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'ALADDIN': Bilingual retelling of Disney story comes to 52 Sumner. Page D5

D | | THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

&JazzRoots

Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival offers 2 days of live music, workshops. Page D2

‘Back to our roots’

Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival brings 2 days of live music, workshops to city

onnor

Special to The Republican espite it being called the Jazz & Roots Festival, you’ll hear more than just jazz this weekend. You can also expect to hear funk, soul, and Afro-Caribbean rhythm filling the streets of downtown Springfield.

Produced by the nonprofit organization Blues To Green, the annual event, which is free and open to the public, begins Friday night and continues through Saturday with world-class music and local talent on two stages, as well as cultural storytelling, workshops and other special events.

“We’re back to our roots. We began the Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival in 2014 in Springfield’s historic Court Square, and we’re back right where we started,” said event

“We created this year’s festival with a stronger emphasis on the stories and history, the lived experience, behind the music. Not only will it be told through the music, but in our workshops and short films being offered.”

KRISTIN NEVILLE

Maureen Peeler and Helen Caulton-Harris take a selfie during the 2019 Jazz & Roots Festival, which took place in Springfield’s Court Square. Returning to its roots, the festival is moving back to Court Square this year, after being held in Stearns Square the past several years.

director Kristin Neville, who, along with local businessman and real estate developer Evan Plotkin, founded the festival, which later moved to Stearns Square.

“We created this year’s festival with a stronger emphasis on the stories and history, the lived experience, behind the music. Not only will it be told through the music, but in our workshops and short films being offered,” she added.

Centering on the rich heritage of American musical genres birthed by communities of color and heavily influenced by the African diaspora, the 2026 festival boasts a dynamic and genre-crossing lineup on the Charles Neville Main Stage, including performances by Dumpstaphunk, a New Orleans funk powerhouse band; Etienne Charles, exploring Afro-Caribbean and coastal traditions; Omar Sosa, acclaimed Cuban composer and virtuoso jazz pianist; Zaccai Curtis: Cubop Lives, a Grammy-winning Afro-Cuban jazz ensemble; David Rivera y La Bámbula, bringing modern, high-energy Caribbean and tropical rhythms; Malado!, Springfield’s own premier R&B, hip-hop and neo-soul collective; and regional soul voices All the Rivers and Chestina Thrower.

The music begins at 5:30 p.m. on Friday with Dan Gabel’s Jazz Ultimate big band and vintage jazz ensemble, followed by Malado! The evening closes out with David

Lexi Weege, a Western Massachusetts singer-songwriter, hand-selected the local acts that will play the Urban Roots Stage during this weekend’s Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival. She said picking the acts was “a thrill.”

Rovera y La Bambula. All other artists perform on Saturday, with the music starting at noon and ending at 10 p.m.

In addition to the main stage, the Urban Roots Stage, hosted by local singer-song-

“There is so much good art in our community and people have no idea. The Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival has always been so great about exposing people to what’s going on right under their nose.”

Lexi Weege

writer Lexi Weege will focus on local and regional singer-songwriters. The music starts on the Urban Roots Stage beginning at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday. “I hand-selected all of the

Miss Paula swings into Florence

Her band, the Twangbusters, to play Florence

EVER SINCE MOV-

ing here, Paula Bradley has emphasized the “western” aspect of Western Massachusetts.

Bradley, who came to the Berkshires from West Virginia by way of Boston, is the voice and face of Miss Paula and the Twangbusters, a band that mixes honky-tonk and Western swing with touches of hillbilly boogie. The group will play the Florence Summer Concert Series on July 9 at 6:30 p.m. outdoors at the Florence Civic Center.

Bradley is no stranger to the local music scene, having been part of Girl Howdy, a Pioneer Valley honky-tonk band fronted by Bradley and two other women in the early 2000s. And it was that former band that helped generate the current lineup of the Twangbusters.

“The previous iteration was based out towards Boston, so geography does play a role here. I was doing gigs out in Worcester and Boston and, you know, I live in the Berkshires. And I loved the people I played with, but there were some personnel who were moving and different things happening,” Bradley said. “And my late husband said at the time

SPRINGFIELD

Making art on Market Street

By Ashley P otter apotter@repub.com

The Springfield Business Improvement District, in partnership with Springfield Cultural Partnership, is launching a free summer artmaking series downtown.

Art on Market Street will offer free weekly creative projects at 75 Market St., next to NOSH Cafe and Rumspringa Books, on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The series launches on July 11 with a paint party hosted by Kali Green. Green will lead guests in creating their own painted tic-tac-toe rock game. Rocks and paints will be provided, and no art experience is needed.

