The Third Annual Power of Truths Arts & Education Festival

The Third Annual Power of Truths Arts & Education Festival

Dates: Friday, April 5, 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Saturday, April 6, 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM & 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Location: Bombyx Center, 130 Pine St, Florence, MA

Self-Evident Education presents the Third Annual Power of Truths Arts & Education Festival, taking place on

Friday, April 5, and Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Bombyx Center in Florence. This year's theme, "Building Community in the Midst of Chaos," underscores our commitment to fostering critical conversations around social and racial justice issues.

Based in Florence, Self-Evident Education utilizes multimedia storytelling to engage school and community groups in discussions about the histories and legacies of race and racism in the United States. The festival will feature the premiere of Self-Evident's newest lm, "Freedom's Battle at Christiana," produced for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Additionally, attendees will experience an original theatrical production titled "Know the Ledge: Hip-hop History Live!" This performance features Dutch ReBelle, Marcia Gomes, Father Hotep, the Perceptionists and others. It will integrate music, storytelling, and dance to showcase powerful narratives from Self-Evident's film library.

Teacher Fellowship:

In conjunction with the festival, Self-Evident Education is proud to announce the inaugural Teacher Fellowship, funded in part by the Library of Congress/Teaching with Primary Sources Grant Program. Fifteen educators have been selected to participate in this fellowship, which aims to demonstrate the power of Self-Evident's library of resources and primary sources in deeply examining the histories and legacies of systemic racism. This approach provides educators with essential tools to engage students in meaningful dialogue about complex historical issues.

The fellowship cohort comprises seven local educators, including four from Northampton and one from Springfield, as well as eleven educators from across the United States and even the Bahamas. Hailing from Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and beyond, these teachers will engage in two days of intensive work with Self-Evident before attending the Power of Truths Arts & Education Festival.

Keynote Speakers:

• Tricia Rose, author of the groundbreaking book "Metaracism: How Systemic Racism Devastates Black Lives and How We Break Free," will deliver a keynote address exploring the themes of her work. (Saturday)

• Malia Lazu, leading DEI consultant and author of "From Intention to Impact," will share insights on organizational change and racial equity. (Friday)



Special Presentations:

Khalif Neville and Bayeté Ross Smith will discuss the use of Virtual Reality to tell important stories of our past, present, and future. A Virtual Reality exhibit featuring their work will accompany the presentation.

Youth and Local Presenters:

• Screenings of short documentary films by high school students.

• The Northampton High School wind ensemble will perform a set of music composed by contemporary and historical Black composers.

• Highlights from the work of "Blacks in the Valley" and the "Witness Stone" project will be showcased.


For more details about the festival program, please refer to this booklet or visit: https://thirdrow.live/power-of-truths/


Ticket Information:

GET TICKETS - https://bombyx.live/power-of-truths/

Both days of the festival are open to the public, with a special focus on Friday for high school and college students and educators. Ticket options include one-day or two-day passes, with separate tickets available for the Saturday night theatrical performance. Group discounts are available; please email kyla@selfevidenteducation.com for more information.


Sponsors:

The Third Annual Power of Truths Arts & Education Festival is sponsored by Self-Evident Education, in partnership with the Northampton Arts Council, with additional support from the Beveridge Family Foundation, the Bombyx Center for Arts & Equity, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, Greenfield Savings Bank, the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Consortium, Mass Humanities, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Northampton Department of Health and Human Services.

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact Michael Lawrence-Riddell at michael@selfevidenteducation.com or 617-869-9070.

KidsBestFest 2024

WHAT: KidsBestFest 2024

WHEN: Monday, April 15, 2024 - Thursday, April 19, 2024, 11:00 AM showtime, doors at 10:30 AM. 

WHERE: The Academy of Music Theatre, 274 Main Street, Northampton, MA 01060

HOW MUCH: FREE, please donate to keep it free!


KidsBestFest is a week-long movie festival for kids and adults with free admission held during the spring school break at the Academy of Music Theatre. We show one movie a day and kick off the festival on Monday, April 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with doors open at 10:30 AM. 

