Weekend - January 18, 2024

For the latest WMass happenings, visit masslive.com/entertainment

Weekend

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| THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

FREE MUSIC FRIDAYS: MGM Springfield moves concert series indoors, E4 ‘AMERICAN SON’: Opera House Players to stage one-act play in Enfield, E4 GET THE LED OUT: Tribute band to play Springfield Symphony Hall, E5

The Sox are back

Red Sox Winter Weekend returns to downtown Springfield, Page E2

E2 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Sox are back in Springfield

Above, clockwise from top left, are Red Sox players Brayan Bello and Garrett Whitlock; former Red Sox great Wade Boggs; Red Sox player Nick Pivetta; former Red Sox great David Ortiz; and Red Sox player Tanner Houck. All will be present in Springfield for the Red Sox Winter Weekend.

Red Sox Winter Weekend takes place Friday, Saturday

T

By Keith O’Connor

planned throughout the two days,” said Sarah McKenna, senior vice president and chief experience officer for the housands of Red Boston Red Sox. Sox fans are expect- This year’s Fan Fest, which opens on ed to descend upon Friday at 8 p.m. at the MassMutual Cenincludes the Family Fun Zone in the Springfield’s Mass- ter, Exhibition Hall, Social Media Lounge, Mutual Center and Red Sox Museum, various panels and more.

MGM Springfield on Friday “Our Winter Weekend includes the and Saturday as part of Red Family Fun Zone in the Exhibition Hall, where you will find pitching and batting Sox Winter Weekend. cages, mini-Wiffle ball, a 19 Jersey For the past eight years, the Red Sox Street pop-up Red Sox store, and lots have participated in a Winter Weekend of fun activities. The Red Sox Museum event for fans to mark the unofficial start will feature artifacts and memorabilia, of the baseball season before heading including trophies and awards won over down to Fort Myers for spring training. the years,” McKenna said.

“It’s going to be a fun day for fans who “Among the panels will be a Kids can meet and listen to their favorite Press Conference where young fans can Red Sox players, past and present, and ask the players questions and a Red Sox SEE SOX, PAGE E7 participate in a number of fun activities Special to The Republican

Red Sox mascot Wally gives out autographs during a past Winter Weekend event. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN, FILE)

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024 | E3

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SPRINGFIELD

Free Music Friday moving indoors for the winter

By Shawn Rychling

wrapping up Feb. 23 with The Eagles Experience. In MGM Springfield is bringbetween, the bands Aquanett, ing the music fun inside Trailer Trash, and Darik and starting Jan. 26 as Free Music the Funbags will hit the stage.

Friday, Winter Edition, moves “We have a saying around to the Aria Ballroom with here, ‘TGIFMF,’” Amanda a concert by The Blushing Croteau, director of enterBrides. Doors open at 7 p.m. tainment for MGM Springwith the show running from field, said. “It’s the best way 7:30 to 9. to kick off your weekend, The free concert series runs grab a drink, see some for five consecutive Fridays, friends, and enjoy awesome srychling@repub.com

local music.”

Croteau said this marks the third year MGM has brought Free Music Fridays inside from its usual spot outside on the MGM Plaza, but only the second time in the dead of winter.

“We see tremendous crowds for these events no matter the location, inside or outside,” she said. “We

SEE MUSIC, PAGE E5

“We are incredibly lucky to have so many talented bands take our stage, many of whom are from Rolling Stones tribute band The Blushing Brides will open the winter edition of Free Music Fridays at MGM Springfield’s Aria Western Mass. and have massive followings.”

Ballroom on Jan. 26. (PHOTO COURTESY BLUSHING BRIDES)

AMANDA CROTEAU, DIRECTOR OF ENTERTAINMENT, MGM SPRINGFIELD

Opera House Players to stage one-act ‘American Son’

By Ashley Potter

T 2 musical greats join

apotter@repub.com

Above, from left, are Steve Forbert and Freedy Johnston, who will both play The Drake in Amherst on Feb. 7.

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forces in Amherst

George Lenker Live Wire

tional spotlight.

While a contractual dispute

SEE LIVE WIRE, PAGE E5

SEE PLAYERS, PAGE E12

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TEVE FORBERT AND Freedy Johnston will provide a one-two musical punch at The Drake in Amherst on Feb. 7.

Forbert, who bore the mantle of the “new Dylan” when he first hit the scene in the 1970s, forged his own sound throughout the years, starting with 1978′s critically acclaimed “Alive on Arrival.”

But it was the following year’s “Jackrabbit Slim,” which included the breakout top-20 single “Romeo’s Tune,” that brought Forbert into the na-

Opera House Players will stage “American Son” this weekend.

HE OPERA HOUSE Above, from left, are actors Michael Scott, Ken Schröeder, Players are staging a Maya Nicole Matthews and Marcevan Costanzo. (PHOTO COURTESY first in their 56-year OPERA HOUSE PLAYERS) history: a non-musical production.

In a limited-time engagement, “American Son” will be presented this weekPeople. Plant. Purpose. end only, from Friday to

Sunday, at 100 High St. in Enfield.

The production centers around the talent of four LARGEST SELECTION OF:

Opera House Players actors — Maya Nicole Matthews as Two-time Award Kendra Ellis-Connor, Ken Winning Dispensary Schröeder as Scott Connor, Marcevan Costanzo as Paul Larkin, and Michael Scott as Lt. John Stokes — and is being directed by Joshua Prouser.

“American Son” tells the story of an estranged biracial couple waiting in a Florida police station to

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024 | E5

Nightclubs

SPRINGFIELD

‘Get The Led Out’ to play Symphony Hall

THURSDAY The Drake: Valley Voice Story Slam: Missed Connection. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst

By Keith O’Connor

Yardbirds. The legendary band — credited with creating a new The popular phrase “get musical genre after the British the led out” will take on an invasion called heavy metal — entirely different meaning on also included John Paul Jones, Saturday at Symphony Hall in John Bonham and Robert Springfield.

Plant. Led Zeppelin’s unique It has nothing to do with the blend of blues-folk-rock made phrase’s intent “to move more them a popular band on the quickly” and make your way music scene throughout the to Symphony Hall, but to the 1970s until their break-up in venue’s stars of the night. Get 1980 following the death of The Led Out (GTLO) is a cover Bonham. They recorded nine band of professional musicians albums and sold over 300 milwho are, as their website delion records — never releasing clares, “A Celebration of The a single and thriving only on Mighty Zep,” otherwise known the success of their albums as the groundbreaking British which included songs such as band Led Zeppelin.

“Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Showtime is 8 p.m. with Lotta Love,” “Dazed and Condoors opening at 7 p.m. fused,” “Immigrant Song” and Led Zeppelin, originally numerous others. called the New Yardbirds, was Founded in 2003 and formed in 1968 by guitarist dubbed by the media as “The Jimmy Page after the breakup American Led Zeppelin,” Get of the British blues band the The Led Out focuses on the

FRIDAY

Special to The Republican

Music

Delaney House: West Side Walk.