Art programs will continue each Saturday through Aug. 22. Each program is free, and needed materials will be provided each week.

Registration is encouraged,

and families can register for free online at springfield downtown.com.

For more information, email info@springfielddowntown. com

Art on Market Street, a free program bringing drop-in art activities to Market Street in downtown Springfield on Saturdays this summer, runs July 11 to Aug. 22.

A lineup of summer programs includes:

• July 11: Paint Party with Kali

• July 18: Drawing

Comic Characters

• July 25: Silly Portraits

• Aug. 1: Beyond the Frame

• Aug. 8: Afro Dance Expression

• Aug. 15: TAG the Art Game

• Aug. 22: Trading Cards

Participation in the program is free, and all materials will be provided each week. For more information, and to register, which is not required but encouraged, go online to springfielddowntown. com.

F R I DAYS 1 1 A M TO 3 P M JUNE - AUGUST T

The Landing at MassMutual Center 1277 Main Street, Springfield

NIGHTCLUBS & OUTINGS

THURSDAY

Northampton Brewery:

Bands on Brewster: Hot Dirt & Goldsetter. 11 Brewster Court, Northampton

Theodores': Yogurt Nights. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

Uno Chicago Grill: Country Music. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

White Lion Pridelands: Live DJ, cold beer on tap. Tower Square Park, downtown Springfield.

Lawn Party @ The Landing: Jarreau Pitts, R&B/pop/soul. The Landing at the MassMutual Center, Springfield.

FRIDAY

Delaney House: Woodford Way.

3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

MGM Springfield: MGM Free Music Fridays presents Blizzard of Oz. 1 MGM Way, Springfield

Theodores': Michelle Willson.

201 Worthington St., Springfield

Uno Chicago Grill: Roots, Blues and Rock. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

West Springfield's Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Built for Comfort. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield

Wyckoff Country Club: Jazzwich. Heritage Greens, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke

SATURDAY

Delaney House: Luther Johnson. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

MGM Springfield: MGM Roar

Comedy Club: Misha Brown. 1 MGM Way, Springfield

Theodores': Bobby Bryan. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

Uno Chicago Grill: Modern, Contemporary Rock. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

West Springfield's Irish House

Restaurant & Pub: Billy Eagan. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield

Wyckoff Country Club: Lower Valley Guys. Heritage Greens, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke

SUNDAY

Delaney House: Trivia with Bobby Roast Beef. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

Uno Chicago Grill: Jazz. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

‘Aladdin’ reimagined

By

K eith O ’C onnor

Special to The Republican

It’s Disney’s “Aladdin” like you have never seen — or heard —before.

52 Sumner, the arts venue born out of the former Faith United Church in Forest Park, will host several performances of the Disney stage play “Aladdin: Dual Language Edition,” starting on Friday.

“We chose ‘Aladdin’ for our summer family musical because it is a joyful celebration of language, culture, and community. This relatively new and unique Spanish-English version has never been performed in the Pioneer Valley,” said Vana Nespor, director of Springfield Community Theater of MA, which is putting on the play.

It is the only version of “Aladdin” that Disney will allow adults to perform outside of its own Broadway production. Until recently, when acquiring the rights

Bilingual version of Disney play will be staged at Springfield’s 52 Sumner

to stage the play, community and regional theaters could not cast anyone over the age of 18. When a school on the West Coast was

at 52 Sumner in Springfield. (PHOTOS COURTESY VANA NESPOR)

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

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

CONTINUES FROM PAGE D3

artists, which was a thrill. I wanted to make the program diverse and interesting. Yes, there are some artists who are straight ahead jazz or blues, but I wanted to encompass all of what we have here,” Weege said.

Some of the artists set to perform on the Urban Roots Stage includes Savoir Faire, coming from Boston to play noir jazz with a modern twist; JJ Slater, who will be performing a tribute to American guitarist JJ Cale; and Pamela Means, a jazz-influenced protest singer.

“There is so much good art in our community and people have no idea. The Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival has always been so great about exposing people to what’s going on right under their nose. So, my hope is that folks will come to our Urban Roots Stage, see one of our artists and then go out and see them elsewhere with a longer set,” Weege said.

Weege, who combines the best of jazz, Motown and soul, will perform on the stage herself at 6:40 p.m. and then again at 8:10 p.m. with surprise special guests.

“I started performing in my family’s traveling cab -

aret troupe. I got a taste for the tunes really young. I was never told that it wasn’t a real job, so I just kept doing it, kept making stuff, performing in rock and roll bands, and doing tribute sets. Then I started writing my own music.

