Weekend - December 19, 2019

For a full listing of WMass events this weekend, go to masslive.com/entertainment

Weekend

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CLUB SCOUT: Holiday parties to consider, E2 WINE PRESS: 10 Champagnes worth splurging on this holiday season, E12 ‘HANUKKAH FIRST LIGHT’: Event to shine bright, E9

| THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

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‘The Nutcracker’

PLUS

Escape to the Berkshires, E20

The Albany Berkshire Ballet presents 45th production of holiday show at Springfield Symphony Hall, Page E8

FIRST NIGHT NORTHAMPTON 2020 Presented by the Northampton Arts Council and PeoplesBank

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31ST

BUTTONS ON SALE NOW! Details at firstnightnorthampton.org

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12-hour, family-friendly festival of the arts with fireworks at 6:15 and a traditional midnight ball-raising from the roof of the Hotel Northampton

E2 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

CLUBBING

W

Few more holiday parties to consider

ELL, WE’RE right in the thick of the holidays, and while I mentioned a few holiday events last week and the week before, a few more have come trickling in so let’s have a look: In what’s being billed as a pre-holiday hangover party, The Se7ens Sports Bar & Grill in Easthampton will feature Kobra Kai along with Ultra Mammoth tomorrow. There will be no cover charge and the venue is at 75 Cottage St. Luthier’s Co-op will hold an Easthampton Toy Fund fundraiser tomorrow, from 7 to 11 p.m. Details weren’t available at press time, but this event usually features short sets by great local acts. Luthier’s is at 108 Cottage St. This one could just as easily gone into my Beer Nut column but I thought it was worth placing here as it’s not just about beer, but also about food and sharing the holiday spirit. Sierra Grille in

this usually go to some worthy cause. The cover charge is $3.

Also semi beer-related but also in the holiday spirit, the Friday at 5 drinking meetup group will hold a Festivus party at Abandoned Building Brewery tomorrow at 5 p.m.

So if you’re not into traditional holidays and want to George Lenker celebrate in the “Seinfeld” Club Scout way, that’s the place to be.

Abandoned Building is at 142 Northampton will hold its an- Pleasant St. in Easthampton. nual Night Before the Night Scouting report Before X-mas on Monday • Hash Brown will play (obviously). The evening will Theodores’ in Springfield feature great food, talks by on Saturday. The blues singer owner O’Brian Tomalin and Dogfish Head’s Sam Calgione has been playing since 1973 as well as great beer. Tickets and earned his blues stripes playing with names such as are $65 and I guarantee this ZuZu Bollin, Henry Qualls, event will sell out. Sierra Sam Myers, Big Al Dupree, Grille is at 41 Strong Ave. Robert Ealey, Willie Willis, Also at Sierra Grille, a Ray Sharpe, Little Joe Blue, Christmas-themed “Reanimate the Baystate” music Ernie Johnson, and many night will feature Sunburned more. Theodores’ is located at Hand of Man (with special 201 Worthington St. guest Santa Claus) and Grey Father and daughter musicians Dave and Hailey Brinnel Matter. The proceeds from

Nightclubs THURSDAY

Buccaneer Lounge: DJ with rock and Top 40. 86 Maple St., Agawam Center Stage Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 267 Dwight St., Springfield Christy’s Lounge: DJ. 278 Main St., Indian Orchard Club Castaway: Nude ladies dancing. Routes 5 and 10, Whately

Donovan’s Irish Pub: Live entertainment. 1655 Boston Road #C6, Springfield Froggy’s Saloon: DJ karaoke with songstress Shorty. 846 Airport Industrial Park, Westfield Hot Shot Billards: DJ JR. 1440 North Main St., Palmer J.J.’s Tavern: Karaoke with Highnote Productions. 99 Main St., Florence

are set to perform at Shakago Martini & Piano Bar in Springfield on Saturday and the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge the following day.

The Rendezvous will feature two bands tomorrow, as Uncle Hal’s Crabgrass Band takes the stage at 6:30 p.m. followed by Nate Cozzalino at

9:30 p.m. The Rendezvous is at 78 Third St. in the Turners Falls section of Montague.

Rafters: Karaoke with Highnote Productions. 422 Amity St., Amherst

Whip City Brew: DJ with dance.

287 Elm St., Westfield

Shadow Lounge: DJ with classics.

278 Worthington St., Springfield

Anthony’s Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 500 New Ludlow Road, South Hadley

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

The Rendezvous, 78 Third St., in the Turners Falls section of Montague, will feature two bands tomorrow, as Uncle Hal’s Crabgrass Band takes the stage at 6:30 p.m. followed by Nate Cozzalino at 9:30 p.m. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Do you have a cool event coming up at local club? Send me a note at least two weeks in advance to geolenker@yahoo. com and I’ll try to get it in this space.

FRIDAY

Shakago Martini & Piano Bar: DJ karaoke, featuring a full dinner menu and over 150 martinis. 21-23 Hampden St., Springfield

Alina’s: Emery Smith. 96 Russell St., Hadley

Southwick Inn: Open mic hosted

by Steve Piper of Roadhouse Band.

479 College Highway, Southwick

Anthony’s Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 500 New Ludlow Road, South Hadley

Tavern Restaurant: Chris Lomma.

2 Broad St., Westfield

Aud Pub: Eric Gulbrandsen. 52 Gladdu Ave., Chicopee

The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer

Boston Boston: Live acoustics. 16 Bolduc Lane, Chicopee

American Legion Post 266: MidLife Crisis. 74 Pleasant St., Granby

The Still: Drink specials. 858 Suffield St., Agawam

Center Stage Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 267 Dwight St., Springfield

Eric Gulbrandsen will perform tomorrow at Aud Pub in Chicopee. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) Theodores’: Rockstar Karaoke. 201 Christy’s Lounge: DJ. 278 Main Worthington St., Springfield

St., Indian Orchard

Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield

My Brothers Place: DJ with rock.

185 Grove St., Chicopee

Turtle Pond: Live entertainment.

349 Wilbraham St., Palmer

Club Castaway: Nude ladies dancing. Routes 5 and 10, Whately

Mattie’s Cafe: DJ Aaron, reggae, old school, R & B. 750 Boston Road, Springfield

Paisano’s Pub: Dave’s acoustic jam. 138 College Highway, Southampton

Waterfront Tavern: Karaoke with DJ Gavie and the Karaoke Mafia.

920 Main St., Holyoke

Danger Zone Saloon: Live entertainment. 948 Main St., Warren

Mike’s East Side Pub: Karaoke J & M Productions. 535 Page Blvd, Springfield

Pizza Shoppe: Open mic with John O’Neil. 134 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow

West Springfield Fish and Game Club: CD jukebox, pool table. 329 Garden St., Feeding Hills

Delaney House: Live Music with CO2. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

SEE NIGHTCLUBS, PAGE E3

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E3

Nightclubs CONTINUED FROM PAGE E2 Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee Donovan’s Irish Pub: Live entertainment. 1655 Boston Road #C6, Springfield East Mountain Country Club: Cooper Jones Band. 1458 East Mountain Rd, Westfield Florence VFW: Karaoke with DJ Greg. 18 Meadow St., Florence Frankie B’s: DJ. 2957 Boston Road (Route 20), Wilbraham Froggy’s Saloon: DJ karaoke with songstress Shorty. 846 Airport Industrial Park, Westfield Hotel on North: The Savoy Trio.

297 North St., Pittsfield Hutghi’s at The Nook: Comedy’s Best Kept Secret Tour. 8 Franklin St., Westfield Iron Horse Music Hall: Street Corner Symphony Holiday Show.

20 Center St., Northampton Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield Matador: Karaoke and DJ. 300 East St., Ludlow Michael F. Curtin VFW Post 8006: Karaoke with Reil Entertainment Productions. Florence Road, Florence My Brothers Place: DJ with rock.

185 Grove St., Chicopee Open Door: DJ with karaoke. 247 Cady St., Ludlow Patti’s 410 Lounge: Open mic. 32 Quincy Ave., Chicopee Polish American Citizens Club: Karaoke. 515 Granby Road, South Hadley Pulaski Club: Karaoke with Highnote Productions. 79 Maple St., Easthampton Shakago Martini & Piano Bar: Featuring a full dinner menu and over 150 martinis, DJ Dance. 21-23 Hampden St., Springfield

Trailer Trash performs at the 2019 Concert in the Park series at the Forest Park Amphitheater. The band’s Christmas Extravaganza! will take place Saturday at Club One Entertainment Complex, 60 North Westfield St., Feeding Hills. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO) VFW Post 8428: Karaoke with Highnote Productions. 41 Pelham Road, Belchertown

Anthony’s Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 500 New Ludlow Road, South Hadley

Road, Holyoke

St., Ludlow

West Springfield Fish and Game Club: CD jukebox, pool table. 329 Garden St., Feeding Hills

Boston Boston: Live acoustics. 16 Bolduc Lane, Chicopee

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

Lion’s Den: The Savoy Duo. 30 Main St., Stockbridge

Donovan’s Irish Pub: Live entertainment. 1655 Boston Road #C6, Springfield

Luthier’s Co-Op: The Nite Caps, Ray Mason. 108 Cottage St., Easthampton

East Mountain Country Club: 91 South Band. 1458 East Mountain Rd, Westfield

Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield

World War II Club-The Deuce: Karaoke. 50 Conz St., Northampton

Center Stage Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 267 Dwight St., Springfield Christy’s Lounge: DJ. 278 Main St., Indian Orchard

SATURDAY Alina’s: Emery Smith. 96 Russell St., Hadley American Legion Post 260: Karaoke with Larry. 1 Bridge St., South Hadley American Legion Post 266: Variety nights, comedy, live music and pool. 74 Pleasant St., Granby American Legion Post 338-The Wick 338: Karaoke with Chris. 46 Powder Mill Road, Southwick American Legion Post 351: Karaoke with DJ Chris. 50 Saint Kolbe Drive, Holyoke

Cindy’s Sports Bar: Live entertainment. 1620 North Main St., Palmer

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: The Happier FAMILY Comedy Show. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst

Club Castaway: Nude ladies dancing. Routes 5 and 10, Whately

Frankie B’s: DJ Lady Di. 2957 Boston Road (Route 20), Wilbraham

Club House Lounge: Open mic comedy. 250 Westfield Road, Holyoke

Froggy’s Saloon: DJ karaoke with songstress Shorty. 846 Airport Industrial Park, Westfield

Club One Entertainment Complex: Trailer Trash Christmas Extravaganza!. 60 North Westfield St., Feeding Hills

Lighthouse: Karaoke. 108 Sewall

Danger Zone Saloon: Karaoke. 948 Main St., Warren Delaney House: Live music with Luther Johnson. 3 Country Club

Tavern Restaurant: Leo Doherty. 2 Broad St., Westfield The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Pamela Means Band with Soul Magnets. 289 Main St., Greenfield

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Shaker Farms Country Club: The Keepers. 866 Shaker Road, Westfield

FRIDAY, DEC. 20 THE HEALYS WITH CHARLIE BONGIOVI

SATURDAY, DEC. 21 TERRY BRENNAN

My Brothers Place: DJ with rock.

185 Grove St., Chicopee Open Door: DJ with karaoke. 247 Cady St., Ludlow Patti’s 410 Lounge: Karaoke with Peter Kennedy. 32 Quincy Ave., Chicopee R-Bar: DJ Bosco. 269 Worthington St., Springfield

SEE NIGHTCLUBS, PAGE E4

Give the gift of music this holiday season!

KICK – The INXS Experience James Montgomery Band • Porter Carroll Jr. Starman – David Bowie Tribute 33 1/3 Live’s Killer Queen Experience and more!!

★ Holiday Package Deal! ★

4 Live Concerts for $79 Up to 50% OFF!

The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer Theodores’: Michelle Wilson. 201 Worthington St., Springfield Turtle Pond: Live entertainment.

