ALL THAT JAZZ
Northampton Jazz Festival to welcome 100 musicians over 2 days. Page D2
100 jazz musicians to play city — and most events are free
NORTHAMPTON JAZZ FEST ISN’T MISSING A BEAT
By K eith O ’C onnor Special to The Republican
You know your jazz festival isn’t “missing a beat” when Downbeat Magazine — considered by many as the best jazz magazine in the world — pays attention to you.
“Mention the word ‘festival’ to jazz fans and chances are they’ll first think of legendary annual events at Newport, Monterey, Chicago, Detroit, New Orleans, Montreal or Montreux. However, quality jazz festivals take place in a variety of lesser-known locales as well. Although these festivals are smaller in scale, they can pack plenty of quality musicianship into intimate, comfortable surroundings — and create memorable experiences for jazz aficionados,” wrote Terry Perkins in the introduction to her article entitled “Northampton Jazz Festival: Small Town, Big Jazz Heart.”
“It was a beautiful gift that just dropped out of the sky,” said Ruth Griggs, president of the board of the Northampton Jazz Festival, about the article.
“Small Town, Big Jazz Heart” can easily describe this weekend’s festival, which will bring 100 musicians to 20 downtown venues in Northampton during the two-day event. It all begins Friday at 4:30 p.m. with the free Jazz Strut, followed on Saturday by free Jazz Fest Day, which ends at 7:30 p.m. with the festival’s only ticketed event at the Academy of Music featuring New York Voices.
What began as a college vocal ensemble at Ithaca College in upstate New York has evolved into a Grammy-winning quartet with more than 10 acclaimed albums. Formed in 1987, New York Voices — Peter Eldridge, Lauren Kinhan, Darmon
Grammy-winning quartet New York Voices will headline this year's Northampton Jazz Festival at the Academy of Music. SEE JAZZ, PAGE D3
Above, from left, Miki Yamanaka and Zaccai Curtis Cubop Lives! are among the musicians playing this weekend’s Northampton Jazz Festival. At right, Northampton Jazz Festival Board
President Ruth Griggs is pictured during last year’s festival.
Meader, and Kim Nazarian — has enchanted audiences worldwide, collaborating with jazz greats like the Count Basie Orchestra, Paquito D’Rivera, and the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band.
“This is going to be a big, wonderfully joyous concert from a group who has been singing together for 38 years and are now on what they are calling The Grand Finale tour through 2026. So, this may be your last chance to hear them before they go their separate ways,” Griggs said.
Tickets, available online at aomtheatre.com, range in price from $20 to $60.
The free festivities begin on Friday when the Jazz Strut steps off. It will run from 4:30 p.m. to midnight, starting at Pulaski Park with the Amherst Jazz Orchestra. Among the other local and regional musicians performing at breweries, bars and restaurants will be:
• 5:30 to 8 p.m. — Jimmy Gavagan Trio at Northampton Brewery; Bruce Kelley Trio at Spoleto; and Stephen Page Trio at Amber Lane;
• 7:30 to 10 p.m. — Beau Sasser Trio at GOMBO; Scott Sasnecki at Caminito; Ethel Lee Trio at Eastside Grill; and The Valley Moonstompers at Progression Brewing Co.;
• 10 p.m. to midnight — The Late Night Jam Session closes it out at Toasted Owl led by Jahian Cooper-Monize with special guest Miki Yamanaka.
The full lineup of free daytime festival performances on Jazz Fest Day — Saturday, Sept. 27 — features:
• 11 a.m. — “Ask Me About Jazz!,” an interactive concert for elementary school children led by drummer Richie Barshay, with clarinetist Evan Arntzen, pianist Zacchai Curtis, and bassist Wes Brown, at Northampton Center for the Arts (pre-registration required);
• 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.
— Miki Yamanaka performs two solo piano concerts at CLICK Workspace;
• Noon — Expandable Brass Band will march from
“Jazz is an important type of music with a history that is uniquely American, with a lot of improvisation, born out of African American people, slave people, to mainstream American culture.”
RICHIE BARSHAY
Northampton Center for the Arts to Pulaski Park;
• Noon and 1:20 p.m. — Stacy Dillard Trio will perform two sets at The Parlor Room;
• 12:45 p.m. — Valley Free Radio host Jack Frisch will broadcast a special edition of his “The Downbeat” radio show live in Pulaski Park;
• 1 p.m. — Karrin Allyson Quartet will perform at Unitarian Society of Northampton;
• 2 p.m. — Mike LeDonne’s Groover Trio featuring drummer Joe Farnsworth and guitarist Dave Stryker will play at Iron Horse Music Hall;
• 2:15 p.m. — UMass Vocal Jazz Ensemble & Friends will play at Pulaski Park;
• 3:30 p.m. — Tone Forest with pianist Miro Sprague,
bassist Marty Jaffe and guitarist Jason Ennis will perform at Edwards Church;
• 4 p.m. — Grammy award winner Zaccai Curtis will play the Unitarian Society of Northampton;
• 5:15 p.m. — Congabop
will close out the day’s free concerts at Pulaski Park.
“Ask Me About Jazz!,” which kicks off Saturday’s lineup, is an educational program designed to introduce elementary school-aged children to the world of jazz music through
hands-on learning and interactive performance. Created as part of the Northampton Jazz Festival’s commitment to cultural education and accessibility, the innovative musical experience is deigned to transform young listeners into active participants in the jazz tradition.
