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98 years & counting, this fair remains rooted in tradition
ALSO INSIDE: ‘Wicked’ star Cynthia Erivo to share stage with Boston Pops at Tanglewood. Page D5
WESTFIELD FAIR
WESTFIELD FAIR A fair
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rooted in tradition returns for its 98th run
Above, clockwise from top left, are photos and scenes from the Westfield Fair’s 98year history. The Westfield Fair returns Friday through Sunday, Aug. 21 to 23. (THE REPUBLICAN, FILE PHOTOS)
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By Keith O’Connor
Hopson, a former vocational agriculture teacher in Connectiavid Hopson will spend a good part of his cut who served as superintendent for the Gateway Regional day on Friday in the Exhibit Hall at the 98th School District, will be one of many judges of this year’s ExhibWestfield Fair before the gates open at 5 it Hall. p.m. “I’ll be judging the labors of The tradition of exhibit halls at country many people in the areas of canning, fruit and vegetable disfairs dates back to the early 19th century as a space plays and flowers based on their to house judged entries, from baked goods to flower marketability and other factors. For example, are the tomatoes arrangements and from photography to crafts of all with no blemishes and are kinds, sewing and needlework and artwork of all dif- ripe the onions dry?” he told The ferent mediums. Republican.
Special to The Republican
While still popular all these years later, the number of Exhibit Hall entries tend to fall short of what they once were. “I wish the number of entries were like they were some 40 to 50 years ago. I guess people are not growing or they just don’t have time to exhibit,” said Hopson, who also operates Laurel Hill Farm in Blandford. Sheila Phelon, president of the Westfield Fair Association, said there are “plenty of fair books around town” to learn about the SEE WESTFIELD, PAGE D3
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Founded in 1927 under the name of the Young People’s Agricultural Association, the Westfield Fair remains true to its roots with a junior dairy show, adult dairy show, adult sheep show, junior sheep show, junior beef show and adult beef show.
Westfield CONTINUES FROM PAGE D2
fair and its many exhibit categories. “There is a class for everyone and for anything. If you want to enter, we will find a class for you,” she said. In addition to the Exhibit Hall, the three-day event features family fun, including agricultural and livestock exhibits, a Midway with rides for all ages, fun games of chance, motorized competitions, live entertainment, music, food, kids’ activities, including a petting zoo, and much more. Gone from this year’s lineup is the rodeo to make room for the Woodbooger Demolition Derby, which is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. “We haven’t had a demolition derby in five years. We found a new company, the Woodbooger Demolition folks, so we are bringing it back by popular demand from our fairgoers as well as officers from our Westfield Fair Association,” Phelon said. Three additional fair favorites for several years continue this season — the car show “Cruisin’ with Bruce Marshall” will be held on Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by “Teeter Totter” at 3 p.m., where contestants drive their
Family members from Pine Hill Farm, of Southampton, gather for a photo at a past year’s Westfield Fair. (DANNY NASON / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)
and cheese and pulled pork, Poppies with their popular French fries, and Northside Creamery scooping out ice cream. While walking from one end of the fair to the other, hungry fairgoers will also find classic fair treats, from cotton candy to fried dough. And to wash it all down there will be beverages of all kinds, from sodas to milkshakes, as well as a beer garden hosted by Tin Bridge Brewing Company, which will be open daily for those 21 years and older. Live music will keep the fair rocking with Atlantic Railroad Company at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, followed on Saturday by The Storytellers at 10 a.m., Pitoniak Brothers Band at 1:30 p.m. and Stompin’ Boots Line Dancing at 4 pm. The music ends on Sunday with Jim Blanch and Boot Hill Band at noon. And there is still more to experience at the Westfield Fair, including Bubba’s Reptile Experience, Play Nice Power Park, Magical Moments Balloon Sculptures, and the Kids
Now thru September 3 1477 Main Street
Jared Small, of Huntington, attaches the grand prize championship ribbon to his dairy cow during a competition at a past year's Westfield Fair. (FREDERICK GORE FILE PHOTO)
vehicles onto a board balancing on an iron barrel and try to hold it there at the top for five seconds. NELMRA Lawn Mower Racing also makes a return from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Founded in 1927 under the name of the Young People’s Agricultural Association, the Westfield Fair remains true to its roots with a junior dairy show, adult dairy show, adult sheep show, junior sheep show, junior beef show and adult beef show. Additional agricultural activities include
Power Wheel Race. And, if your child is in need of a shiny new bicycle, before the fair ends for the day on Saturday and Sunday, two lucky children each will go home with a new two-wheeler as part of the annual Kids Bicycle Raffle. More information on the free raffle is available at the information booth in the Exhibit Hall. Fair hours are Friday from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the annual closing auction at 6 p.m. “The auction involves whatever is left in the Exhibit Hall from contestants who don’t pick up their entries from squash to green tomatoes to cakes, cookies, brownies and more, like even bales of hay,” Phelon told The Republican. General admission to the fair is $15, with senior tickets priced at $12. Children under 12 are free with paid adult admission. Parking is free. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit thewestfieldfair.com.
truck pulls, ox draw, antique tractor pulls, tractor pulls for kids, hay bale toss and a horse draw. There is also a Barn Museum filled with memories of bygone farming days. It is well-known from surveys that one of the first things fairgoers ask after passing through the gates is “What’s to eat?” and the Westfield Fair has a loaded answer. Returning favorites include Butcher Block with their rib-sticking beef brisket, mac 3224386-01
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John Craigie to play Arcadia NIGHTCLUBS & OUTINGS Folk Festival in Easthampton THURSDAY
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ohn Craigie braids humor so seamlessly into his songs and concerts that it’s been suggested that even without the music, he could have succeeded as a standup comic.