349 Wilbraham St., Palmer Underground Pub at the Crown Plaza: Karaoke with Highnote Productions. 1 West St., Pittsfield

Tues. Movie Stub from Eastfield 16

Gets You 20% OFF! TUES. EAT-IN ONLY

THUR. CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE

FRI. WHOLE BELLY CLAMS

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SUNDAY BREAKFAST 8:30-Noon www.donovanspub.com

Tickets available online at

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WEEKEND

E4 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

CLUBBING | MUSIC UPCOMING CONCERTS A look ahead at some of the most-anticipated concerts in western and central Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Marcus King Band: Friday, 8 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton Classical Mystery Tour: Dec. 29, 7 p.m. – Symphony Hall, Springfield Jamie Kennedy: Dec. 29-31, times vary, Roar! at MGM Springfield Impractical Jokers: Dec. 31, 8 p.m. – Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Conn.

Robin Thicke: Dec. 31, 9 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

Vicki Barbolak, Samuel J. Comroe: Dec. 31, 8:30 p.m.

– Symphony Hall, Springfield Livingston Taylor: Jan. 4, 2020, 8 p.m. – Academy of Music, Northampton Dancing With the Stars: Jan. 11-12, 7:30 p.m. – Mohe-

gan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Conn.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra: Jan. 11, 7:30 p.m. – Symphony Hall, Springfield Snoop Dogg: Jan. 17, 8 p.m.

– Oakdale Theatre, Wallingford, Conn.

Bowzer’s Rock ‘N’ DooWop Party: Jan. 19, 3 p.m.

– Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Conn.

Get the Led Out: Jan. 24, 8 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton Brantley Gilbert: Jan. 25, 8 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra: Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m. – Symphony Hall, Springfield ABBA Mania: Feb. 9, 7 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton Brandy: Feb. 14, 8 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

Gaelic Storm: Feb. 15,

Tony Bennett will perform at Foxwoods Resort Casino on March 13. (JEMAL COUNTESS / GETTY IMAGES FOR STATUE OF LIBERTY-ELLIS ISLAND FOUNDATION)

8 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton Springfield Symphony

Orchestra: Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m. – Symphony Hall, Springfield The Revitalists: Feb. 28, 8 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

High Kings: Feb. 28, 8 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton MercyMe: Feb. 29, 7 p.m. – Oakdale Theatre, Wallingford, Conn.

The Lumineers: Feb. 29, 7 p.m. – Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Conn.

Eaglemania: March 6, 8 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton Springfield Symphony Orchestra: March 7, 7:30 p.m. – Symphony Hall, Springfield Rascal Flatts: March 7, 8 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

The Jayhawks: March 8, 8

p.m. – Academy of Music, Northampton Tony Bennett: March 13, 8 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

Survivor: March 20, 8 p.m.

– Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

Styx: March 21, 8 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

Charlie Wilson: March 27, 8 p.m. – Symphony Hall, Springfield Indigo Girls: March 27, 8 p.m. – Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

Nate Bargatze: March 27, 8 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton Guster: March 28, 8 p.m. – Calvin Theatre, Northampton Brad Paisley: April 3, 7 p.m. – Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Conn.

Ticket information: Academy of Music, 413-584-9032; Calvin Theatre and Mountain Park, 413-586-8686; Foxwoods, 800-200-2882; MassMutual Center, 855-278-4667; Tanglewood, 888266-1200; Ticketmaster serves DCU Center, MGM Springfield Plaza, Mohegan Sun, Mullins Center, Oakdale, Symphony Hall, Xfinity Theatre and XL Center, 800-745-3000

Nightclubs

Anthony’s Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 500 New Ludlow Road, South Hadley

Social & Ballroom Dance Lessons Year-round. 754 Montgomery St., Chicopee

Boston Boston: Open mic. 16 Bolduc Lane, Chicopee

AmVets Post 12: Open pitch. 754 Montgomery St., Chicopee

Center Stage Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 267 Dwight St., Springfield

Anthony’s Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 500 New Ludlow Road, South Hadley

Club One Entertainment Complex: The Blues Jam. 60 North Westfield St., Feeding Hills

Center Stage Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 267 Dwight St., Springfield

Tavern Restaurant: Dave O’Connell.

2 Broad St., Westfield

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Solstice Storytelling Celebration. 289 Main St., Greenfield

Lion’s Den: Hailey Brinnel and Dave Brinnel performance. 30 Main St., Stockbridge

Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield

CONTINUED FROM PAGE E3 Shadow Lounge: DJ Redd. 278 Worthington St., Springfield Shakago Martini & Piano Bar: Hailey Brinnel and Dave Brinnel performance. Featuring a full dinner menu and more than 150 martinis.

21-23 Hampden St., Springfield

The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer

Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield

Theodores’: Hash Brown. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

Mattie’s Cafe: DJ Aaron, reggae, old school, R & B. 750 Boston Road, Springfield

Underground Pub at the Crown Plaza: Karaoke with Highnote Productions. 1 West St., Pittsfield

Pizza Shoppe: Kids nite with John O’Neil. 134 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow

VFW Post 8428: Karaoke with Highnote Productions. 41 Pelham Road, Belchertown

Shakago Martini & Piano Bar: Featuring a full dinner menu and over 150 martinis. 21-23 Hampden St., Springfield

Whip City Brew: DJ with dance. 287 Elm St., Westfield World War II Club-The Deuce: Acoustic music, karaoke. 50 Conz St., Northampton

Anthony’s Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 500 New Ludlow Road, South Hadley Center Stage Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 267 Dwight St., Springfield Club Castaway: Nude ladies dancing. Routes 5 and 10, Whately Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee

Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer 91 Taylor St., Springfield

MONDAY AmVets Post 12: Introductory

Tavern Restaurant: Trivia Night. 2 Broad St., Westfield The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St.,

WEDNESDAY Anthony’s Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 500 New Ludlow Road, South Hadley Center Stage Gentlemen’s Club: Nude dancing. 267 Dwight St., Springfield Club Castaway: Nude ladies dancing. Routes 5 and 10, Whately

Doc’s Place: Karaoke. 1264 Granby Road, Chicopee Mardi Gras: Nude female dancing.

91 Taylor St., Springfield The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer The Republican is not responsible for unannounced schedule changes.

Listings must be received two weeks before the date of the event. Items should be mailed to: Entertainment Guide, The Republican, P.O. Box 1329, Springfield, MA 01102-1329, emailed pmastriano@repub.com or submitted it to masslive.com/myevent

American Legion Post 266 74 Pleasant Street, Granby • 413-467-9545 www.granbylegionpost266.com Open 7 days a week noon to 1am

Thursday 12/19 9C Christmas h i t P Party t Friday 12/20 Midlife Crisis Friday 12/27 Tommy Whalen Wednesday 1/1 Free Juke Box & Pool Friday 1/3 The Side Effects Pool, Electronic Darts Now Available Line Dance Lessons on Monday

31 25 9 92 -0 1

350 Grill: Sunday Jazz Night. 350 Worthington St., Springfield

TUESDAY

World War II Club-The Deuce: Open Mic with Kevin Crane and Lincoln Hubley. 50 Conz St., Northampton

03046912

SUNDAY

Southwick Inn: Blues Jam hosted

by Cold Shot. 479 College Highway, Southwick

The Magic Lantern: Nude female dancers. 399 Wilbraham St., Palmer

Palmer

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E5

MUSIC

M

David Foster to wrap up singing career with Mohegan Sun performance

OHEGAN SUN All-Stars founder and famed front man David Foster is retiring from a 53-year singing career.

Foster will lead his All-Stars one final time at the Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, tomorrow at 8 p.m.

Wolf Den shows are free and seating is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Foster is a legend on the regional music scene, having founded the Shaboo Inn night club in Williamantic, Connecticut, a venue that over the years would host everyone from Aerosmith and AC/DC to Dire Straits and The Police.

A performer at heart, he formed the Shaboo All-Stars in 1980 with Matt “Guitar” Murphy of “Blues Brothers” fame, and started a legacy that would eventually evolve into the Mohegan Sun AllStars, the “house band” at the Wolf Den, that includes local notables such as Mitch Chakour and Jeff Pevar.

Tickets for the show are on sale through the promoter’s website at massconcerts. com.

Bad Religion is celebrating its 40th anniversary and is touring behind its recent release “Age of Reason.”

Donnie Moorhouse LiveWire

Wolf Den shows are free and seating is offered on a firstcome, first-served basis.

The Cowsills are noted for hits in the ’60s and ’70s such as “Hair” and “Indian Lake.”

The Cowsills formed as a family band in the ’60s and became the inspiration for the television series “The Partridge Family.” The group is currently Mohegan Sun All-Stars founder David Foster is retiring from a led by siblings Sue, Paul, and 53-year singing career. Foster will lead his All-Stars one final Bob. time at the Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn.,

• Pitbull will play The Grand Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, on March 27 at 8 p.m.

Tickets for the show are on Liner notes sale now through all Ticketmaster outlets and locations • The Cowsills are set to play the Wolf Den at Mohegan including ticketmaster.com Sun. and by phone at 800-745The group is scheduled to 3000. perform at the venue on Jan. 26 Pitbull has sold over 70 million records worldwide and at 7 p.m.

has recently released “Libertad 548” on CD. He is the winner of 35 Billboard Latin Music Awards.

In 2013, he helped launch MGM Springfield’s local public relations campaign with a performance at the MassMutual Center.

My Holiday Is All Wrapped Up

• Rock band Squeeze will warm up for its opening slot on the Hall & Oates tour with a visit to Northampton.

The group will perform at the Academy of Music on Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for the show are on sale through the promoter’s website at dspshows.com.

Squeeze will open for Hall & Oates at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania, on Feb. 26 and Madison Square Garden on Feb. 28.

Songwriters Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook formed Squeeze in the early 1970s and quickly became part of the U.K’s burgeoning New Wave movement.

MOHEGAN SUN)

The group’s most recent release is 2017’s “The Knowledge.”

• Los Angeles-based punk outfits Bad Religion and Alkaline Trio will join forces for a co-headlining tour that will play The Palladium in Worcester on April 11.

SEE LIVEWIRE, PAGE E6

My Holiday is all Wrapped Up Greenfield, MA

Pleasure, Adventure & Fun 18 Main Street, Greenfield, MA www.Greenfield.AdamEveStores.com Mon-Thur 10-9, Fri, Sat 10-10 & Sun 12-7 • 413-774-9800 LGBTQ+ Friendly

AEStoresGreenfield

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Paul Reubens will present his 1985 movie at select locations in 2020, including a stop at the Orpheum Theater in Boston on March 28.

tomorrow at 8 p.m. (JOHN D. HERZ ARTWORK /

• Thirty-five years after its debut, the film classic “PeeWee’s Big Adventure” is heading back to the big screen.

Creator and star Paul Reubens (Pee-wee Herman) will screen his breakout film at select locations in 2020, including a stop at the Orpheum Theater in Boston on March 28.

Tickets for the event are on sale through all Ticketmaster outlets and locations including ticketmaster.com and by phone at 800-745-3000.

Along with a screening of the film, Ruebens will be on hand to offer insights and behind-the-scenes stories of the making of the film.

“Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” was not only a catalyst for Reubens, it marked the directorial debut for Tim Burton, was co-written by the late Phil Hartman, and served as the first major motion picture credit for composer Danny Elfman.

WEEKEND

E6 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

MUSIC

Dionne Warwick talks about her new Christmas album

By Brandon T. Harden

The Philadelphia Inquirer

Dionne Warwick knows music.

For nearly 60 years, she’s delivered hit songs in her distinct, buttery voice.

In the 1960s, Warwick encouraged us to “Walk on By.” In the ’70s, “Then Came You” became her first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. In the ’80s “That’s What Friends Are For” – with Warwick singing alongside Gladys Knight, Elton John and Stevie Wonder – became one of the most popular songs of the decade.

Warwick, 78, has earned six Grammys (including the 2019 Grammy Lifetime Achievement award) and has sold over 25 million albums and 75 million singles, according to Billboard – and she’s not done.