Monday 4/15/24 - The Emperor's New Groove (2000) at 11:00 AM.
In this breezy, slapstick-laden cartoon, a vengeful advisor to the emperor turns his boss into a llama. The voice cast includes David Spade, John Goodman, and Eartha Kitt. Directed by Mark Dindal. Rated G. Runtime 78 minutes. Cast: David Spade, John Goodman, Eartha Kitt, Patrick Warburton, Wendie Malick.

Tuesday 4/16/24 - The Great Muppet Caper (1981) at 11:00 AM.
The Muppets are in London covering a jewel heist. Directed by Jim Henson. Rated G.
Runtime 95 minutes. Cast: Charles Grodin, Diana Rigg, John Cleese, Robert Morley, Peter Ustinov


Wednesday, 4/17/24 - Singin' in the Rain (1952) at 11:00 AM.
Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O'Connor star in one of the greatest musicals ever filmed. Musician Don Lockwood (Kelly) rises to stardom during Hollywood's silent-movie era--paired with the beautiful, jealous and dumb Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen). When Lockwood becomes attracted to young studio singer Kathy Selden (Reynolds), Lamont has her fired. But with the introduction of talking pictures, audiences laugh when they hear Lockwood speak for the first time--and the studio uses Selden to dub her voice. Set during the advent of "talkies," this film's classic song-and-dance numbers celebrate the beginning of movie musicals. Directed by Stanley Donen. Rated G. Runtime
103 minutes. Cast: Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagen, Millard Mitchell.


Thursday 4/18/24 - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) at 11:00 AM.
Raphael, Leonardo, Donatello, and Michelangelo are four turtle brothers with a unique set of skills and a penchant for mischief, which runs them afoul of New York City. Yet when a horde of sinister mutants begins to wreak havoc, the city must learn to rely on the turtles if they are to be saved. Directed by Jeff Rowe. Rated PG. Runtime 99 minutes. Cast: Micah Abbey, Shamon Brown Jr., Nicolas Cantu, Brady Noon, Ayo Edebiri

Friday 4/19/24 - Holes (2003) at 11:00 AM.
Faithful, entertaining adaptation of Louis Sachar's popular, prize-winning children's novel about a bizarre juvenile-correctional facility run by an intimidating warden. Directed by Andrew Davis. Rated PG. Runtime 118 minutes. Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Sigourney Weaver, Jon Voight, Tim Blake Nelson, Khleo (Khaleed) Thomas.


Headline Sponsors: A2Z Science and Learning Store, Gage-Wiley Investments

Media Sponsors: Daily Hampshire Gazette, The Republican, WRSI the River 99.3, WHMP

Organization Sponsors: City of Northampton, Massachusetts Cultural Council, Academy of Music Theatre

KidsBest is a co-production of the Northampton Arts Council and the Academy of Music Theatre.

Pre-register for the "Third Annual Power of Truths Arts & Education Festival"

Join Us for the Third Annual Power of Truths and Apply for the Self-Evident Teacher Fellowship


Please join us on Friday, April 5, and Saturday, April 6, 2024, to explore and celebrate the powers of arts and education as tools for collective power and racial justice. Engage with thought-provoking and inspiring presenters, performances, talks, panels, and workshops.

This year's keynote speaker will be Tricia Rose; her new book Metaracism: How Systemic Racism Devastates Black Lives—and How We Break Free delves deeply into how systemic racism in America really works, revealing the vast and often hidden network of interconnected policies, practices, and beliefs that combine to devastate Black lives.

The full schedule will be available soon, but for now...for a sense of what you will experience, here is a listing of last year's sessions/programming, and here is a link to the flyers for last year's event.

Saturday night will feature "Know the Ledge: Hiphop History Live, Part ii", a multimedia performance using arts and storytelling to bring the audience on powerful journeys through history; a separate ticket is required for this event.

PRE-REGISTRATION LINK

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST TO STAY INFORMED


NOTE: We will also be hosting an educator fellowship in the days leading up to the Power of Truths. On April 3 and 4, we will work with 15 educators to explore the powers of the Self-Evident library and primary source documents in teaching accurate and honest history. Fellows will then attend the two days of the Power of Truths.

