Celebrate Arts and Halloween at Upcoming Events in the Berkshires

A series of cultural events and festivities are set to take place across the Berkshires from October 24 to October 26, 2023, showcasing a blend of dance, music, art, and community celebrations. This weekend, residents and visitors can experience performances and activities that highlight local talent and the vibrant arts scene in the region.

Dynamic Dance Performances at Jacob’s Pillow

Jacob’s Pillow will host renowned artists Caleb Teicher and Nic Gareiss for a series of performances from October 24 to October 26. The duo will present an innovative evening-length collaboration that combines elements of jazz, folk, and various dance styles. Their work is described as a playful exploration of improvisation and percussive dance, promising an engaging experience for audiences at the Doris Duke Theatre, located at 358 George Carter Road in Becket. Tickets and further details are available online.

Musical Exploration at the Clark Art Institute

On October 24 at 19:00, the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown will feature the acclaimed early music ensemble Ruckus, alongside celebrated bass-baritone Davóne Tines. Their performance, titled “What is Your Hand in This?”, will explore American revolutionary music through a unique lens, incorporating reimagined songs and a newly commissioned piece by composer Doug Balliett. This concert is part of a national tour commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Tickets can be purchased online, and an additional performance is scheduled for October 25 at Hudson Hall, located at 327 Warren Street in Hudson, New York.

Baroque Music Recital by Peter Sykes

The Berkshire Bach Society will conclude its annual harpsichord festival with a solo recital by distinguished harpsichordist Peter Sykes on October 25 at 15:00. Taking place at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Stockbridge, Sykes will perform a selection of French Baroque music, showcasing the elegance and mystique of composers from the era. According to Terrill McDade, Executive Director of the Berkshire Bach Society, this recital is a unique opportunity to appreciate a repertoire that reflects the cultural vibrancy of 17th- and 18th-century France. More information and tickets are available online.

Happy Hour Piano Series at American Mural Project

On October 24 from 17:00 to 19:00, the American Mural Project in Winsted, Connecticut, will host its “Happy Hour Piano Series” featuring pianist Mary DiPaola. Known for her performances at various jazz festivals, DiPaola will provide a musical backdrop to the world’s largest indoor collaborative artwork. Attendees can enjoy the performance from various vantage points within the venue, enhancing the experience of music amid a spectacular artistic setting. Tickets and details can be found online.

Family Fun at Norman Rockwell Museum

The Norman Rockwell Museum will celebrate family creativity with its “Spooky Tricks Family Day” on October 25 from 11:00 to 15:00. Families are invited to explore the playful mysteries in the artwork of Walter Wick and Norman Rockwell through guided gallery tours and hands-on activities. Participants can create their own spooky scenes and follow an outdoor trail filled with clues leading to surprise treats. Costumes are encouraged for this fun, interactive event. More information is available online.

Community Celebrations for Halloween

Halloween festivities will also take place in Stockbridge and Pittsfield. The Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce will host the Stockbridge Halloween Parade and Pumpkin Walk on October 24 at 18:00. Marchers will gather at the corner of Main Street and Pine Street, culminating at the Stockbridge Library, where attendees can enjoy cider, donuts, and Halloween crafts. Local children and businesses are invited to showcase their Jack-O-Lanterns, which will be displayed along the route.

Meanwhile, the City of Pittsfield will present its 79th Annual Halloween Parade on the same evening at 19:00. This year’s theme is “Haunted Hometown Spooktacular,” with participants encouraged to design floats and costumes inspired by the city’s Halloween history dating back to the mid-1940s. The parade will take place on Tyler Street, promising an evening of community engagement and celebration.

As the weekend unfolds, the Berkshires will come alive with artistic expressions and festive gatherings, inviting all to partake in a celebration of culture and community.