Best of the Theatre Arts

A review of the most renowned theaters in the Berkshires.

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  • 1
    Berkshire Theatre Group

    Photo: Berkshire Theatre Group

    111 South Street, Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01201
    (413) 448-8084

    Since its $21 million restoration in 2006, The Colonial Theater in Pittsfield (originally built in 1903) has made quite the splash on the performing arts scene of the Berkshires. A feast for the eyes, half of the fun at this venue is taking in the beauty of this turn-of-the century architectural marvel. Unlike many theaters in the area, the Colonial Theatre is open year round, and the calendar is more often than not, chock-full of highbrow headliners ranging from comedians to authors, musicians and performers. Boasting clear acoustics and gorgeous gilded age architecture, this theater is our go to venue for a variety of performing arts events. Located centrally in Pittsfield's down town, it is in walking distance to an array of dining and drinking venues. 

    Insider Tip: A gift certificate is always a good idea for the theatre enthusiast in your life.

  • 2
    Berkshire Theatre Group

    6 East St., Stockbridge, Massachusetts 01262
    (413) 997-4444

    Located in the small town of Stockbridge, this theatre company is anything but provincial. Theater enthusiasts from all over flock to the Berkshires because of the caliber of theater arts offered. BTG's rich quality extends to all aspects of the theater experience including top quality acting, costumes, sets, ambience, and the luxury of having not one bad seat in the house.  Keep a close eye on the season's events calendar- you may see productions making one last stop before Broadway. This theatre company is truly a destination in itself. 

    Insider Tip: Jane's Cafe is open prior to performances for delicious bites and drinks! Be sure to stop in and fill up before enjoying the show.

  • 3
    Shakespeare and Company Berkshire theatre

    70 Kemble St., Lenox, Massachusetts 01240
    (413) 637-1199

    Shakespeare and Company is a well known theater company located in Lenox, and operates year round with hundreds of indoor and outdoor performances of mostly (you guessed it) Shakespearean plays and readings. In addition to your cherished and usual suspects such as the Tempest and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, this talented group also features new plays, many with social and political significance and undertones. Make sure to check out Shakespeare and Company’s bustling events calendar when planning your trip to the Berkshires!

    Insider Tip: The company also is well known for its classic educational actors program for children and teens, which is a unique alternative to summer camp for your budding thespian.  

  • 4
    Pittsfield in the Park - Berkshires Theater

    Photo: Enrico Spada

    74 1st Street, Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01201
    (413) 551-9585
    * On hiatus for summer 2018, will return in summer 2019

    Shakespeare in the Park is a brilliant combination of three of our favorite things- fresh air, picnics and free theater. Locals and tourists alike gather each July & August under the open Berkshire sky with their blankets, lawn chairs and snacks for an evening of good ol' Shakespeare.  The performance is located at Pittsfield’s First Street Common, with plenty of parking available. Find a spot on the grass, settle in, snack and enjoy the show! We can’t think of anything better than enjoying a warm summer evening in the park with this talented band of actors.  

    Insider Tip: The park is located just a short walk from the up and coming North Street of Pittsfield with some of our favorite eaterys and watering holes. May we suggest dinner and drinks at Mission Bar or Methuselah before the show?  Perhaps something to go for your picnic blanket?  Either way you can’t go wrong!

  • 5
    Mahaiwe.jpg

    Photo: Paul B. Goode

    14 Castle St., Great Barrington, Massachusetts 01230
    (413) 528-0100

    Situated in the charming downtown of Great Barrington, The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center features music, dance, theater, classic films and lectures. This dynamic gem hosts a wide array of talent boasting affordable prices in an elegant historic Berkshires venue.  A popular draw to the Mahaiwe is the acclaimed opera performances which are streamed in HD from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and some of the most renowned venues in Europe.  

    Insider Tip: The Mahaiwe does not offer garage or lot parking.  We recommend arriving early for street parking, as our gorgeous little Great Barrington can be bustling in the prime season.

  • 6
    Williamstown Theatre Festival Berkshires Theater

    1000 Main Street, Williamstown, Massachusetts 01267
    (413) 458-3200

    With a rich variety of bold new theater and accompanying cultural events, the Williamstown Theatre Festival is easily one of our favorites among the Berkshires performing arts scene, and we are not alone. Set on the gorgeous campus of Williams College, this Tony Award winning festival combines America’s finest actors, directors and playwrights to make magic year after year. Some of the more impressive acting alumni the WTF has welcomed on to their stage include Sigourney Weaver, Gwyneth Paltrow, Christopher Walken, Nathan Lane and Bradley Cooper. For upcoming events, expect everything from classic play productions to new theatrical endeavors.

    Insider Tip: WTF is not solely limited to performing arts events, readings, educational opportunities and workshops are also a huge part of their overall mission which essentially is to entertain the audience and empower its artists.