Weekend
D |
| THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
Inside: 2-day celebration also marks The Student Prince’s 90th anniversary, Page D2
THE MIGHTY
OKTOBERFEST At the
4 Shows Only!
Presents
H.M.S. Pinafore
Gilbert & Sullivan
or The Lass That Loved A Sailor
Don’t be a Tar, get your tickets A family show, full orchestra, lavishly costumed. Stage Director Elaine Crane
Music Director Aldo Fabrizi
Choreographer Paige Fowler
Pre-show talk
by Michael Greenebaum, a founding member of VLO at 1:00 pm for both matinees!
NOW!
Northampton, MA
PERFORMANCES 7:30 pm Thursday November 6th 7:30 pm Friday November 7th 2 pm Saturday November 8th th 2 pm Sunday November 9 To order tickets: www.VLO.org or www.AOMtheatre.com/#events AOM Box office: 413-584-9032 x105
D2 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
WEEKEND
%%SPZONE
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
From left, Ryan Marioni, dressed in traditional German attire and face painted with the colors of the German flag; Al Fenney takes a sip out of a traditional German beer boot; and Brian Elliot, an accordion player with the group Berkshire Mountain Wanderer, during last year’s Mighty Oktoberfest on Fort Street in Springfield. The annual celebration returns Oct. 10 and 11, and also marks The Student Prince restaurant’s 90th anniversary. (SOPHIE MARKHAM PHOTOS)
The Student Prince marks 90 years with this weekend’s celebration
THE MIGHTY OKTOBERFEST By Keith O’Connor
ica by German immigrants Special to The Republican alongside the star of the show SPRINGFIELD — It only seems — beer. natural that a Springfield On Friday, the Bean Restauinstitution like The Student rant Group will continue that Prince, known for its German tradition by hosting the 11th cuisine, would want to bring Mighty Oktoberfest. The fall a longtime tradition like Okcelebration, first started by toberfest to its home on Fort the late Rudi Scherff, longStreet. time owner of The Student Dating back to 1810, OktoPrince & Fort Restaurant, berfest is celebrated each year features a traditional beer in Munich, Germany, and tapping, live music, German today in America, Oktoberfest brews, brats, pretzels and celebrations feature many of more. the foods brought to Amer“I would describe our
Mighty Oktoberfest as a very jovial event with a lot of energy. It is a fun experience with plenty of smiles to be seen throughout the crowd, who every year turns out for a fun and safe activity celebrating Oktoberfest,” said Nathan Yee, hospitality director for the Bean Restaurant Group, in an interview with The Republican. “Mighty Oktoberfest is also about community. This year we are celebrating
SEE MIGHTY, PAGE D3
Above, from left, Linda and Adam Wichowski, and Jessica Burke and Jessica Cullinan enjoy a past year’s Mighty Oktoberfest on Fort Street. (ERIK KAPLAN PHOTOS)
“Many generations of families and friends have gathered here over the years to celebrate special occasions, and Mighty Oktoberfest is an opportunity for us to celebrate our milestone anniversary with the community.” Nathan Yee, hospitality director for the Bean Restaurant Group
WEEKEND
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Nightclubs
authentic German beers. The street also will be lined with local breweries including Amherst Brewing Company and Shipyard, and three German beer vendors — Ayinger, Radeberger, and Weihenstephaner. Yee noted there will be a special focus on sausages from the grill outdoors. “We will be serving up brats, spicy gator, spicy chicken and wild boar sausages, or you can go indoors and enjoy a meal from a special menu of our popular German favorites,” he said. Two days of bands and DJ sets will cross genres and deliver both traditional German tunes and crowd-favorite hits. Friday night kicks off with Berkshire Mountain Wanderers, The 413s, and 7 Roads, while Saturday features The Brat Pack, DJ Adapt, and The Eagles Experience. Saturday’s festivities will begin earlier this year at 2 p.m. “Many people are off from work on Saturday, and our early opening will give them more time to come down, meet with friends and enjoy all we have to offer at our special celebration,” Yee said. Tickets, priced at $20, are available in advance at bean rg.com or at the entrance gate.
THURSDAY Drawing Board Brewing Company: Song Share Sessions: Nonbinary, Trans & Women Singer Songwriters. 36 Main St., Florence The Drake: Open Mic Night with Tank Hood. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst Theodores': Rockstar Karaoke. 201 Worthington St., Springfield Uno Chicago Grill: Country Music. 820 W. Columbus Ave., Springfield
FRIDAY The Drake: Pachyman & MNDSGN with Gabriel da Rosa. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst The Meeting House: Dave Brinnel. 827 Williams St., Longmeadow Theodores': Jr Krauss and the Shakes. 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 The Drake: Willis with Hotel Fiction. 44 N. Pleasant St., Amherst Theodores': The Peter Poirier Band. 201 Worthington St., Springfield Uno Chicago Grill: Modern, Contemporary Rock. 820 W. Columbus Ave., Springfield West Springfield's Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Renburke's Rovers. 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
PHOTO; RIGHT: ERIK KAPLAN PHOTO)
Mighty CONTINUES FROM PAGE D2
“We will be serving up brats, spicy gator, spicy chicken and wild boar sausages.”
