Weekend - May 23, 2024

Your guide to summer fun

By Ashley P otter apotter@repub.com

M10th

of Springfield, enjoys a patriotic punch at the Coca-Cola July 4th Fest weekend celebration at Six Flags New England; Happy and Marlo Allen Shea, of South Hadley, in the front car, enjoy the Polar Express ride at the Three County Fair in Northampton; and Nikki Grozio enjoys time with the goats during the Wine Safari event held at the Forest Park Zoo in Springfield. (THE REPUBLICAN, FILE PHOTOS)

emorial Day Weekend has long been the harbinger of summer fun, and the Paradise City Arts Festival is kicking things off this year with a May 25 start. The show, featuring more than 200 artists and crafters from across the country, will be held for three days on the Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton.

In the weeks that follow, the Pioneer Valley will have no shortage of opportunities to get outside and make the most of this summer. From already established town fairs — some dating back as far as 1855 — to live music, fireworks and festivals, there promises to be something for everyone.

Below is a look at some of the major events to keep an eye out for:

May

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., May 24, featuring The Blushing

SEE GUIDE, PAGE D3

At right, Taylor Brown, of Springfield, enjoys the swings at the East Longmeadow Fourth of July carnival. (THE

REPUBLICAN, FILE)

Clockwise from top left: Bridget Griffin, of Springfield, enjoys her pretzel and ice cream sundae cup during a Star Spangled Springfield celebration at Riverfront Park; Sophie Plotkin and Pearl Plotkin enjoy their time at the

annual Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival; Ramay,

June

Brides: The Original Tribute to the Rolling Stones, MGM Springfield, mgmspring field.mgmresorts.com

• Massachusetts Sheep & Woolcraft Fair: May 25-26, Cummington Fairgrounds, 97 Fairgrounds Road. Featuring a petting barn, as well as educational demonstrations and workshops, vendors, and plenty of sheep (and working sheepdogs) in the show ring each day, masheepwool.org.

• StamperCon: May 31-June 1, Eastern States Exposition, West Springfield. Retail consumer show featuring rubber stamps, card making, scrapbooking, and paper crafts, stampercon. net/west-springfield-mashow/.

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., May 31, featuring Unforgettable Fire — The U2 Tribute Show, MGM Springfield, mgmspring field.mgmresorts.com

Homes Tour: June 2, Quadrangle-Mattoon Street Historic District followed by a social gathering at the Springfield Museums, eventbrite.com

• Springfield Pride Parade: June 1, starting at Springfield Technical Community College campus at 10 a.m. and featuring DJ, live music, food and drink vendors, and retail booths. Block party in Stearns Square from 12:30-5 p.m. Downtown Springfield, springfieldprideparade.org

• Asparagus Festival: June 1, Hadley Town Common, 10th anniversary will feature live music, local food, craft beer, kid activities, PBS characters, a marketplace, and a bunching contest, nepm.org/asparagus

• Whip City BrewFest: June 1, Downtown Westfield, featuring unlimited beer tastings, vendors, food trucks, live music, and raffles to benefit Amelia Park Children’s Museums, whipcitybrewfest. com

• Wine Zafari: June 1, The Zoo in Forest Park, featuring wine samples, small bites, animal encounters, and zookeeper talks, forestparkzoo. org/events/winesafari

• Springfield Historic

• Connecticut Morgan Open Horse Show: June 5-8, Eastern States Exposition, featuring more than 300 horses and their riders, ctmorgans. org

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., June 7, featuring Pink Houses: New England’s Premier John Mellencamp Tribute, MGM Springfield, mgmspringfield.mgm resorts.com

• Pride Day on the River: June 8, Deerfield River, LGBTQ+ people and allies invited to paddle down the Fife

Brook section of the Deerfield River, in collaboration with Zoar Outdoor and the Venture Out Project, kayaklesson. com/pride-day-event/

• Holyoke Pride Rainbow Run 5K: June 8, Ashley Reservoir in Holyoke, featuring 5K run and 1-mile fun walk options, holyokepride.org.

St. Anne Shrine cordially invites you to our annual NOVENA TO ST. ANNE

Our theme this year is “My flesh for the life of the world”(John 6:51)

Pilgrims of all faiths, generations and cultures are invited to join our celebration of the 137th Novena to St. Anne beginning Thursday, July 18, 2024 culminating on Friday, July 26, 2024.

A variety of speakers and music ministries (African, Hispanic, Vietnamese and others) will enhance our liturgies.

136th Novena to St. Anne Sturbridge (Fiskdale), MA 01518

For more information call 508-347-7338 or visit our website stannestpatrickparish.com The Gift Shop will be open extended hours for your convenience

Above, attendees enjoy a free concert at MGM Springfield during last year’s Free Music Friday series. At left, Isabell Ruiz attends last year’s Springfield Pride Parade. (THE REPUBLICAN, FILE)

Fairgrounds open doors to Paradise

Paradise City Arts Festival begins 3-day run Saturday in Northampton

By K eith O ’C onnor Special to The Republican

It’s art by the numbers, sort of.

“I’ve always had a passion for shapes and patterns and as early as junior high school I had a drafting table in my room. I thought I would be an architect,” said Phil Webster, one of the 220 curated artists showing and selling their creations at this weekend’s Paradise City Arts Festival.

Today he is an “architect” of sorts, but instead of designing buildings, Webster uses his knowledge of ancient Islamic geometric patterns — something which captured his imagination while on a trip to India — and combines them with modern mathematical concepts like fractals and polyhedra.

The results are beautiful intricate designs achieved by using wood and Japanese sandpaper to create contemporary art and décor for the home from lamps that cast mesmerizing patterns of light on the wall and ceil-

ing to pieces of sculpture to digital art and hand-drawn originals for the wall.

Webster is never short of ideas when in his studio creating.

“I’ve collected mathematical ideas in notebooks that I’ve kept for years, so I have a gazillion ideas to work from. I believe there are forms out there built into the universe, and I mix and match all of these things I find beautiful into new combinations to create my art,” he said.

Webster, who lives in Pittsfield, noted people

react in different ways to his art.

“I get a lot of ‘Wow, I’ve never seen anything like that before’ coupled with a small slice of people who know enough about math and geometry to really get what I am doing and have some hardcore questions for me,” Webster said.

Webster is one of 50 new artists and master craft makers from around the country to exhibit at the three-day, award-winning festival, which opens its doors on Saturday at the

Clockwise from top left: Cavendish’s Loveline Baskets, which will be for sale at the festival, are made of 100% cotton cord, hand-dyed and sewn into a variety of shapes and sizes; ceramic sculptor Stephen Procter shares his process with young fairgoers; products by Jonathan Simmons Wood; and directors’ pick artist Vanessa Chatwood Kerby. (SUBMITTED PHOTOS)

Berkshire County artist Phil Webster is among the directors’ pick artists for this year’s Paradise City Arts Festival. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)

MGM Springfield Plaza ready for free music series

AS SPRING KEEPS

rolling toward summer, more and more outdoor music series keep rolling in. This week, we look at Free Music Fridays at the MGM Springfield Plaza, which starts Friday and runs through Sept. 6, from 7:30-9 p.m. each week.

The series kicks off this Friday with The Blushing Brides: The Original Tribute to The

Rolling Stones. On May 31, U2 fans won’t want to miss the Unforgettable Fire — The U2 Tribute Show. Pink Houses: New England’s Premier John Mellencamp Tribute will open a new month on June 7, with Changes In Latitudes: America’s Premier Jimmy Buffett tribute show hitting the stage on June 14. On June 21, Zac N’ Fried: The East Coast’s Best Zac Brown Tribute Band will

showcase its talents on the plaza.

The month winds up with a break from tribute acts as Malado! gets the crowd in a groove with its R&B and funk sounds. July keeps the fun going with American Honey: A Modern Country Rockin’ Pop Party on July 5, while another great tribute act, We May Be Right: A Billy Joel Tribute, plays on July 12.

July ends with two scintillating acts: the vibrant Latin sounds of Sensacion Urbana on July 19, and the modern country music of Trailer Trash on July 26. The Great Escape: A Tribute to Journey will bring the arena rock Aug. 2, with Back in Black: The True AC/DC Experience cranking out the hard rock Aug. 9. Johnny

Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton. They will be selling their original works in ceramics, painting, decorative fiber, furniture, jewelry, mixed media, photography, wearable art, woodworking, art glass, metal and sculpture.

“Paradise City is a great experience to enjoy with friends. And now it is more fun than ever to spend part of your day with us. As we approach our 30th anniversary with our fall show in October, we are freshening up all aspects of the festival, from new signage to new activities with some-

“... We are freshening up all aspects of the festival, from new signage to new activities with something going on all of the time.”

thing going on all of the time,” said Linda Post, founder of Paradise City along with her husband Geoffrey Post.

Post noted they are excited about the new Paradise Pavilion, a 1,500-square-foot tent adjacent to the Sculpture Promenade, offering demonstrations, creative activity stations for the whole family to enjoy and a beer and wine bar.