APPLICATION FOR THE SELF-EVIDENT EDUCATION: TEACHER FELLOWSHIP

The past two years Self-Evident Education has organized the Power of Truths Arts & Education Festival in Florence. This year will be the third annual. The gathering is dedicated to the powers of the arts and education as tools for racial and social justice and features inspiring speakers, workshops, keynotes, and performances. This year’s conference will be Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6, 2024. Prepare to be immersed in thought-provoking presentations, captivating performances, and interactive workshops. Delve into fresh perspectives, experience profound emotions, and cultivate innovative ideas that will undoubtedly leave you inspired. This is not just an event—it's a transformative experience waiting to unfold.




MORE DETAILS


Friday, April 5, 2024, 9:30 am-3:30 pm, Day 1

The day will be filled with exciting, energizing, and inspiring workshops, performances, and presentations. The culminating session on Friday will feature a preview of "Know the Ledge: Hiphop History Live!", which will be the marquee event on Saturday night. (Here's a highlight from last year... Dutch ReBelle as Sojourner Truth).


Saturday, April 6, 2024, 9:30-5:00 (for the conference), Day 2, part i

The day will be filled with more exciting, energizing, and inspiring workshops, performances, and presentations. Tricia Rose will deliver the keynote address on Saturday; she will speak about the work she has done to help understand and ultimately dismantle systemic racism. (Here is the "media kit" for her new book)


Saturday, April 6, 2024, 7:30-9:30 pm, Day 2, part ii

Self-Evident’s theatrical production, "Know the Ledge: Hiphop History Live!", which will use music, storytelling, and dance to tell some of the powerful stories in the Self-Evident library.


Visit here for more information: selfevidenteducation.com/news/power-of-truths


Some other highlights:

- Khalif Neville and Bayeté Ross Smith will present on using Virtual Reality to tell important stories of our past, our present, and our futures. This will be accompanied by a Virtual Reality exhibit of some of their work.

- The premiere of "Freedom's Battle at Christiana" (click for a short preview), one of the films we are producing for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

- The Northampton High School wind ensemble will perform a set of music from contemporary and historical Black composers.

The History of Salsa with Dj Bongohead and Banda Criolla

 

The History of Salsa with Dj Bongohead and Banda Criolla
@ Center for the Arts Flex Space at 33 Hawley, Northampton, MA 01060
Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 2:00 PM

Get your tickets here: https://www.freshtix.com/events/the-history-of-salsa-live or over the phone. You can call 678-701-6114. Tickets are sent via email moments after the transaction is completed.

Join us on Sun, Apr 28, 2024, at 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, for an exciting journey through the roots of salsa music. Get ready to dance and learn from the best in the business. Pablo Yglesias and Banda Criolla will take you on a musical adventure you will remember. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of salsa. See you there! Featuring music, dancing, and history from DJ Bongohead and live salsa group Banda Criolla.

DJ Bongohead
Pablo Yglesias is one of the founders of Peace & Rhythm DJ collective & record label. He thrills us with his endless enthusiasm and knowledge of global funkiness. As a writer and historian he has informed on many musical subjects from latin & funk to jazz & punk via the likes of Wax Poetics, his Rough Guides overviews and more. The author/curator of Cocinando! Fifty Years of Latin Album Cover Art (PAP), he also regularly spins vinyl as DJ Bongohead and works in the fields of art and graphic design. His compilation series The Afrosound of Colombia has helped re-launch a worldwide focus on the riches of Colombian music. Peace & Rhythm are proud to be teamed with Vampisoul Records of Madrid to continue bringing the Colombian rare-groove heat! Thanks to Bongohead for all his dedicated hard work in the Discos Fuentes reissue program.

Banda Criolla
New England’s hottest Latin music ensemble! "Banda Criolla" is a 5-piece Latin Dance Band performing top Latino artists such as Luis Fonsi / Daddy Yankee, Enrique Iglesias, Carlos Vives to standard Latin American/ Cuban Classics from Tito Puente, Santana, Los Panchos , Juan Luis Guerra, Gypsy Kings, Strunz and Farah, Celia Cruz and Banda Criolla. Hundreds of performances in USA, Puerto Rico and Cuba. The explosive rhythmic energy of today’s festive Latin music from Puerto Rico/ Cuba / Latin America!