In October, she released her 38th studio album, “Dionne Warwick & the Voices of Christmas.”

She talked with The Inquirer recently about the new album and shared her thoughts on the current state of music. This is an edited and condensed transcript.

I had the help of my son Damon Elliot, who produced the CD. He knew Aloe Blacc as a friend and he reached out to him and asked if he wanted to be a part of the CD, which was wonderful – just as everyone else that was on the CD. They all wanted to be a part of it, which made it that much more fun and so much easier.

Dionne Warwick attends the 88th annual Hollywood Christmas Parade held at Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, Calif, on Dec. 1. In October, she released “Dionne Warwick & the Voices of Christmas.”

A.

Q. You collaborated on it

with artists like Aloe Blacc and Chloe x Halle. How did you go about choosing who you wanted to work with?

“Music has an incredible way of evolving and continuing to go on, so I can’t say we won’t have classics.

But if you’re asking me if I’ve heard any, no, I haven’t.”

Dionne Warwick

then started matching the artist to the songs. I think I did listen to regularly? a pretty good job.

No, they are people that Are these artists you I have heard and of course,

LiveWire

Q.

A.

A. I chose the songs first,

Q. What made you want Q.

A.

Q.

/ ADMEDIA / ZUMA

Christmas is my favorite time of year. And I only have one Christmas CD, so it was time for another one.

great singer?

First off, someone who loves their craft. Someone who has an idea of what a melody actually is about and sticks to it. And I guess that’s basically it. In Philly, there’s Patti LaBelle, and of course, there was Teddy Pendergrass.

Was this your first time There’s a wealth of talent working with your son on coming out of Philly. an album?

What do you think is Oh no, he’s done my last missing from today’s musical scene? three or four projects.

(BIRDIE THOMPSON

to record a Christmas album?

Q. How do you define a

A.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE E5

recorded over 70 albums, 18 of which have sold over 500,000 copies.

• Legendary crooner Johnny Mathis is coming to Connecticut.

Mathis will bring his new “The Voice of Romance” tour to the Grand Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino on May 23 at 8 p.m.

Tickets for the show are available through all Ticketmaster outlets and locations including ticketmaster.com and by phone at 800745-3000.

Tickets are also available through foxwoods.com.

As a singer of romantic ballads, Mathis first charted in 1956. His career really took off the following year when he appeared on “The Ed Sullivan Show” and released the single “Chances Are.” He has

• Guster is offering some acoustic music and comedy improv on its upcoming tour.

The band is scheduled to play the Calvin Theater in Northampton on March 28 at 8 p.m.; The Music Hall in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on April 2 at 8 p.m.; and Columbus Theatre in Providence, Rhode Island, on April 3 at 8 p.m.

In a release announcing the tour, Guster claims “there are no rules on the 2020 Guster Acoustic Tour,” and fans can expect deep cuts from the band’s catalogue, special guests, and the assistance of Connor Ratliff from the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre to facilitate the comedy portion of

Q. Philadelphia is home A. (Laughing) We don’t have to some of the best soul singers in the business.

Did you ever perform here earlier in your career?

A.

Absolutely. I don’t think there’s anyone in the industry who hasn’t.

Q. What was it like for you?

A.

enough time. But I don’t know that there are any songs that we’re going to still hear 30 years from now.

I don’t know, it’s not for me to say. Music has an incredible way of evolving and continuing to go on, so I can’t say we won’t have classics. But if you’re asking me if I’ve heard any, no, I haven’t.

Q.

Oh, it was wonderful, and Do you know a song is it still is. I worked in Philadel- a classic the moment you phia during a tour with Sam record it?

Cooke. That dates back to the I would be sitting on a ’60s. I received the Marian mountain of rubies if I knew.

Anderson Award in 2017.

A.

the evening.

Guster, a Boston-based alternative rock band, formed at Tufts University in 1991.

• Robyn Hitchcock is coming to Holyoke.

The English singer-songwriter will play Gateway City Arts on Race Street on May 8 at 8 p.m.

Tickets for the show are available through the promoter’s website at dspshows.com.

Since founding the art-rock band The Soft Boys in 1976, Hitchcock has recorded more than 20 albums as well as starred in “Storefront Hitchcock,” an in-concert film recorded in New York and directed

by Jonathan Demme.

His most recent recording is a self-titled album which was released in 2017.

Johnny Mathis will bring his new “The Voice of Romance” tour to the Grand Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino on May 23 at 8 p.m.

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E7

VIDEO GAMES REVIEW

‘Life is Strange 2’ will stay with you for a while

By Christopher Byrd

Special To The Washington Post

ADOPTION EVENT at Mutt Rescue

DOGGIE DAYCARE

‘LIFE IS STRANGE 2’ Developed by: Dontnod Published by: Square Enix Available on: Mac, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

mune in Arizona for artists and independent spirits. In keeping with the other entries in the Life is Strange series, moment-to-moment gameplay mostly involves talking to people or walking around looking for objects in the environment for Sean to comment on or draw.

Occasionally, the game offers other tasks (I can’t say I ever imagined I’d find myself praying with someone’s grandma and trimming freshly harvested marijuana in a video game.) At the risk of venturing into spoiler territory, the game’s drawing mechanic SEE VIDEO GAME, PAGE E19

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French developer Dontnod is good at muddying the heroic arcs in which so many traditional games traffic.

Their “Life is Strange” series is notably attuned to human shortcomings, including those of people graced with supernatural abilities. Days after I completed “Life is Strange 2,” I found myself still emotionally stung by the ending that resulted from my decisions.

Like the first title in the series, “Life is Strange 2” is a game about loss. In this case, the loss of family, friends and time. At the start, players assume the role of Sean Diaz, “Life is Strange 2” shines in its presentation of characters. a teenager who lives in Seattle (SQUARE ENIX) with his younger brother Things take a tragic turn Daniel (a pre-adolescent), and about the first episode of the after the Diaz brothers’ father first game. So, going into “Life his father Esteban. Sean is a good kid, he likes to draw, digs comes outside and pleads is Strange 2,” I wondered if Vonnegut and loves his family, with the cop to de-escalate the Dontnod would again be able situation. The already anxious to use a five-episode format but naturally wants a greater cop warns Esteban to stay measure of independence; to move me from a state of back, then shoots him. Daniel ambivalence toward its charhe’d like to spend more time acters to one of attachment screams and an instant later with his friends and get away the officer is hurtling through and sympathy. The answer is a from his excitable younger the air as though caught in an clear yes. By the time I reached brother.

One afternoon, while the beginning of episode 4, explosion – the first manifestation of the playing outside Sean was my dude. He’d sufLike the first younger brothby himself, er’s telekinetic Daniel upsets a title in the powers. neighbor when series, “Life is When he accidentally Strange 2” is Sean, who spills fake blood was knocked on him. From his a game about unconscious bedroom, Sean December 20-29 loss. In this by the blast, overhears the neighbor beratcase, the loss of comes to, he ing his brother. sees the damage family, friends Rushing outside caused by the and time. to see what’s event: a tipped going on, he ends over power up getting into a fight with the line, a collapsed porch, debris other teenager. Sean comes in the street. Upon registering the lifeless bodies of the out on top in the brawl but Visit Our Website For More Details muttrescueofmassachusetts.org officer, his neighbor and his his victory is pyrrhic. A police 413-594-8144 father, Sean hears the sound officer pulls up to the scene and rashly assumes that Sean of approaching sirens. After is a menace so he pulls his gun. dashing into his house to get The confrontation is meant to a backpack, he picks up his unconscious brother and flees be viewed through the prism $65 Per Week of race. The police officer and the scene.

All of this happens within the Unlimited Days Sean’s antagonist are white Mon-Fri. first hour of the game which, and the latter plays up his injuries to amplify the other’s to me, felt a little rushed. Then 102 Grove Street Chicopee, MA again, I felt something similar reading of the situation.

413-331-4083 - Lori

fered and grown enough that I respected him.

Sean persuades Daniel that they should go to Puerto Lobos, their father’s former hometown, in Mexico. One of the first important decisions players will make is to tell Daniel how free he should be with the use of his powers.

Your conversational choices will affect how Daniel interacts with others down the line, and how he decides to use his powers on his own. No matter how consciously you try to steer Daniel in the right direction, consequential mistakes are unavoidable.

The Diaz brothers’ journey takes them on a winding route to Oregon, where they spend time with their maternal grandparents, who are devout Christians; Humboldt County, where they fall in with a group of squatters who work on a pot farm; and a com-

E8 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

The Albany Berkshire Ballet will perform “The Nutcracker” at Springfield Symphony Hall Saturday at 1 and 3 p.m. (ALBANY BERKSHIRE BALLET)

ON THE COVER

‘The Nutcracker’ pirouettes onto Symphony Hall stage The Albany Berkshire Ballet presents 45th production of show

I

By Chris Dondoros

Special to The Republican

The Albany Berkshire Ballet brings its 45th annual tour of the “The Nutcracker” to Springfield Symphony Hall Saturday. (ALBANY BERKSHIRE BALLET)

t wouldn’t truly be the holiday season in Springfield without an appearance from an old favorite.

The Albany Berkshire Ballet will bring its 45th annual tour of “The Nutcracker” to Symphony Hall for two performancers on Saturday, bringing to life the timeless story of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince and the Mouse King in what has become a holiday tradition for the city.

Joe Durwin, the Albany Berkshire Ballet’s director of communications

and partnerships, offered a preview of this year’s performance.

“It’s going to be great. This is our 45th year of production and we’re looking forward to coming back to Springfield,” he said. “And we’re celebrating our 50th anniversary this year. That’s no small feat for a ballet company.”

According to Durwin, this year’s interpretation includes a theme that, at its core, is important to the very mission of Albany Berkshire Ballet: family.

“There’s a particular emphasis on the family element in our production of ‘The Nutcracker.’ The family party scene in the first act is very elaborate.

There are little vignettes that create a deeper flavor of the home environment,” said Durwin, noting that one of show’s most famous roles will belong to a pair of local students. “‘Clara’ is one of the most coveted roles, and this year she’ll be played by Hannah Markel, of Southwick, in one performance and Emalie Mendes, of Chicopee, in the other,” he said.

Durwin said that the students’ sense of excitement and that aforementioned family element make their way back to the production’s formative stages, which, depending on skill level, began either in September for younger students and November for SEE ‘NUTCRACKER’, PAGE E9

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

SPRINGFIELD

“There’s a particular emphasis on the family element in our production of ‘The Nutcracker.’ The family party scene in the first act is very elaborate. There are little vignettes that create a deeper flavor of the home environment.”

Hanukkah event to shine bright ‘Hanukkah First Light’ features puppets, lighting of largest outdoor menorah in WMass

Joe Durwin, Albany Berkshire Ballet’s director of communications and partnerships

‘Nutcracker’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE E8

older, experienced performers.

“We have a core of 10 pro-level dancers performing in multiple cities.

They’ve been rehearsing since early November. At our younger levels, most kids are in performances in their local area,” he said.

“We’ll have over 150 youth from across the Springfield area supplementing our cast; we’ve been working with the West Side Dance Center to make this a reality.”

Such performances have become customary of the work done at Albany Berkshire Ballet, Durwin said, with students rising up from novice and intermediate levels to professional level – and beyond – while maintaining strong ties to their formative years.

“As some of our students got older and continued their education, we created this platform for those dancers. At the time, there was nothing in Western

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E9

IF YOU GO

By Anne-Gerard Flynn

Event: The Albany Berkshire Ballet’s performances of “The Nutcracker” When: Saturday, 1, 3 p.m.

Where: Symphony Hall, 34 Court St, Springfield.

For tickets and more info: albanyberkshire ballet.org/event-info/ the-nutcracker-dec-21

Special to The Republican

The celebration of Hanukkah, which is also known as the eight-day festival of lights, begins at sundown on Sunday and is marked in Jewish homes by the lighting of the menorah on each of the days.

