PITTSFIELD, MA — September 2026 — Barrington Stage Company, under the leadership of Alan Paul, Artistic Director and Greg Reiner, Executive Director, will present Celebration of Black Voices, a two-day celebration of Black artistry, culture and community, Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Sydelle and Lee Blatt Performing Arts Center (36 Linden Street).
Featuring music, theater, poetry and family activities, Celebration of Black Voices will bring artists and community members together for a weekend highlighting the breadth and vitality of Black creative voices.
“Celebration of Black Voices reflects what theater and the arts can do at their best: bring people together, create a space for artists to share their stories and talents, and allow a community to see itself reflected onstage,” said Alan Paul. “We are proud to provide a platform for Black artists from our region and to celebrate the creativity, history, joy and experiences that enrich our entire community.”
“Barrington Stage Company believes that being a part of the Berkshire community means more than presenting work on our stages. It means creating opportunities for people to come together, participate and celebrate one another,” said Greg Reiner, Executive Director. “Celebration of Black Voices has become an important part of that commitment, giving local Black artists a place to be seen and heard while inviting the entire community to join us in celebrating their talent and contributions.”
Sharron Frazier-McClain, Director of Community Engagement/DEIA added, “Celebration of Black Voices is about creating a space where people can come together, experience extraordinary artists, celebrate Black culture and artistry, and recognize the many voices that make our community so vibrant. We want this to feel like a true community gathering—a place for families, artists, neighbors and friends to share an afternoon together.”
The celebration will feature a different lineup of performances each day.
There will be a Kids Zone (daily workshops for kids ages 5-12) with Children’s author Tati Sabrina.
DJ Jimmy Hall playing all the classics outdoors from 3-6pm.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Mayor Peter Marchetti will open the celebration with the reading of the Celebration of Black Voices Weekend Proclamation.
Kendrah Bellevue (Sample the Cat) musical performance
Live theater performance:
“Whispers of Strength” Featuring Gloria Williams and Ray White- Keele
“Celebration of Black Voices: Legacy” Featuring Mekhi McClain (BSC’s Camelot)
Berkshire Brazil (Dance Performance)
Chantell McCulloch (musical performance)
** There will be a FREE backpack and school supply giveaway sponsored by the Adams Family
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Gospel Concert featuring the CBV Community Choir, bringing together singers in a shared celebration of music
CBV Poets Society: Poetry Slam
Brown Skin Band, closing out the weekend with live music.
Both days will also feature free family programming, including face painting, popcorn and cotton candy, making Celebration of Black Voices an event for audiences of all ages.
A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY
At its heart, Celebration of Black Voices is about more than a weekend of performances. The event provides a platform for Black artists while creating a welcoming space where the entire community can gather, experience live performance and celebrate Black culture and creativity.
EVENT INFORMATION
Celebration of Black Voices
Saturday, September 19 & Sunday, September 20
3:00–6:00 p.m. each day
Blatt Center
Free family programming both days.
For additional information, visit www.barringtonstageco.org
