Press

GREAT BARRINGTON — Acclaimed jazz pianist Christian Sands will bring his dynamic trio to the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center’s Indigo Room for an evening of innovative and genre-blending jazz. Known for his virtuosic technique and contemporary approach to the jazz tradition, Sands has earned international recognition and multiple Grammy nominations while performing with some of the genre’s most celebrated artists.

Audiences can expect a performance that draws on the rich history of jazz while pushing the music forward with fresh energy and creative interpretation. Jazz fans and community members are invited to experience the Christian Sands Trio live in an intimate setting that highlights the artistry and improvisational spirit of one of today’s leading jazz musicians.

GREAT BARRINGTON — Renowned choreographer and performance artist Shamel Pitts will be featured at MASS MoCA as part of the region’s vibrant arts scene, continuing his exploration of multidisciplinary performance and artistic innovation. Pitts’ work reflects both cultural expression and contemporary artistic leadership, adding to the Berkshires’ reputation as a creative destination.

Community members and arts supporters are invited to engage with upcoming performances and programming as the Berkshires celebrate the contributions of internationally recognized artists and the dynamic cultural events that enrich the region.

GREAT BARRINGTON — Berkshires Jazz has announced new leadership as the organization continues the passion and vision of its founder while building on its legacy of presenting high-quality jazz performances and education throughout the region. The leadership transition reflects a commitment to both artistic excellence and community engagement as the organization moves forward.

Music lovers and community members are invited to support upcoming Berkshires Jazz events and programs as the organization enters its next chapter with renewed energy and continued dedication to jazz culture in the Berkshires.

PITTSFIELD — City officials are reviewing a revised budget proposal after addressing concerns that led to a shortfall in the original Pittsfield Public Schools funding plan. The updated proposal aims to balance fiscal responsibility with continued support for classroom resources, student services, and long-term educational goals.

Community members and local leaders are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming discussions as the school committee and city council work together to finalize a budget that supports both students and the broader Pittsfield community.

PITTSFIELD — The Celebration of Black Voices Legacy Awards honored regional leaders and artists whose work has made a lasting impact on the community’s cultural and social landscape. The event highlighted the achievements of individuals who have uplifted Black voices, fostered inclusion, and strengthened connections across the Berkshires.

Community members are invited to reflect on the contributions of this year’s honorees and continue celebrating the rich legacy of creativity, leadership, and resilience that shapes the region’s cultural identity.

PITTSFIELD — Second Congregational Church is celebrating its 180th anniversary, marking nearly two centuries of service, community, and spiritual leadership in the region. The milestone honors the church’s long history of bringing people together, supporting local initiatives, and enriching the cultural and social fabric of the community.

Community members are invited to join in the anniversary commemorations and reflect on the church’s legacy, connecting with neighbors and neighbors past and present in celebration of this enduring local institution.

PITTSFIELD — The NAACP Berkshire County Branch recently hosted a community discussion on the 10 Million Names Project, a national initiative aimed at preserving and sharing the stories of Black Americans whose contributions have too often been overlooked. The event provided historical context, personal reflection, and opportunities for local engagement with the project’s mission.

Residents and attendees are encouraged to learn more about the 10 Million Names Project, explore Black history in Berkshire County, and participate in efforts to document and honor the legacy of Black lives and stories in the region.

GREAT BARRINGTON — The Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin will bring its signature blend of classical strings and hip-hop to the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center as part of its Full Circle Tour. Known for high-energy performances that push musical boundaries, the group continues to redefine what orchestral music can sound like.

Community members are invited to attend the upcoming performance and experience an inspiring night of genre-defying music in the heart of the Berkshires.

GREAT BARRINGTON — The ninth annual Du Bois Legacy Festival will take place this week, honoring the life and work of W.E.B. Du Bois, the native son whose scholarship and activism helped shape civil rights and social justice in America. The multi-day celebration features events that explore Du Bois’ enduring legacy and impact on communities today.

Organizers say the festival provides a meaningful opportunity for residents to engage with Du Bois’ contributions through history, education, and public programming that highlights both his local roots and global influence.

PITTSFIELD — Pittsfield Municipal Airport has named Anita Akor as its new airport manager, bringing new leadership and vision to the city-owned airport. She will focus on strengthening operations, fostering community partnerships, and supporting continued growth.

City officials say her appointment comes at a key time as the airport looks to enhance services and expand opportunities for aviation in the region.

PITTSFIELD — A new restaurant serving authentic Afro-Caribbean cuisine has opened on North Street, bringing bold flavors and cultural tradition to downtown. DRE’s Global Kitchen offers a menu inspired by Afro-Caribbean roots, featuring thoughtfully prepared dishes that reflect both heritage and community.