Headline Sponsor: Lathrop Community

Media Sponsors: The Daily Hampshire Gazette, The Republican, 93.9 FM the River, WHMP, Northampton Open Media

Organizational Support:
Massachusetts Cultural Council, City of Northampton

Brew & Forge Poetry Night: A celebration of BIPOC poetry in the Valley

Brew & Forge Poetry Night: A celebration of BIPOC poetry in the Valley


Please join us for the first event organized by Franny Choi, the new Poet Laureate of Northampton, and Brew & Forge, an organization that builds connections between writers, artists, and social justice movements. Along with a reading by Franny, this event will showcase poets of color from across the Pioneer Valley and introduce attendees to powerful grassroots organizing happening locally. Readers include Jai Dulani, Abigail Chabitnoy, Lyrical Faith, Omkari Williams, and Cameron Awkward-Rich. Celebrate the richness of BIPOC poetry in our region, learn about local initiatives, and support writers and activists working for racial justice!


Doors open at 5:45. Admission is free. Donations are welcome and will go toward Brew & Forge’s work supporting poets and community organizers of color in Western Mass and across the Northeast.


The reading will be followed by a book signing and tabling by the Western Mass Bailout Project and the Trans Asylum Seekers Support Network.



Friday, March 1, 2024

Northampton Center for the Arts Flex Space at 33 Hawley

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM


RSVP HERE

Silver Chord Bowl 40th Anniversary

Silver Chord Bowl 40th Anniversary

As we celebrate the 40th year of the esteemed Silver Chord Bowl, the most revered collegiate a cappella showcase in the region, we invite you to witness unmatched talent at the iconic John M. Greene Hall on Smith College's campus. This year's event will be inaugurated with a soulful performance by Northampton High School's Northamptones, paving the way for six acclaimed groups from top colleges and universities around the Northeast. Prepare to be awed by Tufts sQ!, Eight Beat Measure – RIT's Original TTBB A Cappella Group, The Chorallaries of MIT, UCONN Extreme Measures "ExM," The Amherst College Zumbyes, Smith College Blackappella & POCappella. Join Steve Sanderson of the Northampton Arts Council/WRSI 93.9 the River, Smith College President Sarah Willie-LeBreton, and the Mayor of Northampton, Gina-Louise Sciarra, as they host the Silver Chord Bowl. This unique opportunity to experience the heart of a cappella is not to be missed.

When?
Sunday, February 11 – 2:00 PM Showtime, Doors Open at 1:30 PM

Where?
John M. Greene Hall is located on the Smith College campus, 60 Elm Street, Northampton, MA 01060

How Much?
In Advance: 

Price Premium Assigned Seating All Ages - $35
General Assigned Seating All Ages - $15 (Available online);

Day of at Door Price:
Premium Assigned Seating All Ages - $40
General Assigned Seating All Ages - $20

Online Advanced Ticket Outlet: FreshTix

There are 2 ways to buy tickets on FreshTix:

Online - https://www.freshtix.com/events/silver-chord-bowl

Over the phone. You can call 678-701-6114
Tickets are sent via email moments after the transaction is completed

Click here for more information about our opening hours and holiday information.

In-person Advance Ticket Outlets: State Street Fruit Store in Northampton and Cooper’s Corner in Florence

A limited number of General Assigned Seating Tickets All Ages for $15 will be available at State Street Fruit Store and Cooper’s Corner in Florence. The tickets are assigned seating, so please pay attention to the section, row, and section you buy. Only orchestra sections A and D, rows 18-25, are available at State Street and Cooper’s.

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Headline Sponsor: 

Smith College

Organizational Support:
Massachusetts Cultural Council, City of Northampton, Smith College

Northampton Youth Cinema Festival Call for Submissions

 

Northampton Youth Cinema Festival Call for Submissions

The Northampton Youth Cinema Festival is a relaunch of the YouthFilm Festival, last run in 2017. The festival ran for 17 years before it was shelved. The festival is being relaunched by two Northampton High School filmmakers collaborating with the Northampton Arts Council and Northampton Open Media.

The festival screenings will take place on April 19th, 2024, at the tail end of the week-long Northampton Kidsbestfest.

Call for Submissions

We encourage high-school and college-age filmmakers to submit their films. We are accepting film submissions that are under 30 minutes, excluding documentaries. The submission deadline is March 1st, 2024.