But Craigie isn’t a jokey or parody songwriter like “Weird Al” Yankovic or Adam Sandler. Think more of clever and witty artists like John Prine or London Wainwright III, and you’ll be closer to what Craigie does. Craigie will bring his arsenal of songs — some funny, some dead serious —to the Arcadia Folk Festival on Aug. 29. The festival, which will also feature John Craigie will play the Arcadia Folk Festival at the Arcadia Allison Russell and The Milk Wildlife Sanctuary in Easthampton on Aug. 29. (CARLY MONTGOMERY PHOTO) Carton Kids, among others, serves to celebrate and benefit lighthearted aspects. the work of Mass Audubon. “There’s a way to be sad and It will be held at the Arcadia funny in the same song. It’s Wildlife Sanctuary, 127 Combs very difficult, but, you know, Road in Easthampton from that’s like the ultimate,” he 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. said. “And I also like songs Although Craigie said he was that aren’t necessarily too timid to become a standfunny, but are kind of sassy, up comedian, he actually did you know? Like ‘Subterraconsider it briefly early on. nean Homesick Blues.’ You “I think I would have wanted George Lenker wouldn’t call that a funny to do that, but again, I was LIVE WIRE song, but there’s a lot of that pretty shy overall,” he told The electric Dylan side that has Republican in a recent interthat sort of a bite to it that I view. “But I was a big fan of to get the confidence, figure really like.” comedy and a comic nerd, and it all out and also to develop A big part of Craigie’s show I think you can see that now in good stories.” are the stories he weaves my show.” Craigie’s early influences, about songs, which he takes And while his initial pursuit which still inform him today, very seriously. of music was serious, a local were more of the serious “I think about it a lot. I want radio station, KPIG, would standard luminaries of the folk it to be really good. And, you play artists who blended huscene. know, I think there’s some mor into their songs. “I think when I was getting improvisation, but you have “And there were people started, it was more of the your stories and for me, it’s who were like joke musicians, basic Simon and Garfunkel, right? And I didn’t want to be Joni Mitchell, you know, more kind of like, ‘I can’t just repeat myself in a town, so I’m that. And I don’t think I even mainstream artists,” he said. aware of what I’ve said the really had the bravery to do “But then John Prine, Greg that,” he said. “But then I have Brown, Todd Snider and Loud- last time I was there,” he explained. “And then also maya distinct memory of seeing on Wainwright.” Arlo Guthrie around age 19 or And although many of Crai- be to have something that’s 20 and being very blown away gie’s songs are serious, he also relevant. It also just helps be present in the moment with by the fact that he could do loves writing songs that both that. It still took me some time blend sober topics with wit or the crowd.”
Theodores': Madison Humel. 201 Worthington St., Springfield Uno Chicago Grill: Country music. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield
White Lion Pridelands: Live music by local DJ and cold beer on tap. Tower Square Park, downtown Springfield. Lawn Party @ The Landing: Whiskey Traveler, Americana/ country music. The Landing at the MassMutual Center, downtown Springfield.
FRIDAY Delaney House: Made Men. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke MGM Springfield: MGM Free Music Friday: Below Deck. 1 MGM Way, Springfield Theodores': Matt Swanton Band. 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
SATURDAY Delaney House: Art & Jeff Lynch. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke MGM Springfield: MGM Roar Comedy Club: Anthony Robustiano. 1 MGM Way, Springfield Theodores': Wildcat O'Halloren.
201 Worthington St., Springfield Uno Chicago Grill: Modern, contemporary rock. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield
SUNDAY Delaney House: Trivia with Bobby Roast Beef. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke Uno Chicago Grill: Jazz. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield
MONDAY Uno Chicago Grill: 50% off individual deep dish pizza (dine in only). 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield
TUESDAY Uno Chicago Grill: Blues music. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield
WEDNESDAY Pulaski Park Northampton: Party in the Park: Malik Abdul-Rahmaan. 240 Main St., Northampton Theodores': Acoustic Wednesdays with Tom Whalen. 201 Worthington St., Springfield Uno Chicago Grill: Light rock. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield Items should be mailed to: Entertainment Guide, The Republican, P.O. Box 1329, Springfield, MA 011021329, emailed to pmastriano@repub. com or submitted to www.masslive. com/myevent
NOW ON VIEW!
ART • HISTORY • SCIENCE • SEUSS IN SPRINGFIELD
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‘Wicked’ star to play Tanglewood Cynthia Erivo will perform with the Boston Pops on Friday
Above: Cynthia Erivo, left, and Ariana Grande in a scene from the film "Wicked." At left: Erivo performs “Defying Gravity” during the Oscars on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (GILES KEYTE / UNIVERSAL PICTURES VIA AP; CHRIS PIZZELLO/ ASSOCIATED PRESS)
“I’m a purist for melody. If the melody’s good, just sing the melody.” Cynthia Erivo, in an interview with Entertainment Weekly
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By Ken Ross
Special to The Republican
A LIMITED TIME ONLY EXHIBIT
STEPHEN CURRY
ynthia Erivo can do it all. She’s best known for playing Elphaba, the green-skinned Wicked Witch of the West in “Wicked,” the two-part movie musical that made over $1 billion at the box office. Erivo’s voice throughout both “Wicked” movies. This week, fans of Erivo can hear her sing when she performs for the first time at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Erivo will perform an evening-length concert at Tanglewood with the Boston Pops on Aug. 21. Erivo didn’t set out to be a world-famous performer. Born and raised in South London, she initially went to the University of East London in 2004 to earn a degree in music psychology. But after studying for a year there, she was encouraged to apply to the prestigious Royal
SEE ERIVO, PAGE D12
BEYOND THE ARC The first active NBA superstar to ever have a feature exhibit in the Hall of Fame. See exclusive artifacts from his personal collection not available anywhere else!