Among the activities slated for under the Paradise Pavil-

ion will be crafting with color led by Natasha Colon Ortiz of Paper City Arts, and Jill Foley of Fed by Foley, who will offer cheese, charcuterie and fresh fruit boards to eat at the festival or take home. She will also demonstrate the art of creating the perfect charcuterie board to serve at your next party.

Other demonstrations include ceramic sculptor Stephen Procter who will share his process for making

colossal human-sized vessels in the Sculpture Promenade. Also, in Building 3, visitors can roll up their sleeves along with clay sculptors Alan and Rosemary Bennett to create their favorite marine or imaginary creature.

Each season at Paradise City Arts Festival — there is another show in October — features a themed exhibit which this spring is called “The Art in Gathering,” spotlighting a selection of their

exhibit artists and makers who have created some exceptional pieces for showing in Building 2 at the festival.

“The Art in Gathering” can mean a couple things, such as items brought together to create a decorative scheme or tabletop display or a grouping of art on a wall.

Many artists collect found objects such as discarded old tools, scraps of cloth and other things, then reassemble them into a piece of art that is also an interpretation of gathering, Post said.

Visitors can also explore the culinary and musical arts in the Dining Tent, home to

popular Northampton area restaurants and regional bands.

Dining options include Spoleto, India House, Local Burger, Little Wall and Batch Ice Cream serving up something delicious treats for all tastes.

“We are also introducing a food vendor who is new at Paradise City. Ginger Love Café creates delicious Filipino street food such as chicken adobo and more,” Post said.

Thirsty visitors can also stop by the bar in the Festival Dining Tent serving up craft cocktails created by the Posts

George Lenker LIVE WIRE

LINDA POST, FOUNDER OF PARADISE CITY ALONG WITH HER HUSBAND, GEOFFREY POST

Though the artists are the main draw, there is more than just art at the Paradise City Festival. Hungry fairgoers, like the ones shown above, can find a wide array of culinary options in the Dining Tent. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)

Concerts, music series to welcome people outdoors

By K eith O ’C onnor

Special to The Republican Outdoors concerts on a beautiful summer night, as well as some indoor shows, await music lovers of all tastes in cities and towns from Springfield to Greenfield and everywhere in-between. Each summer, many area recreation departments, clubs, organizations, parks, museums and orchestras hold concert series and most are free.

Most genres are covered including jazz, rock, soul, gospel, salsa, country, folk, roots music, pop from the 1950s to today and more. Bring a blanket, a picnic basket and a folding chair, and enjoy the music with old friends and

Tanglewood will see a wealth of talent this season, including, clockwise from top left: John Fogerty, Brandi Carlile, John Williams and Boyz II Men.

Music for every taste this summer at Tanglewood

new at the following locations:

Pack a picnic supper and head to Forest Park in Springfield, home to Bright Nights each holiday season, for Concerts in the Park being held for four Thursdays beginning June 6 with Jake Manzi, followed by the Alex Rohan Band, June 13; Dee Reilly, June 20; and Hipptown, June 27. Held at the Forest Park Amphitheater — with the exception of Dee Reilly, who will perform in the Carriage House Tent — the outdoor concerts are scheduled at 6:30 p.m. and are open to the public free of charge. Attendees can enter Forest Park through

From classical to R&B ... and even a bit of ‘Jurassic Park’

By K en Ross Special to The Republican

Leaves rustling in a gentle breeze.

The sound of a violin or a piano drifting across the perfectly manicured lawn.

The occasional pop of a cork from a picnic blanket spread out beneath a tree. These distinct sounds can often be found each summer at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. This year is no exception. Concerts for every musical taste — from clas-

sical to classic rock, R&B to opera or indie rock — will be featured at this enchanting outdoor performance venue located on a tree-lined hilltop in the Berkshires.

Tanglewood’s 86th season kicks off June 20 with John Fogerty and continues through Aug. 31 with DISPATCH and the Boston Pops. In between, Tanglewood will host more than 140 events, including its signature classical music concerts each weekend featuring three different programs performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, most weekends from July 5 to Aug. 25.

A lot of work goes into putting together all of those performances at Tanglewood. In

fact, the Boston Symphony Orchestra is already busy planning next summer’s Tanglewood season, according to Tony Fogg, the head of artistic planning for the BSO.

“We’re typically planning a couple of years in advance,” Fogg said during a recent interview. “We’re well underway with the season plans for 2025, and a few things in place for the 26 season as well. So it’s roughly a two-year cycle of putting all of the programming together.”

“The big projects for each season are put in place first,” Fogg added. “And then little by little, it’s like putting together a jigsaw puzzle by

A scene from the 2019 Concert in the Park series at the Forest Park Amphitheater. (STEVEN E. NANTON PHOTO)

Paradise

CONTINUES FROM PAGE D5

along with other libations. Music served up under the tent begins on Saturday with The Green Street Trio, who will be introducing Avery Joi, a young up-and-coming guest vocalist from New York City. Sunday features Buddy McEarns Band playing blues rock and roll similar in style to the Allman Brothers Band. Café Society with Barbara Ween closes out the show on

Live Wire

Sixgun will play some deep cuts from classic rock on Aug 16, while Aug. 23 brings the area’s hottest horn band, Brass Attack to downtown.

The series brings its curtain down with Draw the Line: The Only Officially Endorsed Aerosmith Tribute Show on Aug. 30 and 1980s rock and metal tribute band Aquanett on Sept. 6.

Liner notes

• This column hates to be the bearer of bad news, but there is no getting around mentioning that Staind founding member and drummer Jon Wysocki died on May 18.

Wysocki, 56, of Westfield, was proof of the old saying that a band is only as good as its drummer. While singers, guitarists and even bassists

the local community. An array of donations by Paradise City Arts exhibitors will be available for open bidding each day at the Silent Auction tables, with 100% of the proceeds directly

supporting ILI programming. Show hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $14 online, $16 at

the door, $8 for students, and free to those 12 and under. A three-day pass is available for $18. Parking is free. For more information, visit paradisecityarts.com.

New this year at Paradise City is a special exhibit, “The Art in Gathering.” The exhibit explores how objects displayed together become greater than the sum of their individual parts, sparking conversation and fostering community. (SUBMITTED)

Memorial Day ,with Ween performing classic jazz standards. Music is from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Monday.

As a way of giving back to the community, the Posts select an organization to benefit from their silent auction, which this spring will assist the International Language Institute of Massachusetts (ILI). ILI provides free English classes for new arrivals from all over the world, so they can successfully integrate into

get the spotlights out front, every good band needs a good drummer. It’s safe to say that Wysocki was the cement foundation upon which Staind built its monolithic sound and massive international success.

• Another sad note this week: This year’s Field Day Festival in Northampton has been canceled. According to an announcement from festival organizers, “ticket sales and sponsorship have not met expectations, leaving us to face the very real possibility of devastating financial loss.” The announcement ended with an exhortation for fans to support other local festivals. This is good advice, as it’s easy to take events for granted and assume they’ll always be there. The announcement also noted that refunds for people who have already bought tickets will be distributed automatically.

Exciting season awaits at Jacob’s Pillow festival

By K en Ross

Special to The Republican

It’s hard to believe some of the greatest dancers in the world can be found on stage each summer in a converted barn located down a narrow, two-lane road in the Berkshires.

And yet, for nearly a century, dancers from around the world and the fans who watch them have been flocking each summer to Jacob’s Pillow, which will hold its annual dance festival this year from June 26 through Aug. 25.

“We’re so excited about the 92nd season for so many reasons,” Jacob’s Pillow Director Pam Tatge said during a recent interview. “We have a number of remarkable Pillow debuts.”

And right at the top of the list of remarkable dance companies performing for the first time at Jacob’s Pillow will be The Royal Ballet, the world-renowned London-based ballet company, which will present several different programs indoors and outdoors at the Pillow from July 3 to 7.

“They’ve never been to Jacob’s Pillow,” Tatge said. “It’s a remarkable week of programming.”

The Royal Ballet’s performances at Jacob’s Pillow will be the only ones in the U.S. this summer and will feature a world premiere by Wayne McGregor created especially for Jacob’s Pillow, as well as many other pieces performed by these outstanding dancers and live musicians.

Bringing new dance companies to the Pillow is important for many reasons, especially because Tatge wants “audiences to stay current on what dance makers are thinking and dreaming about.”

The Pillow also wants as many people as possible to see performances. That’s why live video of some of the performances will be streamed for free online this summer. “People can watch it in the comfort of their own home,” Tatge said.

In addition, many of the one-night performances on the picturesque Henry J. Leir outdoor stage will allow audience members to choose how much they want to pay to attend. “All of the One Night Only performances are choose what you pay,” Tatge said. “We want to be as accessible as possible.”

The first week at the Pillow will feature several one-night outdoor performances, including one by Shawn L. Stevens (Red Eagle), a member of the Stockbridge Munsee band of Mohicans. Stevens and friends will perform opening night, June 26.