3 Country Club Road, Holyoke East Mountain Country Club: The Skid Marks. 1458 East Mountain Rd, Westfield

Led Zeppelin tribute band Get The Led Out will play Springfield Symphony Hall on Saturday.

original band’s early years alongside deeper cuts that were seldom heard in concert.

GTLO, who perform onstage for over two hours, also include a special acoustic set with Zep favorites such as “Tangerine” and “Hey Hey What Can I Do.” Since their founding, GTLO has toured the country at major club and performing arts center venues.

The band’s six members include Paul Sinclair on lead vocals and harmonica, Paul

It can also be about more than just the music.

“People love to (make) a CONTINUES FROM PAGE E4 night of it,” Croteau said. are incredibly lucky to have “Many music fans grab a bite so many talented bands take at one of our restaurants and our stage, many of whom are then head to the concert.” from Western Mass. and have Croteau also says that MGM massive followings.” is thrilled to welcome new Croteau said the popularguests and fans and encourity of Free Music Friday has ages them to check out all the grown each year. resort has to offer.

“We have definitely seen The first concert on Jan. a core audience build up for 26 will feature The Blushing FMF, including returning Brides — a band that first guests who will come down to formed in 1979 and bills itself listen to the music no matter as the “World’s Most Dangerthe band,” she said. ous Tribute to the Music of

the Rolling Stones.”

“We are excited to welcome Blushing Brides as our series opener,” Croteau said.

“They’re a legendary Rolling Stones tribute band, sure to bring the house down.”

Croteau emphasized the quality of the entire schedule for the winter edition of Free Music Friday.

“Our lineup this winter is a great mix of returning favorites and new performers coming to our stage. Bands like Trailer Trash and Aquanett see some of our biggest crowds outside on our Plaza

Live Wire

but didn’t make a splash on the charts until his second release, which featured the single “Bad Reputation, which reached No. 54 on the charts. The album led Rolling Stone to call Johnston the “songwriter of the year.”

Tickets range from $25 to $35 and the show starts at 8 p.m. The Drake is at 44 N. Pleasant St.

over his four-decade career, with the most recent being 2022’s “Moving Through CONTINUES FROM PAGE E4 America.” His 2004 album, with his record company “Any Old Time,” received a stalled his recording career Grammy nomination for Best for a few years in 1984, Folk Album Forbert didn’t let the snag In 2018, he published a keep him from touring, which memoir, “Big City Cat: My he has done relentlessly over Life in Folk-Rock.” his career. He has released Likewise, Johnston received more than 20 studio albums lauds for his debut album,

Hammond on electric and acoustic guitars and mandolin, Adam Ferraioli on drums and percussion, Tommy Zamp on vocals and electric and acoustic guitars, Phil D’Agostino on bass guitar and vocals, and Eddie Kurek on keyboards, electric and acoustic guitars, vocals and percussion.

Tickets — priced at $29.50, $39.50, $49.50 and $69.50 — are available online at symphonyhallspringfield. com.

in the summer, so we can’t wait to bring them back for the winter series,” she said.

“And we’re having The Eagles Experience for the first time after many requests from fans for an Eagles tribute band.”

The Drake: Muswell Hillbillies. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst The Meeting House: Dave Brinnel.

827 Williams St., Longmeadow Theodores’: Orb Mellon Trio. 201 Worthington St., Springfield West Springfield’s Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Brian Walker.

429 Morgan Road, West Springfield

SATURDAY Delaney House: Lisa Martin Band.

3 Country Club Road, Holyoke The Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center: Terrafunk & Massive Prophet. 289 Main St., Greenfield Theodores’: The Mighty Soul Drivers. 201 Worthington St., Springfield 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 to masslive.com/myevent

ary 25 , Febru M y a d n u S 5:00 P us, 1:00 – lumb s of Co hicopee t h ig n K e, C ial Driv Memor ors hn Conn o J y b ic Mus ess ish Expr & the Ir

Tickets $35 To purchase tickets, please call Sr. Eleanor Harrington 413-536-0853 or Marty Kearney 413-552-0569

a ffee/Te rts * Co e s s e D * wiches s! ef Sand h Bar * Raffle e B d e Corn * Cas

~An afternoon honoring our dear friend Mary Campbell ~

E6 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

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‘First Bite’ podcast makes menu predictions

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RET THORNE, THE senior food & beverage editor for Nation’s Restaurant News, is one of the best known of trend-trackers when it comes to menu developments in the restaurant industry.

In his start-of-the-year “First Bite” podcast on Jan. 2, Thorne ventured to make a few predictions about what would make its way onto restaurant menus in the months ahead. Among those predictions Thorne described two new food experiences that had popped up on his professional radar.

The first is “white lamb,” a new variety of lamb being produced from Australian White Sheep, a breed that has a coat of hair rather than wool. That difference in coat has an impact on the flavor of the meat, which doesn’t pick up a gamy tang from the lanolin in wool. The result is a milder-tasting lamb experience. Since the meat comes from grass-fed animals, it also has less saturated fat.

Thorne predicts that white lamb will be marketed as a premium-priced ingredient.

Thorne’s other ingredient prediction involves ammonium chloride, a seasoning popularly known across Scandinavia as salmiak salt, where it is widely used to flavor a licorice candy known as salmiak.

Research by food scientists at several American universities has suggested that salmiak salt triggers a sensory response in the human mouth that could qualify it as the sixth basic taste bud sensation, joining sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and umami (savory).

The flavor of salmiak is supposedly a combination of bitter and salty with, as Thorne puts it, “notes of window cleaner.” Thorne doesn’t venture any guesses as to how salmiak might be put to use in today’s professional kitchen.

First Bite is available in Apple’s podcast store as well as other locations from which podcasts can be downloaded.

sion Lemonade and Mango Passion Iced Tea, Chick-fil-A is currently serving a Mango Passion Sunjoy (a blend of iced tea and lemonade) and a Mango Passion Frosted Lemonade, which features a swirl of Chick-fil-A’s frozen dairy dessert blended in.

The Mango Passion beverage selections will be served Hugh Robert as long as supplies last.

Off The Menu • On Jan. 24, The Quarters in Hadley will be offering an menu. enhanced assortment of vegFor more details or to make etarian options, include main The Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant in downtown reservations, call 508-867courses, drinks, and treats as Springfield is offering a three-course lunch deal Monday part of a Vegan Night event. through Friday in an attempt to encourage people to go out for 2345.

• Bond 124 in SomersThe Quarters is a self-delunch. ville, Conn., is continuing its scribed arcade, bar, and Side Dishes tions throughout January.