Owner Andre “DRE” Lynch emphasizes the importance of sharing culture through food, creating a welcoming space where residents can experience authentic recipes and vibrant flavors. Community members are invited to stop in, support the new business, and enjoy a taste of Afro-Caribbean cuisine in the heart of Pittsfield.

GREAT BARRINGTON — The Du Bois Freedom Center will host The Scottsboro Boys Traveling Exhibit beginning Feb. 10, sharing the story of nine Black teenagers whose 1930s case became an international symbol of racial injustice. Presented in partnership with The Scottsboro Boys Museum in Alabama, the exhibit highlights the case’s lasting impact on civil rights and its connections to the legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois.

Organizers say the exhibit offers the community a meaningful opportunity to engage with this pivotal chapter in American history. A moderated conversation with museum leaders and Du Bois scholars will also take place at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center during the exhibit’s run.

GREAT BARRINGTON — Jeffrey DuBois Peck, great-grandson of civil rights leader and scholar W.E.B. Du Bois, will star in an upcoming play honoring his ancestor’s life and legacy, bringing a personal and historical connection to the production. The performance highlights the enduring impact of Du Bois’ work in civil rights, education, and social justice.

Organizers say the play offers the community a unique opportunity to reflect on Du Bois’ contributions and celebrate his legacy through the arts, further enriching local efforts to recognize one of the region’s most influential historical figures.

GREAT BARRINGTON — Taha Clayton’s artwork is currently featured at the Tremaine Gallery, showcasing his unique artistic voice within the regional arts scene. Clayton, whose work explores themes of identity and experience through expressive imagery, continues to gain recognition for his contributions to contemporary art.

Clayton’s inclusion in gallery exhibitions highlights his growing impact and the ways local artists are shaping conversations through visual expression.

WILLIAMSTOWN — The Clark Art Institute will host a lecture by Charmaine A. Nelson, Clark/Oakley Humanities Fellow and professor of art history, exploring the visual and cultural history of transatlantic slavery in eighteenth-century Montreal and Quebec. Her talk examines how systems of violence, race, and power were shaped and reinforced through art and representation.

Nelson is a leading scholar in Black diasporic studies whose work brings overlooked histories to light and connects past injustices to their lasting impact today.

PITTSFIELD — City boards and commissions have approved a permanent mural in Durant Park honoring the Black residents from Pittsfield who served in the Civil War as part of the famed 54th Massachusetts Regiment. The mural, titled Pride of the Westside, was first unveiled during 2025’s Juneteenth celebration and will now be permanently installed along the park’s fence line.

The 54th Regiment was one of the first Black units formed in the Union Army and is remembered for its bravery in battle and its role in advancing equality. The artwork celebrates their legacy and highlights Pittsfield’s connection to this important piece of American history.

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Community College marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day with its annual Day of Service, bringing together students, staff, and community volunteers for a morning dedicated to civic engagement and giving back. The event honored Dr. King’s legacy through hands-on service projects supporting local organizations throughout Pittsfield.

Participants worked together in a spirit of service, reflection, and solidarity, reinforcing the importance of community care and collective action. The Day of Service continues to be a meaningful way for BCC to promote volunteerism, connection, and Dr. King’s vision of justice in action.

PITTSFIELD — The NAACP Berkshire County Branch will host its annual Freedom Fund Awards on January 24, celebrating local and regional leaders who are advancing justice, equity, and community empowerment across the Berkshires.

The event will honor keynote speaker Tanisha Sullivan, along with Wanda Houston, Robert Mulhall, Jay Santangelo, Shannon Holsey, and Joey Pisani for their contributions to civil rights, advocacy, cultural leadership, and youth empowerment. Proceeds support the NAACP’s Freedom Fund, which provides scholarships for Black and immigrant students in Berkshire County.

GREAT BARRINGTON — Multicultural BRIDGE has relaunched its community dinner series at the BRIDGE Solidarity House, bringing neighbors together for nourishing meals, meaningful conversations, and culturally rooted connection. The return of these dinners reflects BRIDGE’s ongoing commitment to fostering belonging, grounding, and mutual support across the community.

These gatherings offer a warm and inclusive space where participants can share food, stories, and solidarity. As the series continues, BRIDGE remains focused on creating environments where diverse voices are uplifted and community resilience is strengthened.

PITTSFIELD — Peachy Balloon Decor, a Pittsfield-based event design business founded by Jessica Goines, is bringing creative, custom balloon installations to celebrations across the Berkshires and beyond. The company specializes in balloon arches, garlands, backdrops, and themed displays for weddings, birthdays, showers, corporate events, and public gatherings.

Founded out of a passion for creativity and entrepreneurship, Peachy Balloon Decor has grown through word-of-mouth and social media, with recent high-profile work including a lobby installation at the Beacon Cinema. Goines’ work emphasizes attention to detail and personalized design, helping transform event spaces into memorable visual experiences.