That same week, Jacob’s Pillow’s summer season heats up with performances by Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (June 26-30), performing for the first time at the Pillow since 2010.

The all-male, New York City-based ballet company is famous for its humorous interpretations of classic ballets.

There’s also a Season Opening Gala on June 22 at Jacob’s Pillow, featuring members of the New York City Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and several other performers.

The week after The Royal Ballet, ballet fans will be treated to another international dance company in the Ted Shawn Theatre. Ballet Du Grand Theatre De Geneve (July 10-14) from Switzerland will return to the Pillow

for the first time since 2011 with a wide-ranging program featuring several contemporary works, including the U.S. debut of “Noetic,” a work created by the ballet company’s artistic director Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui.

That same week, three duets featuring the work of Merce Cunningham, Liz Gerring and Kyle Abraham will be performed July 12 on the Leir outdoor stage in a co-production by the Merce Cunningham Trust and Baryshnikov Arts.

The following week, the Social Tango Project (July 17-21) from Buenos Aires, Argentina, will make its Pillow debut with an interactive tango performance in the Ted Shawn Theatre, featuring live musicians.

“It’s an incredible group of dancers and musicians featuring some of the finest tango dancers in Argentina,” Tatge said. “It’s an immersive performance that features this cinematic projection on the back that really highlights the importance of tango and Argentinian culture, and how it’s been a through line through all sorts of political ups and downs.”

The groundbreaking, genre-defying, audience-fa-

Theatre. “I’m really excited about this new work,” Tatge said. The piece, created by the 2016 Jacob’s Pillow Dance Award winner, will also feature music performed by live musicians.

David Dorfman Dance (Aug. 3-4) returns to the Pillow the same week to the outdoor Leir stage to perform “(A)Way Out of My Body,” which also features live music.

The internationally-renowned modern dance company Parsons Dance (Aug. 7-11), founded by David Parsons, will perform several of its signature works in the Ted Shawn Theatre, including “Caught” and “Takedeme.”

vorite dance company MOMIX (July 24-28) returns to the Pillow for the first time since 2002 with a collection of some of its best-known works.

MOMIX was founded by former Pilobolus co-founder Moses Pendleton, who discussed his approach to creating new works last year in an interview prior to MOMIX’s performance at the UMass Fine Arts Center in Amherst.

“I take an environmental, psychological approach to creativity,” Pendleton said during the interview. “Put yourself in an interesting environment of light and cool air and beautiful forms. And just wait. Something will come.”

That same week, Dancers of Damelahamid (July 26-27) will make their Pillow debut on the outdoor Leir stage.

The Indigenous masked dance company from the northwest coast of Canada’s British Columbia has a long, rich history.

“They’re a remarkable group from the westernmost part of British Columbia,” Tatge said.

Camille A. Brown & Dancers (July 31-Aug. 4) will present the world premiere of “I AM” in the Ted Shawn

Flamenco dance and music will be featured the following week when Soledad Barrio & Noche Flamenca (Aug. 14- 18) return to the Pillow for the first time since 2001. The Spanish-based dance company will perform several pieces, including an excerpt of their newest work, “Searching for Goya,” about the 18th-century romantic Spanish painter Francisco de Goya.

The final week of the season features Dance Theatre of Harlem (Aug. 21-25) in the Ted Shawn Theatre. The renowned dance company will present several works, including pieces by William Forsythe and George Balanchine.

In addition to shows this summer, visitors to the Pillow can see the ongoing construction of the new Doris Duke Theatre, which burned down in November 2020. The new theatre should hopefully be completed in time for next summer’s festival season, according to Tatge.

“It’s going up so fast,” Tatge said.

Jacob’s Pillow is located at 358 George Carter Road in Becket. Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival runs from June 26 through Aug. 25. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit jacobspillow.org or call 413-243-0745.

The Royal Ballet will perform for the first time at Jacob’s Pillow on July 3 to 7. (TRISTRAM KENTON VIA JACOB’S PILLOW)

Concerts

the Sumner Avenue or Route 5 entrance for free after 5:30 p.m. For complete details, visit the Park Department website at springfield-ma. gov/park/ or call 413-7876435. Rain locations are at the Carriage House Tent.

Held at School Street Park, SummerFest in Agawam begins on June 26 with Skid Marks and continues with Dave Colucci, July 3; Brat Pack, July 10; Back in Black, July 17; Roads, July 24; Neal and the Vipers, July 31; National Night Out and Cover Daddy’s, Aug. 6; KIX 100.9 Country Show with Dillon Carmichael, Aug. 14; and Enter the Haggis, Aug. 21. All SummerFest events are free and begin at 7 p.m. and will be canceled in case of bad weather. Call the Parks and Recreation Department at 413-821-0514 after 2 p.m. on the day of the show for updated information. The free KidsFest will begin on July 10 with The Ooch Experience; Roger Tincknell, July 24; and George Saterial, Aug. 14. Showtimes at School Street Park are 10 a.m.

Live music will also await visitors at Millside Park on Ferry Street in Easthampton, where the Easthampton Parks and Recreation Department will hold free concerts in the park beginning on June 28 with Bring Out Ya Dead - Grateful Dead Tribute Band; Above the Treeline, July 12; Battle of the Bands, July 20; Eddie Forman, Aug. 2; Heritage Pops, Aug. 9; and Timeless Tunes, Aug. 23. Showtimes are 6:30 p.m. and bring chairs. For more information on the concerts visit easthamptonma.gov.

The East Longmeadow Rotary Club will once again hold its Summer Concert Series at East Longmeadow High School’s Athletic Field. This year’s concert series kicks off on June 26 with Fever, followed on July 3 by Trailer Trash with fireworks at 9:30 p.m.; Project 267, July 10;

The Eagles Experience, July 17; Union Jack - A British Invasion Band, July 24; Changes in Latitudes - Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band, July 31; Roads, Aug. 7; and Brass Attack, Aug. 14. Shows are free and begin at 7 p.m., bring your own chairs, concession will be available. Rain date is next day. Summer is the season to pack a picnic, grab a lawn chair, and head to the Florence Civic Center for the Florence Summer Concert Series. Free outdoor concerts are held every Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. beginning May 30 and running through Sept. 5. Food trucks also will be on-site. For updated information on performances, visit florencemass.com/ concert-series/.

In the heart of downtown Northampton, Bands on Brewster — a series of live concerts on stage at Brewster Court, between the E.J. Gare Parking Garage and the back entrance of the Northampton Brewery — begins on May 30 with Ian St. George and the Chris Jennings Band. The shows are hold for free every Thursday night through August, with The Fawns and Gentle Hen, June 6; Avery Joi, June 13; The Invincible Casuals, June 20; Magick Lantern, June 27; Thrasher Wheat, July 11; King Radio, July 18; Ray Mason Band, July 25; Jake Manzi, Aug. 1; Matt Hebert and Haunt, Aug. 8; Kimaya Diggs, Aug. 15;

visit coopconcerts.org.

The Greenfield Recreation Department will present concerts by the Greenfield Military Band on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. in July at Greenfield Energy Park. For more information, call 413-772-1553 or visit greenfieldrecreation.com.

Surprise guests, Aug. 22; and Soul Magnets, Aug. 29. For more information, including the complete schedule of concerts, visit northampton artscouncil.org.

Music from Franklin County’s finest singers and musicians will take stage at the popular Greenfield Energy Park Co-Op Summer Concert Series, which runs on Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission is free. Listeners are invited to bring a chair, blanket and picnic supper. It all begins on May 30 with 133 Skeele, R & D, and Small Change; Joe Graveline, Katie Clarke & Larry LeBlanc, and The Frost Heaves & Hales, June 6; Jennie McAvoy, Orlen, Gabriel & Avery, and Pat & Tex LaMountain, June 13; Sue Kranz, The Klines, and Austin & Elliott, June 20; Boys of the Landfill and Zydeo Connection June 27. The music continues in July with Jim Eagan, Joe Graveline, and 133 Skeele, July 11; John Stacey with Glen Woodworth, Russ Thomas, Pat & Tex LaMountain; July 18; R & D, Orlen Gabriel & Avery, and The Frost Heaves and Hales, July 25. The concerts come to an end in August with Oen Kennedy, The Klines, and Small Change, Aug. 1; Austin & Elliott, Larry LeBlanc, and Brookside Project, Aug. 8; Jim Eagan and Jennie McAvoy; Aug. 22. Aug. 15 and Aug. 29 are held for rain dates. For more information,

The 44th season of Wednesday Folk Traditions at the Porter-Phelps-Huntington House Museum in Hadley kicks off on June 12 with Tim Erickson with additional concerts by Amber Area Gospel Choir as part of the Clarence Boyer Memorial Gospel Concert, June 19; Talamana Trio, June 26; Stories of Slavery and Independence, July 3; Zikina, July 10; StompBoxTrio, July 17; Jose Gonzales and Criollo Clasico, July 24; and Thea Hopkins, July 31. Concerts are held in the museum’s sunken garden at 6:30 p.m. Picknickers are welcome on the museum grounds at 5 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults and $2 for children 16 and under. For more information, call 413-584-4699 or visit pphmuseum.org

South Hadley will host its free Summer Concert Series on Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on the Town Common. Presented by South Hadley Recreation Department in conjunction with The Village Commons, this year’s concerts begin on June 27 with the South Hadley Community Band, and will also feature Cottonwood on July

11, the Willies on July 18, The Berkshires on July 25, Jimmy Mazz Duo on Aug. 1, Blue Devil Bluez on Aug. 8, Union Jack British Invasion Band on Aug. 15, Dixieland Stomp on Aug. 22, and Berkshire Hills Music Academy on Aug 29. Rain dates are the following Sunday. Concertgoers should bring chairs or a blanket to sit on. For more information, call 413-538-5030.

