Barrington Stage Company's Devised Theatre Ensemble Presents 'Jack and the Beanstalk'

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PITTSFIELD, Mass — Barrington Stage Company's Virginia and Harvey Kimmel Arts Education Fund'Devised Theatre Ensemble (DTE)  presents an original  musical: "Jack & the Beanstalk," running July 26–31 at the Boland Theatre at Berkshire Community College (1350 West Street, Pittsfield).

According to a press release: 

A delightful theatrical experience for audiences of all ages, this modern reimagining promises giant laughs, surprising twists, and unforgettable fun.

This wildly inventive take on the classic fairy tale bursts with original music, puppetry, and clever contemporary humor. When young Jack trades his family cow for a handful of mysterious beans, he launches into an epic adventure featuring a grumpy giant king, a golden goose, and—because this is 2025—a cunning real estate developer with plans to turn Jack's humble village into luxury condos.

The musical is directed by Sam LaFrage, with music direction and songs by Billy Recce and production design (including puppetry and animation) by Jim Spieler.

Performance Schedule:

  • Saturday, July 26 – 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM

  • Sunday, July 27 – 2:00 PM

  • Tuesday, July 29 – 11:00 AM

  • Wednesday, July 30 – 11:00 AM

  • Thursday, July 31 – 11:00 AM (Relaxed Performance)

Relaxed Performance – July 31 at 11:00 AM

This special sensory-friendly performance is designed to create a welcoming, inclusive space for neurodivergent audience members, families with young children, first-time theatre-goers, and individuals with sensory sensitivities. Attendees are encouraged to enjoy the show in whatever way feels comfortable—movement, sound, and expression are welcome.

Ticket Information:

  • Adults: $15

  • Children: $8

  • Card to Culture (EBT/WIC/ConnectorCare): $5 (available in person only)

Tickets are available online at barringtonstageco.org, by phone at 413-236-8888, or in person.

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Hinsdale OKs Police Department Audit After Fatal Shooting

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

HINSDALE, Mass. — The town has approved $25,000 for an administrative review of the police department, more than two months after police fatally shot 27-year-old Biagio Kauvil during a mental health crisis. 

Town Administrator Robert Graves said the shooting on Jan. 7 is not the only focus of the audit, and it will be several months before the Select Board receives a final report. 

During a special town meeting on March 11, an article appropriating $25,000 from free cash for an independent consultant to conduct a professional evaluation and audit of the Town's Police Department was approved. The audit includes a review of the department's policies, protocols, operations, and procedures, and concludes with a written report. 

"The Berkshire County District Attorney's Office and Massachusetts State Police are investigating the shooting, and we await their conclusions.  As we look to move forward, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, our insurance company (MIIA/Cabot Risk), and our legal counsel have recommended that the town hire an independent law enforcement consultant or firm to conduct a comprehensive administrative review of our police operation," Graves wrote in an email to iBerkshires on Friday. 

"This event is not their focus; they will assess the overall operation. We want a written assessment of our police operation's strengths and weaknesses to help Hinsdale make future changes and improvements." 

He said after completing the procurement process and signing a contract with a reputable consultant or business, it will most likely be several months before the Select Board receives the final report. 

"Still, it will help the town and police department move forward," Graves wrote. 

Last weekend, family and friends of Kauvil stood in Park Square asking for justice. A flier for the standout reads "Biagio was killed by police while experiencing a mental health crisis. Now, over seven weeks later, authorities have not yet provided any updates.

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