EXCLUSIVELY AT THE HALL PLAN YOUR VISIT AT HOOPHALL.COM 3224463-01
But that’s only scratching at the surface of some of the things the 39-year-old, multiaward-winning British actor and singer has done throughout her career. She played a getaway driver in the 2018 heist thriller “Widows.” She portrayed abolitionist Harriet Tubman in the 2019 movie, “Harriet.” And last year, on stage in London, she brought to life 23 characters in a one-woman adaptation of “Dracula.” But that’s just her acting highlights. Erivo also has a thriving career as an accomplished singer, something that will come as no surprise to the millions of fans who heard
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UNCASVILLE, CONN.
This festival is dill-icious!
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WHAT TO STREAM
By Keith O’Connor
Special to The Republican
f you’re in a pickle this weekend and don’t know what to do, there is a dillicious answer to your quandary. The Connecticut Pickle Festival will return to Mohegan Sun’s Earth Expo & Convention Center and spills outdoors to the winter parking lot this weekend for what officials are describing as “an even bigger, brinier and more dill-icious celebration.” Hours are Friday from noon to 9 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. “We started the Pickle Festival in 2024 at the Berlin Fairgrounds in Connecticut, not knowing what to really expect. The response from vendors who wanted to participate to pickle lovers who attended was so great that we had to move our event to Mohegan Sun last year,” organizer Nicole Soulier of CT Events Company told The Republican. Attendees can explore more than 200 vendors and food trucks, enjoy unlimited pickle samplings from throughout the Pickle Patch, and indulge in a creative line-
up of pickle-inspired foods and beverages. “Every food truck must have at least one pickle-inspired menu item,” Soulier said. Festivalgoers can “pickle” their taste buds with pickle-inspired foods such as pickle fried dough, fried pickles, pickle pizza, pickle shaved ice, pickle fries, pickle ice cream, pickle quesadillas, pickle kettle corn, pickle pretzels, and other sweet and sour treats. For guests 21 and older, the festival will feature custom pickle cocktails, pickle martinis, pickle shots and pickle-infused liquor, and even pickle beer from Connecticut SEE PICKLE, PAGE D11
Festivalgoers can “pickle” their taste buds with pickle-inspired foods such as pickle fried dough, fried pickles, pickle pizza, pickle shaved ice, pickle fries, pickle ice cream, pickle quesadillas, pickle kettle corn, pickle pretzels, and other sweet and sour treats.
“Outer Banks” stars Jonathan Daviss, Madelyn Cline, Drew Starkey, Chase Stokes, Madison Bailey and Carlacia Grant. The show begins its fifth and final season on Netflix this week.
Anthony The final season of “Outer Banks” a new album from Anthony Hopkins’ classical and Hopkins (yes, Sir Anthony Hopkins) some of the new television, films, album and Anne are music and games headed to a device Hathaway’s 1st near you. Also among the streaming offerings 2026 movie The Associated Press
SEE STREAM, PAGE D7
TUESDAY
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Lights, camera, action! l a v i t s e F m l i F LAVA seeks local filmmakers Stream CONTINUES FROM PAGE D6
worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Weezer’s 20th album, the survival horror game “The Sinking City 2” and “Mother Mary,” which kicked off Anne Hathaway’s incredibly prolific year in theaters. New movies to stream • Anne Hathaway’s epic year at the movies (which is still going at full throttle with “The End of Oak Street” and the upcoming “Verity”) didn’t start with “The Devil Wears Prada 2” or “The Odyssey,” but with “Mother Mary,” David Lowery’s experimental film about a pop star (Hathaway) and her estranged designer (Michaela Coel). In his review for the AP, Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a fitfully spellbinding chamber drama that grows more operatic with every stitch,” adding that “Hathaway makes not just a believable pop star but an indelible portrait of an artist’s ego in extremes.” But, Coyle wrote, “the movie belongs to Coel … ‘Mother Mary’ is the story of an exorcism, and she’s the exorcist.” It debuts on HBO Max on Friday. • Coel also stars in one of the year’s best two-handers, “The Christophers,” which arrives on Hulu on Saturday. Written by Ed Solomon and directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film is a kind of heist movie in disguise, in which a
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he LAVA Center is accepting submissions from Massachusetts filmmakers for the sixth annual LAVA Film Festival, a showcase of Massachusetts filmmaking talent, from students to professionals and everyone in between. This year’s festival will take place from Nov. 12–14 at The LAVA Center, 324 Main St. in Greenfield.