Celebrating 75 years of gardens, music, arts, education and more, Stanley Park in Westfield serves as the backdrop for this year’s Westfield Bank Sunday Night Concert Series in the Beveridge Pavilion, weather permitting. This year’s concert series begins on June 2 with The Eagles Experience and continues on June 9 with Counterfeit CASH, A Johnny Cash Tribute; Sarah the Fiddler, June 16; Still Kickin’ with the Big City Horns, June 23; Sweet Hitch-Hiker, June 30; Jesse Liam Band, July 14; Union Jack British Invasion Band, July 21; Changes in Latitudes, July 28; The Eddie Forman Orchestra, Aug. 4; Bad News Jazz and Blues Orchestra. Aug. 11; and The savage Brothers Band, Aug. 17, who will perform on Saturday as part of the park’s 75th Anniversary Celebration. Showtime is 6 p.m. and the concerts are free. Chairs and food service provided by The Bubble Mug Café at Pottery

Kimaya Diggs will play downtown Northampton’s Bands on Brewster concert series Aug. 15. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)

SUMMER GUIDE 2024

Busy summer of live theater in months ahead

By K eith O ’C onnor Special to The Republican

Nothing compares to the experience of live theater, and there will be no shortage of opportunities at stages throughout Western Massachusetts this summer season. From Broadway musicals to world premiere dramas to the prose of Shakespeare and beyond, there are many theaters bringing plays and other performances to life on stage in the next few months that are worth checking out.

Now celebrating 30 years, the Barrington Stage Company, located in downtown Pittsfield, has two stage locations where theatergoers will find entertainment.

Beginning June 11-July 6 on its Boyd-Quinson Stage will be “La Cage Aux Folles,” featuring music composed by Jerry Herman and directed by Mike Donahue, followed by “Boeing Boeing” by Marc Camoletti and directed by Julianne Boyd, July 17-Aug. 3; and “Next To Normal” with music by Tom Kitt, book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, and directed by Alan Paul, Aug. 13-Sept.8. The St. Germain Stage at the Sydelle and Lee Blatt Performing Arts Center will play host to “A Tender Thing” by Ben Power, directed by Alan Paul, June 25-July 20; “Forgiveness” by Mark St. Germain, directed by Ron Lagomarsino, July 30-Aug. 25; and “Primary Trust” by Eboni Booth.

For more information on additional special performances, as well as pricing, visit barringtonstageco.org.

The Berkshire Theatre Group was created in 2010 by the merger of two of Berkshire County’s oldest cultural organizations, Berkshire Theatre Festival, founded in 1928 in Stockbridge, and The Colonial Theatre, built in 1903 in Pittsfield. Based in Stockbridge, it oversees the development, production and presentation of theater, music, and the performing arts on several stages.

Summer plays begin at the Unicorn Theatre with “4,000 Miles,” now through June 1, written by Amy Herzog and directed by Lizzie Gottlieb; “Abe Lincoln in Illinois,” June 13-July14, written by Robert E. Sherwood and directed by David Auburn; Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Pipe Dream,” July 26 - Aug. 31, directed by Kat Yen with music direction by Jacob Kerzner and arrangements by Ross Patterson; and “The Weir,” Sept. 26-Oct. 27, written by Conor McPherson and directed by Eric Hill. The Colonial Theatre will play host to “Music of Mancini” performed by Jukebox Saturday Night, May 26; “Pink Floyd’s The Wall: A Theatrical Experience,” May 31-June 1; Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein,” June 27-July 21; and Chris Ruggiero in concert, Sept. 29. Berkshire Theatre Group is also teaming up with New York’s Jewish Plays Project, the nation’s premiere development theater for new Jewish plays, and plays2gather (p2g) to bring the Festival of New Jewish Plays, an immersive three-day extravaganza celebrating the next generation of Jewish theater, to Stockbridge from Aug. 15-17. For more information and pricing, visit berkshire theatregroup.org.

Committed to delivering the best contemporary work in a range of theatrical styles, Chester Theatre Company, at its home in the foothills of the Berkshires at Chester Town Hall, will present “The Thin Place” June 20-30, written by Lucas Hnath and directed by Gabrielle Farrah; the world premiere of “Unreconciled,” July 4-14, written by Jay Sefton and Mark Basquill and directed by James Barry; “It Goes Without Saying,” July 17-18, written and performed by Bill Bowers; the premier of “Will Sacrifice,” July 25-Aug. 4, written by Julie McKee and directed by Keira Naughton; and “Big Big Sky,” Aug. 8-18,

The cast of “Much Ado About Nothing” takes the stage at Shakespeare & Company in Lenox in 2022. The group’s 47th season begins with “The Django Festival Altars” on June 16.

(NILE SCOTT STUDIOS)

written by Tom Wells and directed by James Warwick. For more information and pricing, visit chestertheatre.org.

While there were no fully staged theater productions at Williamstown Theatre Festival last year, they are back in action this summer with “The Plastic Bag Store,” May 9-Sept. 2, written, designed and directed by Robin Frohardt with music by Freddi Price at MASS MoCA’s Building One; “Dragon Mama,”

July 2-14 at the Center Stage, by Sara Porkalob and directed by Andrew Russell; “Death, Let Me Do My Show,” July 5-14 on the Main Stage, created by Rachel Bloom and directed by Seth Barrish; and “Pamela Palmer,” July 23-Aug.10 at the Center Stage, by David Ives and directed by Walter Bobbie. Also returning this year is the WTF Cabaret, July 25-Aug.10. Williamstown also will play host a mini-festival-within-the-festival from

Aug. 1-4, which will preview the future of the Williamstown Theatre Festival experience with participants immersed in a full slate of experiences and events that reflect an expansive expression of theater within the breathtaking natural beauty of the Berkshires. For pricing and more information, visit wtfestival.org.

Located in the heart of the Berkshires in Lenox, Shakespeare & Company’s 47th season includes plays, music and more including “The Django Festival Altars,” June 16, in the Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre; “A Body of Water,” June 21-July 21, written by Lee Blessing and directed by James Warwick in the outdoor Roman Garden Theater; “Shake It Up: A Shakespeare Cabaret,” July 2-7, directed by Allyn Burrows in the Tina Packer Playhouse; Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors,” July 13-Aug. 18, directed by Kate Kohler Amory in the outdoor Arthur S. Waldstein Amphitheatre;

TUESDAY

Chicopee Elks #1849

431 Granby Road, Chicopee 413-592-1849

Bingo Tuesday

Doors Open at 4PM

2 Progressive Jackpots 6:15PM Early Bird

6:20PM Start

Min. Entry Package $15 Open Seating

2 Halls for Players Handicap Restroom 1st Floor

WEDNESDAY

Polish American Citizens Club 355 East Street, Ludlow, 583-6385

Bingo Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm Doors Open at 4pm. Minimum Admission $50

1 - 1199 Progressive Betty Boop 50/50 Prize $900

2 - $500 Cover Alls

3 - $400 Special Games All regular games $100 with 80 people or More. All Cards are included with Admission. Prizes climb with additional attendence. Full Kitchen 4-6:30pm.

THURSDAY

Fairview Knights of Columbus 1599 Memorial Drive, Chicopee (413) 532-2011

DOORS OPEN 4:30PM MASKS OPTIONAL Progressive Jackpot 6:15pm Early Bird 6:20pm Start

Electronic Bingo Aval. Snack Bar, Open Seating, Handicap Restrooms

Min. Entry Package $15

Drink in fresh air this summer at WMass beer gardens, patios

By G eorge L enker

Special to The Republican

For some folks, there is nothing quite like a refreshing beer in the warmer months.

And for many of those people, the delight is even more amplified by quaffing their favorite beverage outdoors.

Luckily for Western Massachusetts beer fans, the area has no shortage of al fresco drinking places. While some are simply a few tables and chairs on a sidewalk, there are also plenty of venues that feature more sumptuous beer gardens. Today we highlight some of the best outdoor beer drinking spots for readers to explore. Although this list is by no means exhaustive, it covers a wide area geographically to point you in the right direction, no matter where you live.