“Our goal is to expose them to professional musicians who specialize in jazz, while we play through somewhat of a chronological history of jazz music and talk a little bit of the history behind the songs,” said Richie Barshay, who will lead the quartet in performing at the event.
“Jazz is an important type of music with a history that is uniquely American, with a lot of improvisation, born out of African American people, slave people, to mainstream American culture,” he added.
Barshay noted about 100 people — both children and their adult parents or guardians — attended last year’s Ask Me About Jazz! presentation.
The Northampton Jazz Festival received additional notoriety in April when Griggs was named among 29 people nationwide to receive recognition from the Jazz Journalists Association honoring “activists, advocates, altruists,
Richie Barshay will lead the "Ask Me About Jazz!" workshop as part of this weekend's Northampton Jazz Festival. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)
ENJOY A TASTE OF IRELAND
The critically acclaimed "A Taste of Ireland — The Irish Music & Dance Sensation," features a cast of world champion Irish dancers. Seen here is "Fincencore," featuring Cian Walsh and the ensemble. (CHRIS HARDY)
‘A Taste of Ireland — The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’ will be staged at
Springfield Symphony Hall
By K eith O ’C onnor Special to The Republican
SPRINGFIELD — If you missed seeing “Riverdance” or “Lord of the Rings,” then you might want to consider seeing the best of both worlds with “A Taste of Ireland — The Irish Music & Dance Sensation.”
The internationally acclaimed production, coming to Springfield Symphony Hall on Saturday, combines traditional Irish music with a modern twist, featuring fastpaced dance performances and vibrant storytelling.
Showtime is 7:30 p.m.
The cast features stars from “Lord of the Dance” and “Riverdance” as well as other world champions and live musicians, to transport audiences through the heart and soul of Ireland’s culture and history.
Performers include twotime world champion Gavin Shevlin, formerly of “Lord of the Dance” and “Riverdance”; world champion Callum O’Neill, formerly of “Riverdance”; world champion runner-up Cian Walsh; as well as fiddle player Megan
of
McGinley, Patrick O’Keeffe Young Musician of the Year who is featured in the film “TRAD” and formerly of “Lord of the Dance”; among other world-class Irish dancers and performers.
“A Taste of Ireland — The Irish Music & Dance Sensation” is directed and produced by Brent Pace of “This is Not a Happy Room” from
Off West End and “A Taste of Ireland” from off-Broadway, and co-directed and produced by Ceili Moore, world champion “Riverdance” and “Lord of the Dance” artist, and features musical direction by Charlie Galloway of “Talisk.”
“This show offers audiences an adventure through the heart and soul of Ireland,
“This show offers audiences an adventure through the heart and soul of Ireland, where every beat of music and every step of Irish dance shares a captivating journey.”
Press statement from Brent Pace, director and producer of ‘A Taste of Ireland’ SEE ‘IRELAND’, PAGE D8
where every beat of music and every step of Irish dance shares a captivating journey,” Pace said in a press release about the show. Liam Fitzgerald, one of several lead dancers in the
Instant Issues
The Reagan Doctrine: Lessons for Today
Thursday, October 9 · 12:00 – 1:00pm 1350 Main Street, 9th Floor Gallery
Featuring Ambassador Frank Lavin Register at wacwestma.org or scan QR Code
COST
Council Members: $10.00 | $25.00 (includes lunch) Non-members: $15.00 | $30.00 (includes lunch)
RSVP by Monday, October 6 for lunch
Special Thanks To NAI/Plotkin
For more information, call 413-733-0110 or email info@wacwestma.org.
"Hurling," featuring Mitchell O'Hara and Brittany Pymm, is part of the show "A Taste
Ireland," coming to Springfield Symphony Hall on Saturday. (CHRIS HARDY PHOTO)
NIGHTCLUBS
THURSDAY
The Drake: Stop Light Observations — with Almost A.M. and Jack Fortune. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst
Uno Chicago Grill: Country Music. 820 W. Columbus Ave., Springfield
FRIDAY
East Mountain Country Club: Dukes of Hazardville Band. 1458 E. Mountain Road, Westfield
MGM Springfield: MGM Roar Comedy Club: Will Burkart. 1 MGM Way, Springfield
The Drake: Yaima with Camp Saint Helene. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst
The Meeting House: Dave Brinnel. 827 Williams St., Longmeadow
Theodores': Night Train. 201 Worthington St., Springfield
Uno Chicago Grill: Roots, Blues and Rock. 820 W. Columbus Ave., Springfield
West Springfield's Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Johnny BeBop. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield
SATURDAY
MGM Springfield: MGM Roar Comedy Club: Will Burkart. 1 MGM Way, Springfield
The Drake: Marc Ribot: Map of a Blue City (Record Release). 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst
Theodores': Down the Alley. 201 Worthington St., Springfield
Uno Chicago Grill: Modern, Contemporary Rock. 820 W. Columbus Ave., Springfield
West Springfield's Irish House Restaurant & Pub: The Healys. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield
SUNDAY
Uno Chicago Grill: Jazz. 820 W. Columbus Ave., Springfield
MONDAY
Uno Chicago Grill: 50% off individual deep dish pizza (dine in only). 820 W.Columbus Ave., Springfield
TUESDAY
Academy of Music Theatre: Double bill: Chris Moyse, singer-songwriter & Floyds Row. 274 Main St., Northampton
Local pianist Stephen Page to lead trio at Jazz Festival
FOR LOCAL PIANIST
Stephen Page, the Northampton Jazz Festival serves the community both artistically and culturally.