An haunting evening to benefit the Museums
Nathan Yee
where Munich’s mayor taps the first barrel of new beer along with shouting ”O’zapft is!” which translates to: “It is tapped.” “It is strictly ceremonial. Our keg is small and there will not be any beer served from it,” Yee said. But there will certainly be plenty of beer on tap at the fest to enjoy. The Student Prince will have its own Oktoberfest bar located near the stage, serving up
Thursday, October 23 6:00-8:30 pm Tarot Readings ◆ Costume Performers Pianist & DJ ◆ Silent Auction Complimentary Beer, Wine, & Welcome Cocktail Hors d’oeuvres & much more! 3215962-01
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 www.masslive.com/ myevent
Above: Giana Chelimsky, left, and Tom Hebert dance to live music during last year’s Mighty Oktoberfest in Springfield. Right: A musician performs live music during the 2019 event. (ABOVE: SOPHIE MARKHAM
the 90-year history of The Student Prince, a true icon in Springfield which predates the Yees involvement in the restaurant. Many generations of families and friends have gathered here over the years to celebrate special occasions, and Mighty Oktoberfest is an opportunity for us to celebrate our milestone anniversary with the community,” he added. While Yee has never attended Oktoberfest in Germany, he did say he has participated in the next best thing. “While studying abroad I was able to attend Springfest in Munich, which is much smaller than Oktoberfest, but captures the same exciting atmosphere. It was definitely one of the top weekends of my life — other than marrying my wife and the birth of our daughter,” he said. The two-day event kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. with the ceremonial keg-tapping featuring Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. The tapping of the keg mimics Germany’s Oktoberfest,
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025 | D3
RSVP by October 16 SpringfieldMuseums.org/bewitched
WEEKEND
D4 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Season opener
Subscribe to the Symphony
Springfield Symphony Orchestra artistic advisor Mei-Ann Chen will conduct the orchestra’s 2025 season-opening concert, “A Night in Italy: Verdi, Respighi, & Rota.” She is shown, above, conducting a 2024 show. (LEON NGUYEN PHOTO)
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s 2025-26 Season Subscriptions are now on sale to the public, available on its website, Springfield Symphony.org or by calling the SSO Box Office at 413733-2291. Subscribers to the Symphony have “Classical 5” and “Pops 3” options, which start at $63.75 for the pops subscription, and $106.25 for the classical subscription. Subscribers receive an array of benefits, including discounted pricing; free concert ticket exchanges; invites to special SSO events; and more. The 2025-26 Season, the SSO’s 82nd, features eight performances at Springfield Symphony Hall. For more information, visit the Springfield Symphony website.
A. Actually, it is the other Springfield Symphony Orchestra starts 2025 season way around. “The Godfather” idea came from the with ‘Godfather’ score, Italian classics SSO musicians in the proBy Keith O’Connor
Special to The Republican SPRINGFIELD — The Godfa-
ther will be there only in spirit on Saturday night when the Springfield Symphony Orchestra opens its 2025 season with “A Night in Italy: Verdi, Respighi, & Rota.” The evening will feature memorable music created by Nino Rota for “The Godfather” film, as well as highlight Italian composers such as Verdi’s “La Forza Del Destin” as well as Respighi’s “Ancient Airs and Dances” and “Pines of Rome.” The concert will also feature a collaboration with members of the Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras performing alongside SSO musicians. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. The evening will begin with an Italian-themed pre-concert reception at 6 p.m. in the Mahogany Room, hosted in
“This program features some of my favorite music — personally, I believe the world would be missing a lot if we didn’t have Italian composers.” Mei-Ann Chen, artistic adviser, Springfield Symphony Orchestra partnership with Springfield’s Italian Cultural Center. The reception will feature treats from local Italian eateries La Fiorentina and Frigo’s, alongside a sampling of Italian wines with a charcuterie board. Limited tickets for the pre-concert reception, priced at $25, are available online at springfieldsymphony.org or by calling 413-733-2291. Following the reception at 6:30 p.m., there also will be a “Classical Conversation” with guest conductor and orchestra artistic adviser Mei-Ann
Chen in the Mahogany Hall. “Springfield has such deep-rooted, rich Italian history, and so we’re thrilled that our opening night not only offers our community the opportunity to experience iconic Italian music, but also to experience Italian culture through our partnership with the Italian Cultural Center,” said Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the SSO, in a news release about the upcoming season. Opening night will also honor the memory of Ron
Weiss, a long-serving member of the orchestra’s Board of Directors who passed away earlier this year. Maestra Chen, while in China, took time to answer a few questions about this weekend’s performance.
Q.
How does Nino Rota as a contemporary Italian composer fit in with the other Italian composers represented in the program and what did you think of his work with “The Godfather?”
gramming committee as an interesting way to incorporate well-known works when the Italian theme program was explored. Its iconic melodies are captivating and add to the variety of this exciting season opener.
Q. What makes the other pieces in the program uniquely Italian?
A.
Verdi and Menotti are the old and new masters for Italian operas, with some of the most long-lasting works in operatic history. Rota represents the voice of Italian films. Respighi’s unique voice for the orchestral writing spans from ancient music to the innovation of incorporating electronic bird calls and off-stage additional instruments to create a great spectacle of orchestral colors in a symphonic experience.
SEE SYMPHONY, PAGE D12
WEEKEND
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025 | D5
Gabriel Bernini returns Harlem Quartet opens to Western Mass. for classical concert season record release party The Harlem Quartet will open Valley Classical Concerts’ 2025-2026 season on Sunday, Oct. 12. The concert will be staged at 3 p.m. at Sweeney Concert Hall at Smith Collge. The Grammy-winning Harlem Quartet has earned acclaim for its dynamic performances and fresh approach to classical music. The New York Times praised their “panache,” while the Cincinnati Enquirer has lauded their “new attitude to classical music.” Violinists Ilmar Gavilán and Melissa White, violist Jaime Amador and cellist Felix Umansky will present two classical masterpieces, Ludwig van Beethoven’s “String Quartet No. 5” and Benjamin Britten’s “Second String Quartet,” plus recent compositions by Pulitzer winner Caroline Shaw (her 2011 “Entr’acte”), and Guido López Gavilán’s exploration of Cuban dance rhythms, “Cuarteto en Guaguancó.” One hour prior to the performance, there will be on-stage question-and-an-
swer session with the artists and former NEPM host John Montanari. Tickets may be purchased on Valley Classical Concerts’ website, valleyclassical concerts.org, or at the door. Adult seats are $35, college students with ID are $10, while those 18 and under and Card to Culture holders are free. In a statement, Valley Classical Concert spokesperson Rick Teller stated: “Last season we were fortunate that our audi-
ence grew, in part because concertgoers were willing to take a risk and try something new. There’s a tremendous excitement to live classical music, and there’s something here for everyone. And please bring your kids and grandkids!” Valley Classical Concerts was founded as “Music in Deerfield” in 1979. Now based in Northampton, their mission is to bring first-rate classical chamber music to the Pioneer Valley.