Sunday Night Steak Special. restaurant, offering arcade • The Student Prince • The Salem Cross Inn in Available from 3 p.m. until game play and late-night Cafe and Fort Restaurant in West Brookfield is now ob10 p.m., the deal include an entertainment. downtown Springfield is doserving its winter hours. The eight-ounce steak served with The menu focuses on snacking its part to help bring back Inn’s dining room is open on a baked potato; the combo is ables and handheld fare such “going out to lunch.” They’re Friday and Saturday evenings value priced at $12.95. as Kimchi Dogs, Pub Burgers, doing so by once again offerfrom 4 to 8 p.m.; dinner is also Bond 124 describes itself as Crispy Chicken Sandwiches, ing a three-course lunch deal served from noon to 5 p.m. on “an Italian-American taproom and Cheesy Tots. On weekend that includes a main course, Sundays. serving...craft beers and pub mornings The Quarters offers a guest’s choice of garden The Inn continues to offer fare.” There’s more informaa Super Cereal Buffet from 10 salad or a cup of soup, and a its Fireplace Feasts on select tion about the restaurant, ina.m. until noon. dessert.

Fridays, Saturdays, and cluding menus, on its website, For more details, go to their Available Monday through Sundays. Dates through mid- bond124restaurant.com. web address, hadley Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., March have, however, already • A bit of “tropical flavor” quarters.com, or call 413the Three Course Lunch is sold out. in the form of four Mango 429-4263. priced at $23.99.

And on Feb. 14, Valentine’s Passion drinks is now avail• On Jan. 23, from 4 to 8 The Student Prince is also Day, the Salem Cross Inn will able at Chick-fil-A locations. p.m., Uno Pizzeria & Grill SEE MENU, PAGE E9 taking reservations for its be open offering a special In addition to Mango Pasannual Hunter’s Dinners.

Two dates are available, Feb. 8 and Feb. 22, and tickets are $89 per person, tax and gratuity included.

Menu details for the sixcourse feasts are yet to be finalized, but tickets can be ordered on the restaurant’s WEDNESDAY TUESDAY THURSDAY website.

Polish American Chicopee Elks Fairview Knights of The Student Prince Cafe Citizens Club and Fort Restaurant can be #1849 Columbus 355 East Street, Ludlow, 1599 Memorial Drive, reached at 413-734-7475.

431 Granby Road, 583-6385 Chicopee • Customers at FriendChicopee Bingo Wednesdays (413) 532-2011 ly’s Restaurants can this 413-592-1849 6:30-9:30pm month celebrate the end DOORS OPEN 4:30PM Bingo Tuesday Doors Open at 4pm. of their meal with a CeleMASKS OPTIONAL Doors Open at 4PM Minimum Admission $50 bration Conehead Sundae.

Progressive Jackpot 2 Progressive Jackpots 1 - 1199 Progressive w/ Assembled with a scoop of 6:15pm Early Bird 6:15PM Early Bird Climbing Consolation Prize vanilla ice cream, the sundae 6:20pm Start 6:20PM Start 2 - $500 Cover Alls is topped with Fruity PebMin. Entry Package $15 Min. Entry Package $15 3 - $200 Special Games bles cereal, M&M’s candies Electronic Bingo Aval.

Open Seating All Games will be $100 and whipped cream, then 2 Halls for Players Snack Bar, crowned with a chocowith 90 People or More Handicap Restroom Open Seating, late-rimmed sugar cone.

All Cards are included 1st Floor Handicap Restrooms The Celebration Conehead with Admission Sundae will be available at participating Friendly’s locaCALL TODAY 413-788-1250 TO LIST HERE

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024 | E7

If you are already thinking ahead to which games you might want to attend during The first night of the Red Sox Winter Weekend on Friday the 2024 seawill include a reflection on the life of Tim Wakefield, above, son, represenformer Red Sox ace. tatives will be on hand to asSox CONTINUES FROM PAGE E2 sist with purGame Show pitting players chases before Young fans enjoy a past Red Sox Winter Weekend in Springfield. against each other in fun competitions,” she said. they become The Friday night event will es from Red Sox players and open with the introduction of executives on Saturday. available to the 2024 players and coaches Also, if you are already followed by The Cinco Ocho thinking ahead to which the generShow with Jonathan Papelgames you might want to atbon, a late-night talk showtend during the 2024 season, al public. style segment. Alongside representatives will be on (ASSOCIATED

PRESS)

(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN,

FILE)

co-host Tom Caron of NESN, Papelbon will lead conversations about the upcoming season and the state of the club. The evening will conclude with a reflection on the life of Tim Wakefield, former Red Sox ace whose knuckleball made him the third winningest pitcher in Red Sox First baseman Triston Casas walks into the MassMutual Cenhistory. ter during a past Red Sox Winter Weekend. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / On Saturday, in addition to THE REPUBLICAN, FILE) the Fan Fest area and panel Additional alumni will Tickets, including an autograph include Dennis Eckersley, Jonny Gomes, Fred Lynn, session voucher, are $95 for adults Lou Merloni, Jim Rice, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, and Luis and $40 for children ages 3-14.

Tiant alongside prospects discussions throughout the will be in attendance along including Roman Anthony, day, autograph sessions with with current players Wilyer Richard Fitts, Wikelman Goncurrent Red Sox players, Abreu, Brayan Bello, Brennan zalez, Nathan Hickey, Marcecoaches, and alumni will take Bernardino, Triston Casas, lo Mayer, Chase Meidroth, place at MGM Springfield and Cooper Criswell, Jarren DuLuis Perales, Justin Slaten, the MassMutual Center. Fans ran, Vaughn Grissom, David Kyle Teel, Nick Yorke. who have purchased Winter Hamilton, Tanner Houck, There will also be an opporWeekend tickets can register Joe Jacques, Zack Kelly, Chris tunity to meet some coaches for autograph sessions by Martin, Reese McGuire, Chris such as Alex Cora, Andrew visiting redsox.com/ Murphy, Tyler O’Neill, Nick Bailey, Pete Fatse, Andy Fox, winterweekend.

Pivetta, Ceddanne Rafaela, Kyle Hudson, Luis Ortiz, Ben If you have ever wanted to Rob Refsnyder, Pablo Reyes, Rosenthal, Jason Varitek, meet and have your phoJohn Schreiber, Trevor Story, Ramon Vazquez and Kevin tograph taken with a Red Enmanuel Valdez, Brandon Walker.

Sox great like Wade Boggs, Walter, Zack Weiss, Garrett NESN and WEEI will Carlton Fisk, Pedro MarWhitlock, Josh Winckowski, broadcast live from the event, tinez or David Ortiz, they and Connor Wong. featuring special appearanc-

hand to assist with purchases before they become available to the general public.

If you are already a season ticket holder there will be a special lounge at Fan Fest where you can enjoy complimentary snacks and refreshments throughout the day.

There will also be games, giveaway opportunities and more.

Proof of being a season ticket holder will be required.

“It’s a service we provide for season ticket holders where

they can take a break and hang out with other fans,” McKenna said.