“Festivals like this are important so that people experience the vitality of jazz music. It transforms everyday reality into a creative form of conversation,” he said in a recent interview with The Republican.
At the same time, he added that players and listeners are bridging past histories of jazz masters in the context of their era’s challenges to those of our own in the present time.
Local pianist Stephen Page will lead a trio during the Northampton Jazz Festival.
THE BIG E BAKED POTATO FACE-OFF
The Maine baked potato on the left versus the Danny's Smokehouse from the Connecticut building baked potato at The Big E in West Springfield, which runs through Sept. 28 at the Eastern States Exposition.
CT’s $22 ‘Carb Commander’ vs. Maine’s Potato King
“This makes for a democratic process, giving each player a voice for their ideas, in a supportive and open environment. In this way, the music unifies and
BY Sebastian R estrepo SRestrepo@masslive.com
The Big E in West Springfield is the annual culinary manifestation of all things deep-fried and nostalgic. For 17 days, vendors do their best to tempt you with all things edible. MassLive’s own Nick O’Malley cheats death every year to produce a guide of all things food at this enormous
fair. There are also animals and rides, but the subject matter contained herein will focus on a matter of critical significance: Which baked potato is the best?
Our social media posts were rife with opposing comments from our 2024 venture into the Big E when we sent reporter Charlie McKenna to try the Maine Baked potato. His assessment of a “7.5-8 (out of 10), it’s pretty good,” caused immediate dissension.
aiders and abettors of jazz” across the United States.
The Northampton Jazz Festival brings over 2,000 visitors to Northampton, creating an uplifting, inclusive experience for those attending.
“Our mission is to promote live jazz among all generations, of course, but we also aim to bring visitors
and vibrancy to downtown Northampton, supporting merchants and establishments. We don’t bring in food trucks or vendors. We encourage folks to just walk across the street if they want a bite to eat or a cup of coffee. It’s all right here at their fingertips,” Griggs wrote in news release about the festival.
For more information about this weekend’s schedule, visit northamptonjazzfest.org or email info@ northamptonjazzfest.org. Jazz CONTINUES FROM PAGE D3
South Hadley haunted attraction marks 35 years of Halloween scares
FEAR ON THE FARM
By K eith O ’C onnor Special to The Republican
SOUTH HADLEY
— He’s got a “license to chill.”
In 1991, Don McCray, founder of McCray Farm, gave a 23-year-old kid from Holyoke the opportunity to see his dream come true.
“I told him that I wanted to create an outdoor haunt for Halloween. And he said, ‘I admire your enthusiasm. Let’s talk about it,’” said Dan Augusto, who is the mastermind behind South Hadley’s Fear on the Farm.
Now, 35 years later, what began as a simple attraction called the Monster Mash Haunted Hayride at McCray’s Farm in South Hadley has morphed into a professionally produced “scare fest” attended by haunt hunters from throughout Western Massachusetts and beyond.
Today, Fear on the Farm begins with an unsuspecting haunted hayride with visions of creepy souls who want to derail your ride, as well as two additional walk-through experiences not for the faint of heart: DON (Diagnostic, Operations, Nexus) Genetic Research Facility and Massacre Manor.
“I am blessed to have the greatest crew. We start building and preparing for Fear on
the Farm in early July. Every year me and the crew, who I affectionately call the ‘farm family crew’ after all these years, sacrifice our weekends in the summer to get everything prepared by opening
he said.
New animatronics await guests, and some areas have been gutted to include more winding corridors and hidden spots for the actors to jump out and scare people.
“The haunts [previously] had some large open scenes and people would just run through and not experience the full thrills awaiting them. We’ve taken care of that now,” Augusto said.
Masks, costumes and props used in Fear on the Farm are not from your average store selling Halloween supplies. Even before starting to buildout Fear on the Farm in
“There are always new surprises on the hayride, but the biggest changes can be found in our haunted houses where, once again, we are bringing even more scares.”
day in September,” Augusto said about a staff that numbers nearly 100.
“The toughest job is to get the doors open for the public,” he added, explaining that the workers who transform into the farm’s ghouls, ghosts and zombies “don’t need a lot of time to rehearse. They’ve been doing this for years. I’m giving them a voice, and I think it is actually therapeutic for them.”
Augusto noted they have been “hard at work” adding some new features for this year.
“There are always new surprises on the hayride, but the biggest changes can be found in our haunted houses where, once again, we are bringing even more scares,”
TUESDAY
Chicopee Elks #1849
431 Granby Road, Chicopee 413-592-1849
Bingo Tuesday
Doors Open at 4PM
2 Progressive Jackpots
6:15PM Early Bird
6:20PM Start
Min. Entry Package $15
Open Seating
2 Halls for Players
Handicap Restroom 1st Floor
WEDNESDAY
Polish American Citizens Club 355 East Street, Ludlow, 583-6385
Bingo Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm
Doors Open at 4pm. Minimum Admission $50
1 - 1199 Progressive Betty Boop 50/50 Prize $900
2 - $500 Cover Alls
3 - $400 Special Games All
THURSDAY
Fairview Knights of Columbus 1599 Memorial Drive, Chicopee (413) 532-2011
DOORS OPEN 4:30PM MASKS OPTIONAL Progressive Jackpot 6:15pm Early Bird 6:20pm Start
Electronic Bingo Aval. Snack Bar, Open Seating, Handicap Restrooms
Min. Entry Package $15
Spooky scenes from Fear on the Farm at McCray’s Farm in South Hadley. (SUBMITTED / MCCRAYS FARM)
DAN AUGUSTO
July, Augusto visits one of a number of National Haunters Conventions.