LIVE WIRE
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Recording, who has served as a producer or engineer for numerous famous acts. Although this clearly led to Bernini’s pursuit of music as a career, he said he didn’t really want to go into “the family business.” By that, he didn’t mean music itself, but rather, the technical recording side of the art form. “Because he was my father, when I was younger, I really didn’t want to know about gear and stuff like that,” Bernini said. “But the year after
Chicopee Elks #1849
Polish American Citizens Club
Fairview Knights of Columbus
Western Massachusetts native Gabriel Bernini will celebrate his new album, “Ride Romeo,” at the Iron Horse Music Hall in Northampton on Oct. 11.
G
ABRIEL BERNINI’S longtime musical touchstone has been Wilco. “I grew up listening to The Beatles, but then got really into Wilco,” he said in a recent interview with The Republican. “And I’ve realized that Wilco has kind of become my taste palate. Everything I’ve gotten into has been influenced by them.” So, you can imagine Bernini’s thrill when he was able to record his latest album at The Loft, Wilco’s renowned recording studio in Chicago. “It was a total blast. A total dream come true,” he said. Bernini, who grew up in Western Massachusetts but now lives in Los Angeles, will return home for a record release party for the new album, “Ride Romeo,” at Northampton’s Iron Horse Music Hall on Oct. 11. Bernini’s father is local music icon Danny Bernini, co-owner of SpiritHouse
George Lenker
SEE LIVE WIRE, PAGE D11
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
The Grammy Award-winning Harlem Quartet will open the Valley Classical Concerts’ 2025-2026 season on Sunday at Smith College.
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 regular games $100 with 80 people or More. All Cards are included with Admission. Prizes climb with additional attendence. Full Kitchen 4-6:30pm.
1599 Memorial Drive, Chicopee (413) 532-2011 DOORS OPEN 4:30PM MASKS OPTIONAL Progressive Jackpot 6:15pm Early Bird 6:20pm Start Min. Entry Package $15 Electronic Bingo Aval. Snack Bar, Open Seating, Handicap Restrooms
CALL TODAY 413-788-1250 TO LIST HERE
D6 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
WEEKEND
PARADISE CITY ARTS FESTIVAL Event returns this weekend with extended hours
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
At left: Abbie Chambers, of Rhode Island, will be selling handmade fashions at this weekend’s Paradise City Arts Festival. At left is one of her products, Astrid Top, in Ice Cream Galaxy.
By Keith O’Connor
sculpture often doesn’t. And the material you use must be NORTHAMPTON — Art is comfortable and hold up to everywhere, from the beauty washing. There are so many of nature to paintings and elements that go into making handmade jewelry, music, a piece of art to wear,” Chamsculpture — and this weekbers said. end, at the Paradise City Arts Chambers was recentFestival, even clothes. ly named a finalist in the Clothing is very much a fi“Fashion & Jewelry” categober art says Abbie Chambers, ry of the Paradise City Arts of Rhode Island, one of near- 2025 Collectors Recognition ly 30 fiber artists who will Awards. Thousands of voters be selling their handmade recognized artists and makfashions at this weekend’s ers for their achievements festival. in several media categories The popular arts fest reincluding “Art and Sculpture” turns for its fall run Saturday and “Furniture” and ”Home through Monday on the Furnishings.” Three County Fairgrounds in “Voters responded in Northampton in three airy, droves for Abbie’s comforthigh-ceilinged exhibition able, tailored clothing with buildings, along the Sculpture their vibrant colors and all Promenade, and under two natural materials and dye. dining tents. Every piece is one of a kind. Chambers is a textile I live in her clothes,” said designer and clothing artist Mariah Swanson, director of who creates one-of-a-kind marketing for Paradise City garments that function as Arts. wearable works of art. Using “It feels great and is an dye, paint, shibori and paste honor to be recognized. I resist techniques, Chambers think people responded to the layers color and pattern to bright colors I use and matebuild depth and movement rial that is super soft and feels into every natural fiber piece great on the skin, combined she creates. with the fact they are easy to When it comes to making care for,” Chambers said. art, clothing is no different Her inspired designs come from sculpture, Chambers from “all different places.” noted. “Some come from nature, “It is taking flat material clouds, sunsets, flowers, all and turning it into a three-di- natural patterns you see in mensional piece to wear. It the world. Sometimes the also has another element ideas come when I’m falling SEE PARADISE, PAGE D7 to it — movement — which Special to The Republican
Megan Lagueruela and her zero-waste fashion will be on hand for this weekend's Paradise City Arts Festival. (PHOTO COURTESY PARADISE CITY ARTS FESTIVAL)
“There are so many elements that go into making a piece of art to wear.” ABBIE CHAMBERS, ONE OF THE EXHIBITORS AT THIS WEEKEND’S PARADISE CITY ARTS FESTIVAL
WEEKEND
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025 | D7
Fletcher’s festival mixes fall fun, BBQ By Ashley Potter
apotter@repub.com
LONGMEADOW — Bill Fletcher, owner and pitmaster behind Fletcher’s BBQ Shop & Steakhouse on Longmeadow Street, is looking to reignite the festival scene in town. “I’m really excited for the Fletcher’s Fall Festival. My introduction to Longmeadow was at the now-defunct Long Meddowe Fall Festival, which was such a highlight in my career. Full of so much joy and laughter … and ribs!” said Fletcher in an email to The Republican. “So this feels like a little throwback to that time, and I hope it’s laying the groundwork for bigger festivals in town for the coming years.” The festival comes after the
town’s last Longmeadow Days was held in 2020 and the last Long Meddowe Fall Festival was held in 2023. Hoping to bring the community together, the Oct. 12 festival will be held on the lawn next to the restaurant’s plaza, located at 408 Longmeadow St. The festival will be held on Oct. 12 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is free to attend. All-day activities include a free coloring table and bead crafting for children. Pumpkin painting will be available for $5, while supplies last, and face painting will be offered for $10 per person. Two age-specific bounce houses will be open all day, with a $8 “unlimited use” bracelet available for purchase.