Fan Fest hours are Friday from 8 to 10 p. m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets, including an autograph session voucher, are $95 for adults and $40 for children ages 3-14.

For tickets and more information, visit massmutual 2Đ -öĐ 2Đ ' .0- . center.com.

New Year, New Pleasures

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E8 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

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4 Bordeaux red wines that taste great

O George Lenker Beer Nut

Too many options are better than fewer

O

N A RECENT TRIP, I met a bartender named Nick who hailed from Belgium.

Having never been there, I grilled him about certain Belgian beers and how they were viewed in his homeland.

We covered a wide span of topics, but what found most interesting about our chat was Nick’s combination of semi-surprise and minor confusion – let’s call it puzzlement – over the seemingly endless plethora of beer choices outside his country.

Belgium is known for some of the best beers going, but Nick said he was amazed about how many variations of the same styles can be found even in one bar. He said that in Belgium, most bars might have between five and eight taps, but also more bottled beer than in many other countries he’s been to.

It certainly didn’t seem like a complaint. Likewise, I sometimes ruminate on the cornucopia of beer choices with at least a small bit of bemusement.

And like Nick, my thoughts don’t represent any sort of criticism. But I do wonder if the seemingly endless parade of variety is necessary. There doesn’t seem to be any downside: “the more, the merrier” and all that sort of thing, right?

And people love having choices and options. I know I do.

SEE BEER, PAGE E9

NE OF THE GREAT things about wine is the seemingly never-ending list of wine regions to choose from and learn more about.

From Chilean white wines to Canadian sparkling wines and everything in between, you can easily spend a lifetime exploring the world through wine.

But there’s also something to be said for returning to familiar, favorite wine regions, especially on long, dark winter nights.

And for me, there’s nothing better than a great bottle of red wine from France’s Bordeaux region.

I’m not alone in this opinion, either. Bordeaux has long been one of the most popular and most revered wine regions in the world.

Why? I have one word for you – plastics.

Sorry, I couldn’t resist. And if you didn’t get the joke, ask your parents about the movie, “The Graduate.”

No, that single word is “consistency.”

Some wines and wine regions can be hit and miss. But Bordeaux consistently always hits the mark.

That’s important since there seems to be a never-ending list of wineries worth checking out in Bordeaux. In fact, there are roughly 7,000 wineries in Bordeaux.

So if you’re not familiar with a Bordeaux wine you find in a store or on a wine list at a restaurant, you should feel free to explore because there’s a pretty good chance the wine will taste great.

I can say this from recent experience. Last month, I tasted close to two dozen different wines from Bordeaux. Most were reds. A few were whites or Sauternes, the region’s distinct dessert wine that you can read more about in a few weeks.

Some cost less than $10 a bottle and made my annual list of the top 10 wines under $10 for 2023. Others cost significantly more and were special occasion wines for

schild.

There’s been a lot of debate over the decades about these rankings. Some wineries and consumers object to them.

Even so, Bordeaux’s classification system remains firmly in place and it’s unlikely anything will change anytime soon.

The four Bordeaux red wines recommended this week.

(PHOTO BY KEN ROSS)

Christmas, New Year’s Eve or my dad’s 87th birthday. And in one case, one spectacular Bordeaux wine was created three years before I was even born in 1969. What a treat!

But what impressed me most was the fact that in every single case, every single wine from Bordeaux tasted great. It didn’t matter if the wine was three years old or 58 years old. They all had distinct, delicious flavors and aromas that often lingered long after each sip, especially the Bordeaux red wines that were over 20 years old. All of them were memorable and well worth the wait.

That’s why I thought I’d focus on a few new Bordeaux wines that stood out this past month. I’ve also included a brief explanation about the region, its grapes and some other helpful information.

Hope you enjoy.

More about Bordeaux France’s Bordeaux wine region is divided into two main areas - the Left Bank and the Right Bank. The dividing line is the Gironde River. Wineries located on the southwest side of the Gironde River are on the Left Bank. Wineries located on the northeast side of the Gironde are on the Right Bank.

Bordeaux’s Left Bank The Left Bank of Bordeaux includes several famous subregions, including Medoc, Paulliac, Margaux and Graves. More important, red

Ken Ross Wine Press

wines grown here tend to be made predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon grapes blended with other grapes.

Bordeaux’s Right Bank Some of the best known subregions on the Right Bank include Pomerol, St. Emilion, Fronsac and Castillon.

And instead of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes being the primary grape in most red blends, most winemakers here predominantly use Merlot grapes.

Wine tasting notes 2016 Chateau Larrivet Haut-Brion ($48 Suggested Retail Price) Location: Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France Grapes: 62% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot and 8% cabernet franc.

Tasting notes: This Left Bank wine had an advantage over the other wines recommended this week – it has a few extra years under its belt.

That often makes a huge difference when it comes to red wines from Bordeaux. That’s because those extra years often smooth out any harsh edges and often add an extra layer of nuance and complexity. That was certainly the case with this complex wine.

There were layers upon layers of different concentrated flavors and aromas, including hints of blackberry, cherry and roasted almonds. A real winner.

2020 Chateau Dalem ($22 SRP) Location: Fronsac, Bordeaux, France Grapes: 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc.

Tasting notes: This Right Bank Bordeaux wine was Bordeaux classifications new to me when a friend In 1855, Napoleon III shared it recently over the (yes, that Napoleon) asked holidays. I’m glad they did. officials to rank every winery This straightforward wine in Bordeaux. More than a didn’t play the games that century and a half later, those some beautiful but complirankings remain relatively cated Bordeaux wines do at a unchanged. There are five young age. This drama-free Bordeaux classifications, wine didn’t have any barnfrom First Growth (the yard aromas, which I love highest) to Fifth Growth. For and which often indicate the First Growth (or Premier it’s a great age-worthy wine.

Cru), there are only five Instead, this understated, soiconic Bordeaux wineries: phisticated wine tasted great Chateau Latour, Chateau right from the first sip, which Margaux, Chateau Haut-Bri- is often what a lot of us want on, Chateau Lafite Rothschild from a wine, especially SEE WINE, PAGE E9 and Chateau Mouton Roth-

WEEKEND

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Calendar THURSDAY Maker Zone: Thu., 4 p.m. Chicopee Main Library, for kids ages 6-9. Come join in for projects, crafts and experiments, with a focus on STEM. 449 Front St., Chicopee, 413-594-1800.

FRIDAY Hartsbrook’s Cabaret: Fri, 6 p.m. Marigold Theater. For tickets, visit marigoldtheater. com/store/hartsbrookcabaret-jan-2024/. Suggested is $20. 84 Cottage St., Easthampton.

SATURDAY Auto Parts Swap ‘N Sell: Sat.Sun., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern States Exposition, Better Living Center. Admission: $13/day, 12 and under are free with paid adult. 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, 413-737-2443 or thebige.com.