The public is invited to the lighting on the first day of what is billed as the illumination of the largest outdoor menorah or candle holder in Western Massachusetts at the Springfield Jewish Community Center, 1160 Dickinson St. “Hanukkah First Light” opens this year with a free indoor puppet show at 4 p.m. on Sunday by veteran puppeteer, storyteller and educator Marilyn Price, followed by the illumination and refreshments at 5:30 p.m.

The Illinois-based Price and the puppets she creates have traveled to every corner of the United States, according to her website, presenting her original scripts and stories suitable for variety of audiences.

Her themes address a range of social issues and she also has created a program of stories

Massachusetts beyond the summer festival at Jacob’s Pillow,” he said. “It has become an important pipeline for us, dancers who went on to conservatory and came back to perform in our productions. And other students may not go on to become professional dancers, but their children and grandchildren come back.”

The Albany Berkshire Ballet’s performances of “The Nutcracker” will take place at Symphony Hall on Saturday at 1 and 3 p.m.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit albanyberkshireballet. org/event-info/the-nutcracker-dec-21

“Hanukkah First Light” at the Springfield Jewish Community Center opens this year with a free indoor puppet show at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday by Marilyn Price, followed by the illumination of what is billed as the largest outdoor menorah in Western Massachusetts at 5:30 p.m. (PHOTO COURTESY MARILYN PRICE)

the Temple’s menorah for eight days.

Families light their menorahs Event: “Hanukkah First Light” each night of Hanukkah, with When: Sunday, 4-6 p.m. one the first night, two the secWhere: Springfield Jewish ond, until all are illuminated on Community Center, 1160 the last night, which this year is Dickinson St., Springfield the evening of Dec. 30.

Cost: Free More information: 413-739“Hanukkah First Light” is 4715 sponsored as well by the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, and supported by the Sklar family in partnership with centered on Jewish heritage PJ Library, Temple Beth El, and values.

Hanukkah celebrates a mili- Sinai Temple, B’nai Torah, and tary victory of the Israelites, the Lubavitcher Yeshiva Academy. reclaiming of their Temple and For more information about the fact that a one-day supply JCC programs, call 413-739of olive oil was enough to light 4715.

IF YOU GO

Symphony Hall | Springfield, MA Saturday, December 21st | 1:00pm & 4:30pm

ALWAYS HIGH PRICES PAID.

www.tututix.com/berkshireballet

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63 Cabot Street, Chicopee Center (413) 592-0220

Madeline Cantarella Culpo Artistic Director Mary Giannone Talmi Associate Artistic Director

E10 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

WEEKEND

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DINE & WINE

The Salem Cross Inn is located at 260 West Main Street (Route 9), in West Brookfield. Above is the dining room. At top left, shrimp are sauteed in the kitchen. At bottom left, house-made pecan rolls wait in the bun warmer. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Fran Bellamy | Restaurant Review

Salem Cross Inn promotes farm-to-table dining

L

OCATED IN A RESTORED 1700s farmhouse and surrounded by its own working farm, the Salem Cross Inn and Tavern in West Brookfield is a “poster child” for farm-to-table-dining.

The inn’s main dining room is rustic Colonial, while the downstairs Hexmark Tavern is a cozy space in which to socialize or enjoy a casual meal.

Drawing its inspiration from the Inn’s Yankee pedigree, the Inn’s menu combines familiar ingredients in sometimes inventive ways.

Maple Jack Chicken ($19) finished with local maple syrup is a house specialty, as is Cedar Plank Salmon ($23). A lively peppercorn reduction sauces a New York Sirloin ($28), while a hearty Pork Rib Chop ($24) comes with apple chutney. Other entree options range from a Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash ($16) to a char-broiled Filet Mignon ($34).

Starters at the Salem Cross are a mostly conventional lot that includes the likes of Onion Soup ($7), Crispy

Fried Calamari with homemade marinara ($11) and Classic Shrimp Cocktail ($13).

A signature dish, the Inn’s Seafood Chowder ($6) represents nods to both kitchen frugality and New England tradition. A mellow fish stock

serves as flavor foundation; flaked fish, diced potatoes, lightly sauteed onion, and a splash of cream produce a fine chowder experience.

Seeing Butternut Dumplings ($8) on the menu, we immediately SEE DINE, PAGE E13

At left, a New York Sirloin Steak with peppercorn sauce is ready to leave the kitchen of the Salem Cross Inn. Above, Cranberry Apple Crisp. The restaurant is located in a restored 1700s farmhouse.

See more photos online at MassLive. com. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E11

What impact will ‘plant forward’ dining have?

O

dining in and enjoying one of four signature dishes from the chain’s “Carrabba’s Today, Carrabba’s Tomorrow” menu.

There is a Carrabba’s Italian Grill in West Springfield on Riverdale Street.

The growth of plant-based, meat-free products has been one of the biggest trends of 2019. (GEOFF HERBERT PHOTO)

Hugh Robert Off The Menu

that today’s chefs are going to when it comes to meat and poultry as well as providing additional “meaty” menu ideas. The article can be viewed at getflavor. com/november-december-2019-magazine-center-of-attention.

Hadley, the Delaney House in Holyoke, the Eastside Grill in Northampton, the Federal Restaurant in Agawam, and the Whately Inn in Whately.

Locally-owned and operated, FineDiningGift.com is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

FineDiningGift.com gift cards can be purchased online at their website, by calling 866-440-DINE, and, during the run-up to Christmas, at a seasonal pop-up at the Holyoke Mall at Ingleside in Holyoke.

• Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations are offering a free order of Lasagna to customers

• The Franklin County Community Development Corporation will be holding an open house today from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the organization’s Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center.

That facility, which is located on Wells Avenue in Greenfield, offers entrepreneurs access to a state-of-theart facility designed to process and pack food products for commercial distribution.

The Center also offers technical and business support SEE MENU, PAGE E14

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Side dishes • Though gift cards are a one-size-fits-all option that can simplify things for giver and recipient alike, restaurant gift certificates have one shortcoming – they are usually limited to a single brand or restaurant location.

FineDiningGift.com offers more versatile way to gift a restaurant experience. Their gift cards are honored by a number of sit-down dining establishments across Western Massachusetts; in 2019 the FineDiningGift card can be used at five of the region’s best-known independently-owned restaurants. These include Alina’s Ristorante in

A recent feature on Flavor and the Menu described what they called “meat-centric menu innovation.”

Chefs, it seems, are satisfying the meat cravings of patrons with both traditional and less-commonly seen cuts of beef and pork, supplementing those offerings with game and lamb.

• On Christmas Eve, Figaro Restaurant in Enfield will be offering buffet. Available from 4 p.m. until closing, the menu will offer selections such as zuppa mussels and chicken piccata.

The price of the buffet will be $24.95 for adults and $15.95 for children, tax or gratuity not included.

Call Figaro Restaurant at

860-745-2414 for more details or to make reservations.

0 305 4 872

NE OF 2019’S BIGgest restaurant-menu stories has been the growth of “plant forward” dining, whether in the form of traditional vegan offerings or “impossible” plant products made to eat (and bleed) like meat. It’s a trend that certainly has positives associated with it; making “meat free” choices are usually better for a diner’s health as well as being good for the planet.

Restaurant operators are open to no-meat menu options since they are often more price-stable (and thus profitable) than the cuts of meat on which restaurant kitchens traditionally rely.

Yet is this turning away from meat a “disrupter’ for the industry, or does it simply represent a small-scale shift in customer preferences?

It’s probably too early to answer that question, but for now meat remains prevalent on restaurant menus. Hamburger chains continue to dominate the fast food landscape and beef, whether it’s in the form of filet mignon, short ribs, or meatloaf, continues to be a customer favorite.

A counter-trend of sorts has even emerged, as described by digital content aggregator Flavor and the Menu (getflavor.com).

A recent feature on Flavor and the Menu described what they called “meat-centric menu innovation.” Chefs, it seems, are satisfying the meat cravings of patrons with both traditional and less-commonly seen cuts of beef and pork, supplementing those offerings with game and lamb.

Thick steaks and chops carved tableside, clever plays on folksy preparation techniques like barbecue and “chicken-fried,” and once-considered-byproducts like pork cheeks and oxtails are all being called upon to add interesting meat-based options to menus.

The November-December 2019 issue of Flavor and the Menu’s online magazine details the creative lengths

WEEKEND

E12 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

DINE & WINE

10 Champagnes worth splurging on this holiday season Writer’s note: This is the fourth story in a four-part series about holiday wines.

like splurging even more, I highly recommend Perrier Jouet’s 2012 Belle Epoque Champagne, which costs around $135 a bottle.

T

HE POP OF THE cork.

The rush of the bubbles.

The tingle on the tongue.

Ah, the beauty of champagne.

There’s nothing quite like this sparkling wine from France’s famed Champagne region. (And as most of you probably already know, that’s why Champagne is called Champagne – because it comes from the Champagne region in France.)

And there’s no better time of the year to enjoy these crisp, dry, refreshing wines. That might explain why roughly one in four bottles of Champagne are sold during the month of December.

Sure, Champagne definitely costs more than other sparkling wines from Italy or Spain or even other parts of France. And there are definitely many great sparkling wines from those parts of the world, which I wrote about a few weeks ago.

But there’s nothing quite like a glass of great Champagne. No wonder so many people still celebrate important milestones in their lives with Champagne, from birthdays to weddings and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

So this week, in honor of the holidays, here are 10 great Champagnes worth splurging on this holiday season. Let me add that I recently tasted all of these Champagnes, including tasting many of them and other Champagnes and sparkling wines side by side at a wine tasting organized by Table & Vine in West Springfield.

One more thing, as Lieutenant Columbo used to say.

You’ll notice that some of the Champagnes listed here have specific years listed before them and some simply say non vintage. Champagnes with specific years are vintage Champagnes made with

Pol Roger Non Vintage Brut Champagne ($50 SRP) Winston Churchill knew how to live life. When he wasn’t running England, leading his country through World War II or writing some of the most iconic phrases in the English language, Churchill loved his cigars, his scotch and his Champagne. And when it came to the bubbly, Churchill adored Pol Roger.

He reportedly drank a bottle every day for lunch. You don’t have to do the same. But I highly recommend this bone dry, flinty Champagne with a crisp, slightly chalky finish.

Eric Rodez Non Vintage Rose Champagne ($58 SRP) At the Champagne tasting I attended hosted by Table & Vine, I kept hearing several people raving about the champagnes produced by Eric Rodez. Now I know why. The Rodez family has been making champagne since 1757.

Eric Rodez previously worked for Krug, a famous Champagne producer. Nowadays, Eric oversees production of this outstanding Champagne house. The Eric Rodez Rose in particular stood out at the recent tasting. Its slightly nutty yet floral flavors came together delightfully. A truly special, distinct Champagne.

Some of the Champagnes worth splurging on this holiday season. (KEN ROSS PHOTOS)

Ken Ross Wine Press

grapes harvested that specific year. Non vintage Champagnes can be made with grapes harvested for different years.

Alright, enough technical talk. Let’s get to the Champagnes and hope you enjoy.

10 Champagnes worth splurging on this holiday season Laurent Perrier Non Vintage Brut Champagne ($45 Suggested Retail Price) One of my favorite Cham-

pagne producers, Laurent Perrier has been making great champagne since 1812. I could have easily picked several other Laurent Pierre Champagnes (including their Brut Nature, another outstanding one) but I decided to recommend this one since it’s affordable, readily available and delicious. Its flavors are crisp, dry, slightly nutty (think roasted almonds) and refreshing.