A selection committee will view submissions, and filmmakers will be notified in late March.

Selected films will be screened at the Academy of Music Theatre in Northampton on Friday, April 19th, 2024.

Rules and Regulations

NYCF IS ACCEPTING ALL FILMS EXCEPT DOCUMENTARIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

- MUSIC VIDEOS

- NARRATIVE FILMS

- ANIMATED SHORTS

- BIOPICS

Please keep all films under 20 minutes. Films between 20 and 30 minutes will be considered. Films over 30 minutes will not be considered.

By submitting, you agree for your film to be shown in person at the NYCF and virtually listed on Vimeo/Youtube.

SUBMIT HERE

___________________________________________________________________________________
Northampton Youth Cinema Festival Screenings

When? 

Friday, April 19th – 11:00 AM Showtime, Doors Open at 10:30 AM.

Where? 

Academy of Music Theatre, 274 Main St, Northampton, MA 01060

How Much? 

FREE, please donate to keep it free!

Headline Sponsors:  A2Z Science and Learning Store, Gage-Wiley Investments

Media Sponsors:  Daily Hampshire Gazette, The Republican, WRSI the River 99.3, WHMP

Organization Sponsors:

City of Northampton, Massachusetts Cultural Council, Academy of Music Theatre

‘LOVE YOU!’ a post Valentine’s Day Arts Cabaret

‘LOVE YOU!’ a post Valentine’s Day Arts Cabaret

The Northampton Arts Council invites you to join us for a dynamic party with a showcase of talent to give our community a taste of the artistic vision of each of our recent grant recipients.

‘LOVE YOU!’ a post-Valentine’s Day Arts Cabaret, will take place at the Smith College Conference Center at 49 College Ln on the Smith College Campus on February 15, 6:30-9:30 pm.

Free and open to the public, there will be drink, music, AND dancing.

Click on this link to RSVP.

The Arts Cabaret Sub-committee of the Northampton Arts Council produces this event.

Northampton Arts Council Announces 2024-2026 Poet Laureate

 Poet Laureate to Host Poetry Night Celebrating BIPOC Poetry in the Valley

The Northampton Arts Council is thrilled to announce the appointment of Franny Choi as Northampton’s poet laureate for the 2024–2026 term. As Northampton’s 10th laureate, Choi joins the illustrious ranks of poets Karen Skolfield, Martin Espada, Janet Aalfs, Jack Gilbert, Lesléa Newman, Lenelle Moïse, Richard Michelson, Patrick Donnelly, and Amy Dryansky.

The Northampton Poet Laureate position is a two-year term and celebrates Northampton’s vibrant and diverse poetry community through activities of interest to the chosen poet and will educate the public about the importance of poets and poetry to Northampton’s civic and artistic life. The selection committee read poetry by various nominees, discussed a wide range of quality in all their work, and considered their success in the larger poetry world. 

Franny Choi is the author of three poetry collections: The World Keeps Ending, and the World Goes On (Ecco, 2022), Soft Science (Alice James Books, 2019), and Floating, Brilliant, Gone (Write Bloody Publishing, 2014). Their writing has appeared in the New York Times, the Atlantic, the Paris Review, and elsewhere. A recipient of the Lily/Rosenberg Fellowship, Princeton’s Holmes National Poetry Prize, and the Elgin Award, Franny is Faculty in Literature at Bennington College and the founder of Brew & Forge, an organization with a mission to build connections between writers, organizers, and movement workers. Franny is at work on a forthcoming essay collection. You can see their work at www.frannychoi.com. 

Franny Choi and Brew & Forge will be hosting an event on Friday, March 1, 2024, at 6:00 PM, in the Flex Space at 33 Hawley Street. Along with a reading by Franny, this event will showcase poets of color from across the Pioneer Valley and introduce attendees to powerful grassroots organizing happening locally. Celebrate the richness of BIPOC poetry in the region, learn about local initiatives, and support writers and activists working for racial justice. Admission is free. Donations are welcome and will go toward Brew & Forge’s work supporting poets and community organizers of color in Western Mass and across the Northeast.