Crestview Country Club presents James Taylor and Simon & Garfunkel Tribute: Sat., 5:45 p.m. Crestview Country Club, with Good Acoustics. Tickets are $60 for dinner and show; $29.50 show only. To purchase tickets, visit https://crestviewcountryclub.ticketleap.com/jtandsgtribute/dates/Jan-20-2024_ at_0545PM, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam, 413-786-2593.

Dancing Dream, The Tribute to ABBA: Sat., 7 p.m. Cultural Center at Eagle Hill. Established in 2009, the New York City-based touring tribute act transports nostalgic audiences back to the happy and groovy times of the ‘70s. $35 adults; $30 students & seniors. 242 Old Petersham Road, Hardwick; 413-477-6746 or thecenterateaglehill.org. ”A Day of Mindfulness Practice”: Sat, 10 a.m. Jones Library.

Spend a day learning a range of mindfulness practices in the Woodbury Room. The day will consist of teaching and practicing various techniques towards a goal of being a more mindful, calm, grounded, and happy person. All are welcome Registration is required for this workshop; visit or call the Jones Library reference desk at 413-259-3096 or send an email to programs@ joneslibrary.org, free. 43 Amity Street, Amherst. 413-256-3090 or joneslibrary.org.

CONTINUES FROM PAGE E8

if we’re busy cooking dinner and hosting guests.

2020 Chateau Haut-Brisson ($29 SRP) Location: Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France Grapes: 90% merlot and 10% cabernet franc.

Tasting notes: I had a good feeling this Right Bank wine from Saint-Emilion would be a good one. Why? Because in many cases, I have found that Saint-Emillion wines strike just the right balance between being powerful and earthy while also having grace and elegance.

This big wine hit all those notes as well as having a long, intense finish that lasted at least half a minute. This is a great wine that will age well for years. Then again, why wait when you can enjoy this truly magnificent wine

Beer CONTINUES FROM PAGE E8

But Nick mentioned one problem with having so many options in one bar.

“It would be hard to control myself and not try them all,” he said, tongue in cheek.

This led me to wonder if there is such a thing as too many choices.

I’m sure we’ve all faced decisions where the options seemed overwhelming and we wished for a narrower field of choices. Sometimes certain details of a decision aren’t that important to us, and we’d just rather not have to deal with them.

With beer, I have seen customers walk into a bar with dozens of beers on tap and look a bit bewildered. Maybe they’re new to craft beer or maybe they’re just casual fans. Now, let’s assume that they know they like IPAs in general, but aren’t overly familiar with all the nuances the style has to offer.

They stare at the beer menu or lineup of tap handles and see four or five

now?

2020 Madame De Beaucaillou ($28 SRP) Location: Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France Grapes: 66% merlot, 24% cabernet sauvignon and 10% petite verdot.

Tasting notes: As I explained at the beginning, I loved all the Bordeaux wines that I tasted last month. But if I had to pick a favorite among the younger Bordeaux wines I tasted recently, this one from Bordeaux’s Left Bank was right near the top. Floral, fragrant and bursting with subtle flavors, this delicate, effortless wine tastes delightful right now. There’s not a single hard edge to this wine – just smooth, silky and absolutely sublime.

Cheers!

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

With beer, I have seen customers walk into a bar with dozens of beers on tap and look a bit bewildered.

Maybe they’re new to craft beer or maybe they’re just casual fans. different IPAs (which isn’t unusual these days). While a lot of beer bars gladly give out samples, Nick winced a little about dealing with this type of situation.

“I can see giving two or three tastes, but not five,” he said.

And even for me, having a surfeit of choices can give me pause. Sometimes it’s just difficult to make up your mind. What if you choose wrong?

Well, the good thing about beer is that you can always choose again. And that’s better than having restricted options, right?

Menu

3 Restaurant Group’s new chef, James “Sid” Cavallo, whose cooking style blends CONTINUES FROM PAGE E6 influences of West Afrion Boston Road in Springcan, French, and Spanish field will be hosting a Kids cuisines.

Winter Cupcake Decorating The dinner, which will event. begin at 6:30 p.m., will cost Youngsters will have a $65, tax and gratuity not chance to be a junior “cake includes. A cash bar will also boss” as they exercise their be available. decorating skills; Uno’s kid’s Call 508-347-2321 for menu will be available. reservations.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling • The Connecticut the restaurant at 413-543Valley Brewing Company 6600. in South Windsor, Conn., is hosting “Make Food Love• On winter days when ly!,” as part of a Super Bowl the flakes are flying and snack-board workshop. the plow trucks are out and The event, which will be about, The Crest Room in held on Tuesday, Feb. 6 West Springfield is offering a starting at 6 p.m., will focus special deal for those work- on creating, step-by-step, a ing to keep the roads clear.

Super Bowl-themed charThis “Snow Day Special” cuterie platter. give plow drivers a 10% Tickets, which are $75 plus discount on food orders on a convenience fee, are availthose “snow days,” during able at Eventbrite.com. which man and machine do Connecticut Valley Brewbattle with the elements. ing answers at 860-644More information on this 2707. offer is available by calling The Crest Room at 413-739Hugh Robert is a faculty 7700. member in Holyoke Community College’s hospitality and • On Jan. 24, Avelliculinary arts program and no in Sturbridge will be has nearly 50 years of restaupresenting a 10-course rant and educational experiCreole Tasting Dinner. The ence. Robert can be reached event celebrates the culionline at OffTheMenuGuy@ nary background of Table aol.com.

NOW ON VIEW

Discover your story through the art and science of animation In collaboration with

Watch the trailer

ART • HISTORY • SCIENCE • SEUSS IN SPRINGFIELD

SpringfieldMuseums.org •

3195123-01

Live Concert and Workshop of Music from Eastern Europe/ The Balkans: Sat, 7:30-10 p.m.

Montague Common Hall, SEE CALENDAR, PAGE E10

Wine

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024 | E9

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E10 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Calendar

upon request by contacting Bruce Moore at 413-525-3072. 87 Maple St., East Longmeadow

CONTINUES FROM PAGE E9

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: Permanent exhibit: Gabrielle Healy Carroll Storytime Programs are held Tues. and Fri. 10:30 a.m.; Sat. 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m., free with admission. Museum hours: Weds.-Fri, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun, noon-5 p.m. $6, $9, $22.50 for a family of four. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst or carlemuseum.org.

Workshop at 7 p.m., $15-$20 suggested donation, kids free, no one turned away. 34 Main St., Montague.

Youth Social Justice Art Workshops: Sat., UMass Amherst Center at Tower Square. Visit artforthesoulgallery.com for more details on specific workshop times. All workshops in this series are free, 1500 Main St., Springfield.

Historic Deerfield: Exhibit: “Garden of Hearts: Madeline Yale Wynne & Deerfield’s Arts and Crafts Movement. Through March 3. 80 Old Main St., Deerfield or historic-deerfield.org.