This list has to start, of course, with the oldest brewpub (and probably the oldest outdoor beer garden) in the area, the Northamp -

Concerts

CONTINUES FROM PAGE D9

Cellar will be available. If inclement weather, check the Stanley Park Facebook page or visit stanleypark.org.

the world premiere of “The Islanders,” July 25-Aug.25, written by Carey Crim and directed by Regge Life in the Tina Packer Playhouse; regional premiere of “Flight of the Monarch,” Aug. 3-25, written by Jim Frangione and directed by Judy Braha in the Elaine P. Bernstein Theatre; Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale” - An Enhanced Staged Reading, Aug. 21-25, directed by Tina Packer in the outdoor Arthur S. Waldstein Amphitheatre; “Plays in Process,” Aug. 27-29; and the world premiere of “Three Tall Persian Women,” Aug. 30-Oct. 13, written by Awni Abdi-Bahri in the Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre. Shakespeare

ton Brewery. The venue has made plenty of renovations over the years, but maybe the best was the addition of the outdoor deck on the second floor. Flowing with flowers and usually bubbling with the hum of chatter and laughter, the expansive space has an outdoor bar and three levels of seating.

For Jessica B. Sokol, of Hadley, the Northampton Brewery’s deck is a “refresh-

& Company will also host its first-ever free Community Day on May 25 to showcase nonprofit organizations from across Berkshire County, including Ventfort Hall, Lenox Library, and Drag Story Hour Berkshires, among others. The day will include games, food trucks, and live music. For more information on Community Day and the various stages, visit shakespeare.org

Last but certainly not least, the Majestic Theater in West Springfield will offer their annual Children’s Theater beginning with “Curious George: The Golden Meatball” on July 8, 9, 10, 21, 22, 23, and 24, and “The Secret Garden” on July 15, 16, 17, 28, 29, 30, and 31.

Members of the Majestic Theater’s Youth Theater

ing summer experience the whole family can enjoy.”

“From the friendly staff to the innovative cocktails, the sun never stops shining on this cozy and glorious outdoor brew deck. And yes, the beer is pretty epic, too,” she said.

Down in Springfield, there will be two spots for sipping suds under the sun: White Lion, which has had a beer

SEE GARDENS, PAGE D16

Workshop will stage “Snowderella” by Nate Eppler July 5 and 6, with tickets priced at $10.

In addition to the children’s show, the Majestic Theater will also play host to Improv with The Majesters on July 10, 17, 24 and 31, and Aug. 7, 14 and 21. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m., and tickets, which are $15, will be sold at the door only.

Most of the Majestic’s summer offerings will be in the form of concerts featuring tunes made famous by, among others, The Eagles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Johnny Cash, The Beach Boys, Rod Stewart, Simon & Garfunkel, Van Morrison, Elvis Presley and more. For more information and pricing, visit majestic theater.com

The West Springfield Park & Recreation Department and the Rotary Club of West Springfield are partnering for the 61st annual Summer Concert Series, to be held at various sites and times. Performances at the Morgan Road Pavilion include Hipptown, May 30; The Storytellers, June 6; General Gist, June 13; Chalk Dust, June 20; The Next JEN Band, June 27; Santucci Jazz Quintet, Aug. 1; Richie Mitnick & Friends, Aug. 8; Just Go With It, Aug. 15; The Wildcards, Aug. 22; Union Jack British Invasion Band, Aug. 29; James Paul Band, Sept. 5; and 91 South, Sept. 12. Beer, wine, soft drinks, food and snacks will be sold. Check wspark andrec.com for full details.

July Summer Concerts on the Green at Storrowton Village Gazebo in West Springfield include Sarah the Fiddler, July 11; Ethel Lee, July 18; and The Big E Mardi Gras Band, July 25. All concerts begin at 7 p.m.

The West Springfield Park & Recreation Department will also host the annual 4th of July Celebration, beginning at 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. with music by Jimmy Mazz and activities on the Town Common. Families can take part in different arts and crafts, competitive and cooperative games. The West Springfield Lions Club will be selling concessions. If inclement weather occurs, call the Current Events Line at 413-781-3020 or visit the “Weather Cancellations” page on wsparkandrec.com for an update after 9:30 a.m. for all concerts except for Storrowton, which can be checked after 3:30 p.m.

Summer at the Majestic Theater on Elm Street in West Springfield includes Screaming Orphans, June 14; Doo-Wop Meets Motown, June 15; Father’s Day Live with Dave & Hailey Brinnel, June 16; Studio Two: Early Beatles

Tribute, June 20; Charlie Lask: Neil Diamond Tribute, June 21; The Driftwoods: Beach Boys Tribute, June 22; Whitney Houston and Celine Dion Tribute featuring Michelle Brooks-Thompson, a finalist from NBC’s “The Voice,” June 23; Joe Canata & the Knight Tones, June 27; Wild Taxi: Harry Chapin & Yusuf/Cat Stevens Tribute, June 28; Union Jack: Rock ‘N’ Roll on Ed Sullivan, June 29; non-musical event with Lisa Lanno: Messages from the Other Side, June 30; Center Stage Motown Review; July 11; Retro Floyd, July 13; Fortunate Sons: Woodstock Remembered, July 18; Lisa Carter & Matt Foster: Table for Two, July 19; Frank Manzi, Family & Friends, July 20; A Man Named Cash, July 25; Rick Larrimore: Rod Stewart Tribute, July 26; Moondance: Van Morrison Tribute, July 27; Good Acoustics: Simon & Garfunkel Tribute, Aug. 1; 7 Bridges Road: Eagles Tribute, Aug. 2; Running on Jackson: Jackson Brown Tribute, Aug. 4; Frankie & Dean: One for the Road, Aug. 8; Jimmy Mazz: Marvelous Musical Roadtrip, Aug. 8; The Corvettes, Aug. 9; The Majestics, Aug. 10; Donna Lee: Patsy Cline Tribute, Aug. 11; Chrome Horse: Bob Dylan Tribute, Aug. 13; Honey Honey: Abba Tribute, Aug. 15; A-Ray of Elvis, Aug. 16 and 17; Lisa Carter: The Ultimate Cher Experience, Aug. 18; Freddie Marion: Songs for the Summer...and All Seasons, Aug. 25. For times and ticket prices, visit majestictheater.com. The music continues with free performances by the Montague Community Band in the Turners Falls Bandshell at Peskeomskut Park. Showtime is 7 p.m. on June 10, 17 and 24, and July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29.

The Old Post Road Orchestra will round out this year’s offerings with ’70s and ’80s pop and rock classics on June 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall on 198 Main St. in Monson. The show will be repeated on June 16 at 3 p.m. at Loomis Lakeside at Reeds Landing in Springfield. Both concerts are free.

(THE REPUBLICAN, FILE PHOTO)

• Northampton Garden Tour: June 8, featuring six homes in Northampton for 30th annual tour, funds raised support Forbes Library programming, forbeslibrary. org/friends/events/ garden-tour/

• Berkshire Pride: June 8, The Common Park in Pittsfield, featuring live entertainment, food vendors, community resources and more, berkshirepride.org

• Cultural Chaos: June 8, Cottage Street in Easthampton, featuring live music, dance, poetry, performances, art and local food, easthamp toncityarts.com/eventsfestivals/cultural-chaos/

• Old Tyme Baseball Spring Festival: June 8-9, Hill Top Farm in Suffield, Connecticut, featuring old-fashioned baseball and comradery, hilltopfarm suffield.org/events

• IRONMAN 70.3 Western Mass: June 9, triathlon, ending in downtown Springfield, ironman.com/ im703-western-massachu setts

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., June 14, featuring Changes in Latitudes: America’s Premier Jimmy Buffett tribute show, MGM Springfield, mgmspringfield. mgmresorts.com

• Ludlow’s Semi-Quincentennial Birthday Celebration: June 15, parade followed by block party and picnic at Memorial Park, celebrating Ludlow’s 250th birthday. Featuring food trucks, craft vendors, amusement rides, live entertainment, community resources and fireworks, ludlowma250.org

• “Juneteenth”: June 19, Springfield Symphony Orchestra to present flag-raising ceremony followed by free concert at Symphony Hall featuring Kevin Scott and Avery Sharpe’s 400 Project, springfieldsymphony.org

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., June 21, featuring Zac N’ Fried: The East Coast’s

July

• Maroon 5 in Concert: 8 p.m., July 1, MassMutual Center in Springfield, massmutualcenter.com

• Yankee Classic Cluster Dog Shows: July 3-7, Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, featuring Kenilworth, Holyoke, Farmington and Naugatuck Kennel Clubs, easternstates exposition.com

• Star Spangled Springfield: July 4, activities in Riverfront Park starting at 6 p.m., with fireworks launched from Memorial Bridge, spiritofspringfield. org/events/star-spangledspringfield

• Six Flags July 4th Fest: July 4-6, Six Flags New England, festivities and fireworks while the park is open, sixflags.com/newengland/ events

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., July 5, American Honey: A Modern Country Rockin’ Pop Party, MGM Springfield, mgmspringfield. mgmresorts.com