“If you have a major haunting event like ours, and you don’t attend the convention, then you don’t have the newest and best on the professional market for your attraction. When talking with vendors, you’re getting a taste of the industry for the latest trends and what are the next best things to help bring your attraction to life. The industry is always coming up with better, more realistic costuming and props that look amazingly real,” Augusto said.
Prior to beginning your travels through the path to heart-pounding scares on the hayride and haunted houses, and afterwards as
well, the Monster Miday provides a more calming area to relax and enjoy a beer or glass of wine with friends, enjoy a doughnut or two, or grab a bag of kettle corn. Visitors will also find plenty of opportunities for selfies and other photos alongside some of the talented actors and props for background.
McCray’s Country Creamery also will be open serving ice cream, snacks and beverages. Be sure to read the warnings and disclaimers on fearonthefarm.com before
leaving home. Among the warnings note that: “Patrons will experience intense lighting and audio effects, strobes, fog, low visibility, and overall, a physically demanding environment. Do not attend if you are pregnant, claustrophobic, asthmatic, prone to seizures and have respiratory or heart issues.”
Yikes.
And most importantly: “Do not touch us and we will not touch you.” Fear on the Farm, after opening day this
Jordan Peele’s ‘Him’ delves into Faustian bargains
Most importantly: “Do not touch us and we will not touch you.”
Saturday — it is not open on Sunday the first weekend — runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday beginning Oct. 3. Tickets are available online or onsite each day beginning at 6:30 p.m. and are $30 general admission. A $55 fast pass to skip to the front of the line is available online only. Opening day is “Customer Appreciation Night” in honor of the attraction’s 35th anniversary, with general admission tickets priced at $25 and the fast pass at $35. Attractions open nightly at 7 p.m. and run until “the last rider runs screaming,” according to the haunt’s website.
For more information, visit fearonthefarm.com or call 413-537-3510.
Film asks the question: What are you willing to sacrifice?
By K RySTA FAURIA Associated Press
Since it first premiered in 1926, F.W. Murnau’s “Faust” has been lauded as one of the greatest silent films ever made. And in the century that’s followed, striking a deal with the devil has been one of cinema’s most enduring tropes.
“Him,” the Jordan Peele-produced horror film now in theaters, is the latest testament to the fact that, in Hollywood, at least, the devil’s offer never goes out of style. It tells the story of an aspiring professional football player, Cameron Cade (Tyriq Withers), who gets invited to train at a secluded compound under famed quarterback Isaiah White (Marlon Wayans). But Cade eventually realizes what is meant by the question he keeps getting asked: “What are you willing to sacrifice?”
Scenes from Fear on the Farm at McCray’s Farm in South Hadley. (PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIGET ANN REILLY / FEAR ON THE FARM)
This image released by Universal Pictures shows Tyriq Withers, left, and Marlon Wayans in a scene from "Him." (PARRISH LEWIS/UNIVERSAL PICTURES VIA AP)
“People are so fixated with the whole selling your soul to the devil and they really think that it’s a man in a suit who’s like, ‘Sign the dotted line,’” said Julia Fox, who plays White’s wife. “I think that selling your soul to the devil is a metaphor for selling out and doing things that you don’t want to do, compromising your morals and values for a paycheck.”
Like “Him,” Faustian stories in cinema are often billed as horror. Much like the literary and artistic retellings of the German fable, from Marlowe and Goethe to “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” film adaptations span place, decade and genre — from the cult Keanu Reeves’ DC Comics adaptation, “Constantine,” to Brendan Fraser’s 2000 rom-com “Bedazzled,” a remake of the 1967 film of the same name that starred Raquel Welch. The devil can promise money — as in “The Devil and Daniel Webster,” the 1941 post-Great Depression takedown of greed — or fame, a la Jack Black’s 2006 musical comedy, “Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny.”
“It’s pretty much everywhere once you start looking,” said Kirsten Thompson, a professor of film studies at Seattle University. “We all want to have eternal life or youth or power or status. And the various iterations of the myth sometimes emphasize different things.”
“Him” isn’t even the first Faustian film set against the backdrop of sports. “Damn Yankees,” the 1958 adaptation of the Bob Fosse-choreographed Broadway show, tells the story of a diehard baseball fan who makes a devilish pact to help his team.
Murnau’s ‘Faust’ legacy
Although the 1926 “Faust” isn’t the oldest cinematic retelling of the legend — French filmmaker Georges Méliès made a handful of adaptations beginning in the 1890s — Murnau’s movie has the greatest legacy.
“The film has these very striking set pieces that are, visually, enormously iconographic and influential on subsequent silent cinema, including American cinema,” Thompson said.
Speaking with The Associated Press last year to promote his adaptation of “Nosferatu” (the original vampire tale was
also made by Murnau, in 1922), Robert Eggers testified to the ways in which “Faust” has influenced him as a director. “Filmmaking — it didn’t really get better than that,” he said.