Perrier Jouet Non Vintage Grand Brut Champagne ($45 SRP) Many people recognize this Champagne right away because of its beautiful, flower-covered bottle. The flavors inside this delightful, affordable Champagne are equally enticing. Light and dry and slightly floral-like, this beloved Champagne has long been a popular wine for good reason. And if you feel

Bollinger Brut Premier Cuvee Champagne ($60 SRP) You’ll see a lot of brut Champagnes listed here this week. That’s because I’m a huge fan of very dry Champagnes. And when it comes to dry, crisp, refreshing sparkling wines, the Bollinger Brut Premier Cuvee Champagne hits all the right notes. I also especially love the flinty finish of this champagne.

SEE WINE, PAGE E15

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

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WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E13

Brewery changing hands and other news

HAVE A COUPLE OF notes of interest for you to peruse during the busy holiday season: First up is the somewhat disheartening news that New Belgium Brewing announced that the employee-owned company is selling the business to the Australian-based Lion Little World Beverages.

Lion Little World Beverages is a subsidiary of Japanese company Kirin Holdings Company Ltd. New Belgium, the largest craft brewery in Colorado and the fourth-largest in the U.S., is expected to finalize the transaction by the new year, after approval by employee stock owners. About 300 of the

Dine

with some receiving more, the company said.

While it’s a free country and people can do what they want (legally) with their businesses, I’m always chagrined when a craft brewer sells out to large company. But I can’t honestly say I wouldn’t do the same if the money was right. And New Belgium was a really George Lenker large craft brewer anyways: Beer Nut the fourth largest in the U.S. after Yuengling, Boston Beer company’s 700 employees are and Sierra Nevada. In the end, employee-owners. According I wish the best for all involved to the company, employees and hope the beer doesn’t unwill not be affected by the sale. dergo and changes.

Next up is the happier news However, the 300-plus employee owners will receive about an Oregon taproom where you can meet your new a dividend or more than $100,000 in retirement funds, best friend.

While it’s a free country and people can do what they want (legally) with their businesses, I’m always chagrined when a craft brewer sells out to large company.

Fido’s taphouse in Tigard, Oregon, doubles as a foster home for dogs that were rescued from kill shelters in California. The bar has helped 70 dogs find forever homes since it opened last year. Owner Scott Porter, who told the “Today” show that dogs have helped him through times of depression, said that he hopes he can help both the dogs and people with his venture.

The venue can hold up to eight dogs, which stay in separate area from where food is

served. The tap room has 40 beers to choose from so that fits perfectly with the diversity that dogs have as a species. But because alcohol can sometimes affect people’s judgment, Fido’s has a rule in place that potential adopters must wait three days after they decide to adopt a pup to ensure that their decision was not alcohol-induced.

A place where you can drink great beer and visit and/or adopt a dog? Sounds like heaven to me.

Cheers!

of dinner at the Salem Cross Inn, we did appreciate the plate of made-there breadCONTINUED FROM PAGE E10 stuffs, an assortment that thought “soft and biscuit-like” included pecan sticky buns, a Address: 260 West Main but were surprised to inpumpkin muffin, and freshStreet, West Brookfield stead be served fried wonton ly-baked bowknots.

Telephone: 508-867-2345 foldovers that resembled crab The Inn’s pouring program Website: salemcrossinn. com Rangoon. includes specialty cocktails, Hours: Tuesday through One bite, however, valicraft beers on tap, and a modFriday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 dated the kitchen’s creative erately-pied wine list of some p.m.; Saturday, 5 to 9 p.m.; instincts. The crispy packets 40-plus vintages.

Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. The were filled with sweetened Dessert at the Salem Cross Inn is closed Christmas Eve chunks of squash; a creamy is worth saving room for; it’s and Christmas Day; special all made in the Inn’s own bake drizzle of yogurt sweetened winter “weekends-only” shop. with maple syrup served as schedule begins in January.

Above, an order of Orange Coconut Salmon at the Salem Cross Passing up options like flavor counterpoint.

Entree prices: $16-$34 Inn & Tavern. Below, Butternut Dumplings with local maple We chose Warm Brussel Maple Creme Brulee ($6) Credit cards: American Sprouts “Caesar” ($10) as our crème are ready to leave the kitchen. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN) and an Ice Cream Puff ($7), Express, Discover, Masterthird starter. Listed among we instead focused on other Card, Visa the salads, this pan-fried toss possibilities.

Handicapped access: A rework of a French classic, of shaved sprouts, ParmiAccessible, with rest rooms giano-Reggiano, and bacon the Chocolate Almond Pithequipped for wheelchairs ivier ($7) was a pie-shaped proved to be a powerhouse of Reservations: Accepted wedge of buttery puff pastry savory flavors.

A plate of Al’s Meatloaf filled with a wickedly rich ($17) featured three slabs of combination of chocolate and flavor profile. oven-baked ground beef skillSkillet Seared Scallops ($24) almond paste. fully herbed and seasoned.

Pecan Bread Pudding ($5) can be ordered three ways Served with a pleasant brown came to the table garnished – broiled, fried, or served as gravy, a side of broccoli, and with real whipped cream, we ordered them – over a while our Indian Pudding ($5) a baked potato, the meatloaf pumpkin-cranberry risotto. had a fine ginger flavor and qualified as comfort food The portion was generous – smooth cornmeal texture. done right. eight scallops is more than Baked Stuffed Shrimp ($25) Offering engaging country typical – but the risotto was, was a dish that tried to be to us at least, a less-than-har- ambiance and a creative yet One of two plant-forward pepper, and broccoli contrib- monious element, while the different, but it’s somewhat nonetheless mainstream uted color, texture and taste offerings on the Salem Cross scallops themselves had been menu, the Salem Cross Inn & too-sweet cranberry bread menu, a Vegan Bowl ($16) had to the composition, while a over seasoned with salt and stuffing upstaged the subtle Tavern is among the Quaboag region’s most interesting coarse-ground pepper. goodness of both shrimp and as its foundation a pilaf of qui- side of curry sauce offered noa. Mushrooms, sweet red the option to tweak the bowl’s Though salads are not a part dining destinations. thyme-infused butter sauce.

SALEM CROSS INN RESTAURANT & TAVERN

WEEKEND

E14 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

DINE & WINE

Menu

will be serving sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs tomorrow from 4 to 10 p.m.; and Blaze and Johnny’s Dog House will be on site from 4 to 10 p.m. on Dec. 27.

For more information about planned food events at Tin Bridge Brewing Company, call them at 413-642-6418

CONTINUED FROM PAGE E11

services for those interested in starting a food production business.

Tours of the facility will be part of the Open House and refreshments will be served.

For more details, contact the Franklin County Community • On Dec. 28, Teresa’s Development Corporation at Restaurant in Ware will be 413-774-7204. the site of a tribute performance by All Revved Up, • Bears Smokehouse BBQ a band that specializes in of Windsor, Connecticut, will “Meatloaf ” covers. be sending its food truck out The evening will begin with for a “pop-up” appearance at a cocktail hour at 5 p.m., and Tin Bridge Brewing in West- dinner, a six-course family field on Sunday from noon to style meal featuring Italian-American favorites, will 7 p.m.

The appearance of Bears start at 6 p.m. All Revved Up’s Smokehouse is part of the performance will follow at 8 regular program of food truck p.m. “takeovers” at Tin Bridge.

Tickets, which include North Elm Butcher Block dinner, the show, gratuity, and

Giving a gift of 274 Olive Oil and Rubio Balsamic Vinegar is sending the gift of health and good wishes. Make with a delicious bread dipper on your holiday table.

tax, are $50.

Reservations can be made by calling 413-967-7601.

• An email from Cindy Agan of the YMCA of Greater Westfield brought news of the organization’s upcoming annual “Chocolate, Chowder, & Chili Cook Off,” which is slated for March 7.

Agan says that the Westfield YMCA is welcoming chefs and owners who might be interested in promoting their business while cooking for a good cause.

The Cook Off will provide chefs and culinary professionals the chance to showcase their cooking skills by preparing their favorite chili, chowder, or chocolate treat.

This year’s Cook Off will raise funds to support the Y’s LiveStrong program for cancer survivors. LiveStrong

is a free 12-week exercise program designed to help participants regain strength and overcome fatigue as well as enhance their overall well-being.

To reserve a table at this event, contact Agan at 413568-8631, x323 or at cagan@ westfieldymca.org.

• Buffalo Wild Wings has reformulated and reintroduced their boneless wings. The “wings,” which are fabricated from marinated breast meat, are now larger and prepared with a lighter breading.

The recipe for the chain’s “Buffalo” sauce has also been reworked to increase its similarity to the original Buffalo sauce as popularized in the early 1980s.

Boneless wings, which are served with the tradi-

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Christmas Day

tional pairing of celery and blue cheese dressing, can be ordered in various sized portions from 8-piece on up to 24-piece.

There is a Buffalo Wild Wings located at 480 Memorial Drive in Chicopee; they answer at 413-331-5041.

• Today every self-respecting social media presence has a collection of “merch,” and the marketing team at Taco Bell is no exception.

This holiday season Taco Bell has launched a holiday-themed gift guide stocked with pajama sets, streetwear, and more. The online shop opened in late November and will continue to offer Taco Bell “stuff ” until inventory is exhausted.

In addition to items of clothing emblazoned with Taco Bell marketing messages, the gift ideas available include snow globes, tree ornaments, and a six-foot-high inflatable holiday decoration in the form of a Taco Bell “fire sauce” packet.

For more details go to taco bell.com.

Hugh Robert is a faculty member in Holyoke Community College’s hospitality and culinary arts program and has nearly 45 years of restaurant and educational experience.

Please send items of interest to Off the Menu at the Republican, P.O. Box 1329, Springfield, MA 01101; Robert can also be reached at OffTheMenu Guy@aol.com.

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

Wine

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E15

crisp, bright, refreshing finish that seems to last forever.

Magnifique!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE E12

Ruinart Non Vintage Blanc De Blanc Champagne ($70 SRP) When I visited Champagne two years ago on a wine tasting trip, one of the Champagne houses I made a point of going to for a tasting was Ruinart. While not as well known as some other champagne houses, Ruinart is the oldest producer. Founded in 1729, Ruinart makes several, outstanding Champagnes. My favorite remains its bone-dry Brut Champagne, which is not for sale in the United States.

But a close second is its Blanc De Blanc, which has a delightful, mineral-like finish with hints of jasmine and white peach.

Some of the Champagnes worth splurging on this holiday season. (KEN ROSS PHOTOS)

There’s no better time of the year to enjoy these crisp, dry, refreshing wines. That might explain why roughly one in four bottles of Champagne are sold during the month of December.

WESTFIELD

tage Champagnes produced

by Laurent Perrier. Mixing vintage champagnes from 20004, 2006 and 2007, this distinct blend was then aged for another 11 more years before being released earlier this year. On par with many of the top vintage champagnes, this crowning achievement from Laurent Perrier has a

Over 100 teas to choose from!

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pagne ($85 SRP) You can easily spend a Taittinger Prelude Non fortune on many vintage Vintage Champagne ($80 Champagnes. The latest SRP) release from Dom Perignon Another Champagne house costs more than $150 a bottle I visited two years ago was and Roederer’s Cristal 2008 Taittinger. Along with Laurent vintage sells for well over Perrier, Taittinger produces $225 a bottle. Both are great, several outstanding Chamespecially the crisp, earthy pagnes at a wide range of Cristal. But if you’re looking prices. Honestly, I have never for something more affordhad a bad bottle of Taittinger able and yet equally outstanding, the 2012 Moet & ChanChampagne. They’re all dry, crisp, refreshing and bursting don Rose is a wonderful, silky with flavor. Its Prelude Cham- smooth alternative. Flavors pagne takes those flavors one include roasted plums, strawstep further, adding a dash of berries and a hint of cherry. toasted almonds and melted butter to the mix. Truly Laurent Perrier Grand delightful.

Siecle No 24 Champagne ($150 SRP) 2012 Grand Vintage Moet This unique Champagne is & Chandon Rose Chama blend of three different vin-

2007 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne ($180 SRP) Yes, this Champagne from Taittinger comes with a steep price tag. But if I could choose the best champagne to celebrate a special occasion, this would be the one I would want to have in my glass.