Mikey Sweet Presents: The Ghost of Brian McCullough w/ Jimmy Johnson

WHAT: Mikey Sweet Presents: The Ghost of Brian McCullough w/ Jimmy Johnson
WHERE: The Parlor Room - 32 Masonic Street Northampton, MA 01060
WHEN: Sunday January 21st - Doors at 7:00pm, Show at 7:30pm
Tickets: https://www.simpletix.com/e/mikey-sweet-at-the-parlor-room-tickets

Event RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/850851779747843/
Sponsored by the Northampton Arts Council

"With his expressive, lived-in voice, Mikey Sweet balances heartworn lyrics with just enough humor on engaging, deeply felt Americana tunes."- Eric Danton of The Wall Street Journal, Rolling Stone, Pitchford, Salon and Paste Magazine

Mikey Sweet will be hosting a valley all-star tribute and posthumous release of the music of the late great Brian McCullough on January 21st at The Parlor Room in Northampton, MA. Brian McCullough was a songwriting legend in the Pioneer Valley and influenced many in his years in Northampton. Come and join us to celebrate the life and songs of this incredible talent. Valley artists on the bill include Topsy, Woodford Way, Jimmy Johnson, DJDP, and more. All sales from the album will go to benefit the Survival Center in Northampton, MA.

FIRST NIGHT NORTHAMPTON 2024

Happy New Year! You’re invited to attend First Night—Northampton’s most beloved signature event. On Sunday, December 31st, the Northampton Arts Council and Greenfield Savings Bank welcome you to the 39th edition of our city-wide New Year’s Eve party. Since 1985, First Night Northampton has filled the Paradise City with a 12-hour, family-friendly festival of the arts culminating in a traditional ball-raising from the roof of the Hotel Northampton. Gather with friends, neighbors, and visitors at 23 terrific downtown venues for an astounding array of entertainment presented by hundreds of talented performers. Our efforts are supported by generous local sponsors and dedicated volunteers. One hundred percent of proceeds benefit community arts.

Our noon kick-off at the Academy of Music (#1 on the map) offers twice as many thrills with TWO performances of SHOW Circus Studio’s eye-popping Let There Be Light. Or join the action at “Bugaboo Revue,” presented by Talking Hands Theatre at 1 pm and 2 pm at Hallie Flanagan Theatre at Smith College (#4 on the map.) Don’t miss a repeat of last year’s double feature starring the A2Z Yo-Yo Team and Mad Science of Western New England in the 1 pm -4 pm slot at Theatre 14 at Smith College (#3 on the map.) Our performance program is filled with hours of excitement for kids and adults. In the afternoon, enjoy jugglers, magicians, dancers, puppets, a cappella voices, plus classical and contemporary music from solo to quintet, acoustic to electric. We even have a guitar orchestra! Jam with Pamela Means at St. John’s Episcopal (#5 on the map,) or sing along with the Nields at their family show in First Churches Sanctuary. Treat yourself to the Valley Light Opera, making another appearance with two performances of songs from current and past VLO productions of Gilbert and Sullivan operettas at Theatre 14 at 4 pm and 5 pm.

Fireworks at 6:15 top off the afternoon and signal the start of the evening entertainment. The City of Northampton hosts a fabulous display that lights up the sky from the roof of the central parking garage. You can see the fireworks from all over town. After that, the festivities continue with diverse offerings, including a performance by the beloved Northamptones at the Academy of Music at 7 pm and capped by performances by Aisha Burns at 8 pm, Mary Lambert at 9:15 pm, and Soul Magnets at 10:15 pm. Feel like dancing? Stroll down Hawley Street, where you’ll discover Peace and Rhythm Dance Party at the 33 Hawley Mezzanine (#21 on the map.) Or walk up Gothic Street to catch the musical impresario Mal Devisa at the Parlor Room at 9 pm. Prefer to sit back and listen? First Night favorites Tracy Grammer and Jim Henry appear at Edwards Church, while the rocking Ian St. George Band will be on the 4th Floor of Bishops Lounge at 8 pm. In the mood to hear some hip-hop? Check out Myles Jeh at Theatre 14 at Smith College at 9 pm.

Later, it’s time to gather at the Hotel Northampton for the iconic raising of the ball. Steve Sanderson of WRSI will host the Midnight Countdown with Peace & Rhythm DJs spinning upbeat tunes that will have you dancing in the streets. A single bargain-priced button opens the doors to every event at every venue. Buy one early at a local vendor or online, and check out the companion performance schedule and the following logistical tips.