Murnau’s “Faust” follows its titular protagonist, a faithful alchemist who despairs over a deadly, seemingly unstoppable plague. He eventually meets the demon Mephisto — legend often refers to him as Mephistopheles — who convinces Faust to do a trial-run pact to renounce God in exchange for the power to help the infirm village.
But Faust’s demonic deal is found out when a crowd realizes he cannot look upon a cross. Despondent, Faust plans to kill himself, but is stopped by Mephisto, who comes back with another offer: The demon will give the elderly alchemist back his youth.
The quest for eternal youth was an important theme for “Him” director Justin Tipping, who believes it is particularly apropos for a story about sports. “Essentially, what’s behind all these athletes’ actions is they’re trying to stop time,” he said.
The devil you know
Between the bargain for youth, blood rituals and a contract to sign, the Faustian and demonic allusions in “Him” aren’t exactly subtle, something Tipping saw as a storytelling tool.
“There are a lot of references. Maybe too ...” he stopped himself, laughing. “There’s a lot. But they all served, I think, the emotional arc for our characters and the themes that I was going after.”
Tipping isn’t alone in forgoing subtlety in Faustian stories, which often opt for almost humorous literary callbacks.
In the 1997 horror drama, “The Devil’s Advocate,” Al Pacino plays John Milton — a lawyer, not the author of “Paradise Lost.” And in “Angel Heart,” the 1987 neo-noir thriller starring Robert De Niro and Mickey Rourke, De Niro’s Satan goes by “Louis Cyphre.”
“Even your name is a dimestore joke,” Rourke’s character scoffs when he realizes it’s a play on “Lucifer.” “‘Mephistopheles’ is such a mouthful in Manhattan,” Cyphre retorts tauntingly.
‘Him’ is now playing at Regal MGM Springfield; Cinemark West Springfield, Hampshire Mall and Buckland Hills; and Greenfield Garden Cinemas.
show, began dancing at the age of 3 and trained in all styles of dance at Sonja Dene Dance Studios in Australia. He is both a New South Wales State and Australian National Champion and has also competed internationally at the World Irish Dancing Championships and the North American Irish Dancing Nationals. He first performed with the cast of “Taste of Ireland” in its Sydney show before traveling the world with them.
Asked what audiences can see and hear compared to “Lord of the Dance” or “Riverdance,” Fitzgerald said “A Taste of Ireland” has all live
on stage and not pre-recorded tracks. I think for the audience, it’s just nice to know that the dancing is actually happening as they hear it. The tips of our shoes and the heels all make noises. So, there is a bit more pressure on the performer. You can’t be missing any beats, missing any noises, because it would be quite obvious live if you do,” he said.
little stories, essentially a big timeline, exploring the island’s history,” he said.
Fitzgerald said audiences “love the show” and tell them so when members from the cast go out into the foyer of the auditorium to talk with audience members, get photos with them and sign autographs.
dancing beats. “We have dancers with microphones on their feet and
others strategically placed on stage so that all the noise you hear is from the actual dancers
Fitzgerald explained that the show’s storyline follows the history of Ireland from the beginning up into the modern age and explores different events that have happened in Ireland’s history, including the Irish potato famine of the late 1800s and a rebellion against British rule during Easter 1916.
“There are lots of different
“Many people in America have Irish backgrounds, Irish heritage, and if I go out after the show and one person tells me I made their night or made them happy for two hours while we perform, then I can’t be any happier. That’s what we love to do,” he said.
Tickets, ranging in price from $77.44 to $89.11, are available online at springfield symphonyhall.com.
here is "Free Men" featuring Cian Walsh with the male ensemble in "A Taste of Ireland," coming to Springfield Symphony Hall this weekend. (CHRIS HARDY PHOTO)
This image released by Universal Pictures shows Tyriq Withers in a scene from "Him." (UNIVERSAL PICTURES VIA AP)
CALENDAR
WHO’S PLAYING AT THE BIG E?
The Kid LAROI, Sept. 26, Big E Arena
The Kid LAROI — a 21-year-old-rapper born Charlton Howard — is best known for his smash hit, “Stay,” which spent six weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Other songs by the rapper include “Bleed,” “Thousand Miles” and “Love Again.” He will play The Big E Arena on Sept. 26. Tickets start at $64.
Train, Sept. 27, Big E Arena
Train is a multi-Grammy Award-winning band with hits like “Hey, Soul Sister,” “Drops of Jupiter” and “Calling All Angels.” They will play The Big E Arena on Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $54.
ZZ Top, Sept. 28, Big E Arena
ZZ Top has been making music for the past five decades. They are officially designated as Heroes of the State of Texas and have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. They will play The Big E Arena on Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $64.
For a list of all upcoming concerts and to buy tickets, visit The Big E’s website. The price of concert tickets includes admission to the fair.
THURSDAY
The Big E: Thu.-Sun., Eastern States Exposition, The Big E is the largest event on the East Coast and the fourth largest fair in North America. Attendees can enjoy hours of free entertainment and attractions, terrific food, plus the best that New England — and beyond — has to offer. Fair hours: Gates: 8 a.m.; The Big E Bakery: 9 a.m.–10:30 p.m.; Buildings and Craft Common: 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Avenue of States: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Storrowton Village Museum & Shops: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; New England Center: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Midway: Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat, 10 a.m.–11 p.m., Gate prices: 1 day adult $20; 1 day child (6-12) $12; children 5 and under free. 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. 413-737-2443 or www. thebige.com.