SUNDAY Auto Parts Swap ‘N Sell: See Saturday listing Sunday Worship Service: Sun, 10 a.m. United Congregational Church of Holyoke. Arrive 15 minutes earlier to join us for a “hymn sing”. Join after worship for fellowship, conversation, coffee and snacks. 300 Appleton St., Holyoke; 413-532-1483 or uccholyoke.org.

Historic Northampton Museum and Education: Permanent exhibit. Hours: Wed.-Sun. noon-5 p.m. $5 suggested donation, 46 Bridge St., Northampton or historic-northampton.org.

PLAYING AT THE MAJESTIC

Quadrangle

‘The Importance of Being Earnest’

George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum: Permanent exhibit: “Ancient Treasures,” a display of artifacts from ancient China, Greece, Rome and Egypt. On the first Wed. of every month through the end of 2026, admission to the Springfield Museums is free. For more information, visit springfieldmuseums.org.

The Majestic Theater in West Springfield is currently staging the comedy “The Importance of Being Earnest” through Feb. 11. This scene features actors, from left, Peter Evangelista and Lisa Abend. Tickets range from $31 to $35 and can be purchased by visiting or calling the box office at 413-747-7797. (PHOTO BY KAIT RANKINS)

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “Latinos en Springfield, Presente y Pasado / Latinos in Springfield Past and Present,” through March 3. Permanent exhibit: More than two dozen Indian motorcycles and related memorabilia.

making, and more! The quirky cast of characters and hands-on interactive exhibits break down the process step-by-step to reveal how animated features are created. “Animationland” empowers visitors of all ages to experiment, learn, and tell their own stories through animation. “Ways of My Ancestors: We are Nipmuc.

We are the Freshwater People,” through Feb. 25. Permanent exhibit: State-of-the-art Zeiss Projector and updated International Space Station exhibit.

11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Museums

Amelia Park Children’s Museum: Permanent exhibit: Hands-on activities and creative exhibits, including the Hurricane Simulator. Hours: Mon. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thu.-Sun., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Open for groups Tues. and Wed. Sign up online for a play session at ameliaparkmuseum.

Michele and Donald D’Amour org. $8 adults; $8 children (12 Museum of Fine Arts: “A Gathmonths and older); $4 grandparThe Amazing World of Dr. Seuss ents/seniors (60+); military perering: Works from Contemporary Museum: Permanent exhibit.

Black American Ceramic Artists,” sonnel and teachers receive a 10% First-floor exhibition provides through March 31. Museum a la discount off the price of regular Carte: Jan. 18, 12:15 p.m. “The Solar opportunities to explore new admission; members and infants sounds and vocabulary, play rhym- free. 29 South Broad St., Westfield Eclipse Experience,” $4, free for members. On April 8, a total solar ing games, invent stories, and or ameliaparkmuseum.org. engage in activities that encourage eclipse will be visible from many Anchor House of Artists: Rotating areas in North America. Join Rich- teamwork and creative thinking, art exhibits, self-staged by fine with interactive three-dimensional ard Sanderson for a discussion regional talents. The best leastexhibits; second floor contains Geiof the wonder of solar eclipses. known gallery in the Pioneer sel’s personal memorabilia. Timed Find out what to expect and learn Valley. Free public receptions on tickets required. For reservations, about safe, optimal ways to view the second Fri. of the month from the eclipse in Western Massachu- visit springfieldmuseums.org.

5-8 p.m. For more information, setts and beyond.

Quadrangle admission - $25 for email artists@anchorhouseartists. adults, $16.50 for seniors (60+) and Springfield Science Museum: org, visit anchorhouseartists.org, college students with ID, $13 for chil“Animationland,” through May 5. or call 413-588-4337. The New dren ages 3-17; free to children under Dive into the world of storytellEngland Visonary Artists Museum age 3 and members, Springfield ing and channel your creativity is seeking curator projects in the residents are free with proof of resito develop your own animated 2024 season. Preferred projects dency. Welcome Center and Museum (talk and exhibit) present selfproduction using storyboarding, store. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. sketching, stop-motion movie trained New England artists living

or deceased who work outside the academic tradition. For more information, visit the website to apply at neva-museum.org, email vision@neva-museum.org, or call 413-588-4337. 518 Pleasant St., Northampton Children’s Museum at Holyoke: Permanent exhibit: Amazing world of learning and play includes the Wiggle and Wash/Vet Clinic, a toddler merry-go-round and a STEM-based cash register for kids.

Hours: Tues.-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

Closed Mondays. In the event of severe weather conditions, check Facebook or Instagram, or local TV Station 22 for closures. Admission: Children & adults $8; seniors (62+) $5; children under 1 and members free. 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or childrensmuseumholyoke.org.

East Longmeadow Historical Commission Museum: Permanent exhibit: Featured at the museum are East Longmeadow artifacts pertaining to the quarries, local Native Americans, period clothing, the railroad system, and much more. Hours: 1-3 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month, Sept - June, weather permitting. New exhibits and events are planned.

All are welcomed and admittance is free. Special tours are available

Holyoke Heritage State Park: “Forest, Field, and Flower,” through Feb. 27. “Intimate landscapes from the Connecticut River Valley to Cape Cod,” an exhibit of paintings

by Holyoke resident Russell Steven Powell. Free. Permanent exhibit.

Preserving the history and culture of Holyoke through permanent exhibits on the paper and textile industry. Featuring a scale model of Mountain Park. Visitor Center open Tues.-Sun, noon-4 p.m.

Closed Mondays. Check website for programs and tours. mass. gov/locations/holyoke-heritage-state-park. Free. 221 Appleton St., Holyoke, 413-534-1723.

Josiah Day House: Permanent exhibit: Featuring guided tours, artifacts, furniture, clothing and documents from 1754-1902. call for open house schedule and individual tours. $3, $1 children 6-12, free for members. 70 Park St., West Springfield, 413-734-8322.

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 amherst.edu.

Norman Rockwell Museum: Permanent exhibit: Gallery. Hours: Thurs.-Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Tues. and Wed. Advance tickets purchase required. $20 adults; $18 seniors, AAA, retire military; $10 college students, free children ages 18 and under, members and active military. “Norman Rockwell: Winter Wonderland.” Through Feb.25. “Between Worlds: The Art and Design of Leo Lionni.” Through May 27. 9 Route 183, Stockbridge or www. nrm.org.

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE E11

WEEKEND

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Calendar

Titanic Museum: Permanent exhibit: Exhibits from the collection of the International Titanic Historical CONTINUES FROM PAGE E10 Society. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $4, $2 Old Sturbridge Village: “For the children and students. 208 Main Purpose of Illumination.” Learn how St., Indian Orchard or titanic1.org.