As soon as I got a driver’s license, I was on tour and I’ve never stopped,” Weege said.

In addition to her work with this year’s Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival, she is also working on a follow-up to her 2025 album of original jazz compositions titled “Renaissance Painting,” expected this fall.

Even before the music begins on Saturday, the excitement will start early as the festival’s Second Line Parade steps off at 11 a.m. from the Springfield Museums to Court Square and finally, the Charles Neville Main Stage. It will be led by students and faculty of the Community Music School of Springfield, A New Orleans tradition which began as part of the festival in 2017 as a tribute to Neville’s late husband,

munity connection, which are all part of the Blues To Green mission.

Charles, Second Line Parades are joyous community street parades that stem from the history of jazz funerals.

Nadim’s Dance Patio, adjacent to Nadim’s Mediterranean Restaurant on Main Street will keep downtown moving with live DJ sets, Latin grooves and a public dance lesson.

“Some people love to dance, and we have had salsa bands at different times in the past, so we wanted to incorporate that opportunity to dance back into this year’s festival thanks to Nadim’s sponsorship,” Neville said.

The patio comes alive on Saturday at noon with producers and performers of the Flip Factory and DJ Boogy at 3 p.m., followed by Latin dance lessons with Roshay as well as Latin rhythms and salsa by DJ Mela at 5 p.m.

This weekend’s festival is about more than listening to music.

Event workshops and special events create space for learning, conversation, cultural memory and com-

Saturday will feature “Zaccai Curtis — Cubop Lives!,“ an interactive, hands-on music workshop exploring Afro-Caribbean rhythm, jazz and the roots of Cubop at 2 p.m. ”Etienna Charles: Gullah Roots” — an artist conversation focusing on Gullah history — follows at 3:15 p.m.

“All the Rivers,” a storytelling performance inviting immigrant artists to share music, personal stories, and the traditions that shape their sounds will be held at 5 p.m. All workshops will be held in the Community Room at ThirtyOne Elm Apartments, located in Court Square.

A highlight of this year’s festival is the expansion of

Gelbaard and Yaldira

at the Springfield Jazz and Roots Festival and above right, Shaq Hester, tour manager of Endea Owens and The Cookout, dances at last year’s festival. At right, people enjoy a concert at last year’s festival.

(SOPHIE MARKHAM)

EVEN MORE JAZZ!

For music lovers and community members who want to support the annual Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival and the Blues To Green nonprofit organization that hosts it, there is a new “Jazz Club.”

The membership-based community can be joined at a starting cost of $100 for a supporter-level membership all of the way up to $1,000 for a Jazz Club Partner membership. Each membership tier comes with additional benefits, including access to an indoors air-conditioned “Jazz Club Lounge” for certain tier levels.

For more information, go online to springfieldjazzfest.com/ jazz- club/

CONTINUES FROM PAGE D6

hands-on visual arts programming. The festival will feature a dedicated Art Activity Tent, anchored by a collaborative public mural painting party.

The interactive installation is a joint project of The Performance Project and Commonwealth Murals. Rooted in local heritage, the imagery

for the project is inspired by the lived experiences, histories, and stories of Springfield’s immigrant, refugee, and diasporic communities. Festival attendees of all ages are invited to pick up a brush and directly contribute to this collective artwork which will culminate later this year in a large-scale public mural to be permanently installed on the Chestnut Crossing Building at the corner of

Liberty Street and Chestnut Street in downtown Springfield.

Festivalgoers won’t have to look very far for something to eat or drink while enjoying the festival. In addition to the plethora of restaurants located in downtown Springfield, there will be several food vendors onsite including Boricua Bites, Ginger Love Café, Iona’s Kitchen, Rodney’s Spice Kitchen, It’s a

Wrap, and Mathis Munchies, among others.

Visitors can also put their purchasing power to work by shopping the many community vendors in the festival Art Market. For sale will be a variety of handmade crafts, including mosaic lamps, clothing, jewelry, skin care products, art, cultural goods and more.

Music fans looking to elevate their weekend experi-

ence can also join the newly introduced Jazz Club, a sustaining membership tier offering exclusive access to a premium member lounge while directly supporting the festival’s mission to keep the music free for all.

For more information on the full artist schedule, vendor lists, workshops, the new Jazz Club membership and more, go online to springfieldjazzfest.com.

Barbecue red wines under $20, plus summer serving tips

THE FOURTH OF July often gets all the attention when it comes to barbecues, especially due to this year’s 250th anniversary celebration.

But another way to think about Independence Day cookouts is it’s simply the start of the barbecue season.

And while beer often takes center stage at these summer gatherings, wine deserves a place at the picnic table as well.

Last summer, I wrote an indepth barbecue wine pairing column — with everything from New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Eastern North Carolina BBQ to Argentinian Malbec and Kansas City BBQ. This summer, I thought I would narrow the focus and offer a few specific recommendations — five red wines under $20 perfect for barbecues.

I also wanted to give a few tips for enjoying red wine on a hot, summer afternoon so you get the most of your wine. Hope you enjoy.

Five summer red wine serving tips

Keep wine cool. White wine is easy during the summer. Just put a bottle in the fridge or a bucket of ice. Red wine’s a little trickier but not that hard. Just make sure the wine stays relatively cool — around 50 to 60 degrees. Don’t drink too cold. If you do put a bottle of red wine in the fridge or a cooler — and I recommend doing so on a really hot day — let the wine warm up a little before you drink it. Otherwise, the wine will not have a lot of character and can wind up tasting a little dull.

Use a wine glass. I know this might sound a bit fussy, but I really think it’s worth it to drink wine out of a glass (it doesn’t have to be fancy or even have a stem) instead of a plastic cup. Yes, it’s a bit more work, but many times I find that wines don’t taste as great in plastic versus glass. Drink in the shade. If possible, drink red wine in the

If possible, drink red wine in the shade instead of full sun. Otherwise, your wine will warm up too fast. And when red wine’s too warm, it’s not as refreshing and the flavors can get a little funky sometimes.

shade instead of full sun. Otherwise, your wine will warm up too fast. And when red wine’s too warm, it’s not as refreshing and the flavors can get a little funky sometimes.

Save your super reds. This recommendation applies to super-hot days (over 85 degrees) and outdoor barbecues in particular. If you have a great bottle of red wine you’ve been saving for a special occasion, save it for another day. Many great red wines can be temperamental when the weather gets too hot. Don’t waste your best wines.

Barbecue red wines under $20

Domaine Bousquet Malbec Reserve Organic ($14.99 at Table & Vine in West Springfield)

Region: Mendoza, Argentina

Grape: Malbec

Tasting notes: You can never go wrong with a Malbec when it comes to barbecue wine. Whether it’s steak or brisket, hot dogs or smoked

ribs, a hearty Malbec wine always tastes great. And while France’s Cahors region invented Malbec wines, Argentina’s Mendoza region consistently produces powerful, elegant wines like this one, year in and year out.

Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.99 at Table & Vine)

Region: California

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon

Tasting notes: Another classic barbecue, wine pairing is California Cabernet Sauvignon. These elegant yet rugged wines have the structure and backbone you need in a wine to hold its own with the powerful flavors often found in many barbecue dishes. Just make sure to give this wine a little extra time (about 30 minutes) after you open the bottle. Cabernet Sauvignon wines can be big and brawny and often need time for its flavors to mellow a bit.

E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rouge ($17.99 at Table & Vine)

Region: Rhone, France

Grape: Blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre

Tasting notes: I have raved about blended red wines from France’s Southern Rhone region for years. Why? Because they’re affordable, easy-drinking, and go great with a wide range of foods, including barbecue. This particular wine from Guigal also is a sure bet. I’ve honestly never had a bad bottle from any vintage. That’s because this winemaking family knows to skillfully blend great wines every single year.

Banfi Chianti Classico ($17.99 at Table & Vine)

Region: Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy

Grape: Blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo Nero

Tasting notes: Chianti Classico can be a little confusing. It’s a wine region located in Italy’s iconic Tuscany region.

It’s a particular type of wine with specific grapes (must be 80% Sangiovese) and aging requirements (minimum 12 months before bottling). Fortunately, this isn’t a test. All you need to know is these wines have rich, powerful flavors and taste terrific with grilled meats and other barbecue.

Seghesio Sonoma County Zinfandel ($21.99 at Table & Vine)

Region: Sonoma County, California

Grape: Zinfandel

Tasting notes: I realize this wine’s a little bit more than $20 but no barbecue wine list would be complete without a California Zinfandel. And this particular gem from California’s Sonoma County hits all the right notes — slightly spicy with hints of cherry, plum and blackberry flavors. Along with Malbec, Zinfandels always taste fantastic with the earthy, hearty flavors often associated with burgers, steaks and other grilled meats.

More recommended wines

Everyday Wine (Wines under $15)

2024 Bread & Butter Pinot Grigio ($13.99 at Table & Vine): If you’ve had enough red wine, here’s a great alternative, especially on a hot, sweltering day. Nothing tastes better than an ice-cold glass of Pinot Grigio. And while Italy may be best known for this grape, this California take on a classic summer white wine grape has a crisp, refreshing finish with citrus-like flavors and aromas.

Weekend Wine (Wines under $40)

2024 Brancaia Chianti Classico DOCG ($28 Suggested Retail Price): Looking for another great Chianti Classico this summer? This organic wine from Brancaia winery has a fresh, lively finish with subtle hints of floral aromas and flavors. It’s lighter than some Chianti Classico wines but still hearty enough to hold its own with grilled meats, sausage and pizza.

Carillon concert

Trinity United Methodist Church has resumed its summer Carillon concert series this month. On July 9, the public is invited to set up blankets and chairs on the front lawn of the church, located on Sumner Avenue, and enjoy music played from the Carillon tower by Margaret Angelini, College Carillonneur at Wellesley College. Food trucks and festivities will begin on church grounds at 6 p.m., and the concert starts at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Above is Bruce Glenny, director of music ministries for Trinity United Methodist Church, inside of the church’s bell tower. For more information on the July concert series, go online to trinityspringfield.org/events/carillonconcerts/. (LEON NGUYEN PHOTO)

T HURSDAY

”Fannie (the Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer)”: Thu.-Sun., Chester Town Hall, $58. 15 Middlefield Road #16, Chester.

Jacob’s Pillow presents Acosia Red Elk: Thu., 5:30 p.m. Acosia Red Elk on the Henry J. Leir Stage. Choose what you pay, with rain or shine tickets starting at $48.50. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or www.jacobs pillow.org.

Jacob’s Pillow presents Akram Khan Company: Thu., 7:30 p.m.; Fri. and Sun., 2 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Akram Khan Company presents “Thikra: Night of Remembering” in the Ted Shawn Theatre. Tickets start at $71.50. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or www.jacobspillow.org.

LAVA Film Night: “Rising River’s Edge”: Thu., 7 p.m. LAVA Center, $1-$5 suggested donation. 324 Main St., Greenfield.

Mount Holyoke College Summer Theatre presents “Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express”: Thu.-Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Kendall Sports and Dance Complex, For more information or to reserve tickets, go online to mhcsummertheatre.ludus. com or email MHCSummerTheatre@MtHolyoke.edu. Tickets are

$15 general admission and $25 for a season pass. 50 College St., South Hadley, mtholyoke.edu. Song Share Sessions for NonBinary, Trans and Women Singer-Songwriters: Thu., 7 p.m. Mill River Music and Guitars, Join in for a supportive, queer-affirming monthly Song Share session dedicated to nonbinary, transgender, and women singer-songwriters and creatives. This is a low-pressure, generative community space designed to share works-in-progress, lyrics, poetry, or any creative musings that are currently inspiring you. No finished product required, and shop guitars are available on-site if you want to travel light. Voluntary donations ($1-$5) are appreciated to support the shop staff member staying late, but are not required for entry, Free. 135 King St., Northampton; 413-5050129 or www.millrivermusic. com.

FRIDAY

Amherst Business Improvement District Summer Concert Series: Fri, 5-8 p.m. Amherst Town Common, HWY 91 & Downtown Amherst Contra Dance. Free. Main Street, Amherst.

A DAY FOR THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY

The Hampden County Sheriff's Office and the YWCA of Western Massachusetts invite you to be part of a day that brings our community together to support survivors, raise awareness, and help prevent domestic violence. Whether you run, walk, sponsor, or cheer, your presence makes a difference.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4TH

Temple. An in-person workshop/ retreat for non-singers, beginning singers, or anyone who wants to become more confident and expressive with their voice. Limited to 12 participants, $275. 221 Pine St. Suite 320, Florence; hidden temple.org.

Jacob’s Pillow presents Akram Khan Company: See Thursday listing

Sevenars Music Festival Opening Concert: “America at 250,” Sun., 4 p.m. Sevenars Academy. Guest artists will include celebrated pianist/composer Clifton J. (“Jerry”) Noble, baritone John Henry Thomas, and violinist Alexis Walls, joining Sevenars family members Rorianne Schrade, Lynelle James, and Christopher James. $20 suggested donation at the door. Ireland Street at Route 112, Worthington. 413-238-5854 or www.sevenars.org.

Quadrangle

Akram Khan Dance

Bombyx Presents Etchings Festival: Fri.-Sat., 7 p.m. Look Park, Now in its 17th summer, the Etchings Festival showcases cutting edge contemporary music across a wide variety of genres. For tickets, visit Bombyx.live, $10-$25. 300 North Main St., Northampton. 413-584-5457 or lookpark.org.

”Fannie (the Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer)”: See Thursday listing

Jacob’s Pillow presents Akram Khan Company: See Thursday listing

Jacob’s Pillow presents Pua Ali’i ‘llima: Fri., 5:30 p.m. Pua Ali’i ‘llima on the Henry J. Leir Stage. Choose what you pay; Rain or Shine tickets starting at $48.50. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or www.jacobs pillow.org.

Making Masked Theatre — Workshops to Develop Performance in a Respirator: Fri., 6-8 p.m. LAVA Center, with Molly Brennan, 324 Main St., Greenfield.

Mt. Holyoke College Summer Theatre presents “Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express”: See Thursday listing

SATURDAY

Bombyx presents Etchings Festival: See Friday listing ”Fannie (the Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer)”: See Thursday listing

Akram Khan Dance Company will stage their production “Thikra: The Night of Remembering.” This is a special show as, according to the Jacob’s Pillow website, this is the final touring production by the Akram Khan Dance Company, which last performed at the Pillow more than 20 years ago. “Thikra: Night of Remembering” features an international cast of women, an original score, and scenography and costume design by award-winning artist Manal Al Dowayan. For more information, and to purchase tickets to a performance, go online to jacobspillow.org/whats-on/events/ akram-khan-company.

(CAMILLA GREENWELL PHOTO)

Jacob’s Pillow presents Akram Khan Company: See Thursday listing

Jacob’s Pillow presents BAAD! Bronx Academy of Arts: Sat., 5:30 p.m. Jacob’s Pillow Dance, BAAD! Bronx Academy of Arts Dance Artists on the Henry J. Leir Stage, Choose what you pay; rain or shine tickets starting at $48.50. 358 George Carter Road, Becket. 413-243-0745 or www. jacobspillow.org

Jacob’s Pillow presents Akram Khan Company: See Thursday listing

Mount Holyoke College Summer Theatre presents “Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express”: See Thursday listing Walking Tour — Basketball, Volleyball and the Physical in Spirit, Mind, and Body: Sat., 10:30 a.m.noon, Springfield College. Join local historians and neighborhood experts for enlightening strolls through the downtown area. Explore the campus of Springfield College with Springfield College archivist and library director who will show you its unique history in sport and wellness as reflected in the buildings and grounds of this 130-year-old campus. The

tour will begin at Springfield College’s Judd Stitzer Welcome Center. To register, visit www. springfieldmuseums.org. Cost is $10 general admission and $5 museum members. 263 Alden St., Springfield.

SUNDAY

Bombyx Etchings Festival: Sun., 3 p.m. Bombyx Center for Arts & Equity, $10 - $20. 130 Pine St., Florence.

CitySpace presents “The Van Gogh Shogh”: Sun, 7 p.m. Blue Room at CitySpace, CitySpace welcomes “The Van Gogh Shogh,” an internationally acclaimed solo clown show by Donna Oblongata, with an opening performance by Dame Judi Dentures and Friends.

Tickets, on a sliding scale from $15 to $25, are available online at CitySpaceEasthampton.org. 43 Main St., Easthampton.

”Fannie (the Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer)”: See Thursday listing

From Fear to Joy — Discover (or Re-Discover) Your Inner Singer!: Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Hidden

Wed. of every month through the end of 2026, admission is free for all visitors. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Galleries

A.P.E. Gallery: Permanent exhibit. Hours: Tues.-Thurs. noon-5 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. noon-8 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m.; “There Goes the Neighborhood/His Room As He Left It” exhibit, through Aug. 2, with an opening reception on Friday, July 10 from 5-8 p.m. (Arts Night Out). Works by Judith Klausner and Ariel Kotker. Free. 126 Main St., Northampton or www.apearts. org.

Barnes Gallery of Leverett Crafts and Arts: “LCA Artists Group Show,” through August. Gallery hours: Sat.-Sun. 1-5 p.m. Reception on July 12, 3-5 p.m. Free. 13 Montague Road, Leverett, 413548-9070.

Springfield Science Museum: permanent exhibits include dinosaurs, African wildlife, interactive STEM labs, Earth’s ecosystems, and immersive planetarium shows. Current special exhibition: “Game On!,” through Sept. 13.

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: Permanent exhibitions include American and European prints, paintings, drawings, and sculpture. Current special exhibition: “Book of Wonder, Cover to Cover: A Hands-on Journey with Donna Castellanos,” through Sept 6.

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: Permanent exhibits include vintage automobiles, Indian motorcycles, historic firearms, Hasbro GameLand, and other industrial and cultural artifacts. Current special exhibition: “Declaration of Innovation: Springfield’s Revolutionary Ideas,” through Sept 27.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent exhibits include immersive, hands-on stations that explore the author’s whimsical characters and stories and childhood influences; and displays of his original studio, art, and family memorabilia.