Forbes Library Hosts Echoes of Nature — Hampshire County: Thu, 6 p.m. Forbes Library, As part of this year’s Climate Preparedness Week programming, Forbes Library welcomes “Echoes of Nature: Hampshire County,” a unique interdisciplinary performance by singer-songwriter Jess Martin and poet Kim Hoff. Free. 20 West Street, Northampton; 413-587-1011 or www.forbeslibrary.org.
Laugh Don't Cry — A 100% Political Comedy Show: Thu., 6 and 8 p.m. LAVA Center, For tickets, visit https://www.tixtree.com/e/ laugh-dont-cry-a-100-politicalcomedy-show-842bc5b74960, Tickets are sliding scale $5–$20, with reservations not held after 5:55 p.m. for the early show and 7:55 p.m. for the late show. 324 Main St., Greenfield.
Thursday Night Live Music Series: Thu., 6:30-8:30 p.m. Liston's Bar and Grill. Performances take place outdoors (weather permit-
ting). Guests are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs, but seating will also be provided. While outside food or beverages are not allowed, the event will feature their outdoor bar offering a limited selection of food and beverages. In addition, their regular restaurant and menu will be open, with indoor and patio seating available for those who want to enjoy a meal while listening to the music, Free. 324 Old North Road, Worthington. 413238-5353.
FRIDAY
The Big E: See Thursday listing Jazz Strut by Northampton Jazz Festival: Fri, 4:30 p.m. Pulaski
Park Northampton, Strut from place to place at your own pace, or linger over dinner and drinks at your favorite spot. No cover, but please be sure to show your gratitude by ordering food or beverage when you are there. Reservations are not required, but they are encouraged if you want to be sure to get a table. Strut Kickoff 4:30 p.m. Pulaski Park, 240 Main Street. Early Sets 5:30-8:00 p.m.: Spoleto, 1 Bridge Street; Northampton Brewery, 11 Brewster Court; Amber Lane (formerly Iconica), 1 Amber Lane. For more information visit northamptonjazzfest.org, 240 Main St., Northampton; Northampton Jazz Festival: Fri.Sat, Downtown Northampton, The Northampton Jazz Festival will
bring 100 musicians to 20 downtown Northampton venues, Main Street, Northampton.
SATURDAY
Astronomy Day Northampton: Sat, 2-6:30 p.m. Bombyx Center for Arts & Equity, Come together for International Astronomy Day on Sept. 27 from 2-6:30 p.m. at Bombyx Center for Arts & Equity. This free community event brings cosmic adventures for the whole family to enjoy. Explore the wonders of the universe through live digital planetarium shows, hands-on activities in our mobile Space Trailer, science crafts and gizmos, and an amazing collection of space-themed books and
resources. Bring your whole crew, and say hi to sponsors Stars Above, High Five Books, A2Z Science and Learning Toy Store, The Community Classroom, and others, free. 130 Pine St., Florence.
Benefit Concert with Wildcat O'Halloran: Sat, 3:30 p.m. Jericho Center, Bring your blanket (or chair), your picnic, your friends, and your spirit—enjoy music, games, cash bar and community under the stars. Suggested donation: $20. For more information, call 413-538-7450 or visit facebook. com/share/1TDFfswsQC/, 537 Northampton St., Holyoke.
The Big E: See Thursday listing End Hunger NE CollaborationUnite for Good: Sat, 8:30-11:30 a.m. First Congregational Church of East Longmeadow, Volunteers needed — packaging meals starts at 8:30 a.m. at the Church on the Rotary, 7 Somers Road, East Longmeadow. No cost to attend. 7 Somers Road, East Longmeadow; Jazz Fest Day at Northampton Jazz Festival: Sat, 11:30 a.m. Pulaski Park Northampton. Free music lineup features jazz musicians from across the country and the region performing in downtown venues throughout the day, $0. 240 Main St., Northampton; King Kyote: Sat, 8 p.m. Shea Theater, For tickets or more information, visit, https://sheatheater. org/d/23183/King-Kyote-atthe-Shea-Theater, $30 day of. 71 Avenue A, Turners Falls. 413-8632281 or theshea.org.
Montague Community Fair: Sat., 2-5 p.m. Unity Park & Skatepark, Celebrate "Good Neighbor Day" with an afternoon of free family activities and learn about local community organizations. Join DCR staff at the fair to learn all about your mammal neighbors at an activity table with mammal
A guest watches a ride swing by at the Midway on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition. The Big E continues through Sunday, Sept. 28, with the Midway open every day, offering fair games and rides for all ages. (ASHLEY POTTER / THE REPUBLICAN)
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pelts and crafting. The fair has light refreshments, music, and fun activities for all ages, in collaboration with Montague Public Libraries, 56 1st Street, Turners Falls.
New York Voices — The Grand Finale presented by Northampton Jazz Festival: Sat., 7:30 p.m. Academy of Music Theatre, The Northampton Jazz Festival is honored to present New York Voices in their final months of performance! Celebrating over three decades of musical excellence, award-winning New York Voices has evolved from a college ensemble into one of the world's premier vocal jazz quartets, $35 - $60. 274 Main St., Northampton; 413-584-9032 or www.aomtheatre.com.