Coming on the heels of the equally-outstanding 2006 vintage, the 2007 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne sets the bar even higher. Its nutty, flinty finish has a slight hint of vanilla and other complex, creamy flavors. No wonder Taittinger is still going strong

nearly three centuries later.

(Taittinger was founded in 1734.) Absolutely divine.

Cheers!

Wine Press by Ken Ross appears on Masslive.com every Monday and in The Republican’s weekend section every Thursday.

E16 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

MOVIES DVD RELEASES

‘Downton Abbey,’ ‘Abominable’ arrive in time for holidays

Jack Black, left, and Karen Gillan appear in a scene from “Jumanji: The Next Level.” (FRANK MASI / SONY)

Screen times AGAWAM CINEMAS

(413-285-7162) Call theater for movies and times.

AMHERST CINEMA

(413-253-2547) Frankie (PG-13) 4:35, 7:20 Honey Boy (R) 4:25, 7:10, 9:50 Jojo Rabbit (PG-13) 1:35, 4:15, 9:45 Marriage Story (R) 1:20

CINEMARK HAMPSHIRE MALL AND XD

(413-587-4237) Bombshell (R) 7, 9:45 Cats (PG) 7, 9:45 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (PG13) 7:45, 8:30, 9, 11:15 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker XD (PG-13) 6 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D (PG-13) 7, 10:30 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D XD (PG-13) 9:30

CINEMARK EASTFIELD 16

(413-543-3440) 21 Bridges (R) 11:35, 2:10, 5 A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (PG) 12, 2:50 Black Christmas (PG-13) 12:40, 3:10, 5:40, 8:10, 10:40 Cats (PG) 7, 9:45 Dark Waters (PG-13) 12:10, 3:10 Ford v Ferrari (PG-13) 11:20, 3 Frozen II (PG) 11:45, 12:50, 2:25, 3:30, 5:10, 6:20, 7:50, 9, 10:30 Joker (R) 1:30, 4:30 Jumanji: The Next Level (PG-13) 11:30, 1, 1:45, 2:30, 4, 4:45, 5:30, 6:15, 7, 7:45, 8:30, 10, 10:45 Jumanji: The Next Level 3D (PG-13) 12:15, 3:15, 9:15 Knives Out (PG-13) 12:30, 3:40, 6:45, 9:50 Playing With Fire (PG) 11:15, 2 Queen & Slim (R) 11:40, 2:55 Richard Jewell (R) 12:10, 3:20, 6:30, 9:40 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (PG13) 6, 7, 7:45, 8:30, 9:30, 11 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D (PG-13) 6:30, 10:15

CINEMARK ENFIELD 12

(860-741-6053) Cats (PG) 9:45 Jumanji: The Next Level (PG-13) 1, 4 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (PG13) 6, 7:10, 9:40, 10:50 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D (PG-13) 8:20

CINEMARK WEST SPRINGFIELD 15

(413-733-5131) Bombshell (R) 7:10, 10:20 Cats (PG) 7:20, 10:30 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (PG13) 12:05, 6:30, 11:10, 11:25, 11:45 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker XD (PG-13) 7, 10:40 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D (PG-13) 8, 10:10 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D XD (PG-13) 6, 9:40

MGM SPRINGFIELD 7

Cats (PG) 7:15, 10:15 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (PG13) 6, 6:30, 7, 10, 10:30 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D (PG-13) 9:30

GREENFIELD GARDEN CINEMAS

(413-774-4881) The Aeronauts (PG-13) 4:30 A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (PG) 4:30 Black Christmas (PG-13) 4:30, 7:15 Dark Waters (PG-13) 4:30, 7:30 Frozen II (PG) 4:30, 7 Jojo Rabbit (PG-13) 7:15 Jumanji: The Next Level (PG-13) 4:30, 7:15 Knives Out (PG-13) 4:30, 7:30 Midway (PG-13) 7

SOUTH HADLEY’S TOWER THEATERS

(413-533-3456) Ford v Ferrari (PG-13) 12, 3 Frozen II (PG) 1, 3:30 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (PG13) 6, 6:30, 9:15 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker 3D (PG-13) 9:45

The Republican is not responsible for schedule changes.

Aristocracy and an abominable snowman creature feature top the new DVD releases for this week.

“Downton Abbey”: Amid uncertain times at home and across the pond, it’s a fine time for some good old-fashioned escapist drama. (And it’s always the right time for the brilliantly sardonic Maggie Smith as Dowager Countess Violet Crawley.) Following the hit TV show’s six seasons, the film announces some important visitors to the estate: King George V and Queen Mary. As the Crawley family prepares for the visit, the servants discover the royals travel with their own staff and concoct a scheme.

Fans of the series would likely be placated by the fan service-heavy movie, though there’s not much else to it, wrote Chicago Tribune critic Michael Phillips in his review.

“It’s fun, for a while, to see the gang back together in ‘Downton Abbey,’ with nearly two dozen rotating characters played by actors whose eyes twinkle with confidence,” wrote Phillips. “As long-form storytelling the ‘Downton Abbey’ TV show certainly did the trick for millions, though without developing the dramatic impact or subtlety of character found in one of its clearest influences, ‘Upstairs Downstairs.’ Fellowes, as a writer, was up to something different in his Oscar-winning script for ‘Gosford Park’: a mordant, bittersweet examination of class and corruption within the comforting framework of an Agatha Christie whodunit. ‘Downton Abbey’ settles for lower franchise stakes; it’s more like ‘Downton Abbey: The Exhibition,’ or an accompanying ‘making of ’ video thereof.”

“Abominable”: In this computer-animated film, teenage Yi (voiced by Chloe Bennet) and her friends (Albert Tsai and Tenzing Norgay Trainor) discover a Yeti and set out on a treacherous journey to return him safely to his family.

Meanwhile, a scheming businessman (Eddie Izzard) and zoologist (Sarah Paulson) attempt to thwart the teenagers’ efforts and kidnap the creature for themselves.

Not only does the film take a refreshing tone with its nuanced protagonists, it also breathes new life into the quintessential concept of the hero’s journey, wrote Tribune News Service critic Katie Walsh.

“It can be a rare occurrence to find a kid-friendly animated film these days that actually surprises and delights. Dreamworks’ ‘Abominable,’ written and co-directed by Jill Culton, does indeed surprise and delight, all while following a familiar hero’s journey tale that borrows from favorite friendly creature films,” Walsh wrote. “One part ‘E.T.’ and one part ‘King Kong,’ this fits into the category of movies like ‘The Iron Giant,’ ‘Lilo & Stitch’

Michelle Dockery and Matthew Goode star in “Downton Abbey.” (JAAP BUITENDIJK / FOCUS FEATURES)

and the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ franchise, where plucky kids bond with strange, exotic creatures and attempt to save them from the capitalistic forces of exploitation. ‘Abominable’ doesn’t change this formula; it just executes it exceptionally well, with a fresh perspective and plenty of magic.”

Also new on DVD “Ad Astra”: An astronaut (Brad Pitt) journeys into space in search of his missing father (Tommy Lee Jones).

“Rambo: Last Blood”: John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) fights to save young Gabrielle (Yvette Monreal) from a violent Mexican drug cartel.

“Overcomer”: A basketball-turnedcross-country coach (Alex Kendrick) works with a troubled high school runner with asthma (Aryn Wright-Thompson).

“Acceleration”: A crime lord (Dolph Lundgren) forces a woman (Natalie Burn) to do his dirty work in order to see her son again.

“Bernie the Dolphin 2”: Kevin (Logan Allen) and Holly (Lola Sultan) must rescue their dolphin friend from the evil Winston (Kevin Sorbo).

“Fuller House: The Complete Fourth Season”: The adventures of the Tanner family continue in the sequel series to “Full House.”

“Killjoys: Season Five”: The fifth season of the Canadian space adventure drama following a trio of bounty hunters.

“Trick”: A detective hunts down a masked killer who reappears and terrorizes a small town every Halloween. Omar Epps stars.

“Where’s My Roy Cohn?”: This documentary follows the life of the American lawyer and political fixer with connections to Sen. Joseph McCarthy and President Donald Trump.

- Tribune News Service

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E17

CALENDAR

Events THURSDAY Bright Nights: Thu.-Sun, Forest Park; Through Jan. 5. Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 5-9 p.m.; Fri, Sat. and Holidays, 5-11 p.m. (Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day until 9 p.m.), Admission: $20 per car, Mon.-Thurs; $25 per car, Fri.-Sun. and holidays, $175 buses, $85 mini bus. Sumner Avenue, Springfield.

Christmas Caroling at The Student Prince & The Fort: Thu.-Sun, Student Prince/The Fort, 8 Fort St., Springfield.

Gift Wrapping Benefitting West Springfield's Parish Cupboard: Thu, 5 p.m.; Sun, noon, Two Weeks Notice Brewing Company; The Parish Cupboard will wrap your gifts for a donation. Cousins Lobster will be serving up its delicious lobster rolls that pair perfectly with the Two Weeks Notice tap list. 110 Bosworth St., West Springfield.

Holidays in the Park at Six Flags New England: Thu.-Sun, Six Flags New England; Through Jan. 1. Over 50 rides, shows and attractions, $52.99. 1623 Main St., Agawam.

413-786-9300 or sixflags.com/ newengland.

"Home for the Holidays 2019": Thu, 7:30 p.m.; Fri, 8 p.m.; Sat, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun, 2 and 7 p.m. Majestic Theater; Through Dec. 22, Tickets: $24, $26 and $10 children ages 10 and under. 131 Elm St., West Springfield.

413-747-7797 or majestictheater. com.

The Ice Rink at MGM Plaza: Thu.Sun, MGM Springfield; Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 2-9 p.m.; Fri, 2-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. noon-9 p.m., 1 MGM Way, Springfield.

Parents Craft Night: Thu, 6-7:30 p.m. Village Congregational Church; Parents work on projects while hanging out and with other grownups.

Kids (if you want to bring them) will have their own table with childcare.

Free. 32 Main St., Cummington.

Thursday evening Theosophy: Thu, 7 p.m. Union Church of Christ; Study of book "Theosophy" by Robert Elmwood. Materials included. 51 Center St. (Route 21), Ludlow; 413-583-5717.

FRIDAY Bright Nights: See Thursday listing

Holidays in the Park at Six Flags New England: See Thursday listing "Home for the Holidays 2019": See Thursday listing The Ice Rink at MGM Plaza: See

Shakespeare Stage Presents "After the Island": Fri.-Sat, 7:30 p.m.

Northampton Center for the Arts, at the A.P.E. at Hawley at Flex Space.

A staged reading. For reservations, contact Julian.shakespearestage@ gmail.com, $10 at the door. 33 Hawley St., Northampton. 413-584-7327 or nohoarts.org.

Storytelling Standup Showcase: Fri, 7 p.m. Happier Valley Comedy Theater; Catch local talent trying out their new material hosted by the amazing Kelsey Flynn. Tickets: $5 at the door. For more info: happiervalley.com/standup-showcase.html. 1 Mill Valley Road Suite B, Hadley.

SATURDAY Bright Nights: See Thursday listing Christmas Caroling at The Student Prince & The Fort: See Thursday listing Delightful & Delectable Holiday Market: Sat, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saint James Place.

Holiday features handmade gifts and

giftable treats. Braise Worthy will be on site all weekend selling hot meals. The Festive Holiday Party is Saturday from 4-6 p.m., featuring live music, drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Free. 352 Main St., Great Barrington.

Greenfield Harmony Holiday Concert: Sat, 4 p.m. Wesley United Methodist Church; Multi-generational choir is known for its eclectic mix of music from diverse cultural musical heritages. Led by the dynamic Mary Cay Brass, the choir will present a cornucopia of songs of joy, love, peace and social justice. The concert will benefit CASP – Community Asylum Seekers Project, whose mission is to provide basic needs and supportive community for those in the process of seeking asylum in the U.S.; $15. 98 North Maple St., Hadley.