Bill Fletcher, owner and pitmaster of Fletcher’s BBQ Shop & Steakhouse in Longmeadow, works on the briskets. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)
For adults, there will be free wine and cocktails. live music from noon to 4:30 Offerings from the Fletchp.m. and a bar serving up beer, er’s menu will be available for
purchase including a “Whole Hog” for $12 in one of three styles: Southern style, with vinegar barbecue sauce, a barbecue rub, coleslaw and tortillas; Vietnamese style, with sweet ginger, carrot, cilantro, cucumber, daikon, jalapenos, spicy mayonnaise and tortillas; and Hawaiian style, with sweet pineapple soy sauce, scallion and tortillas. Other food offerings include hot dogs, grilled wings, loaded potatoes, ribs and dessert. Kids meals will be available for $10, served with chips and a juice box. For more information about the Oct. 12 festival, or to see a complete menu of what will be offered, go online to Fletcher’s website, fletchersbbqshop. com .
“My introduction to Longmeadow was at the now-defunct Long Meddowe Fall Festival, which was such a highlight in my career. Full of so much joy and laughter … and ribs!” BILL FLETCHER, OWNER AND PITMASTER OF FLETCHER’S BBQ SHOP & STEAKHOUSE IN LONGMEADOW
CONTINUES FROM PAGE D6
asleep at night, and then I start on a piece as soon as I can afterwards,” Chambers said. She calls her business Cloud Candy. “Clouds for the softness of the materials I use, only natural fibers, and candy for their bright colors,” Chambers said. In addition to Chambers, more than 200 juried artists and makers from across the country, including some 30 new artists added to this year’s exhibitor list, will showcase their original works in ceramics, painting, decorative fiber, art glass, furniture, jewelry, metal, mixed media, photography, large-scale sculpture, wearable art and woodworking. Art can also be found in the entertainment and food served up by culinary artists and musicians at Paradise City. “We’ve dialed everything up in our selection of musical
entertainment for the fall and have partnered with The Parlor Room Collective and Signature Sounds Recordings to come up with this year’s lineup,” Swanson said. Saturday’s lineup features Stompbox Trio, Signature Dish, and The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow, all new this fall, while Sunday will see The Wolves, another new act for the October show, and LeFever taking the stage before it all ends on Monday with The Green Street Trio featuring Avery Joi and Buddy McEarns Band. “A big change this year is our extending of the festival’s hours on Saturday until 9 p.m. giving our artists and makers an additional two hours of selling time and patrons extra time to shop and stay around for some additional fun,” Swanson said. Sales and demonstrations end at 7 p.m., but food vendors, the craft cocktail bar and beer garden remain open until 9 p.m. Live entertainment, which begins at 7 p.m., will be provided by The Whis-
key Treaty Roadshow. Tantalizing treats await hungry shoppers from Local Burger, India House, Spoleto, Little Wall, Ginger Love Cafe, as well as four new food vendors — Masa Mexicana, P’Frogi, Carefree Cakery and the return of Herrel’s Ice Cream. For some hands-on fun, Crafting with Color in Building 2 across from the show office will host a multitude of creative activities for parents and their young crafters. In addition, a number of exhibitors will lead demonstrations in their booths throughout the weekend, where patrons will have a chance to see not only the finished works, but learn their techniques and thinking behind works in progress. The Mill District General Store and Local Art Gallery will also host demonstrations and activities over the weekend in Building 1. Each will highlight a different Western Massachusetts artist and offer a complementary craft each day of the festival.
“Similar to their gallery experience in North Amherst, their booth will offer visitors an opportunity to support local artists as well as connect to their own creative side through art classes,” Swanson said. An array of donations by Paradise City Arts exhibitors will be available for open bidding each day at the Silent Auction tables, with 100%
of the proceeds directly supporting the International Language Institute of Massachusetts. Show hours are Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $18 at the door, and those 12 and under are free. Parking is free. For more information, visit paradisecityarts.com.
Customer Appreciation Event FEATURING:
THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY GRAND GIVEAWAY RAFFLE DRAWING:
A CHANCE TO WIN A GIFT BASKET VALUED $200!! INDULGE IN A SAMPLE OF
CLOUD 9APHRODESIAC BEVERAGE SPEND $125 IN-STORE AND
RECEIVE A FREE GIFT!! IN-STORE ONLY. WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. 18+. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.