Northampton Jazz Festival: See Friday listing
SUNDAY
The Big E: See Thursday listing
Quadrangle
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 www. springfieldmuseums.org
Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “Witch Panic! Massachusetts Before Salem,” through Nov. 2 The exhibition explores how the first instance witchcraft hysteria in the American colonies influenced the early history of the city and how the conversation continues today. Permanent exhibit: More than two dozen Indian motorcycles and related memorabilia.
Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: Museum a la Carte: Sept. 25, 12:15 p.m. “From the Vault: Collecting Tapestries at the Worcester Art Museum.” Cost: $4, free for members, presented by Delaney Keenan, Assistant Curator of European Art for the Worcester Art Museum.
Springfield Science Museum: “Reputation: Under the Stars in the Seymour Planetarium.” Fri, Sat, and Sun. at 4 p.m. The show features the original recordings from Taylor Swift’s 2017 album and dazzling effects created by a fulldome projector. Permanent exhibit: State-of-the-art Zeiss Projector and updated International Space
Station exhibit.
The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent exhibit: First floor exhibition provides opportunities to explore new sounds and vocabulary, play rhyming games, invent stories, and engage in activities that encourage teamwork and creative thinking, with interactive three-dimensional exhibits. Second floor contains Geisel’s personal memorabilia.
Quadrangle admission - $25 for adults, $16.50 for seniors (60+) and college students with ID, $13 for children ages 3-17; free to children under age 3 and members, Springfield residents are free with proof of residency. Welcome Center and Museum store. Tues.-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: Thur.Tues., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Wed. Admission: $8 adults; $8 children (12 months and older); $4 grandparents/seniors (60+); military personnel and teachers receive a 10% discount off the price of regular admission; members/infants free. 29 S. Broad St., Westfield or ameliaparkmuseum.org
Anchor House of Artists: Rotating art exhibits, self-staged by fine regional talents. The best leastknown gallery in the Pioneer Valley. Free public receptions on the second Fri. of the month from 5-8 p.m. For more information, email artists@anchorhouseartists.org, visit anchorhouseartists.org, or call 413-588-4337. 518 Pleasant St., Northampton
Edith Wharton — The Mount: Outdoor Sculpture: “Sculpture at the Mount,” through Oct. Free and open to the public. 2 Plunkett St., Lenox or www.edithwharton.org.
Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: “Cooking with Eric Carle.” Sept. 20-Aug. 23, 2026. “Open + Shut: Celebrating the art of Endpapers.” Through Nov. 9. Guest Curated by Bruce Handy. “The Art of Grace Lin: Meeting A Friend in an Unexpected Place.” Through Jan. 4. Included with general admission.
“Mister G: Baby Ballena Book Release Concert,” Sept. 27, 1-2 p.m. Book signing to follow concert for $15, $10 members. Museum hours: Wed.-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 www. carlemuseum.org.
Historic Northampton Museum and Education: Permanent
exhibit. Hours: Wed.-Sun. noon-5 p.m. $5 suggested donation. 46 Bridge St., Northampton or www. historic-northampton.org.
Holyoke Heritage State Park: “Sarah Marquesen Exhibit,” through Sept. 29. The exhibit is on display daily at the visitor center from noon–4 p.m. 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 www.amherst.edu.
Mount Holyoke College Art Museum: “Anni’s Orchestra: Theme and Variation in the Prints of Anni Albers,” through Dec. 9. Lower Lake Road, South Hadley or www. mtholyoke.edu.
Norman Rockwell Museum: Online exhibit: “Imagining Freedom.” The exhibition 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
“Hidden Worlds and Wonders: Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition. through Oct. 26. “ “I Spy! Walter Wick’s Hidden Wonders,” through Oct. 26. Permanent exhibit: Gallery. Hours: Thurs.-Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Advance tickets purchase required; $20 adults; $18 seniors, AAA, retired military; $10 college students; free children ages 18 and under, members and active military.
“Illustrators of Light: Rockwell, Wyeth, and Parrish from the Edison Mazda Collection,” through Jan. 4. “Norman Rockwell’s Stockbridge Walking Tours,” Sept. 27; Oct. 4, 11. These tours do not take place at the Museum. Tour groups will meet in front of The Old Corner House, 48 Main St. 9 Route 183, Stockbridge or www.nrm.org.
Old Sturbridge Village: “For the Purpose of Illumination.” Learn how New Englanders needed, used, and created artificial lighting methods in the 1830s and see first-hand artifacts from the era. Included with standard daytime general admission. Standard daytime admission is $30 for adults, $28 for seniors (55+), $15 for youth (4-17), $15 for college students (with a val-
id college ID), and free for children 3 and under. Route 20, Sturbridge or www.osv.org.
Pan African Historical Museum USA: Permanent exhibit. Hours: Tues.-Fri. noon-4 p.m. Free. 1500 Main St., Springfield, 413-7331823.
Polish Center of Discovery and Learning: Permanent exhibit: a living monument safeguarding historical objects representative of the material culture of the Polish people in America. Galleries include “Coming to America”; “At Home in America”; “Folk Art”; “History.” The Polish Center is open to the public daily, Mon.-Fri, 1-5 p.m., except for inclement weather and holidays. Other times may be scheduled by appointment. $5 donation. 33 South St., Chicopee or www.polishcenter.net.
Porter-Phelps-Huntington Museum: “Forty Acres and the American Revolution: Stories of Independence and Servitude.” Through Oct. 15. Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children. 130 River Drive, Hadley or www. pphmuseum.org.