Programs: Summer at the Museums, featuring hands-on art and science, live performances, guest appearance, and more. Presented free with museum admission, July 6-August 14.

Quadrangle admission: Visit springfieldmuseums.org for more information. Admission (includes all 5 museums) — $27.50 for adults, $18 for seniors and college students, $15 for ages 5-17, free to children under 5, museum members, and Springfield residents. On the first

Center for the Arts Trust Building: “Slow Processing” by Anna Parisi, through Aug. 1. Arts Night Out/opening reception on July 10, 5-8 p.m. Curated by Adrienne Albro-Fisher & Sophie Gill, in the Split Level Gallery. 33 Hawley St., Northampton

Gallery A3 Amherst Art Alliance: “Patterns of the Forest” by Rachel Loeffler, through Aug. 1. Art forum on Zoom Thu., July 16, 7:30 pm. Gallery hours: Thu.-Sun, 2-7 p.m. 28 Amity St., Amherst, 413-2564250.

Hope and Feathers Framing and Gallery: “Into the Mystic” by Elisa Lanzi, through July 31. Gallery hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 238 Bridge St., Northampton or www.hopeand feathersframing.com.

Indian Orchard Mills Dane Gallery: All new exhibits every month featuring the artists at Indian Orchard Mills. Hours: Sat. noon-4 p.m. or by appointment. 34 Front St., Indian Orchard, 413543-3321.

LAVA Center: The PeaceBirds Exhibit with “We, The Poets, Grant You Refuge.” Through July 31. Free, 324 Main St., Greenfield Old Town Hall: “Not Suitable for Washington.” Through July 25. Artists reception on July 11, 4 - 7 p.m. Free. 43 Main St., Easthampton. 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 to pmastriano@repub.com or submitted online to www.masslive.com/myevent

‘Aladdin’

looking for a Spanish version, Disney was intrigued by the notion and wrote a revamped plot that created dramatic necessity for a bilingual script, which centers on communication and uniting different cultures.

As the story goes, now with an added twist to accommodate the dual language version, the royalty of Agrabah centuries ago spoke one language and its citizens another — adding an adult layer of complexity as communities struggle to understand each other and, as the Genie says, “really listen to each other.”

In the updated script, it is the evil Jafar who uses one of his wishes after obtaining a magical oil lamp to divide the Kingdom of Agrabah by language. When the rebellious princess Jazmin and a delinquent street rat named Aladdin meet in the marketplace, they find something special in one another, and work to transcend the barriers between them. With the help of a little magic, they work to create a better future.

“The dual language edition is about much more than a magic lamp. It’s about bringing peo -

ple together through storytelling,” Nespor said.

She noted English and Spanish-speaking audiences will know exactly what is happening through what is being acted out on stage and supertitles on 52Sumners’ three big screens.

The updated production features a dual-lead cast which brings additional local talent to the stage, filled with colorful

“The

dual language edition is about much more than a magic lamp. It’s about bringing people together through storytelling.”

Vana

Nespor, director, Springfield Community Theater of MA

“Most of the cast did not speak any Spanish but are embracing it and are learning the language for the play from those who do. This experience shows how powerfully the arts strengthen relationships between cast and communities,” Nespor said.

Parris Nichols, 32, of Springfield, is playing Jafar, one of the antagonists in the play and a character who speaks Spanish. He is joined in the play by his 10-year-old daughter Arianna Nichols, who portrays Iago, the parrot, who speaks both English and Spanish and is another of the play’s antagonists. Both are learning Spanish for the first time as they rehearse for the play.

“It’s really not that difficult, but the time-crunch to get it done in a short time is what’s difficult,” Parris said.

Arianna agrees.

“It’s easy once you get the accent down, but there isn’t a lot of time to learn the language,” she said.

Both father and daughter are gleefully taking on their roles as villains.

“I played Scar, the envious brother of Mufasa, from ‘The Lion King’ with a theater group in Hartford. I’m partial to villains and had Jafar on my bucket list of Disney characters to portray. In general, I believe I’m a nice guy and it is fun to be able to be cast otherwise,” Parris said.

Arianna had her own thoughts on Iago.

“He is a sarcastic, mean bird and I like him,” she said.

Parris noted it is special to be acting alongside his daughter.

were upset because Ariel in the animated version was white.

Representation matters and plays like ours give younger kids the opportunity to see a Black person playing Jafar or a Puerto Rican playing Jazmin, and recognize that no matter their race, they can step into those roles, too,” he said.

