Now is the Time for Lovers of Art & Culture to Book the Perfect Berkshire Getaway

Experience a bounty of performing arts in the fresh mountain air of the Berkshires

Summer in the Berkshires has many shining qualities, and one of the brightest stars is our arts and culture scene. Encompassing dance, theater, and live music – plus film festivals and creative exhibitions at varied museums and galleries – all kinds of entertainment abound, both locally and from around the world. Here are just a few of our performing arts options for creative experiences in the Berkshires.

The world-renowned Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival features 9 weeks of dance, from hip hop to ballet. Come early to picnic on the beautiful grounds where you can replace the hustle and bustle of daily living for the peaceful, green woods of Becket. In late June, catch Pillow favorite Mark Morris Dance Group. The dancers will be accompanied by a live musical ensemble with vocals by Broadway star Marcy Harriell. Experience Indigenous Polynesian culture with Te Ao Mana on June 29 on the outdoor stage – this performance is “choose what you pay.” For a family-friendly show, book tickets to the Contemporary Performance Ensemble. You can also get a groove on with a community dance class or event.

This year’s season at Shakespeare & Company, located downtown in the charming town of Lenox, offers a slate of theater for all interests. Dear Jack, Dear Louise by Tony Award-winning Ken Ludwig is a touching, comedic story inspired by a World War II courtship. See August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Fences or The Contention (Shakespeare’s Henry VI, Part II), which recounts struggles for power by two ancient families.

Theater lovers can sing along with Million Dollar Quartet at Berkshire Theatre Group or take a trip to the Kit Kat Klub in Kander and Ebb’s Cabaret, produced by Barrington Stage Company. Williamstown Theatre Festival is offering a Main Stage Reading Series, including Paris, Actors! with Hamish Linklater and Lily Rabe. Find more theatrical offerings from Great Barrington Public Theater and Chester Theatre Company.

“Ain’t Misbehavin’” at Barrington Stage Company, credit Daniel Rader

No summer stay in the Berkshires is complete without a trip to Tanglewood. If you’ve never been, this is a not-to-miss, Berkshire bucket list to-do. Relax on the lawn with a sumptuous spread and a bottle of wine to the tunes of Star Wars or Harry Potter in Concert. Dance the night away with Train or catch Jackson Browne, both in August. Lawn seats are often available day-of, but purchasing tickets in advance is strongly recommended, especially for Shed seats and all popular artist shows. Some, such as James Taylor, are sold out already, but don’t let that stop you. An afternoon or evening on the grounds is a magical experience with a beautiful Berkshire view, no matter who is playing.

While you’re here, enjoy music from Renaissance to Baroque with the Aston Magna Music Festival – this summer is their 50th anniversary season. Listen to string quartets on select Sundays with South Mountain Concerts, or enjoy the “magic hour” at Berkshire Botanical Gardens with their Music Monday series, July through August. Spread out a blanket amongst the flowers or bring a lawn chair to enjoy the gardens with Berkshire performers.

On July 22, you can celebrate a love of the outdoors at Bousquet Mountain during their second annual Mountain Day. Shop for souvenirs at the vendor village and participate in yoga, biking, and other activities, then dance into the night with local band Whiskey Treaty Roadshow. Two additional options for combining food, drinks, and live tunes are Catamount Mountain Resort’s free Summer Music Series on Friday nights, and Berkshire Mountain Distillers’ Summer Food Series. Munch on hot dogs, pizza, BBQ, and more on Saturday afternoons while sipping local spirits.

Bousquet Mountain

If you prefer the comfort of an indoor setting, the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center will showcase live performances from trumpet master and composer Chris Botti, comedian Ryan Hamilton, or Béla Fleck – My Bluegrass Heart Band. You can also enjoy films, both old favorites and HD broadcasts from London’s National Theatre and the Met Opera.

Our arts and culture await your arrival in the Berkshires. Whatever imaginative getaway you’re dreaming of, you are sure to have a creative experience to remember. Book your tickets and then find a place to stay. Explore more things to do. Discover where to dine. We can’t wait to see you in the Berkshires!

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