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 to provide access and inclusion in the arts. “Michel Kameni: Portraits of an Independent Africa.” Through Jan. 4. “SCMA Exhibition “A City in Flux: Reflecting on Venice.” Through March 22. Elm Street at Bedford Terrace, Northampton or www.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 www.nps.gov/spar.
Titanic Museum: Permanent exhibit: exhibits from the collection of the International Titanic Historical Society. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $4, $2 children and students, 208 Main St., Indian Orchard or www. titanic1.org.
University Museum of Contemporary Art - Fine Arts Center: Permanent exhibit. The University Museum is open through May 1; Tue.-Fri., 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon–4p p.m.; and first Thursdays until 8 p.m. Closed Mon., holidays, and academic breaks. For more information, visit umass.edu/. 151 Presidents Drive, Amherst
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 students with ID; $7 children 5-17; and free children 4 and younger. “September Ghost Tours at Ventfort,” Sept. 26, 7 p.m., with Robert Oakes. This is not an active investigation. Reservations are strongly recommended as tickets are limited. Walk-ins accommodated as space allows. For reservations visit https://gildedage.org/pages/ calendar or call 413-637-3206. Admission is $30 and minimum age to attend is age 12. 104 Walker St., Lenox.
Volleyball Hall of Fame: Permanent exhibit. Volleyball Hall of Fame: Open Tues.-Sun, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Closed Mon. Last admission is 30 minutes prior to close. $8 adults; $5 seniors 65 and older; $5 students, active and retired military; and free for children 12 and under. Group rates also available online. 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or www.volleyhall.org.
Windsor Historical Society: Permanent exhibit 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 tore and exhibit galleries at no charge. “Talk on Civilian Conservation Corps and Windsor’s New Deal Legacy,” Sept. 25, 6:30-8 p.m. with Author Martin Podskoch. He will discuss Windsor’s unique CCC camp and its role in New Deal conservation history. For tickets, to register or for more information, visit www.WindsorHistorical Society.org or email info@windsorhistoricalsociety.org. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and WHS members, and $6 for children. Preregistration is encouraged. 96 Palisade Ave., Windsor or www. windsorhistoricalsociety.org.
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. Standard admission: $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: Exhibit:
“Albert Chasan: Painting His Parents Lives,” through Oct. Free, suggested $12 donation. “Yiddish: A Global Culture,” free. “Letters from the Afterlife.” Sept. 25, 7 p.m. 1021 West St., Amherst or www. yiddishbookcenter.org.
strengthens the human spirit, honoring individual voices—as it creates community,” Page said.
Page, who teaches at Amherst College, Deerfield Academy and The Williston Northampton School, will lead a trio at the festival’s Friday night “Jazz Strut,” which is held at various venues downtown. The Stephen Page Trio, which consists of Page on piano, Claire Arenius on drums and Genevieve Rose on bass, will perform 1 Amber Lane at 5:30 p.m.
Of course, the bulk of the festival happens Saturday, headlined by New York Voices, who will play at the Academy of Music at 7:30 p.m. The quartet has been playing for more that three decades, having formed at Ithaca College in the 1980s.
“We’re like a four-headed old married couple — we’re
just a big family at this point,” Darmon Meader, the group’s musical director and tenor, said in a press release.
The ensemble has won two Grammy Awards for their guest appearances on The Count Basie Orchestra’s album “Live at Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild” (1997) and Paquito D’Rivera’s album “Brazilian Dreams” (2003).
The ensemble also just won the 2025 Vocal Group of the Year from the Jazz Journalists Association.
While most Northampton Jazz Festival performances are free, tickets for the New York Voices show cost $20-$60.
Page summed up why jazz can be special for both the players and the audience.
“The improvisational nature of jazz means that all participants feel the joy of discovery wondering what will happen next,” he said. “It’s an honor to be a part of my hometown’s festival as a performing artist.”
Comments from our social media included: “The CT potato is much better,” “it wasn’t very good at all. Had a better one at Wendy’s,” and “the CT one is much better and back this year.”
On Friday, Sept. 12 — opening day of The Big E — I ventured toward the Maine state building in search of the fabled potato. On the left hand side of the Maine building, in a tent with a sign, I experienced a line of less than seven minutes outside the Maine building for said potato. It is important to note, purchases for the Maine baked potato are cash only. For $8, you are given a token that you exchange for a potato when you’re called up. Available toppings include butter, sour cream, cheese sauce, bacon bits and chives. I asked for all toppings to keep things as even as possible. To make as fair a comparison as possible, I carried my recent purchase toward the Connecticut building in search of the competition.
Danny’s Smokehouse is
located on the outside of and toward the right of the Connecticut state building. For $22, you are offered a baked potato that can be topped with butter, sour cream, bacon bits, shredded cheese, chives and your choice of pulled pork or chili. I chose pulled pork. It also sold soda at this establishment. There was no waiting in line here and being able to pay with choice of cash or card made the transaction much more convenient.
Danny’s Smokehouse potato is massive, and the toppings are plentiful. The Maine baked potato is smaller, no doubt, but size of the potato will not impact my thoughts on flavor.
If this were a battle of the bare spud, I’d tip my hat to Maine. Given the Connecticut spud’s cost is almost triple that of the Maine potato, it should provide phenomenal value, and it does; The choice of a larger — albeit less fluffy — baked potato with a real protein that can’t be shaken ajar, the consistent lack of lines and the ability to pay with a cash or card, the Connecticut baked potato wins handily.