3216068-01
Paradise
Thursday, October 16th
Starting at 6pm
Greenfield Adam & Eve
18 Main St, Greenfield, MA 01301 | (413) 774 - 9800
WEEKEND
D8 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
%%SPZONE
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
CALENDAR Open Mic: Fri, 6:30 p.m. Tangle Chocolate Lounge. Sign-up starts at 6:30 p.m. Feel free to pick up dinner next door at the Williamsburg Market and enjoy it at Tangle. Free. 5 Main St. Route 9, Williamsburg;
THURSDAY 5th Annual LAVA Film Festival: Thu.-Sun., LAVA Center, For more information and a complete lineup of films, visit thelavacenter.org/ lava-film-festival/, 324 Main St., Greenfield.
Pioneer Valley Bonsai Show: Fri, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Capt. Charles Leonard House, The event is free and open to the public. Event phone number is 860-6808748 or visit www.facebook.com/ SpringfieldBonsai, 663 Main St., Agawam.
Arena Civic Theatre presents “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” A Rock Musical Fundraiser for TransHealth: Thu., 7 p.m.; Sun, 1 and 7 p.m. Shea Theater. Directed by Megan Healey, this staging doubles as a fundraiser for TransHealth, a Western Massachusetts nonprofit that provides gender-affirming health care and support to the trans community, $25 in advance, $30 at the door. 71 Avenue A, Turners Falls; 413-863-2281 or www. theshea.org. Girls on the Run Western Mass Sneaker Soiree: Thu., 5:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Springfield Country Club, Dressed in their party attire and favorite sneakers, guests will enjoy an evening of food, fun, and inspiration. The event will feature a silent auction, hors d'oeuvres and cash bar, a wine pull, and an opportunity to hear from GOTR participants and coaches. All event proceeds will support program scholarships. More information and tickets available at www.girlsontherun westernma.org/sneaker-soiree. Tickets are $50 per person or $400 for a table of eight. 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. 413-787-1560 or http://www.springfieldcc.org/. Old Sturbridge Village’s Halloween-time celebration, Phantoms
Phantoms by Firelight
Storrowton Village Ghost Tours: Thu., Storrowton Village Museum, Do ghosts live at Storrowton? Find out about paranormal investigations in the Village then take a self-guided tour of the museum buildings with Village staff and volunteers hearing stories of unexplained occurrences. Oct. 9 is “Family Night.” Come with your family and enjoy a special lantern making activity. Make your own custom lantern to bring with you on your self-guided tour. This year, each Ghost Tour guest will receive an informational booklet to help you on your-self guided tour. Ghost Tours are approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours long and are recommended for ages 12 and up. Photography will be allowed on certain parts of the tour. No video is allowed. Dress in layers and wear sensible shoes. Ghost Tours are not wheelchair accessible and include walking up and down stairs. Visit easternstatesexposition.com for tickets, $30. 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield.
FRIDAY
Tiger Bomb/Mal Thursday Quintet/Ray Mason/The Oranges: Fri, 7 p.m. Blue Room at CitySpace, 43 Main St., Easthampton.
SATURDAY 5th Annual LAVA Film Festival: See Thursday listing OHP Fall Fest: Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Enfield Town Green, hosted by the Opera House Players. Come stock up on your holiday décor and gifts — there will be candles, jewelry, fall arrangements, holiday wreaths, stickers, hats, bags, tumblers, baked goods, and more. Listen to the musical stylings of PARRIS and Minus 3, visit the Dionysus Theatre Company, make your own paint
Paradise City Arts Fall Festival: Sat.-Sun., Three County Fairgrounds, 200+ juried artists & makers from across the country exhibiting original works in ceramics, painting, decorative fiber, art glass, furniture, jewelry, metal, mixed media, photography, large-scale sculpture, wearable art and woodworking. Hours: Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Mon, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets are available online or at the gate. Free parking. 41 Fair St., Northampton. 413-584-2237 or www.threecountyfair.com. Pioneer Valley Bonsai Show: See Friday listing Springfield Symphony Orchestra Opening Night: Sat, 7:30 p.m. Springfield Symphony Hall, "A Night in Italy: Verdi, Respighi, & Rota.” Tickets: Premiere Orch/Tier $80; Orch Tier $59; Loge Tier $40; Loge B / Tier B $25. 34 Court St., Springfield. 413-733-2291 or www. symphonyhall.com. Suffield Players presents "Hope-Hearth-Happiness": See Friday listing Victory Theatre Tours — Doors Open Holyoke 2025: Sat., 10:30 a.m. Victory Theatre. Join MIFA for guided tours of the historic Victory Theatre, part of Doors Open Holyoke 2025. Register for a time slot online; slots are expected to fill quickly. Visit mifafestival.org/ event-details/victory-theatretours-doors-open-holyoke-2025. Free. 81-89 Suffolk St., Holyoke; Walking Tour: "Places & People of Springfield's Industrial Legacy": Sat, 10:30 a.m.-noon Quadrangle Welcome Center, Explore downtown Springfield and learn about
SEE CALENDAR, PAGE D10
Avery Sharpe "I Am My Neighbors Keeper" with his Double Quartet: Fri, 7 p.m. Edwards Church of Northampton, No ticket required. Free, suggested donationss $10-$30. 297 Main St., Northampton. History Bites Lectures: Fri, 1 p.m. Bangs Community Center, Local authors and activists Tom Weiner and Amilcar Shabazz will talk about their new book, "In Defiance," which brings to light the lives of 20 lesser-known abolitionists — 10 Black, 10 white, 10 men and 10 women, Free. 70 Boltwood Walk, Amherst. 413-259-3065 or www.amherstma.gov.