New Englanders needed, used, and University Museum of Contemcreated artificial lighting methods porary Art - Fine Arts Center: in the 1830s and see first-hand artifacts from the era. Winter hours Permanent exhibit. The University Museum is open through May 1; at OSV, through Feb. 18, Fri.-Sun., Tue.-Fri., 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat.9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Feb. 21-March Sun., noon–4 p.m.; and first Thurs31, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, visit osv.org. Route 20, days until 8 p.m. Closed Mondays, holidays, and academic breaks.

Sturbridge.

Check for snow days at umass.

Pan African Historical Museum edu/closing/. 151 Presidents Drive, USA: Permanent exhibit: ExhibiAmherst tions by local artists. Hours: Tues.Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Fri. noon-4 p.m. Free. 1500 Main Age Museum: Permanent exhibit: St., Springfield, 413-733-1823.

Guided tours of the first and second Polish Center of Discovery and floors. Weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3 Learning: Permanent exhibit: a p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to living monument safeguarding his- 4 p.m. Self-guided tours are on the torical objects representative of the hour with the last self-guided tour material culture of the Polish peoweekdays at 2 p.m. and weekends ple in America. Galleries include at 3 p.m. Call to reserve at 413-637“Coming to America”; “At Home in 3206. Admission is $18 adults, $17 America”; “Folk Art”; “History.” The seniors (65+), $10 students with ID, Polish Center is open to the public $7 children 5-17, and free children 4 daily, Mon.-Fri, 1-5 p.m., except for and younger. 104 Walker St., Lenox inclement weather and holidays. or gildedage.org.

Other times may be scheduled Volleyball Hall of Fame: Perby appointment. $5 donation. 33 manent exhibit. 444 Dwight St., South St., Chicopee or polishcenHolyoke or volleyhall.org. ter.net.

Smith College Museum of Art: Permanent exhibits: “Ancient World Gallery, Beyond the Museum: Art on Smith’s Campus.” Hours: Tues.Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Mondays and major holidays. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) is free to all. Elm Street at Bedford Terrace, Northampton or scma. smith.edu.

Springfield Armory National Historic Site: Ranger-led interpretive programs offered in the museum in the afternoon. Junior Ranger programs conducted frequently each day. Wed.-Sun, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 1 Armory Square, Springfield or nps. gov/spar.

Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum: Permanent exhibit: Daniel Anthony’s Store, The Legacy Room, The Birthing Room, The Portrait Gallery. Winter Hours: Fri.-Sun, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from Oct. 10 through May 26. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 students and children 6-17, free for children under 6 and NARM/ NEMA/ROAM members, 67 East Road, Adams or susanbanthonybirthplace.com.

West Springfield Town Museum: Permanent exhibit. The museum is open to the public every first Sat. of the month from 1-3 p.m.

Items on display include hand-built models of early town buildings and other structures, local artifacts and historic items from the Civil war, Mittineague Park and Bear Hole area, as well as other local historic items and displays. 55 Altamont Ave., West Springfield

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, 48 for seniors, $6 for students and free to children under 12 and WHS members. Visitors are free to browse the museums and exhibit galleries at no charge. 96 Palisade Ave., Windsor or windsorhistoricalsociety.org.

Wistariahurst Museum: “Victory Theatre WPA Murals” exhibition, through March 2024. Permanent exhibit: Gardens and Grounds open The Emily Dickinson Museum: daily from dawn to dusk. Carriage Homestead and Evergreens: PerHouse and gift shop open Mon.-Fri. manent exhibit. Open Wed.-Sun. 10 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For information a.m.- 5 p.m. Admission to the muabout house tours, group tours and seum is by guided tour, for which upcoming events visit wistariaadvance-purchased timed tickets hurst.org. $7 Holyoke residents; $5 are required. Visit EmilyDickinsseniors; $5 youth (under 18); free onMuseum.org to purchase your museum members, active military tickets and for more information. and family members. 238 Cabot 280 Main St., Amherst.

St., Holyoke.

Yiddish Book Center: “Yiddish: A Global Culture.” Free. Permanent exhibit, “A Velt mit veltelekh: The Worlds of Jewish Culture.” The center is open on Thu., Fri., Sun. and Mon. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Shabbos (Saturday) and Jewish and legal holidays. $8 adults, $6 seniors, free for members, students and children. 1021 West St., Amherst or yiddishbookcenter.org.

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. 126 Main St., Northampton or apearts.org.

Amherst Town Hall: Photographs

by Amherst photographer James H. Barnhill will be exhibited in the Amherst Town Hall Gallery through Jan. 31. Free admission, amherstma.gov/art. 4 Boltwood Ave., Amherst Amy H. Carberry Fine Arts Gallery: Permanent exhibit. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. First floor of building 28. 1 Armory Square, Springfield, 413-755-5258.

Eastworks: Robert Floyd Photo Gallery/Learning Center Presents.

“Urbanscapes,” a contest/exhibit at E-Media through Jan. 31. An exhibit of 16 artworks from exhibitors Barb Krawczyk, Dan Milberg, MJ Tash, Rosemary Polletta, and Tara Bronner. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-5 p.m. 116 Pleasant St.Suite 102, Easthampton Forbes Library: Forbes Staff Art Show, through Jan. 30. This exhibit showcases the creative endeavors of Forbes Library talented staff ranging from digital to sculpture, textile to watercolor and so much more. 20 West St., Northampton or forbeslibrary.org.

Gallery A3 Amherst Art Alliance: In Residence: Art for the Soul Gallery Artists, through Jan. 27. Art Forum online Jan. 18, 7:30 p.m., to register visit gallerya3.com. Hours: Thu.-Sun., 2-7 p.m. 28 Amity St., Amherst, 413-256-4250.

Hope and Feathers Framing and Gallery: “A Becker’s Dozen,” prints

by Fred Becker and Jean Morrison Becker, through Jan. 29. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

319 Main St., Amherst or hopeandfeathersframing.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, 413-543-3321.

Jasper Rand Art Museum: Permanent exhibit. Hours: Mon.-Thurs.

8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 6 Elm St., Westfield or

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024 | E11

westath.org.

Northampton Center for the Arts: “A Sense of Place: An Exhibition of Seven Printmakers.” Presented

by A.P.E. Gallery. Through Jan. 28.

Hours: Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and during public events at 33 Hawley. A.P.E. presents “Making Ground, Live.” Jan. 19-20, 7 p.m. A celebration of the reopening of the Workroom. Events are free with donations accepted, all donations will go toward continuing to upgrade the Workroom’s technical systems.

33 Hawley St., Northampton or nohoarts.org.

Taber Art Gallery: “Geo-Spec: Cultural Introspection Wealth” by Raishad J. Glover, through March 20. Visual Art & Sustainability Design Panel Discussion, March 6, 11 a.m. at the Learning Collaborative. 303 Homestead Ave., Holyoke, 413-552-2614.

Trinity United Methodist Church: Trinity Community Gallery: LESN101, through Jan. 30. Gallery hours: Sun. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. and weekdays by appointment. Free admission. Call 413-218-7391 for more information. 361 Sumner Ave., Springfield.