All Massachusetts filmmakers are invited to submit their work by Friday, Sept. 11. There is a $10 fee for submitting, though that fee is waived for youth under 18 years old and Pioneer Valley residents. Films must be made by current residents of Massachusetts and can be of any length, any subject and shot in any style. Films must be creative projects in their own right, as opposed to live events or performances filmed for documentation purposes. For more information and to submit your work to the festival, go online to https://film freeway.com/LAVAFilmFestival
$10 million and a car to the Russian mob. Joe can’t catch a break in the new season either. Now in Cape Town, Joe once again finds himself over his head. • “Outer Banks” kicks off its fifth and final season today on Netflix. The show follows a group of friends from working-class families in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They call themselves “Pogues,” This combination of album cover images show, from left, "Life Is A Dream" by Anthony Hopkins, a nod to the pogy, a small baitfish at the bottom of the "Hazel Eyes" by Sam Smith and a self-titled release by Weezer. (DECCA RECORDS / CAPITOL RECORDS / WARfood chain with strong survival NER RECORDS VIA AP) instincts. We begin the season Anthony Hopkins will release out, featuring the idiosyncratic with the Pogues grieving the pair of wannabe heirs (James his debut album, “Life Is a Corden and Jessica Gunning) vocals of Karly Hartzman, lead death of one of their own. hire a restoration specialist singer of the indie rock group They set out on both a treasure Dream,” Friday via Decca Records. Conducted by Gustavo and sometimes forger (Coel) hunt and a quest for revenge. Wednesday. Dudamel, performed by the — AP Writer Alicia Rancilio to covertly finish a series of • Also on Friday: English paintings by their famous singer-songwriter Sam Smith Philharmonia Orchestra and New video game to play father Julian Sklar (Ian McKwill release their fifth album, recorded at London’s Alexandra Palace in April, the album is “Hazel Eyes.” It’s a follow-up ellen). In my review, I wrote • It has taken longer than a 12-track collection of classical to 2023’s “Gloria” — which expected for “The Sinking City that it was “a meditation on 2” to make it out of developcompositions crafted over art, legacy, creativity and the features the sexy and sacrileoh-so-touchy subject of who gious “Unholy” collaboration ment. Then again, it comes six decades. “My first love, or from Ukraine’s Frogwares has the right to critique,” with vocation really, is music,” the with Kim Petras, the track 88-year-old actor told the AP studio, and it isn’t easy to get a sharp performances from all. that gave Smith their most • And finally, it’s a Zahn earlier this month. The gener- recent Grammy win. This time game out the door with a war family affair in “She Dances,” ational talent picked up piano around, Smith offers warm going on. The new survival at 4 and wrote his first piece, a love songs. It’s a welcome starring Steve Zahn and his horror game is based on H.P. waltz, in 1960. He was 22 at the change of pace from their pre- Lovecraft’s fiction, so be predaughter Audrey as a father and daughter reconnecting pared to fight plenty of scaly, time. “Life Is a Dream” reflects vious heartbreak material. his life and childhood in Wales after tragedy on the way to a — AP Music Writer Maria squishy, many-tentacled mon— possessing what he describes Sherman sters as you explore a flooded dance competition. It’s also a Massachusetts town in the “Reality Bites” reunion with as a “melancholy and sadness,” New series to stream Ethan Hawke. Directed by 1920s. Frogwares found a cult but ultimately, beauty. • Power pop-punk band • The first two episodes of audience with 2019’s “The Rick Gomez, the film received Weezer will release their land- Season 2 of “Average Joe” drop Sinking City” after building a warm reviews out of the Trithis week on Paramount+. reputation for more cerebral beca Film Festival and is set to mark 20th album on Friday. It’s self-titled, but no doubt The action-comedy stars challenges with its Sherlock debut on Peacock on Friday. fans will refer to it as “the Gold Deon Cole as a plumber in Holmes games. If you like — AP Film Writer Lindsey Album,” continuing in their Pittsburgh whose life becomes your horror cosmic, the portal Bahr tradition of color-identified re- complicated — and dangeris now open on PlayStation 5, New music to stream cords. The single “We Might as ous — when he learns that his Xbox X/S and PC. — Lou Kesten • Academy Award winner Well Be Strangers” is a stand- dad, who recently died, owes
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Rose wines from around the world
ON’T BELIEVE EVerything wine lovers tell you, especially when it comes to which wines they like. That’s definitely the case when it comes to one type of wine in particular — rose wine. On the one hand, some people (usually guys) dismiss rose wines as inferior or frivolous. The common brush-off they use is to call rose wine “pool wine,” implying that it’s just something you drink while you’re lounging around a swimming pool. On the other hand, rose wine sales have skyrocketed in the past decade. While wine sales in general have slowed or slumped in the past 10 years, rose wines have shot through the roof. Just how popular are rose wines? Sales have soared a The rose wines featured in this week’s Wine Press column. (KEN ROSS PHOTO) staggering 1,433% in the • 607 million gallons of popular rose winemaking past decade in the United regions include California rose wine is produced each States. (Napa Valley), Italy (Tuscany year; The numbers don’t lie. • One third of rose wine & Veneto), Portugal (Douro People are clearly buying rose Valley), and Spain (Rioja & wines — and for good reason. worldwide comes from Navarra). France. I have been banging the drum for years about the How is rose wine made? Rose wine tasting notes beauty and complexity of Rose wine is made the same 2024 11 Minutes Pasqua rose wines. I first learned Odi Et Amo ($20 Suggested about them in depth during a way as red wine. The only Retail Price) weeklong wine tasting trip to different is how long the grape Ken Ross skins are in contact with the Region: Veneto, Italy France’s Provence region for Wine Press Grapes: Syrah, Carmenere, this column. Every day, I was pressed grape juice during the Corvina and Trebbiano blown away by the complexity maceration process. Just how popular Tasting notes: Light, lively When making red wine, the and variety of rose wines from grape skins and grape juice Italian rose wine with delicate Provence. are rose wines? are normally in contact with hints of strawberry, sea salt Since then, I have discovSales have soared each other for one to three peach aromas and flavors. ered many other great rose a staggering 1,433 weeks in large vats during wines from multiple wine maceration. 2025 Cantina Zaccagnini regions. percent in the When making rose wine, the Brut Rose ($18 SRP) So, while we’re still in the past decade in the maceration process lasts just Region: Abruzzo, Italy heart of summer, I thought United States. 12 to 48 hours, giving the rose Grapes: Montepulciano this would be a perfect time and Sangiovese to shine a light on some great wines a lighter, pink color. Tasting notes: Bright, Worldwide, other grapes ofrose wines from around the ten used to make rose wine in- vibrant, intense, crisp flavors world. Recently, I tasted sev- Popular rose wine grapes Since rose wine is made like clude Pinot Noir, Sangiovese and aromas, including hints eral great ones from different of strawberry, raspberry and wine-making regions — from red wine, any red wine grape and Tempranillo. rose petals. France to California, Oregon can be used to make rose Popular rose wine regions wine. and beyond. In Provence, rose wines Provence remains the king 2025 Maddalena Rose Below, you can find my tastof rose wines. Roughly 40% ($17 SRP) ing notes for these wines and must be made with a blend of French rose wine comes Region: Paso Robles, Caliof at least two grapes. Grenlearn more about rose wines from Provence. Other popular fornia ache is usually one of those in general. grapes. The other four grapes rose wine regions in France Grapes: Grenache, Syrah Hope you enjoy. and Graciano often blended in Provence to include the Loire Valley, Rose wine by the numbers make rose wine is Cinsault, Tasting notes: Wonderful, Languedoc, Rhone and Champagne. bright, crisp California rose • 10% of wine worldwide is Mourvedre, Syrah or TibouAs for the rest of the world, with a wide range of flavors ren. rose wine;
and aromas, including subtle hints of strawberry, melon and peach. 2024 Priest Ranch Rose ($28 SRP) Region: Napa Valley, California Grapes: Syrah Tasting notes: Full-bodied, intense California rose wine filled with flinty flavors and aromas, including strawberry, pear, peach and watermelon. 2025 McCollum Family Vineyards Rose ($33 SRP) Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon Grapes: Pinot Noir Tasting notes: Light, delicate, understated flavors abound in this Oregon rose wine, including dashes of peach, strawberry and sea salt. 2025 Chateau Gigognan Cotes Du Rhone Rose ($17 SRP) Region: Cotes Du Rhone, France Grapes: Grenache and Cinsault Tasting notes: Bright, lively, rose wine from France’s Rhone region has delicate, mineral-like quality, including hints of sea salt, strawberry and cherry. 2025 O De Rose ($20 SRP) Region: Languedoc, France Grapes: Grenache, Syrah and Viognier Tasting notes: Soft, subtle flavors take center stage in this French rose wine, including delicate hints of sea salt, peach and strawberry. 2025 Miraval Rose ($20 SRP) Region: Provence, France Grapes: Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Rolle Tasting notes: Perhaps the most famous rose wine in the world, this gem from France’s Provence region abounds with subtle, understated flavors, including hints of citrus, strawberry and sea salt with a mineral-like finish. Cheers! Wine Press by Ken Ross appears on Masslive.com and in The Republican’s Weekend section.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026 | D9
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THE HAMPDEN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE PRESENTS
A DAY FOR THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY Turners Falls resident Wes Brown and the Wes Brown Quartet will celebrate 50 years of composition with a free concert tonight at Peskeompskut Park. Joining Brown are three luminary performers: renowned percussionist Royal Hartigan, Nigerian pan-African saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist Temidayo Balogun, and prolific contemporary composer and pianist Dr. Matan Rubinstein. (SUBMITTED PHOTO) a.m.-1 p.m. Holyoke Rows, Rain date Aug. 23. All are invited to this Karaoke Night: Thu., 5:30-7:30 family-friendly event. Come for p.m. United Congregational Church the boat races, stay for the cotton of Holyoke. All ages and abilities candy and face painting. Free. 25 are welcome. Free. 300 Appleton Jones Ferry Road, Holyoke. St., Holyoke, 413-532-1483 or Greenfield Savings Bank www.uccholyoke.org. presents Kids’ Day: Children can
THURSDAY
Wes Brown Quartet - 50 Years of Composition: Thu., 7 p.m. Peskeompskut Park, sponsored by the Montague Cultural Council and RiverCulture, Free. Avenue A and 7th Street, Turners Falls.
FRIDAY Pioneer Valley Art Festival: Fri, 2-8 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Agawam Polish American Club, Free admission for everyone. Food and drink available, including adult beverages. On Sat. Aug. 22, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., stop first at the Roaming Railroad, where the kids (and adults) can ride the train for free with Conductor Dan as many times as they want. Keep the fun going by dropping by the Agawam Rocks Tent, where everyone can have fun painting rocks for free. Children and adults can stop by booths manned by members of the Pioneer Valley History network. There will be lots of historical displays as well as an authentic encampment created by the 25th Continental Regiment, complete with muskets being shot on the hour. For more information, visit www.agawamarts. com. Free. 139 Southwick Road, Feeding Hills.
SATURDAY
Pioneer Valley Art Festival: See Friday listing Burgers & Beats: Sat., 5 p.m.-midnight, St. Kazimier Society in Turners Falls. Patch Burger will be serving up food from 5-9 p.m. DJ Gusto (David Guzman) will play live music from 8 p.m.-midnight. Open bar with drinks available for purchase. Free and open to the public, St. Kazimier Society, 197 Ave. A, Turners Falls. Sable Island Pony: Sat, 8 p.m. Blue Room at CitySpace, Doors open at 7 p.m. This all ages event celebrates the release of Sable Island Pony’s debut single as part of the Pay It Forward 2026 residency. Tickets are available at www.cityspaceeasthampton. org, ranging in price from $11.38 to $21.68. 43 Main St., Easthampton.
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MORE THAN
A RACE
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 ASHLEY RESERVOIR HOLYOKE ELKS
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Care Center’s 26th Annual Rowing Strong, Rowing Together Young Parents Regatta: Sat, 10
have fun with their families and get introduced to the concept of saving money at Kids’ Day. Activities will include facepainting and crafting, and complimentary coffee and doughnuts will be served. Children will also have the opportunity to open an Everyday Savings Account, through which a GSB matching deposit of up to $50 will be offered for each new account opened with at least $10. Activities are free. 325 King St., Northampton.