Holidays in the Park at Six Flags New England: See Thursday listing "Home for the Holidays 2019": See Thursday listing

train ride full of caroling, hot cocoa, roasted marshmallows and a visit from Santa with a gift for every child on board. Trip includes a layover at the PopCares Tree Lot to pick a tree for pick up later. Trains depart from the Adams Visitors Center; $20 adult, $18 children (ages2-12), free lapsitter (1 and under). 3 Hoosac St., Adams.

HVC Presents: Not In Charge: Sat, 7 p.m. Happier Valley Comedy Theater; Fast-paced improv show inspired by true stories from the cast and audience. Tickets: $13 online and at the door. For more info: happiervalley.com. 1 Mill Valley Road Suite B, Hadley.

The Ice Rink at MGM Plaza: See Thursday listing “The Nutcracker” – Albany Berkshire Ballet: Sat, 1 and 4:30 p.m.

Springfield Symphony Hall; $16.50 – $41. 34 Court St., Springfield; 413733-2291 or symphonyhall.com.

Opera House Players Holiday Hoosac Berkshire Valley Tinseliner: Caroling: Sat, 5-6 p.m. Connecticut Sat.-Sun, noon and 4:30 p.m. Adams Valley Brewing Company, 765 SulliVisitors Center; One hour round-trip van Ave., South Windsor.

Shakespeare Stage Presents "After the Island": See Friday listing

SUNDAY Bright Nights: See Thursday listing Christmas Caroling at The Student Prince & The Fort: See Thursday listing Christmas Pageant: Sun, 10 a.m.

Foster Memorial Church; The children and youth of Foster Memorial Church, UCC, will offer the annual Christmas Pageant during the 10 a.m. worship service A time of refreshments and fellowship will follow the service. 1791 Wilbraham Road, Springfield. 413-782-2112.

Delightful & Delectable Holiday Market: See Saturday listing Gift Wrapping Benefitting West Springfield's Parish Cupboard: See Thursday listing Holidays in the Park at Six Flags New England: See Thursday listing "Home for the Holidays 2019": See Thursday listing

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE E18

New England

TRAVELER CAPE COD

CAPE ANN

ACROSS FROM THE BEACH - THE VILLAGE GREEN. Rates from $60 - $85 to 5/23/20 (excluding holidays, some restrictions apply). 3 Night Special off season starting from $135 all week.

Ocean views and efficiencies available.

FREE continental breakfast in season.

All rooms have refrigerators and cable TV. Heated outdoor pool. Take children to the beachside playground.

Close to several golf courses, tennis courts, whale watch cruises, ferries to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, restaurants, shops, bike trails and many more of the Cape’s unique attractions.

10% Senior Discount. South Shore Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664.

1-800-487-4903. www.vgreenmotel.com.

THE TUCK INN B&B-Come rest, relax & save with our Winter Getaway Specials: 2 Nights for $198 (midweek), 2 Nights for $250 (week-ends), or a week for $595.(taxes are extra). (single nights are at full rates) Based on double occupancy. Valid: - 11/15/19 to 12/31/19. The Week-End and Weekly Specials are valid for holidays, The Mid-Week Special is not!

Specials must be booked DIRECTLY with us! Enjoy our old fashioned CHRISTMAS IN ROCKPORT or the 2nd annual MAKERS’ FESTIVAL! Enjoy our lovely 1790 Colonial, in a quiet neighborhood. Savor our renowned Home-Baked Breakfast Buffet. Walk to the ocean, Performance Center, restaurants, art galleries, shops and village center - all just a block away, or sit back and enjoy a good book with a cup of tea by the fire. We are Non-Smoking, & Non Pets!

AAA: 3 stars! 2002 Editor’s Pick “Yankee Magazine’s” Guide! Rated 5 stars on Booking.com, Expedia, Yelp and Tripadvisor, Read our reviews, page through our site, then come indulge yourself to a peaceful relaxing Stay With us at The Tuck Inn B&B! 17 High Street, Rockport, MA 978-546-7260, info@tuckinn. com. WWW.TUCKINN.COM

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL 413-788-1165

3 1 25 27 0 -0 2

Christmas Caroling at The Student Prince & The Fort: See Thursday listing

Thursday listing

E18 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Calendar

Turrell, Sol leWitt, and Laurie Anderson, on extended view, Wed.-Mon., 11 a.m.-5 p.m., $20 adults, $18 seniors-veterans, $12 students with ID, $8 children ages 6-16, 87 Marshall St., North Adams, massmoca.org;

CONTINUED FROM PAGE E17 Hoosac Berkshire Valley Tinseliner: See Saturday listing

Mead Art Museum: American and European paintings, Mexican ceramics, Tibetan scroll paintings and more., Tues.-Th., Sun, 9 a.m.-midnight, Fri., 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.5 p.m. free, 220 South Pleasant St., Amherst, amherst.edu;

The Ice Rink at MGM Plaza: See Thursday listing St. Mark Christmas Spectacular Concert: Sun, 4 p.m. St. Mark Armenian Church; Featuring: The September Girls, David Jermakian on tenor Sax, Philip DerMargosian, tenor soloist. Reception to follow with appetizers and cash bar. Adults: $15. Students: $10. 12 and under $5.

For questions, contact Brenda Jermakian at 413-537-4371 or brendajermakian@gmail.com. RSVPs appreciated. Call Anna Garabedian at 413-478-7688 or GMG3@aol.com, 2427 Wilbraham Road, Springfield.

Mount Holyoke College Art Museum: Special loans from the David C. Driskell Center, through June 21, Tues.-Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 1-5 p.m., free, Lower Lake Road, South Hadley, mtholyoke.edu;

Quadrangle Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden: Outdoor sculpture garden of larger-thanlife bronze statues of Springfield native Dr. Seuss at his drawing board surrounded by some of his most beloved characters including Horton the Elephant, the Grinch, the Lorax and others, free on the green; George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum: “Celebrate the Season Seussian Style.” Friday through Dec. 30, in all the museums. “In the Gardens of Mount Olympus.” Through Dec. 31. Permanent exhibit: “Ancient Treasures,” a display of artifacts from ancient China, Greece, Rome and Egypt.

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “Legacy: The Philanthropy of Mr. Smith & Mr. Wesson.” Through June 7. “Sweet: A Tasty Journey,” through April 26. “The Confection Connection.”

Through April 26.

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: “People at Work and Other Environmental Portraits by Tad Malek,” through July 12; Bauhaus exhibit, through Feb. 16. “The Art of Observation: The Best of Photographer Elliott Erwitt.”

Through Jan. 12.

Springfield Science Museum: “Hollywood & the Holidays.” Through Dec. 31. “Interactive Science Exhibit: Fallen Log.” Family Science Adventures, weekends, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Dinosaur Hall with Tyrannoseaurus Rex, African Hall with elephant, giraffe and other animals. Solutia Live Animal Center, Native American Hall, animal habitats.

Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent Exhibit: First floor exhibition provides opportunities to explore new sounds and vocabulary, play rhyming games, invent stories, and engage in activities that encour-

A scene from the “Home for the Holidays” show at Majestic Theater in West Springfield. The show runs through Dec. 22. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO) age teamwork and creative thinking, with interactive three-dimensional exhibits. Second floor contains Geisel’s personal memorabilia, including never before publicly displayed art, the original Geisel Grove sign which used to hang in Forest Park, and furniture from Ted’s sitting room and studio, including his drawing board and armchair. Timed tickets required, for reservations visit springfieldmuseums.org.

Quadrangle admission - $25 for adults, $16.50 for seniors (60+) and college students with ID, $13 for children ages 3-17; free to children under age 3 and members, Springfield residents are free with proof of residency. Welcome Center and Museum store. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Museums Amelia Park Children’s Museum: Permanent exhibit: Hands-on activities and creative exhibits, the Hurricane Simulator. Hours: Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sun. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $7, $3.50 seniors, free children 1 year and under, members, teachers and military personal receive $1 off, 29 South Broad St., Westfield, ameliaparkmuseum.org; Berkshire Museum: “She Shaped History.” Through May 25. “Festival of Trees 2019: Heroes.” Through Jan. 5. 39 South St., Pittsfield or berkshiremuseum.org.

Children’s Museum at Holyoke: Permanent Exhibit: Amazing world of learning and play. Tues.-Fri. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. noon-4 p.m., $8 adults and children,

$5 seniors, children under 1 free, 444 Dwight St., Holyoke, childrensmuseumholyoke.org; Connecticut Science Center: Permanent exhibit: Hands-on, interactive experiences with over 150 exhibits in 10 galleries and a range of topics, including space and earth sciences plus more, Tues.-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $17, $14 children 4-17, $15.50 seniors 65+, free ages 3 and under, 250 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, ctsciencecenter.org;

Historic Northampton Museum and Education: Permanent exhibit, Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun., noon-4 p.m. $3 individuals, $6 families. 46 Bridge St., Northampton, historic-northampton.org; Hitchcock Center for the Environment: “Fibershed Woven Together: From Farm to Fashion Within Fifty Miles,” through Jan. 3, free, 845 West St., Amherst, hitchcockcenter.org;

Holyoke Heritage State Park: Permanent exhibit: Holyoke Parks Connecticut Trolley Museum: Win- and Recreation exhibits depict city’s terfest and Tunnel of Lights, through history, Tues.-Sun., noon.-4 p.m., Dec. 29, Fri.-Sun, 5-9 p.m. $15 free. 221 Appleton St., Holyoke, 413adults, $14 seniors (62+), $11 children 534-1723; 4-12, $4 children under 4; members Holyoke Merry-Go-Round: Santa’s $7.50 adults, $5.50 children 4-12, at the Merry-Go-Round. Saturday, $2 children under 4, 58 North Road, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Bring in mittens, East Windsor or cttrolley.org; hats, or scarves for the Giving Tree East Longmeadow Historical Commission Museum: Permanent exhibit: East Longmeadow artifacts pertaining to the quarries, local native Americans, period clothing, the railroad system, and more.

Hours: 1-3 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month, weather permitting or by appointment, 413-525-3425 (messages only); Free, 87 Maple St., East Longmeadow; Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: “Under the Sea” with Eric Carle, through March 1. “Now and Then: Contemporary Illustrators and their Childhood Art.” through May 10. “The Pursuit of Everything: Maira Kalman’s Books for Children,” through April 5, Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon5 p.m., $6, $9, $22.50 for a family of four. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst, carlemuseum.org;

and receive a free ticket to ride. 221 Appleton St., Holyoke or holyokemerrygoround.org.

Josiah Day House: Guided tours, artifacts, furniture, clothing and documents from 1754-1902, call for open house schedule and individual tours, $3, $1 children 6-12, free for members, 70 Park St., West Springfield, 413-734-8322; Mark Twain House and Museum: Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sun. noon-5:30 p.m., $16, $14 seniors, $10 children 6-16 and children under 6 free for the main house tour. $6, $4 children 6-16 servants wing tour. $20 adults, combined main house and servants wing tour package, 351 Farmington Ave., Hartford, marktwainhouse.org; Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art: Works by James

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame: Three floors with dozens of hands-on exhibits, a regulation sized basketball court and more than 900 artifacts on display, Mon.-Fri., Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $19, $15 seniors 65+, $14 children 5-15, free for children 4 and under, 1000 West Columbus Ave., Springfield, hoophall.com; New England Air Museum: Permanent exhibit includes restored F-104 Starfighter, vintage planes, gift shop, hands-on activities, $12.50, $7 children 4-11, free for children 3 and under free, and $11.50 seniors 65+, 36 Perimeter Road, Windsor Locks, neam.org; Norman Rockwell Museum: Permanent exhibit, weekdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., weekends and holidays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $18, $17 seniors, $10 students, $6 children 6-18, free for members and children 5 and under.