• Springfield Comic Con: July 13-14, MassMutual Center in Springfield, will be featuring special guests, cosplay contests, gaming, vendors, artists, panels and more, springfield comic con.com

• Matt Fraser, America’s Top Psychic Medium: 8-10 p.m., July 13, mgmspring field.mgmresorts.com

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., July 19, Sensacion Urbana: A Vibrant Blend of Latin Sounds, MGM Springfield, mgmspring field.mgmresorts.com

• Dragon Boat Festival: July 20, North Riverfront Park in Springfield, featuring the Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club and Springfield Dragon Rays, rain or shine, pvriver front.org/dragon-boatfestival

• Glasgow Scottish Lands Festival: July 20, Look Memorial Park in Northampton, featuring Highland Games, dancers, entertainment, food, vendors and more, glasgow lands.org

Best Zac Brown Tribute Band, MGM Springfield, mgm springfield.mgmresorts. com

• Green River Festival: June 21-23, Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, featuring multiple stages with live music, greenriver festival.com

• Holyoke Pride Festival: June 22, Veterans Park, featuring local artists, vendors, performers, food trucks and more, holyokepride.org

• 250th Anniversary Block Party: June 22-23, West Springfield Town Common, featuring live music, entertainment, food trucks, vendor fair, 413 Cornhole Tournament and more, townofwestspringfield.org/ Community-Resources/ 250th-AnniversaryCommittee

• Northampton Family Fourth Celebration: June 22 (rain date June 23), Look Memorial Park in Northampton, featuring bounce houses, carnival games and prizes, wellness activities, food trucks

and fireworks, northampton ma.gov/858/NorthamptonFamily-Fourth-Celebration

• “Canvas Sky” Outdoor Circus: June 25-26, Buttery Brook Park, South Hadley, outdoor show for all ages featuring 10 world-class performers, hideawaycircus.com

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., June 28, MALADO! Springfield’s Top Band in R&B, Funk and More, MGM Springfield, mgmspringfield. mgmresorts.com

• 4th of July Fireworks: June 28, Holyoke Community College, 6 p.m. entertainment, food, vendors, and activities for all ages followed by fireworks at dusk, hcc.edu

• Pro Motocross National: June 29, The Wick 338 in Southwick, a New England tradition since 1976, gates open at 7 a.m., thewick338.com

• 4th of July Carnival: June 30-July 4, carnival in East Longmeadow Center, featuring rides, live music and food. Ends with annual 4th of July parade, eastlongmeadowma.gov

• Independence Day Fireworks: July 6, live music and activities starting at 4:30 p.m. in Beacon Field, fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. over Poet’s Seat Tower, Greenfield, greenfieldrecreation.com/ fireworks.html

• Food & Brew Festival: Sat. and Sun. July 6-Aug. 11, Six Flags New England, featuring craft beers and cocktails and food offering from some of the best gourmet foods in town, sixflags.com/ newengland/events

• Brimfield Outdoor Antiques Show: July 9-14, featuring thousands of vendors in fields along Route 20, Brimfield, brimfieldantiquefleamarket.com

• Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival: July 12-13, free family-friendly festival, live music over two days in Stearns Square, springfieldjazzfest. com

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., July 12, We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute, MGM Springfield, mgm springfield.mgmresorts. com

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., July 26, Trailer Trash: Today’s Modern Country Music, MGM Springfield, mgmspringfield.mgm resorts.com

• Hampden County 4-H Fair: July 27, Eastern States Exposition, featuring 4-H members’ projects with animals, arts and crafts, growing vegetables, robotics and more, facebook.com/Hampden County4H

August

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., Aug. 2, The Great Escape: A Tribute to Journey, MGM Springfield, mgm springfield.mgmresorts. com

• Littleville Fair: Aug. 2-4, Littleville Fairgrounds in Chester, featuring live music, oxen draws, a petting zoo, pony rides, cattle showings, barbecues and more, little ville fair.com

• Brew at The Zoo: Aug. 3, The Zoo in Forest Park, featuring unlimited craft beer samples from local breweries,

The group Home Body performs at the 2019 Green River Festival. This year’s festival will be held June 21-23 on the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield. (ED COHEN PHOTO, FILE)

a home brew competition, live music, animal interactions and food trucks, forest parkzoo.org/events/brew

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., Aug. 9, Back in Black: The True AC/DC Experience, mgmspringfield. mgmresorts.com

• Middlefield Fair: Aug. 9-11, 7 Bell Road in Middlefield, “Old-Time Country Fair” featuring live music, horse and oxen pulls, square dancing, antique engines, petting zoo, pancake breakfast and more, middlefieldfair. org

• East Coast Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show: Aug. 9-11, Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, featuring dealers selling mineral specimens, fossils,

Tanglewood

CONTINUES FROM PAGE D6

hand, the various other pieces fall into place.”

But all that hard work is worth it since Tanglewood holds such a special place in so many people’s hearts.

Listening to a concert on the lawn or in The Shed or one of the other venues at Tanglewood can be a relaxing, magical experience. You can also feel the sense of history at this place which has hosted performances since 1937.

“It’s an amazing experience,” Fogg said. “The thing about Tanglewood in particular it’s the combination not only of the great music, but of this amazing landscape, and the sheer beauty of the Tanglewood property is an experience unto itself.”

“There is a real spiritual quality about Tanglewood,” Fogg added. “It’s the sense of calm, the great music that’s there ... performed at the highest level. They’re the qualities that make it unique, and everyone has their own individual things that they are passionate about with regard

gemstones, beads, jewelry, crystal, geodes and more, mineralshowslld.com

• Lego “Brick Convention”: Aug. 10-11, MassMutual Center in Springfield, featuring thousands of Legos for the public to use in multiple building zones and a Fan Display Zone, massmutual center.com/events

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., Aug. 16, Johnny Sixgun: Authentic Classic Rock The Way You Remember It, mgmspringfield.mgm resorts.com

• Westfield Fair: Aug. 16-18, 137 Russellville Road in Westfield, featuring agriculture exhibits, livestock shows, petting zoo, midway, and more, thewestfieldfair.com

• Cummington Fair: Aug. 22-25, Cummington Fairgrounds, featuring music and entertainment for all ages, midway rides and games,

to Tanglewood.”

Fogg, BSO music director Andris Nelsons and many other people work hard to strike just the right balance of different concerts throughout the season, especially when it comes to the classical music season at Tanglewood.

“It’s getting that balance across the season, making sure that we have a good mixture of those sort of headline artists who everyone knows and loves — your Yo-Yo Mas (Aug. 18 at Tanglewood) and Joshua Bells (July 31 and Aug. 4) and so on — as well as some new names to show them the next generation of great performer coming through.”

Some of the other best-loved classical musicians performing this summer at Tanglewood include violinist Hilary Hahn (who performs during the Opening Night BSO concert on July 5), pianist Yuja Wang (July 13 and July 17), pianist Emanuel Ax (July 21) and a chamber music concert featuring two of the greatest classical musicians — violinist Leonidas Kavakos and pianist Daniil Trifonov on Aug. 21.

Opera fans will be treated to performances by soprano Re-

square dancing, antique car show, exhibit hall and more, cummingtonfair.com

• Free Music Fridays: 7:309 p.m., Aug. 23, Brass Attack: MA’s Hottest Horn Band, mgmspringfield.mgm resorts.com

• Festa: Aug. 29-Sept. 1, Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Ludlow, featuring food, live music, midway activities, face book.com/OLOFFesta/

• Free Music Fridays: 7:309 p.m., Aug. 30, Draw the Line: The Only Officially Endorsed Aerosmith Tribute Show, mgmspringfield.mgm resorts.com

• Three County Fair: Aug. 30-Sept. 2, Three County Fairgrounds, America’s longest consecutive running agricultural fair to feature contests and exhibits, musical entertainment, midway with rides and games, food and more, 3countyfair.com

nee Fleming in an all-Strauss program on July 7 and Act III of Wagner’s final, monumental Ring Cycle opera “Gotterdammerung” on July 20.

And for those of you who enjoy classical music and dance, the Boston Ballet and the BSO will perform together on July 12.

In addition, this summer’s classical music season will pay tribute to Serge Koussevitzky, the BSO music director born 150 years ago who helped create Tanglewood.

Koussevitsky also created the Tanglewood Music Center, the official name for the summer music school at Tanglewood. Each summer, some of the world’s best young classical musicians attend the intensive music academy and regularly perform concerts throughout the summer at Tanglewood.

But perhaps the most popular classical music concerts of the summer will take place Aug. 2 and 3. That’s when Tanglewood will host John Williams’ Film Night, featuring the 92-year-old composer himself.