Both father and daughter appear in all performances.

Playing princess Jazmin, who speaks Spanish in the play, presents no challenges for Yesenia Santiago, other than learning her lines.

“I was raised in a household where I learned to speak Spanish first then English, so I am fluent in both,” Santiago, 37, said.

No stranger to the world of theater, Santiago is returning to the stage after a nearly 10year absence.

The first Latino to graduate from American International College’s Theater Program, Santiago has performed in productions at Springfield Technical Community College, AIC, and the Majestic Theater. In 2016, she also signed a contract to star in the off-Broadway Spanglish musical “I Like It Like That.”

“I had to put a pause to that life after becoming pregnant. Now, years later, I thought it was time to get back out there and do what I love,” Santiago said.

She noted a lot of people “don’t risk themselves learning to speak a new language.”

costumes, and magical set pieces — including a 12-foot Magic Lamp and 16-foot Cave of Wonders that audiences can walk through.

The play also features original music by Alan Menken, who has scored many Disney projects, with lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. Spanish lyrics are by Walterio Pezqueira.

“I see Arianna finding herself and coming out of her shell in her role of Iago. I’m not surprise by how well she is doing,” he said.

Parris noted that as an African American, he “loves the diversity” the dual language version offers.

“When Disney cast a Black actress in the live-action ‘The Little Mermaid,’ some people

“That’s not the case with our cast. They’re learning to speak a new language in a matter of 2-3 months. That is amazing to me, the fact that everyone is adapting to something unfamiliar to them,” Santiago said.

She will be portraying princess Jazmin during the evening performances at 52 Sumner. Showtimes are Friday at 6:30 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 and 6:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are available online at 52sumner.com.

‘you really should find people that are closer to you.’”

One of those people was the band’s guitarist Kevin Maul, who had sat in with Girl Howdy a few times, so Bradley reached out to him. Maul then suggested a few other players and the current version of the band was born (although Bradley noted that sometimes other players sub in when necessary).

While various country-style bands have been blossoming in Western Massachusetts for years now, the fact that Bradley’s band plays honky-tonk sets them apart. How did they settle into that style?

“Well, part of it is that I play the piano. And piano isn’t very common in a lot of country music styles, right? And so, as a pianist, I was drawn to stuff where I heard piano. And first and foremost, that was honky-tonk and that’s what I played with Girl Howdy. And that’s largely early ’50s country music, with the whole shuffle sound and the Ray Price sound, which was very piano-heavy, and so I loved it,” Bradley said.

But Bradley was also listening to a lot of hillbilly swing and Western swing, and because the band likes to play for dancers, they also started to lean into the swing part of their repertoire.

“Not swing in the sense of classic swing, like Glenn Miller, but hillbilly swing and hillbilly boogie, so we could play for swing dances,” Bradley said. “But I came out of honky-tonk. Kevin came out of honky-tonk. So, we both loved the same music. I mean that’s what brought us together.”

Although piano is her main instrument, Bradley also plays guitar and banjo. In fact, early on in her music career, she wasn’t even going to play piano in the band.

“Very early on at the genesis of Girl Howdy, we had a rehearsal at my house where I have a piano, and I started just noodling around.

And somebody asked why I wasn’t playing piano in this band, and I said, ‘I don’t play this kind of music on the piano.’ I was a classically trained pianist.”

But Bradley shifted gears and decided to put her keyboard skills to use, even though learning to play boogie, blues and honky-tonk took a lot of practice.

“I spent a lot of time woodshedding, listening to old recordings and it was the challenge for me to make the leap from printed music to improvising. Luckily by the time Twangbusters came around, I knew what I was doing,” she said with a laugh.

“You know that if people are moving their feet or their bodies in some way, then we’re happy.”

Paula Bradley

Bradley said her vocal influences are varied, but because she is an alto, she often gets compared to Patsy Cline.

“Clearly, I’m not Patsy Cline. But I get it and, of course, there’s a lot of her music that we do because it suits my range,” she said.

Bradley also named artists like Bonnie Raitt and trailblazing honky-tonk singer Jean Shepard as influences and added one less wellknown vocalist.

“And then there’s a sort of a rockabilly woman, Charlene Arthur, who’s also more of an alto. I really liked her. She had a short-lived career, but made some really terrific records,” Bradley said.

Although she only lives an hour down the turnpike, Bradley is looking forward to playing in Florence.

“I have some pals who I’m looking forward to seeing and I just love seeing people dance around and have a good time,” she said. “You know that if people are moving their feet or their bodies in some way, then we’re happy.”