“Like” our Facebook page to keep up with the excitement. Stay tuned for our First Night Northampton 2024 Sched page coming soon! For more information please visit: https://www.firstnightnorthampton.org/

Emerging Filmmakers of Western Mass: Screening of six short films at the Academy of Music

WHAT: Emerging Filmmakers of Western Mass: Screening of six short films at the Academy of Music

WHEN: December 22nd, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: Academy of Music in Northampton.

Northampton, MA - A free, family-friendly screening of six short films created by local filmmakers is being held on December 22nd, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., at the Academy of Music in Northampton. The event, “Emerging Filmmakers of Western Mass”, will showcase two narrative and four documentary films which include themes such as strengthening community and confronting change.

“Emerging Filmmakers of Western Mass” is organized by Lucas Fappiano and Colin Hodgson, both born and raised in Northampton. The pair recently completed their latest short film, Small Lives, which is a character study of Jim Mias, a well-known local community leader. Instead of a small private screening, Lucas and Colin collaborated with other local filmmakers to curate an evening of screenings — open to the public and free of charge. The key theme of Small Lives is the power and resilience of community. It is the hope of the filmmakers that the “Emerging Filmmakers” event brings residents together for a night of local pride in support of the Pioneer Valley’s vibrant arts community.

The screening is curated by Hodgson and Fappiano’s Blue Heron Productions, a production company with a focus on personalized documentaries, and is sponsored by Elder Care Access and Full Circle Bike Shop. Concessions will be available for purchase. Guests are asked to consider making a donation at the door, with all proceeds going to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. 

The Power of Truths: Cinematic Chronicles of Racism and Resistance

WHAT: The Power of Truths: Cinematic Chronicles of Racism and Resistance
WHEN: December 5, 2023 from 5:30-7:00 PM
WHERE: Carroll Room, Smith College Campus Center, 100 Elm St, Northampton, MA 01063

Self-Evident Education presents: “The Power of Truths: Cinematic Chronicles of Racism and Resistance,” a free film screening and discussion, Tuesday, December 5, 2023 from 5:30-7:00 PM in the Carroll Room, Smith College Campus Center.

The evening will feature the screening of two short documentary films: If You Cross This Boundary, We All Die, about Ellen and William Craft's journey of self-emancipation from Georgia to Boston and beyond; and A Mother's Bond, the story of Catherine Linda, an enslaved woman who was brought by her enslavers to Northampton in 1845, where she learned she could obtain her freedom in Massachusetts. Both films were produced by Self-Evident Education.

Following the films a panel will feature Ilyon Woo, author of Master, Slave, Husband, Wife (about Ellen and William Craft) and Elizabeth Stordeur Pryor, Associate Professor of History at Smith College and author of Colored Travelers: Mobility and the Fight for Citizenship before the Civil War. Ousmane Power-Green, Director of Africana Studies at Clark University and author of The Confessions of Matthew Strong, will facilitate the discussion and audience Q & A. Books by all three authors will be available for sale at the event.

Based in Florence, Self-Evident Education uses multimedia storytelling to engage school and community groups in critical conversations about the histories and legacies of race and racism in the United States. Self-Evident's powerful films caught the eye of the education team at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, and Self-Evident is currently working to produce two films and accompanying curriculum for the museum's North Star: A Digital Journey of African American History platform.

The December 5 program is sponsored by Self-Evident Education, in partnership with Forbes Library, Smith College History Department, Historic Northampton, Mass Humanities, Northampton Arts Council, Paradise Copies, the Beveridge Family Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Community Foundation of Western Mass.

All are welcome! So please join us on Tuesday evening, December 5, 5:30-7:00 PM, in the Carroll Room of the Smith College Campus Center. To receive background resource materials and email updates, pre-register with Forbes Library at: https://forbeslibrary.libcal.com/event/11493601

Downtown Northampton Market Walk on December 9th: Visit 4 Local Craft Fairs

 

WHAT: Market Walk

WHERE: Various Locations - Downtown Northampton, MA  

WHEN: Saturday December 9th 10am-5pm

Western Mass Makers Market 

Northampton Center for the Arts

33 Hawley St Northampton, MA. 

10am-4pm

Queer Makers Market

The Majestic Saloon

24 Main St Northampton, MA.

12pm-5pm

Lowbrow Craft Fair 

First Churches 129 Main St Northampton, MA.