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D10 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026
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SUNDAY Broadway Comes to Temple Beth El: Sun, 4:30 p.m. Temple Beth El, Temple Beth El Springfield is delighted to present a special one-night-only Cabaret show with Broadway star Julie Benko, followed by a VIP meetand-greet reception. The family-friendly show’s opening act will feature some of the young stars of The Bushnell’s Broadway show “Matilda Jr.” Temple Beth El’s Cantor Morton Shames Sanctuary, where the concert is being held, is ADA-compliant. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit Temple Beth El’s Facebook page at facebook.com/tbespringfield or the temple’s website at www. tbespringfield.org. Ticket prices are $50 for general admission seats, $75 for orchestra seats, and $125 for premier seats. Tickets for the VIP reception are $50 and can be added to any seat tickets. 979 Dickinson St., Springfield.
Quadrangle
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.
AMHERST
‘Cooking with Eric Carle’ Above is an illustration by Eric Carle for the childrens’ book “My Very First Book of Food.” It is among the pieces on display at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art as part of the “Cooking with Eric Carle” exhibit, which is open to the public and closes on Aug. 23. (IMAGE COURTESY ERIC AND BARBARA CARLE FOUNDATION VIA ERIC CARLE MUSEUM)
dents. On the first 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.
Museums
Amelia Park Children’s Museum: Permanent exhibits include spaceship, construction site, library, grocery store and weekday activities. Visit ameliaparkmuseum.org for information. Hours: Tue.-Tue, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Open for groups Wed. Admission is $8 adults, $8 children (12 months and older), $4 The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss grandparents/seniors (60+) and Museum: Permanent exhibits infree members/infants. Military clude immersive, hands-on stations personnel and teachers receive that explore the author’s whima 10% discount off the price of sical characters and stories and regular admission. 29 South Broad childhood influences; and displays St., Westfield or www.ameliaparkof his original studio, art, and family museum.org. memorabilia. Eric Carle Museum of Picture Visit springfieldmuseums.org Book Art: “Cooking with Eric for more information. Admission Carle,” through Aug. 23. “Sunset (includes all 5 museums) — $27.50 Thursdays,” Aug. 20, 27, free with for adults, $18 for seniors and Museum admission. “Under the college students, $15 for ages 5-17, Cork Tree: The Story of Ferdinand.” free to children under 5, museum Through Nov. 8. “Soul, Sound, And members, and Springfield resi-
Voice: The Art of Jerry Pinkney.” Through Jan. 3. Exhibits included with museum admisison. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst or www.carlemuseum.org. Mead Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: various American and European paintings, Mexican ceramics, Tibetan scroll paintings and more. Museum hours: Tues.-Thurs. and Sun. 9 a.m.-midnight; Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 220 South Pleasant St., Amherst or www.amherst.edu. Norman Rockwell Museum: Online exhibit, “Imagining Freedom,” highlights the important role of Norman Rockwell and other artists in advancing and communicating these ideals, envisioned as core human rights for all people. The fee for accessing “Imagining freedom” is $5 for the general public, available on the museum’s website at NRM.org. “Norman Rockwell’s Historic Stockbridge Studio Guided Tours,” through Nov. 8. Tour dates and times available at NRM.org/Visit. Reservations required. “Ron Ramsay’s Berkshire Music Salon Series,” Aug. 20, 5:30 p.m. Planned in conjunction with Norman Rockwell Museum’s
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“American Stories: Revolution to Rockwell,” this three-part musical salon series will explore how artists and songwriters have shaped the American imagination over the last 250 years. Featuring acclaimed Berkshire performers Ron Ramsay and Samantha Talora, each thematic salon blends storytelling, history and a wide range of musical genres including patriotic songs, jazz standards, pop classics, and Broadway favorites. Terrace seating (weather permitting). Aug. 20: “American Reflections: Rockwell and the Moral Imagination”; Sept. 3: “Visions of a Nation: Who Gets to be American?” $25, $20 members, 9 Route 183, Stockbridge or www.nrm.org.
Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 2-6 p.m., with regular free public receptions on the second Friday of the month, from 5-8 p.m. Find them at 518 Pleasant St. For more information, visit NEVA-museum.org, call 413-588-4337— $10 suggested day admission donation asked at the door. Pleasant St., Northampton
sonian American Art Museum, through Jan. 10. This landmark traveling exhibition offers an intimate view of the groundbreaking abstract painter’s most prolific period, from 1959 to 1978, and creates a rare opportunity to experience SCMA’s own painting by Thomas in dialogue with major works from the Smithsonian’s world-leading collection. SCMA Exhibition: “Crafting Worlds,” through Aug. 23. This installation explores how artisans in Japan utilized materials and handcrafted techniques to forge social relationships and engage with the world around them. Free admission. Elm Street at Bedford Terrace, Northampton or www. scma.smith.edu.
Windsor Historical Society: Permanent exhibit: Explore the people, places and events that have shaped Windsor for over four centuries. Hours: Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. with house tours at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. General admission to the library and historic houses is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students and free to children under 12 and WHS members. 96 Palisade Ave., Windsor or www.windsorhistoricalsociety.org.
Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum: Permanent exhibit: Guided tours of the first and second floors weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Self-guided tours are on the hour with the last self-guided tour weekdays at 2 p.m. Call to reserve at 413-637-3206. Admission is $18 adults, $17 seniors (65+), $10 Old Firehouse Museums: Open students with ID, $7 children 5-17 for the 2026 season on the last Sat. and free children 4 and younger. of the month, Aug. 22, 1:30 p.m. “Light Tea Service,” Sat. through This museum is housed in the First Aug. 29, 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Light Fire Station built in 1888- 1974,with Tea service will be offered for two floors 4 North Main St., South guests and members. This tea is Hadley or http://southhadleyhisself-served from a spread traditoricalsociety.blogspot.com. tional varied tea offering, as well as some chilled refreshing beverage Porter-Phelps-Huntington Muoptions accompanied by a pretty seum: Open for the 2026 season. spread of dessert nibbles and, of Guided tours available through course, the famous Ventfort Hall Aug. 30, Sat.-Wed. from 1-4 p.m. cucumber tea sandwiches. Seating During the fall, from Sept. 1-Oct. is limited to 30, to reserve your 15, tours are offered Sat., Sun. teacup, visit Gildedage.org. 104 and Mon. between 1-4 p.m. Final Wednesday Folk Traditions of 2026 Walker St., Lenox. will be held on Aug. 26 at 6:30 p.m. Volleyball Hall of Fame: Permawith Whisper in Mid-Zone, featurnent exhibit: Volleyball Hall of ing Jim Matus, Bob Markey, and Fame open Tues.-Sun., 11 a.m.-3 Michel Moushabeck, in the Sunken p.m. Closed Mon. Last admission Garden. Admission is $12, $2 for is 30 minutes prior to close. Admischildren 16 and under. 130 River sion is $8 adults; $5 seniors 65 Drive, Hadley or www.pphmuseand older; $5 students, active and um.org. retired military; and free for children 12 and under. Group rates also Smith College Museum of Art: available online. 444 Dwight St., “Composing Color: Paintings by Holyoke or www.volleyhall.org. Alma Thomas,” from the Smith-
The New England Visionary Artists Museum: The New England Visionary Artists Museum in Northampton has five exhibition showrooms hosting N.E. artists’ work in all media and is home to Anchor House of Artists, the region’s subsidized studio and representation support to artists living with neurodiverse conditions.
Wistariahurst Museum: Permanent exhibit: Gardens and grounds open daily from dawn to dusk. Carriage House and gift shop open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For information about house tours, group tours and upcoming events visit www.wistariahurst.org. Standard admission is $7 Holyoke residents; $5 seniors; $5 youth (under 18); free museum members, active military and family members. 238 Cabot St., Holyoke or www.wistariahurst.org. Yiddish Book Center: Permanent exhibit, “A Velt mit veltelekh: The SEE CALENDAR, PAGE D11
WEEKEND
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Calendar
Outdoors
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Great Falls Discovery Center: Great Hall Art Exhibit: “Ways of My Worlds of Jewish Culture.” The Ancestors-Imagery: Lighting the center will be open to the public on Path to Awareness.” Through Aug. Thurs, Fri, Sun, and Mon. from 10 26. Free. Outdoor StoryWalk: “Honk! a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Shabbos (SaturHonk!” by Mick Manning. Through day) and Jewish and legal holidays. Sept. 30. Free. “Nice & Easy Walks,” Admission is $8 adults, $6 seniors, Aug. 20, & 27. 10-11 a.m. Easy-paced, and free for members, students and 1- to 2-mile guided walk, along the children, 1021 West St., Amherst or Canalside Rail Trail or downtown www.yiddishbookcenter.org. Turners Falls, geared for older adults, but open to all. Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear and bring water. Inclement weather cancels. Meet at the main entrance. Free. “Kidleidoscope Story Hour,” Aug. 21, “Who A.P.E. Gallery: Permanent exhibit. Hours: Tues.-Thurs. noon-5 p.m.; Fri.- Lives in a River?”; Aug. 28, “Butterflies,” 10:30-11:30 a.m. For ages 3-6, Sat. noon-8 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. 126 Main St., Northampton or www. accompanied by an adult. Learn more about our wildlife neighbors apearts.org. in the Connecticut River Watershed. Barnes Gallery of Leverett Crafts and Arts: “LCA Artists Group Show,” Program includes a story, activities, and crafts. Activities are indoors through end of August. Gallery and outdoors, weather permitting. hours: Sat.-Sun. 1-5 p.m. Free. 13 Siblings and friends are welcome. Montague Road, Leverett, 413-548Meet in the Great Hall. “Sploot! How 9070. Animals Keep Their Cool,” Aug. 23. Cooper’s Common: “Agawam Com- 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Drop into the munity Artists & Artisans Collection Great Hall for family-friendly activiof Art,” through Nov. This new ties and crafts all about how animals exhibit brings together a collection keep cool, including a story about of fine art oil paintings, watercolor, splooting squirrels. Come on in and acrylic, color pencil, alcohol ink and chill out and make your own “Flat mixed media. There are 45 pieces Squirrely” to take on cool adventures of art on display, and all are for sale. and consider painting a scene with The art is exhibited on two floors of acorn cap ink. For ages 4 and up the building and in four galleries. 159 including youth and adults. Free. 2 Main St., Agawam Avenue A, Turners Falls or www. Hope and Feathers Framing and greatfallsma.org. Gallery: “Antiquities” by Isabel Mt. Greylock State Reservation: Margolin, through Sept. 29. Gallery “War Memorial Tower, Bascom hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. Lodge, & Auto Roads to Summit,” 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 238 Bridge St., through Oct. 31, open dawn to dusk. Northampton or www.hopeand“Nature Scavenger Hunt,” ongoing, feathersframing.com. Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., for children
Galleries
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, or 413-543-3321.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026 | D11
Pickle
Pickle Juice Challenge is all about who can chug down a 32-ounce pickle juice the CONTINUES FROM PAGE D6 fastest,” Soulier said. “The Connecticut Pickle Valley Brewing Company. Festival was one of the most Nonalcoholic beverage talked-about events of the options for those who don’t imbibe will include pickle summer at Mohegan Sun last year, attracting tens of Dr. Pepper, pickle lemonthousands of guests over ade, pickle iced tea, pickle milkshakes and more. three days,” said Kim Simone, vice president of sales And for those who don’t & marketing at Mohegan have a pickle palate, there will be plenty to eat and Sun. “We’re thrilled to welcome this ultimate pickle drink minus the pickles. In addition to all the experience back to Mohe“You can come gan Sun. You can come for food vendors, there will be for the pickles the pickles and stay for all an endless array of pickle-themed crafts for sale Mohegan Sun has to offer.” and stay for all In addition to endless alongside other more tradiMohegan Sun has pickle-themed entertaintional items. For those who want to do ment, attendees can elevate to offer.” their experience with a VIP the “pickle hop” all weekKim Simone, vice president of ticket upgrade, offering end long, there will be a DJ sales & marketing, Mohegan keeping the groove going exclusive perks, including Sun inside, while outdoors there a swag bag valued at more than $150, access to a will be live country, pop private VIP lounge, private Other returning pickle and rock music all weekend cash bar, private restrooms fan favorites include the long, including Shotdown belly-filling Pickle Eating and Struggle Monkey on and early access to samples, Friday followed on Saturday Contest and the messy Pick- vendors and food trucks before general admission le Juice Challenge, along by Vivid, Juice Box, and with Pickle Olympics, Pickle crowds arrive. Jukebox Radio. The music Tickets to the festival comes to an end with Heavy Wrestling, viral photo opportunities and appearanc- range in price from $49 to Hitters, Pulse, and Get Lit. $99 and are sold based on es by the festival’s beloved Also new this year will time slots. Tickets for chilmascot, Pickle Pablo. be a “Pickle Hoedown,” a dren age 5 and older are $10. “The Pickle Eating Conhigh-energy country-style For more information and test is a timed event where dance party where pickle tickets, visit ultimatepickle enthusiasts can line dance, contestants must eat three giant pickles weighing two-step and celebrate experience.com or about a couple pounds. The mohegansun.com. alongside Pickle Pablo.