In years past, this annual event featuring the memora-

• Blandford Fair: Aug. 30-Sept. 2, 10 North St. in Blandford, featuring barnyard petting zoo, truck pulls, cattle shows, corn husking contest, hay bale toss, pony rides and more, theblandfordfair.com

September

• Free Music Fridays: 7:30-9 p.m., Sept. 6, Aquanett: Tribute to 80s Rock N’ Metal, mgmspringfield.mgm resorts.com

• Brimfield Outdoor Antiques Show: Sept. 3-8, featuring thousands of vendors in fields along Route 20, Brimfield, brimfieldantique fleamarket.com

• Franklin County Fair: Sept. 5-8, Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, featuring midway rides and entertainment, livestock shows, fair foods and more, facebook. com/FranklinCountyFair Greenfield/

ble music of John Williams (from movies like “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” “Jaws” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark”) was held once each summer. But last year’s film night concert was so popular — and created so much traffic on local roads — the BSO decided to present film night two nights in a row this summer.

A separate event based on film music, “Jurassic Park in Concert” will be held on Aug. 17, performed against the backdrop of “visual stunning imagery and groundbreaking special effects,” according to the BSO’s website.

And no summer at Tanglewood would be complete without its final classical music concert featuring Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony on Aug. 25.

But it’s not all about classical music. Tanglewood also has a long history of presenting many rock performers – from Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell and The Who in the 1960s to Santana, Ray Charles and Sly and the Family Stone in the 1970s – and this summer is no exception.

Following John Fogerty on June 20, Tanglewood will host a wide range of popular per-

• Glendi: Sept. 6-8, Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Springfield, family-friendly celebration of Greek culture, stgeorgecath. org/glendi

• Mattoon Street Arts Festival: Sept. 7-8, Mattoon Street in Springfield, the oldest arts and crafts show in Western Massachusetts featuring 100plus exhibitors, food vendors and musicians, mattoon festival.org

• Sheffield Fair: Sept. 7, Sheffield Town Park, featuring animals on display, hayrides, local vendors, sheffieldfair. com

• Springfield Puerto Rican Parade: Sept. 15, downtown Springfield, highlighting Latino music and traditions, springfieldprparade.com

• The Big E: Sept. 13-29, Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, opening day admission $10, thebige.com

formers, including: The Who’s lead singer Roger Daltrey (June 22); Kool & The Gang and En Vogue (June 23); Boyz II Men (June 27); Jon Batiste (June 28); Trey Anastasio with the Boston Pops (June 29); Brandi Carlile (June 30); Jason Mraz with the Boston Pops (July 2); The Pretenders (July 16); Beck with the Boston Pops (July 23); Judy Collins, Rufus Wainwright and The Indigo Girls (Aug. 30); and DISPATCH with the Boston Pops (Aug. 31).

However, no summer at Tanglewood would be complete without an annual performance by James Taylor and his All-Star Band, which return on July 3 and July 4.

“We have a very robust set of offerings in the popular artist series,” Fogg said. “This is more than we typically have.”

“There’s something for everyone this summer,” Fogg added, “and I think that’s the great appeal of the 2024 season.”

Tanglewood is located at 297 West St. in Lenox. For more information about the complete Tanglewood summer season schedule or to order tickets, visit bso.org/tanglewood or call 888-266-1200.

Maine is home to some great nonalcoholic beers

I’M NOT SURE WHAT’S going on up in Maine, but the northeast corner of New England seems to have somewhat cornered the market on tasty nonalcoholic beers.

THE BIG STORY IN the restaurant trade press this month has been the financial woes of Red Lobster Hospitality LLC, the operator of some 700 Red Lobster Seafood restaurants worldwide.

Known for its seafoodfocused menu and its famous Cheddar Bay biscuits, the chain has gone into something resembling a financial tailspin over the last several weeks, closing down nearly a hundred locations and, in some instances, almost immediately auctioning off equipment and furnishings.

Currently owned by the Thai Union Group, a Bangkok-based seafood canning company, Red Lobster has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

The chain of events that led to Red Lobster’s current distress is unfortunately all too familiar, involving management missteps, shifts in the consumer preferences, and various ownership shuffles. Change a few of the details and one can just as easily be describing the recent history of other once-highflying casual dining nameplates like Friendly’s or Boston Market.

In the case of Red Lobster, inflated food and labor costs along with shifts in customer preferences are primarily responsible for the brand’s current difficulties.

Much media attention has also been focused on a $20 Ultimate Endless Shrimp deal the chain promoted starting

I was lucky enough to have two different friends give me some NA beers from two different breweries in the Pine Tree state: Kit Brewing of Portland and Woodland Farms of Kittery. Both breweries seem like they are ready to reap great rewards from a growing movement in the craft beer market.

But given the growth of the market and the fact that two more New England breweries are excelling at the style, I felt another column was warranted.

otherwise inopportune times now can enjoy one. I’m not one of those “breakfast beer” types, but a tasty NA IPA might now follow a coffee on a hot day.

I’ve written about NA beers before: Once a column about Connecticut’s outstanding Athletic Brewing, and a mention of Guinness 0 (an NA version of the famous stout).

Besides, as Paul Pelis of Kit Brewing noted when I spoke to him, when NA beers are good enough, they’re not just for people who don’t drink. Beer lovers who want a beer at

Anyway, let’s start with the Kit beers. Kit exclusively brews three NA beers. First up is On Your Mark, a blonde ale, which featured some grassy

SEE BEER, PAGE D15

The downfall of Red Lobster

Hugh Robert Off The Menu

in 2023, a marketing strategy that the company subsequently blamed for an $11 million operating loss that year. That shrimp fiasco mirrored a similar misstep, a 2003 “Endless Crab” promotion, which 20 years earlier had lost Red Lobster $3.3 million over a seven-week span of time.

The real story, however, is just how tenuous success in the dining out business can be. Even seemingly sophisticated restaurant organizations can often find themselves only a bad management decision or two away from financial disaster.

Side Dishes

• On Sunday, June 2, White Lion Brewing Company in Springfield will be hosting a Jazz Brunch from noon until 3 p.m.

Masala Jazz will be performing and White Lion promises an “elevated” brunch menu for the occasion.

White Lion’s downtown Springfield location answers at 413-455-0820.

For its summer offerings, Dunkin’ has a Kiwi Watermelon Refresher and a Watermelon Burst Donut on the menu. (DUNKIN)

• Watermelon, the restaurant industry’s unofficial flavor of summer, is starting to make its seasonal appearance.

The beverage and snack chain Dunkin’ has released a late spring lineup that includes a Kiwi Watermelon Dunkin’ Refresher, which is available in either green tea or lemonade variations.

Watermelon is also making a cameo appearance in Dunkin’s pastry case as the chain promotes a Watermelon Burst Donut. Filled with watermelon-flavored jelly, the donut is dusted with tinted-red sugar.

On the savory snack side, Dunkin’ is now featuring a Green Goddess Wrap, a piece of lavash bread wrapped around a filling of egg whites, farro, sundried tomatoes, spinach, feta, and green goddess

dressing.

Dunkin’ is also “teasing” the faithful among its customer base with hints that the brand has something special planned for National Donut Day, June 7.

• The Wales Irish Pub in Wales is sponsoring a Chili Cook Off on Saturday, June 1, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The competition, which has an entry fee of $15, will award prizes for first, second, and third place finishers among the chili creators. The sign-up deadline for those who wish to enter is May 25, and a percentage of the proceeds from this event will be donated to local VFW posts.

For more details, contact the Wales Irish Pub at 413-2451357.

• The Crest Room in West Springfield has brought back Trivia Night. Held every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Trivia Night is smartphone-based and features team competition, with prizes awarded to the top two teams.

Open seven days from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and later on weekends, the Crest Room offers weekday menu features as well as its house specialty, smokehouse barbecue.

The Crest Room answers at 413-739-7700.

• The Shortstop Bar & Grill in Westfield has given the summer dining season an early start by bringing back lobster rolls.

The iconic shoreside sandwich is available in both its popular variations — as chilled lobster salad with mayo and

lettuce or “Connecticut-style,” with hot buttered lobster meat piled into a toasted roll.

Both versions are served with fries and a side of coleslaw. Call the Shortstop Bar & Grill at 413-642-6370.

• Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations have recently added Watermelon Lemonade to its beverage lineup. Adults also have the option of enjoying a Watermelon Spritzer made with lemon-lime soda and watermelon puree, then spiked with Roscato Moscato.

Cracker Barrel has also hopped aboard the “sweet and spicy” bandwagon, introducing two “bee sting” entree option, both of which feature a proprietary hot honey glaze.

Bee Sting Chicken Tenders, which are finished with the new hot honey, are served with two sides and the choices of biscuits or corn muffins. A Bee Sting Chicken Sandwich is similarly given the “swicy” treatment before being partnered with a buttermilk bun and finished with pickles and mayonnaise.

There are Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations on Whiting Farms Road in Holyoke and on Route 20 in Sturbridge.

Hugh Robert is a faculty member in Holyoke Community College’s hospitality and culinary arts program and has nearly 50 years of restaurant and educational experience. Robert can be reached online at OffTheMenuGuy@aol.com.

George Lenker Beer Nut

4 great Washington cabernet sauvignon wines

CABERNET SAUVI-

gnon is the most popular red wine grape in the country.