11am-5pm

Curated Craft

The Dirty Truth 29 Main St Northampton, MA.

10am-4pm

Rouge Readings presents: Marisa Crawford, in conversation with Britt Billmeyer-Finn and Zoe Tuck

 

WHAT: Rouge Readings presents: Marisa Crawford, in conversation with Britt Billmeyer-Finn and Zoe Tuck.
WHEN: Saturday, November 18 at 7:00 p.m. / doors at 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: 90 King Street, Northampton, MA.  

Join us as we celebrate the release of Marisa Crawford's Diary: a book that "push[es] the limits of what it means to write a poem."

Marisa is joined in readings and conversation by local poets Zoe Tuck and Britt Billmeyer-Finn.

This event is free and open to the public. Suggested donations of $5 will go toward the Rouge Reading Series.

Priya Darshini’s Periphery with opener Kimaya Diggs at the Academy of Music Theatre

DATE: Saturday, October 7, 2023, at 8:00 PM, Doors Open at 7:00 PM

LOCATION: The Academy of Music Theatre, 274 Main Street, Northampton, MA 01060

TICKETS: The Academy of Music Theatre Box Office

“Between the columns, a window opens to another world, to the unimaginable, and that wonderful voice of Priya Darshini!” – Hi Fidelity Magazine

Born in Chennai, raised in Mumbai, India, and based in New York, Priya Darshini’s distinct style takes inspiration from her diverse cultural and life experiences. Rooted in Hindustani Classical music and jazz, “Priya Darshini takes a Bjork-sized leap into minimalist, vocal-led experimental music [with her project] Periphery,” – Rolling Stone India

Coupled with her improvisational mastery and vast knowledge of music from around the world, Priya’s music is elegant, tranquil, virtuosic, intricately layered, and pushes compositional boundaries. As John Schafer of WNYC remarks “[Priya Darshini’s] music incorporates a world of influences and lives on the periphery, much like herself.”

In 2020, Priya Darshini released her debut solo album – Periphery – on Chesky Records, and was nominated for GRAMMY® Award for Best New Age Album. In 2021, Variety Magazine listed her amongst 10 Grammy-Nominated Women to Know, while Tatler Asia listed her amongst “Six Asian women changing the face of music around the world.”

Beyond her achievements in music, Priya Darshini is an accomplished ultra-marathoner, an entrepreneur, an environmental advocate, and actress. She is on the board of the International Wildlife Coexistence Network, as well as the Mumbai-based non-profit Jana Rakshita.

Priya’s debut at The Academy of Music will feature hammered dulcimer pioneer Max ZT (House of Waters, Karsh Kale), Grammy nominated cellist Dave Eggar (Michael Brecker, Evanescence, Coldplay), and versatile percussionist-drummer Patrick Duke Graney (Jamey Haddad). Priya Darshini’s performance will explore the intersections between Jazz, Indian Classical music, folk music, and improvisation. Darshini’s goal is to create a one-of-a-kind space where these musical traditions can come together, sparking new and exciting artistic expressions.

“Priya Darshini’s album, Periphery, stands out as a beacon of hope for cultural unanimity.” – Elle Magazine

More info about Priya: https://priyadarshini.com/

Opener Kimaya Diggs

Kimaya Diggs was born and raised in Western Massachusetts. After moving away for a while, touring with international folk music ensemble Northern Harmony, studying opera, and falling in love with the guitar, Diggs moved back to the valley and released her debut album Breastfed in 2018. Breastfed was co-produced by LuxDeluxe member Jacob Rosazza, and the single “How Am I Sposta Know” landed in the top ten on 93.9 The River’s Best New Songs of 2018.

Her second album, Quincy, was recorded during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. During this time, Diggs lost her mother from a long illness, a longtime musical mentor, and her dog. Born from intersecting arcs of grief, Quincy is a joyful album, a story masterfully told in an agile, open-hearted voice that could only come from Kimaya Diggs.

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