3215974-01
5th Annual LAVA Film Festival: See Thursday listing
by Firelight, is running through Oct. 26 on select nights. The festivities include trick-or-treating for children, games for families, historic demonstrations and a nightly “Cyrkus Vampyr” performance featuring fire acts, balancing acts and dance. “Whether or not you have young kids in your family, we’ve got stuff for them. Whether or not you’re a history nerd, we’ve got stuff for you. Whether or not you want to just walk around in a spooky environment, we’ve got stuff for you,” Rhys Simmons, director of interpretation for Old Sturbridge Village, said in an interview with The Republican. See this Sunday’s edition of The Republican for a full preview story of Phantoms by Firelight.
Suffield Players presents "Hope-Hearth-Happiness": Fri.Sat, 8 p.m.; Sun, 2 p.m. Mapleton Hall, With the Connecticut Premiere of Sean Grennan’s poignant and thought-provoking play, "A Rock Sails By." Subtitled performances for accessibility will be offered on Oct. 11, 17, and 19. Reservations can be made at www.suffieldplayers. org or by calling 860-668-0837. Seating is limited; early reservations are strongly encouraged, Tickets are $22 for general admission, $19 for seniors and students (with ID). 1305 Mapleton Ave., Suffield. 860-6680837 or www.suffieldplayers.org.
poured painting with Emi-Sue Creations, and add some sparkle to your hair with Lucky Locks. Free. 820 Enfield St., Enfield.
ADVERTISING
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025 D9
PRESENTED BY
Sunday, Oct. 19 • 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. MGM Aria Ballroom One MGM Way, Springfield, MA
Walk in with wanderlust, walk out with a vacation. Discover getaways around the world — from sunny Caribbean retreats to epic European tours, luxurious cruises . and more Start your journey with AAA Travel and top travel brands, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, AAA Member Choice Vacations®, Viking, Rocky Mountaineer, Princess and AmaWaterways. Don’t forget to bring your passport!
Entry is free.
A AA
SPECIA
UP TO
L
$1,000 fu
ture travel credit
when you book at
+
the show
exclusive deals from our cruise an d tour partners.*
Scan here
Register today at dreamtravelshow.com
Can’t make it? Call 855-715-6222 or visit a AAA branch near you.
*Terms and conditions apply
3214621-01
WEEKEND
D10 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
Calendar CONTINUES FROM PAGE D8 the places and people who invented and created in Springfield in its industrial heyday. Springfield is the home of the first gas powered automobile, the monkey wrench, basketball … and so much more. Come see what made Springfield the center of innovation in the late 19th century and examine the geographies and buildings where it all began. The tour will begin at the Springfield Museums’ Welcome Center, cost $10 for public, $5 for member. 21 Edwards St., Springfield. 413-263-6800 or www. springfieldmuseums.org.
SUNDAY 5th Annual LAVA Film Festival: See Thursday listing Arena Civic Theatre presents “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” — A Rock Musical Fundraiser for TransHealth: See Thursday listing Paradise City Arts Fall Festival: See Saturday listing Suffield Players presents "Hope-Hearth-Happiness": See Friday listing Sunday Live Music: Sun, 2 p.m. Tangle Chocolate Lounge, Come and enjoy local music every Sunday at Tangle Chocolate. The lineup includes Martha Grinnell, Louise Coombe, Matt Emmer, The Lonesome Brothers, Don Chiulli, Stephen Katz, Luke Deroy and many more. Free. 5 Main St. Route 9, Williamsburg. West Springfield Coin Club Meeting: Sun., 7 p.m. Mittineague Congregational Church, A presentation & discussion will include facts about the 1892 Columbian Exposition commemorative coins. Refreshments will be available. Guests are always welcome. For further information, contact Peter Setian at 413-596-9871, Free. 1840 Westfield St., West Springfield.
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.springfield museums.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. Oct. 9, 12:15 p.m. “History and Legends through Song.” Cost: $4, free for members. Presented by Jon Waterman, musician and songwriter. 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. Firstfloor 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
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: “The Art of Grace Lin: Meeting A Friend in an Unexpected Place.” Through Jan. 4. Included with general admission. “Cooking with Eric Carle.” Through Aug. 23, 2026. “Open + Shut: Celebrating the art of Endpapers.” Through Nov. 9. Guest Curated by Bruce Handy. 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. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst or www.carle museum.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. Josiah Day House: Permanent exhibit: Featuring guided tours, artifacts, furniture, clothing and documents from 1754-1902. Call for open house schedule and individual tours. 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, 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, 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. “Illustrators of Light: Rockwell, Wyeth, Anchor House of Artists: Rotating and Parrish from the Edison art exhibits, self-staged by fine Mazda Collection,” through Jan. 4. regional talents. The best least“Norman Rockwell’s Stockbridge known gallery in the Pioneer Valley. Walking Tours,” Oct. 11. Take a Free public receptions on the second guided walking tour of downtown Fri. of the month from 5-8 p.m. For Stockbridge and discover how more information, email artists@ the town and its inhabitants both anchorhouseartists.org, go online inspired Norman Rockwell and apto anchorhouseartists.org, or call peared in some of his most iconic 413-588-4337. 518 Pleasant St., works of art. “Second Saturdays Northampton. for Families,” Oct. 11, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. “My Family, My Art!” Free drop-in Edith Wharton — The Mount: Outdoor Sculpture: “Sculpture at activity for families; supplies proAmelia Park Children’s Museum: Permanent exhibits include spaceship, construction site, library, grocery store and weekday activities. Visit ameliaparkmuse um. 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.
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
vided. 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 valid college ID), and free for children 3 and under. Route 20, Sturbridge or www.osv.org.
