Chanukah. Why did it change? Why did the time of olive ripening become a day for matchmaking? And how does the Talmud’s view of olive connoisseurs, the foodies of their day, help to resolve a 500-year old Jewish argument? This presentation will challenge you to think more deeply about the many beautiful and often surprising symbolic meanings of the olive tree and how they resonate in our own times.
Dr. Jon Greenberg is devoted to biblical ethnobotany to better understand the Torah.
The free presentation is on Thursday, July 18th at 10:45 a.m. at Knesset Israel at 16 Colt Road in Pittsfield. It will be followed by a kosher hot lunch with conversation. Lunch is free for adults over 60 years of age with a suggested donation of $3. It is $7 for all others. Advanced lunch reservations are required and can be made by calling 413-442-2200 before 9 a.m. on the day of the program. More information can be found online.
***
Rainbow Seniors Annual Intergenerational Picnic
Pittsfield— On Sunday, July 21st from noon to 3 p.m., join Rainbow Seniors for their annual intergenerational picnic, sponsored by Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition.
This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with community, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, and make cherished memories. A delightful day is in store including a delicious spread of foods, exciting games for all ages, prizes, and a special appearance by Bella Santarella!
The free picnic is on Sunday, July 21st from noon to 3 p.m. at the Pittsfield State Forest at 1041 Cascade Street in Pittsfield. More information can be found online.
***
Zion Lutheran Church offers “Intro Embroidery Thread Friendship Bracelets,” a summer camp craft session
Pittsfield— On Wednesday, July 17th from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Zion Lutheran Church offers “Intro Embroidery Thread Friendship Bracelets,” a summer camp craft session.
Led by the talented Kate Staebler, dive into the world of embroidery thread friendship bracelets. Learn techniques and practice together. All supplies will be provided, and everyone is welcome, regardless of age or ability.
The free session is on Wednesday, July 17th from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church at 74 First Street in Pittsfield. Registration can be found online.