and families. Scavenger hunts are available at the Visitor Center. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough
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Northfield Mountain: “Indigenous Stories & Histories of the Kenetekw,” Aa Riverboat Cruise. Aug. 22, Northampton Center for the Arts: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. David Brule, local “Familial Bestiaries” by Ava Harper, historian and chairman of the Nethrough Aug. 28, in the Split Level hantic Tribal Council, will join Rich Gallery. Gallery hours: Wed.-Sat. 12-7 Holschuh, Elnu Abenaki spokesp.m. 33 Hawley St., Northampton or man, in a session of story-telling www.nohoarts.org. focused on Indigenous perspectives of the Connecticut River while Taber Art Gallery: “Constellations” cruising aboard the Heritage Riveran alumni artwork show from the boat. Registration required at www. HCC permanent collection, through Aug. 21. The show features paintings bookeo.com/northfield. 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield. by HCC alumni artists from class years 1974 through 2021. Free. 303 Pittsfield State Forest: Summer Homestead Ave., Holyoke, 413-5522026 Junior Rangers Program, Aug. 2614. 21, 10 a.m.-noon. Free, geared for children ages 8-12. Registration Trinity United Methodist Church: Aug. exhibit: “Looking Up” by 8 Trini- is required as space is limited. All ty artists, on display through Aug. 31. participants must be accompanied Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sun. by a parent or guardian. Held at Pittsfield State Forest Ski Lodge 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 413-218-7391 for more information. 361 Sumner Ave., and Balance Rock State Park. Call 413-442-8992 or email Pittsfield. Springfield. forest@mass.gov for more information.
WEEKEND
D12 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026
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Erivo
cover a large spectrum — from Aretha Franklin and Luther Vandross to Whitney CONTINUES FROM PAGE D5 Houston and Beyonce. Erivo discussed all these Academy of Dramatic Art, performers and others where some of the best British actors (among them during a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Anthony Hopkins, Ralph where she discussed her Fiennes and Jessie Buckley) received their acting training. favorite performances by these singers and others. “I’m not getting into anywhere that has ‘royal’ or During the same interview, Erivo also provided some ‘academy’ in it,” Erivo recalled in a recent interview insights into what types of music she gravitates with Variety. Sure enough, towards as a singer. she got in and graduated “I’m a purist for melody,” from the academy in 2010. Erivo said while talking It didn’t take long after that for Erivo to start getting about Beyonce’s ‘Resentment.’ “If the melody’s professional acting and
[Erivo’s] portrayal of young teenage mother Celie received rave reviews in London. (“Cynthia Erivo’s Celie carries the show with grace and sly charm,” praised The Guardian at the time.) singing work. She made her West End stage debut in London in 2011 in the English-language musical adaptation of the classic French film “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg.” Two years later, she landed one of the lead roles in a 2013 London theatrical production of “The Color Purple.” Her portrayal of young teenage mother Celie received rave reviews in London. (“Cynthia Erivo’s Celie carries the show with grace and sly charm,” praised The Guardian at the time.) That musical moved to Broadway in 2015, where Erivo received widespread acclaim for her powerful performance. The New York Times christened Erivo “an incandescent new star” in its glowing review of the show. Erivo’s performance in “The Color Purple” also earned her a Tony and her first Grammy Award. (She’s won two Grammys to date.) She’s also received an Emmy Award and has been nominated three times for an Oscar. As you might expect for someone with such wide-ranging talents, Erivo’s musical influences
good, just sing the melody.” But as many wise people have said, there’s nothing simplistic about taking a simple approach to a beautiful melody. And Erivo’s simple, elegant interpretations of many classic songs have earned her widespread praise. Sometimes, Erivo brings pure power and energy to a song like Prince’s “Purple Rain” or “Feeling Good,” a showstopper made famous by Nina Simone. Other times, there’s a tenderness and fragility in her voice when she performs haunting melodies like Roberta Flack’s “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” or “Edelweiss” from “The Sound of Music.” She’s also a skilled interpreter of composer Stephen Sondheim’s intricate, poignant songs. In short, there seems to be no limit to what Erivo can sing or do, and it remains to be seen what she will bring to the Lenox stage this summer. Cynthia Erivo and the Boston Pops will perform Aug. 21 at Tanglewood in Lenox. For more information or to purchase tickets, go online to bso.org/tanglewood
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