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 Mondays, holidays, and academic breaks. 151 Presidents Drive, Amherst, umass.edu
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 413-637Pan African Historical Museum 3206. “Witches’ Brew Tea Party USA: Permanent exhibit. Hours: and Costume Contest,” Oct. 11, 4 Tues.-Fri. noon-4 p.m. Free. 1500 p.m. Take a virtual walk through Main St., Springfield, 413-733some of New England’s cemeteries 1823. with Louise Levy and learn how to Polish Center of Discovery and decipher the clues left behind on Learning: Permanent exhibit: Galthe headstones. The talk will be folleries include “Coming to Amerilowed by the annual Witches’ Brew ca”; “At Home in America”; “Folk Tea Party and Costume Contest — Art”; “History.” The Polish Center witchy attire is encouraged but not is open to the public daily, Mon.required. Ticket pricing includes Fri, 1-5 p.m., except for inclement access to the mansion throughout weather and holidays. Other times the day of this event from 10 a.m. may be scheduled by appointment. to 4 p.m. Reservations are strongly $5 donation. 33 South St., Chicopencouraged as seats are limited. ee or www.polishcenter.net. Tickets are $45. Members receive Porter-Phelps-Huntington Muse- a discount code for $5 off all ticket um: “Forty Acres and the American prices. Students 22 and under are Revolution: Stories of Indepen$22, “Oct. Tours with Robert Oaks,” dence and Servitude,” through Oct. Oct. 11, 26 at 7 p.m. This is not a ac15. Guided tours of the historic tive investigation. Reservations are ouse are available through Oct., strongly recommended as tickets Sat.-Wed., 1-4 p.m. Admission is are limited. Walk-ins accommo$5 for adults and $1 for children. dated as space allows. Admission 130 River Drive, Hadley or www. is $30 and minimum age to attend pphmuseum.org. is age 12. “Astrology 101 Lecture Smith College Museum of Style Workshop,” Oct. 12 or Nov. Art: Permanent exhibits: “An9 11 a.m.-1 p.m. In this two-hour leccient World Gallery, Beyond the ture-style class, we’ll demystify the Museum: Art on Smith’s Cambasics so you can read a natal chart pus.” Hours: Tues.-Sun. 11 a.m.-4 with confidence. For reservations, p.m., closed Mondays and major visit https://gildedage.org/pages/ holidays. Smith College Musecalendar or call 413-637-3206. um of Art (SCMA) is free to all, Tickets for the workshop are $35. including access to its exhibits: 104 Walker St., Lenox “Michel Kameni: Portraits of an Volleyball Hall of Fame: PermaIndependent Africa,” through Jan. nent exhibit. Volleyball Hall of 4. SCMA Exhibition “A City in Flux: Fame: Open Tues.-Sun, 11 a.m.-3 Reflecting on Venice,” through p.m. Closed Mon. Last admission March 22. Elm Street at Bedford is 30 minutes prior to close. $8 Terrace, Northampton or scma. adults; $5 seniors 65 and older; $5 smith.edu. students, active and retired miliSpringfield Armory National His- tary; and free for children 12 and toric Site: Ranger-led interpretive under. Group rates also available programs offered in the museum online. 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or in the afternoon. Junior Ranger www.volleyhall.org. programs conducted frequently Wistariahurst Museum: Permaeach day. Wed.-Sun, 9:30 a.m.-4 nent exhibit: Gardens and grounds p.m. 1 Armory Square, Springfield open daily from dawn to dusk. or www.nps.gov/spar. Carriage House and gift shop Titanic Museum: Permanent open Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For exhibit: exhibits from the collecinformation about house tours, tion of the International Titanic group tours and upcoming events Historical Society. Hours: Mon.-Fri. visit wistariahurst.org. Standard 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. admission is $7 Holyoke residents; $4, $2 children and students. 208 $5 seniors; $5 youth (under 18); Main St., Indian Orchard or www. and free for museum members, titanic1.org. active military and family members. 238 Cabot St., Holyoke or www. University Museum of Contemporary Art — Fine Arts Center: wistariahurst.org.
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
WEEKEND
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025 | D11
Dwayne Johnson has never been better, but the movie dodges
‘THE SMASHING MACHINE’ By JAKE COYLE
much of “The Smashing Machine” bracing for tragedy, Benny Safdie’s “The for some ear-splitting descent Smashing Machine” isn’t into macho calamity. what you think it is, especially Yet “The Smashing Maif you think it’s a movie about chine,” starring Dwayne a British guy who thinks his Johnson as MMA pioneer typewriter is the tops. Mark Kerr, is something sim“The Smashing Machine” pler and less curious. A lack of would seem to bear all the probing was never anything hallmarks of something you could accuse a Safdie grittier, darker and more brothers’ movie of; these are disturbing than it is. It’s the the filmmakers who plunged solo directorial debut of the a camera into the body cavity younger Safdie, whose films of a jewelry-store owner in with his brother, Josh, have “Uncut Gems.” But, despite rarely not sprinted headlong its grainy, VHS aesthetics, into unsettling tumult. Add “The Smashing Machine” is that sensibility to a true-life a surprisingly conventional tale of a mixed martial arts and oddly untroubled movie, fighter in the late ’90s, and albeit one that gives Johnson it’s only natural to spend an indie-film platform for one Associated Press
Live Wire
records, “which is bizarre because I never thought I’d be doing the family business,” CONTINUES FROM PAGE D5 he said. I moved to L.A., COVID hit, Fittingly, his father co-proand I started getting into mu- duced “Ride Romeo.” sic gear. I’m trying to build my Bernini is best known localown studio out here so he and ly as the former keyboardist of I would end up having long Lux Deluxe, a band that also conversations on the phone featured two of Bernini’s cousabout things like preamps and ins, Caleb and Jacob Rosazza. compressors. There was this Bernini said that his time with whole wealth of knowledge the band had a definite impact that we had never talked on his solo career. He said that about.” the band played so much toAnd now, more recently, gether that they could almost Bernini has started to produce read each others’ minds.