“Visual Memoirs of Four Master Illustrators’ Immigrant Experiences,” through May 25. “Finding Home: Four Artists’ Journeys.” Through May 25. “The Spirit of Giving.” Through Feb. 9. Route 183, Stockbridge, nrm. org; Old Sturbridge Village: “Neat and Tasty: Getting Dressed in Early New England,” apparel in portraiture, Wed.-Sun. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $24, $22 seniors, $8 children 3-17, free for children under 3. “Holiday Magic, Memories & More: Christmas

by Candlelight.” Selected dates in December, 3-8 p.m. Route 20, Sturbridge, osv.org; Pan African Historical Museum USA: Permanent exhibit: Exhibitions by local artists. Hours: Tues.-Fri. noon-4 p.m. free, 1500 Main St., Springfield, 413-733-1823; Polish Center of Discovery and Learning: Permanent exhibit: Historical objects representative of the material culture of the Polish people in America, Mon.-Fri. 1-5 p.m., $5 donation, 33 South St., Chicopee, polishcenter.net; Smith College Museum of Art:

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE E19

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

WEEKEND

Calendar

Bing Arts Center: “Ambidextrous (Left Hand and Right Hand),” by Andrae and Priya Green, through Jan. 24, 716 Sumner Ave., Springfield, bingartscenter.org;

CONTINUED FROM PAGE E18 “Alma Thomas: The Light of the Whole Universe,” through Dec. 31, “Object Histories: From the African Continent to the Smith College Museum of Art Galleries,” through June. “A Dust Bowl of Dog Soup: Picturing the Great Depression.”

Through May 24. $5. Elm Street at Bedford Terrace, Northampton, scam.smith.edu;

Deerfield Academy: Tim Trelease “Nature and Alchemy.” Through Friday; 7 Boyden Lane, Deerfield; Ferrin Contemporary: Kurt Weiser: “Insomnia.” Through Jan. 4; Free, 1315 Mass Moca Way, North Adams; Forbes Library: Paintings by Alice Thomas, Tisha Ferguson and Cin Kunz, Through Dec. 29, 20 West St., Northampton or forbeslibrary.org;

Springfield Armory National Historic Site: Ranger-led interpretive programs offered afternoons, Junior Ranger programs conducted frequently each day, daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. “Dashing Through the Snow: The Real History of Christmas in New England,” Saturday, 2 p.m.

Join speaker Dennis Picard for his presentation in the museum theater.

Seating is limited. Reservations are required. 1 Armory Square, Springfield, nps.gov/spar; Clark Art Institute: European and American paintings and sculpture, extensive collections of master prints and drawings, English silver and early photography, Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $20 general admission, 225 South St., Williamstown, clarkart. edu; The Old Meeting House: Festival of Trees and Wreath Raffle on Sunday from 2-5 p.m. 450 Main St., Wilbraham; Titanic Museum: Exhibits from the collection of the International Titanic Historical Society, weekdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $4, $2 children and students, 208 Main St., Indian Orchard, titanic1.org; University of Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art: Permanent exhibit, Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.4:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 2-5 p.m. Fine Arts Center, 151 Presidents Drive, Amherst; Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum: Permanent exhibit.

Guided tours of the first and second floors. Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; tours are on the hour with the last tour at 3 p.m., Mon.-Sat. and at 2 p.m. Sun. 104 Walker St., Lenox or gildedage.org; Volleyball Hall of Fame: Permanent exhibit, Thur.-Sun. noon-4:30 p.m. $2.50-$3.50, 444 Dwight St.,

Video game

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 | E19

Gallery A3 Amherst Art Alliance: “Small Wonders Holiday Show and Sale.” Today through Dec. 28, 28 Amity St., Amherst 413-256-4250; Hope and Feathers Framing and Gallery: Ninth annual Small Works, through Jan. 11; 319 Main St., Amherst, hopeandfeathersframing. com; Indian Orchard Mills Dane Gallery: Hours: Sat. noon-4 p.m. or by appointment. 34 Front St., Indian Orchard 413-543-3321.

Scenes from Holidays in the Park at Six Flags New England, which runs through Jan 1. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO) Holyoke, volleyhall.org;

org;

Wistariahurst Museum: Permanent exhibit: “Wisteria Vines in Full Bloom.” Sat.-Mon., noon-4 p.m., historic house tours $7, $5 students and seniors. David Bowerman Paintings, Drawings & Sculptures, through Dec. 5. Gallery will be closed the week of the Thanksgiving holiday. 238 Cabot St., Holyoke, wistariahurst.org;

Amy H. Carberry Fine Arts Gallery: Tues.-Fri., 12:30-4:30 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Springfield Technical Community College, Building 28, 1 Armory Square, Springfield, 413755-5258;

Yiddish Book Center: Permanent exhibit, “A Velt mit veltelekh: The Worlds of Jewish Culture,” $10, $8 member, $5 student. “Dreaming of a Jewish Christmas.” Sunday at 2 p.m., $6-$10, secure2.convio.net/ nybc/site/Ticketing?view=Tickets&id=7945.1021 West St., Amherst; yiddishbookcenter.org.

Galleries A.P.E. Gallery: Tues.-Thurs., noon-5 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. noon-8 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m., Northampton, apearts.

separating the United States and Mexico. “Life is Strange 2” reflects the racist and anti-imCONTINUED FROM PAGE E7 migrant tides that have roiled becomes an evocative indica- the country in recent years. tor of loss by episode 4.

Statements along the lines of Eventually, the brothers’ trek “Go back to where you came leads them to a border wall from” are hurled at Sean at

Arts Unlimited Gallery: Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tues.-Wed. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thurs.-Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-4 p.m.

Village Commons, 25 College St., South Hadley, 413-532-7047; ArtWorks Gallery: The Small Works Art Show, through Jan. 26. ArtWorks is open Fri. 3-7 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-4 p.m. Artist Reception Sunday, 2-4 p.m. Free to all, workshop13.org/artworks-gallery.

Hours are Fri., 3-7 p.m., Sat., 11 a.m.5 p.m., Sun.,noon-4 p.m. 69 Main St., Ware.

Barnes Gallery of Leverett Crafts and Arts: Annual holiday show, Saturday and Sunday, 13 Montague Road, Leverett 413-548-9070;

different points in the story.

Though I credit the developers for offering up examples of the kinds of hostility that minorities face in this country, I doubt that these examples will lead anyone to behave differently. The two-bit racists

Jasper Rand Art Museum: Mon.Thurs. 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield, westath. org; Loomis Chaffey School: “Exiled”

by Harriet Diamond, today through Jan. 17; gallery talk on Jan. 12, 1-4 p.m. 4 Batchelder Road, Windsor or mercygallery.org.

Old Town Hall: “Chapters” by Olwen Oherlihy Dowling. Through Saturday. 43 Main St., Easthampton; Primary Colour Gallery: Permanent exhibit: featuring artwork of Dave Carmen, Jeff Groleau, Renee Groleau, Anna Lee Lipman, and Jo Barry.

Hours: Wed. 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Fri. 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Closed Sun.-Tue., 183 West State St., Granby 413-467-9183.

Salmon Falls Artisans: Permanent exhibit, Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1 Ashfield St. #9, Shelburne Falls, salmonfallsgallery. com; Sienna Patti Contemporary: Exhibit by Katie Stout & Simone Paasche. Through Dec. 31. 80 Main St., Lenox; Western New England University Arts Gallery: “The Review of Art & Literature.” Through Jan. 21.

one encounters in the game are several leagues beneath contempt.

“Life is Strange 2” shines in its presentation of the characters who help the Diaz brothers along the way. Most of these individuals have glar-

Permanent exhibit, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., 1215 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, wne. edu/arts;

Outdoors

Berkshire Botanical Garden: “Unborn Sun,” paintings by John Gordon Gauld on display through Feb. 7; Free, berkshirebotanical. org. 5 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge or berkshirebotanical. org.

Great Falls Discovery Center: Junior Duck Stamps – Connecting Youth with Nature Through Science and Art, through Dec. 22. Kidleidoscope Story Hour: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Friday- Winter Birds; Dec. 27, River Otters. Program includes a story, activities, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls or greatfallsma.org; Holyoke Merry-Go-Round: Santa's back on Saturday from 12:302:30 p.m. Bring in mittens, hats, or scarves for the Giving tree and receive a free ticket to ride. Closed on Christmas Eve and Day. 221 Appleton St., Holyoke or holyokemerrygoround.org.

Natural Bridge State Park: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m., $2 parking fee; programs are free, 107 McAuley Road, North Adams;

Markets Four Rivers Charter Public School: Winter Farmer’s Market o the first Saturday of each month plus Dec. 21, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. 248 Colrain Road, Greenfield; Northampton Senior Center: Winter Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday 9 a.m-1 p.m. through April 18. 67 Conz St., Northampton or northamptonseniors.com.

The Republican is not responsible for unannounced schedule changes.

Listings must be received two weeks before the date of the event. Items should be mailed to: Entertainment Guide, The Republican, P.O. Box 1329, Springfield, MA 01102-1329 or e-mail pmastriano@repub.com or submit it to masslive.com/myevent

ing character failings, whether they’re narrow-minded, narcissistic, alcoholic, indolent or what have you, they come across as works-in-progress.

This game doesn’t celebrate winners but those who persevere and endure.

E20 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

DECEMBER EVENTS Berkshire Museum 39 South St, PittsďŹ eld, MA 01201 413-443-7171 berkshiremuseum.org Pop-Up Play Day Saturday, December 21, 10 am to noon Included with regular Museum admission.

The big, blue blocks of Imagination Playground™ and the colorful Bilderhoos architectural building components encourage children of all ages to build, rebuild, collaborate, and play.

Festival of Trees After Dark Saturdays through January 4, 5 to 7 pm $5, Museum members $3 Explore the sparkling indoor forest of Festival of Trees 2019: Heroes after hours, when the galleries are lit only by the twinkling lights ablaze on every tree.

Handbell Ringers from St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church Sunday, December 22, 3:30 pm Free and open to the community.

Ring in the holidays with the dulcet tones of the St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church Handbell Ringers while enjoying the beautiful Festival of Trees.

Special Holiday Hours Tuesday, December 24, 10 am to 2 pm Wednesday, December 25, Closed All Day Berkshire Museum and the Berkshire Museum Shop will be open 10 am to 2 pm on Tuesday, December 24. The Museum and Shop will be closed all day on Wednesday, December 25, reopening at 10 am on Thursday, December 26.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

WeeMuse Littlest Learners Tuesdays, 10:30 am. No program 12/24 or 12/31.

FESTIVAL OF TREES 2019

HEROES ON VIEW THROUGH JANUARY 5

Explore more than 100 decorated trees celebrating those who inspire us!

Included with regular Museum admission.

Littlest Learners is speciďŹ cally designed for children 6 to 18 months and their caregivers. Together we read stories, sing songs, learn sign language, and stretch both bodies and minds.

Sponsored by

WeeMuse Adventures Fridays, 11 to 11:30 am.

No program 12/20 or 12/27.

MAGAZINE

Included with regular Museum admission.

Songs, stories, scavenger hunts, play time, and more, geared towards children 18 months to 3 years. Older and younger siblings are always welcome!

Chow Time in the Aquarium Saturdays, 12:30 pm. No program 12/28.

Included with regular Museum admission.

Learn about the creatures in the Aquarium and help prepare enticing feasts for the turtles, ďŹ sh, chameleon, and even the blue-tongue skink!

We Can Be Heroes Included with regular Museum admission.

What does it mean to be a hero? Discover and share the traits that mark a hero and create a unique holiday ornament featuring your own hero to take home.

This program is ideal for children ages 5 and up.

Just a short drive from the Pioneer Valley!

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Saturdays, 2 to 4 pm. No program 12/28.

Discovery Tank Program Sundays, 1 to 2 pm

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Included with regular Museum admission.

Meet the creatures who live in tide pools in this hands-on gallery program. Experience our tide pool tank and learn about the wonders of hermit crabs, sea stars, sea urchins, and other crustaceans, right in your hands.