In fact, it’s the most popular wine grape in the world. It’s easy to understand why.

Wines made with cabernet sauvignon grapes often have dense, dark fruit flavors that go great with a wide range of foods, especially steak and other red meats.

Cabernet sauvignon wines may also be great health-wise, according to numerous scientific studies about the benefits of red wine in general and cabernet sauvignon grapes in particular.

In addition, you can find great wines made with cabernet sauvignon grapes from many wine regions around the world.

California’s Napa Valley and France’s Bordeaux region are perhaps the best-known cabernet sauvignon wine regions.

But there are many other great ones, including Washington’s Columbia Valley.

This week, you can learn more about wines from Washington, the Columbia Valley as well as tasting notes for four Washington cabernet sauvignon wines.

Hope you enjoy.

Washington wines

A wide range of red and

white wines come from the state of Washington. By far, the most popular Washington grape is cabernet sauvignon, which accounts for roughly 20 percent of all wines from the state. Other popular Washington red wine grapes include merlot (8 percent of all Washington wines) and syrah (7 percent). As for white wine grapes, riesling (8 percent) and chardonnay (7 percent) lead the pack in Washington.

Washington wine regions

While there are many wine regions in Washington, Columbia Valley is king. Roughly 99 percent of the state’s wine comes from the Columbia Valley, which is located in the dry, southeastern corner of the state. As for the other 1 percent, those wines come from several other outstanding Washington wine regions, including Walla Walla (which is located next to the Columbia Valley), Yakima Valley (located further west) and Red Mountain (located in between Walla Walla and Yakima Valley).

Columbia Valley Wines

Including cabernet sauvignon grapes, Washington’s Columbia Valley makes great wines primarily with four other grapes – chardonnay, riesling, merlot and syrah. In fact, these five grapes account

Ken Ross Wine Press

fact, all four wines) tastes great on the second day as well.

2019 Chateau Ste Michelle Canoe Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($36 SRP) Chateau Ste Michelle’s Canoe Ridge Estate is located in the Horse Heaven Hills appellation. First planted in 1991, the estate sits on the south face of a steep, windswept ridge that rises to 950

yards to create this 100 percent cabernet sauvignon, which has a smooth, soft, elegant finish with floral aromas and understated fruit flavors, including plum and cherry.

2021 Matthews Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley ($50 SRP)

While there are many wine regions in Washington, Columbia Valley is king. Roughly 99 percent of the state’s wine comes from the Columbia Valley, which is located in the dry, southeastern corner of the state.

for 80 percent of all wines from the Columbia Valley.

Wine tasting notes

2021 Mark Ryan Board Track Racer Cabernet Sauvignon ($25 Suggested Retail Price)

Established in 1999 by Mark Ryan McNeilly, this winery has helped to elevate Washington as a premier growing region. With a focus on the Red Mountain AVA, the winery also works with vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley. The Board Track Racer wine has an austere, flinty taste straight out of the bottle. However, within 10 or 15 minutes in the glass, those flavors become more rounded, softer and delicate. Let me add that this wine (in

feet in elevation. The constant sunlight and moderate winds coming off the Columbia River produce voluptuous, vibrant, velvety-smooth wine with thick, rich flavors. I absolutely loved this wine straight out of the bottle and the next day as well.

2020 North Star Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley ($45 SRP)

Northstar is well-known for its full-bodied and balanced merlots but it also crafts exceptional cabernet sauvignons from the Walla Walla Valley and broader Columbia Valley. Winemaker David “Merf” Merfeld blended fruit from old vine blocks in the Cold Creek, Four Feathers and Shaw vine-

With a focus on Bordeaux varieties, this family-owned winery brought in a new winemaking team headed by Alex Stewart in 2021 to elevate the quality of its wines. This cabernet sauvignon is a blend of several vineyards including sites in the Horse Heaven Hills, Red Mountain, and Royal Slope AVA’s, as well as the Conner Lee vineyard. The result is a big, plump yet flinty wine with ripe, robust flavors straight out of the bottle. Like the first one, this wine needs 10 to 15 minutes in the glass to open up and mellow out and tastes terrific the next day as well. Cheers!

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

notes, a bit of citrus and some cracker maltiness. There was also a hint of tea, which I have noticed in other NA beers. I wonder if it’s a function of how it’s brewed. But it’s certainly not a bad flavor.

One minor quibble, which I also have noticed in NA beers: The body was a bit thin. I think the alcohol makes alcoholic beers just a bit more “chewy.”

While I enjoyed the blonde ale, the hazy IPA, Here We Go, was the one that really hit home. The tea notes were still there but not as prominent,

and the thinness in the body seemed less noticeable. The hop profile was solid, and while the malt aspect wasn’t huge, that is also true of many alcoholic hazy IPAs. But man, this was a delicious and refreshing beer.

Last, and least – but not by much – was Get Set, a wheat beer. The brew itself was good, but I’m just not a huge fan of wheat beers. However, the wheat aspect was mild and this NA version was done well. I’m guessing people who enjoy the style will be very happy with it. It featured a nice melange of tropical hops.

As I mentioned, I also was given some beers from Wood-

land Farms Brewery. These came from my friend Shannon, who runs an antique shop up in Kittery and wanted me to try their IPAs, which she loves. She gave me three of them, West, (a West Coast-style IPA), Pointer (a hazy and juicy IPA), and NZL, which is made with four types of New Zealand hops. Woodland Farms also brews regular beers, so it was interesting to see how they’d approach NA brews.

West was the best, with a threesome of Chinook, Cascade and Centennial hops. The malt sets the tone but is quickly subsumed by the hops. A nice dry and bitter finish

adds to the enjoyment.

Pointer is another good entry, with light cracker-flavored malt backbone and some solid pineapple notes in the hop profile. The Galaxy and Cascade hops take the spotlight here, with the Mosaic hops adding a noticeable resinous facet.

NZL was also a thirstquencher, with an overall drier approach. It had a fair amount of juiciness, but for some reason, I guess I expected more prominence from the Nelson Sauvin hops, as they often dominate a beer to my palate. But I’m glad it was more balanced.

All three were ones I would

drink again. Now, before some of the more cynical beer geeks out there get their hackles up, let me add this caveat: While all the above beers are very good, they all lack a certain je ne sais quoi, which obviously comes from the alcohol. And I’m not talking about the buzz. There just seems to be some alchemy between the higher levels of alcohol and the other beer ingredients. And as I mentioned, some of this “certain something” has to do with the body and mouthfeel of the beers. But overall, these brews are a nice alternative, especially compared to older attempts at NA beers.

The Munich Haus Restaurant in Chicopee has opened its outdoor patio for the season.

garden in rotating spots over the past few years, will bring one back again this year, but the exact location has not been finalized, according to managing partner Ashley Clark. But Springfield’s newest entry into the craft beer market, Loophole Brewing, already has outdoor seating at Duryea Way, and soon will be enhancing it.

Jeff Goulet, of Loophole Brewing, said the patio has seating for 159 and will feature all new tables, chairs and umbrellas. There is also a portable grill outside.

“We have had good numbers of people using it already,” Goulet said. “Cornhole has been very popular out there, as well. We’ll also have a station for water for dogs.”

He added that the second floor of the building has a patio that runs the whole length of the building directly above the beer garden.

North and west of the City of Homes, Munich House is a favorite for many Chicopee residents, while Westfield denizens have two lovely venues where you can drink in the scenery along with your brew: Great Awakening and Skyline Brewing. Drunken Rabbit Brewing in South Hadley opened its outdoor patio for the season on May 1, while Ludlow’s Iron Duke Brewing will open its outdoor patio this Memorial Day weekend. Iron Duke is also expanding its outdoor area, creating a two-tier beer garden sometime this summer.

Easthampton has four great spots with beer patios

or gardens. The city’s three breweries: New City, Abandoned Building, and Fort Hill, as well The Brass Cat downtown, all offer outdoor options.

Worthington’s Sena Farm seems to be a hidden gem, according to those who frequent the venue. Nicole Graziano, of the Leeds section of Northampton, loves making the trip to Worthington.

“The outside is special because of those lights (multicolored bulbs lining an outdoor canopy) and because of the wonderful people that you meet who are sitting outside. It’s been really fun to be outside and meet different people,” she said. “The brewery is on the site of an old snowshoeing spot, and it was really interesting to hear people talk about that. It’s also really beautiful on the grounds as it’s in the country.”

Another brewery in a nature-filled setting is Northfield’s Four Star Farm Brewery, which features an outdoor patio surrounded by spectacular greenery. (It’s a farm, so that only makes sense.) The bucolic setting is dotted with picnic tables covered with blue umbrellas and surrounded by planters filled with various types of flora –and a field of hop vines.

And no list of Western Massachusetts beer gardens would be complete without mentioning Tree House Brewing’s South Deerfield campus. Picnic tables and Adirondack chairs are nestled among trees and large stone formations, all illuminated by a web of lights strung from poles. To top it all off, there are also concerts during the summer.