Above, Emily Blunt, right, and Dwayne Johnson in a scene from “The Smashing Machine.”At left is Johnson in a scene from the film. (A24 VIA AP)
of his finest performances. As Mark, Johnson has drained away much of his big-screen charisma. The part — brawny, often shirtless, frequently raging in the ring — is immediately so close to Johnson’s own professional wrestling background that early scenes look almost documentary-like. But gone is the megawatt grin and the dashing eyebrow lift. Johnson’s normally polished bald head is here covered with a closely cropped dark head of hair. In the movie’s opening, Mark rhapsodizes about his feeling of domination. An op-
unfathomable. The laws of moviedom decree, of course, that Mark will soon lose, and his wellrrts earned sense of invincibility Rated: R will shatter. “The Smashing Running time: 123 min. Machine” bounces between Playing at: Regal MGM Mark’s home and Japan, Springfield; Cinemark West where the Pride FightSpringfield, Hampshire ing Championship takes Mall; Greenfield Garden Cinemas place. That’s where Mark, a much-celebrated champion, is taken down by an illegal but ponent’s fear, he says, you can nevertheless humbling move. “smell in their scent.” At this After the fact, the match is point, Mark has known only ruled a tie, but the stink of victory in thumping triumphs defeat never dissipates. that leave him feeling like a The real battle, in any case, god. Losing, he confesses, is SEE ‘MACHINE’, PAGE D12
“And so that experience has shaped my music as far as when I’m looking for other people to play with, there’s a really specific thing that I know I want to find,” he said. “Because with rock ’n’ roll — especially the kind that I write — there’s not a lot of variables. There’s not a lot to learn, but there are other things that just need to be ingrained, like having spent a lot of time playing and kind of a shared knowledge of that type of music.” Succeeding in the music business is no easy feat, so
you might think it would be Bernini’s sole focus — but you’d be wrong. Because he went to Hampshire College to study filmmaking, Bernini is also wading into those waters and recently just finished directing his first feature film, “Blood Barn.” “It’s been kind of a funny thing with my life. I’ve always wondered and thought that at some point one of those things would become my career and will take over,” he said. “But I’ve been kind of just doing both at the
‘THE SMASHING MACHINE’
same level because both of them have continued to have interesting opportunities. So there’s been no real reason to stop one or the other.” As far as the upcoming show, Bernini is excited to come back to Western Massachusetts and play a familiar stage. He said his band will be “a lot of the guys from Lux Deluxe.” “I’ve played Iron Horse so many times, but I haven’t played there in probably eight years,” he said. “It will be a great homecoming.”
WEEKEND
D12 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025
Symphony CONTINUES FROM PAGE D4
Q. What is your view on Italian composers and their contributions?
A. A very positive one. This
program features some of my favorite music — personally, I believe the world would be missing a lot if we didn’t have Italian composers.
would give the SSO musicians an opportunity to mentor the young generation, as well as giving the spotlight to some of the young talent in the community.
Q. Was this a concert you suggested and why?
A.
I was inspired to explore an Italian theme program after meeting Mayor Sarno in Springfield — there seemed to be so much potential, besides tapping into the Italian How will the Youth repertoire I love. For examOrchestra fit into the pro- ple, to also explore how we gram? Have you worked can connect our community with them before? through Italian elements, food, fashion, and more. The Youth Orchestra will And, of course, it is a great work side-by-side with the excuse to program “Pines orchestra musicians. Yes, I of Rome” — a colorful and have had the opportunity to splendid symphonic work observe rehearsals, conduct- with a unique “surround ed in a brief rehearsal, and I sound” ending. If someone listened to several Concerto out there hasn’t heard it live, Competition contestants’ last this is your chance to experiseason. I was very impressed ence it first-hand. by the dedication of the For more information conductors, teachers, and about the coming season or staff supporting the Youth to purchase subscriptions or Symphony Ensembles, and tickets priced at $25-$80 for therefore I thought having Saturday’s performance, visit a side-by-side opportunity SpringfieldSymphony.org.
Q. A.
‘Machine’
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Thursdays & Fridays.
Call ahead to order while supplies last.
al Best De ! in Town
www.frigofoods.com 90 William Street, Springfield • 732-5428 159 Shaker Rd, East Longmeadow • 525-9400
3150030-01
most of all, around his wife, Dawn Staples (Emily Blunt), a former Playboy model CONTINUES FROM PAGE D11 who’s shown as alternatively is at home. Mark’s depensupportive and insensitive to dence on opioids for the Mark’s situation. They feud punishing extremes he enoften, sometimes immedidures is becoming desperate. ately before a match, some“The Smashing Machine” is times over how to make his based on John Hyams’ 2002 shakes. When he tries to give documentary of the same up opioids, he takes her latename, and part of the nature night drinking as a provocaof that film was the curiosity tion. “Treat me like a man,” of Mark’s extreme violence he tells her. in the ring and his otherwise The potency of Johnson’s sweet passivity. In Safdie’s performance is let down by film, Mark is asked in the doc- a movie that fails to really tor’s waiting room if fighters grapple with the violent hate each other during a bout. world around Mark, resort“Absolutely not,” he replies. ing instead for a blander But while we don’t doubt appreciation of these MMA Mark’s sincerity — he’s as combatants. What does resoearnest as he is muscle-bound nate, though, is the portrait — Johnson also exudes an of a human colossus who inner turmoil, and a struggle learns to accept defeat — a to keep his rage at bay while mountain of a man who nursing mounting wounds to looks like he could, without his ego. His body is so stiff, barely trying, rip someone’s it’s like he could snap at any head off at any moment. Inmoment. stead he takes a deep breath, That’s the case for Mark, and doesn’t.
Prime Rib Store made fresh