Outdoors

recommended. Bring water and a snack. Animals in Winter. Ongoing, Sun. through April, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

For all ages. Self-guided activity. explore how animals and birds adapt to the changing seasons.

Discover which animals hibernate, migrate, or change appearance.

Chose a story book, craft activity, or a take home project. Nature Scavenger Hunt. Ongoing, Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For children and families. Self-guided adventurous quests invited you to search for natural treasures along part trails and inside the Visitor Center. There are several seek and find scavenger hunts for different age and skill levels. Scavenger hunts are available at the Visitor Center. Winter Wonderland Activity Day. Jan. 21, Feb. 18, 1-3 p.m. For all ages. Join in for a fun-packed time of winter activities. Winter crafts, scavenger hunts, board games, and sledding if snow permits. Bring your own sled if you have one. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough Natural Bridge State Park: Visitors Center exhibits daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. yearround; explore the park story through displays, artifacts and scavenger hunts. $2 parking fee; programs are free. 107 McAuley Road, North Adams

Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary: Norcross Wildlife Winter Lectures.

Great Falls Discovery Center: Jan. 20, 1-2 p.m. “Introduction to Snowy Indoor Storywalks. Through Foraging” with Rachel Goclawski.

Jan. 25 “Under the Snow,” by Registration is required and space Melissa Stewart. Jan. 26-Feb. 17: is limited. Call 413-245-1353 or “Tracks in the Snow,” by Wong email info@norcrosswildlife.org.

Herbert Yee. Explore the lives of Takes place in the upstairs public active and resting winter wildlife. program room, accessible at grade For ages 3 and up, accompanied from the main parking lot. 30 Peck by an adult. Meet at the welcome Road, Wales desk. Nice & Easy Walks. Jan. 19, Northfield Mountain: Kid’s Nature & 26 1-2 p.m., Main Entrance. EasyArt with Artist, Deborah Bazer. paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, Jan. 20, 10 a.m.-noon. Classes are along the Canalside Rail Trail or limited to 10 children per class. the downtown Turners Falls, geared monthly programs take place inside for seniors, but open to all. Enjoy and outside, so dress approprinatural and local history highlights ately for the weather. Registration along the way. Dress for winter required. 99 Millers Falls Road, weather, sturdy footwear, and bring Northfield or firstlightpower.com/ water. Inclement weather cancels. northfield.

Friday Jan. 26 topic is the John Russell Cutlery Factory for Food, Farms, and Factories series. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls or greatfallsma.org.

Forest Park Winter Farmers MarMt. Greylock State Reservation: Visitor Center: Open daily, 9 a.m.-4 ket: Returns to the Monkey House, 200 Trafton Road. Saturdays, 10 p.m. Interpretive exhibits explore a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 20, Feb. 3 & 17, the park story through artifacts March 2, 16 & 30; April 13 & 27. and displays. Trail maps, hike Sumner Avenue, Springfield guidance, 13-minute orientation

Markets

film, bathrooms, drinking water available. Wheelchair accessible.

Nice & Easy Trail Hike. Jan. 19 Feb. 2, 16 March 1, 15, 1-3 p.m. Easypaced, one to 3-mile guided hikes geared toward seniors, but open to all ages. Dress appropriately for winter weather. Trails may be snowy or icy. Hiking poles and traction devices (or snowshoes)

Chicopee Winter Farmers Market: RiverMills Center, Thu., 3-6 p.m.

Jan. 18. 5 West Main St., Chicopee The Republican is not responsible for unannounced schedule changes.

Items should be mailed to Entertainment Guide, The Republican, P.O. Box 1329, Springfield, MA 01102-1329, emailed to pmastriano@repub.com or submitted to masslive.com/myevent

WEEKEND

E12 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Players CONTINUES FROM PAGE E4

Come see us for award winning sandwiches, finger foods and more...

perfect for the big games! www.frigofoods.com 90 William Street, Springfield • 732-5428 159 Shaker Rd, East Longmeadow • 525-9400

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learn their son’s whereabouts after a traffic stop incident.

The play touches on themes of race, bias, family, identity, and love.

“It’s about a Black woman who’s son didn’t come home one night. She called the police and they told her that there was an incident - and that was it,” explained Sarah Stephens, publicity manager for the Opera House Players.

The mother, Kendra, heads to the police station, which is where the play takes place.

“The beginning of the show is just showing her interactions with a young, white male police officer. He is not able to share any information and she is obviously very distressed because her teenage son didn’t come home,” Stephens said.

“He’s trying to be sympathetic but it just comes off as misplaced. He tells the mom ‘oh, I have kids too’ and she’s like ‘okay, are they 6-foot Black man?’”

Eventually, her husband Scott gets to the police station - and as a contrast, he’s white and he works for the FBI. “We see how he’s treated by the police versus her,” Stephens added.

The bulk of the play will show interactions between the two parents. “They’re newly separated, so things are kind of tense, and they’re even more tense because of the situation that they’re in,” Stephens said.

Towards the end of the play, a more senior officer enters and unlike the first officer, he is an older Black man.

“American Son” is one act, an hour and a half long, and has no intermissions. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available for $15 adults and $12 for seniors, students, and children under 12.

They can be purchased online at operahouseplayers.org/ tickets or at the door before each show.

“It’s an intense drama for sure, a lot of arguing,” Stephens said of “American Son,” adding that the play is “very

timely.”

“It was a little bit ahead of its time,” she explained, noting that “American Son” was originally on Broadway in 2019, and some critics tore it apart.

“Obviously, there have been issues with police brutality for a very long time, but this came out before 2020, so I think it would have been received a little bit differently after George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement,” Stephens said.

“American Son” is being staged at 100 High St., the home of the Opera House Players’ future theater space.

In 2018, the Opera House Players moved from Broadbrook, Connecticut back to their original home of Enfield.

In 2022, the group officially purchased the building at 100 High St., but “it’s not a permanent performance space yet,” Stephens said.

As “American Son” only has four characters, the smaller venue at 100 High St. was the perfect fit to help get people into the new building.

“We are currently fundraising to renovate it into a state of the art theater,” Stephens added.

While the fundraiser is not currently in the public phase, Stephens encourages people to stay up to date with the Opera House Players online at operahouseplayers.org.

People can subscribe to the theater’s email newsletter on their website, or they can follow the Opera House Players on Facebook or Instagram.

“We’ve been here for 56 years and a lot of people still don’t know about us,” Stephens said. “And we really pride ourselves on the quality of our productions. We try to get as close to Broadway as we can with our musicals.”

And, for those that might be in the mood for a more light-hearted musical after seeing “American Son,” the Opera House Players will be staging “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder” in February at the Enfield Annex.

“We are right on the border — we’re 10 minutes from Longmeadow, right off I-91.

We’re hoping to get more Western Mass. patrons in.”

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM