July 24, 2024: Contemporary herons go farther

We're always interested in folx taking their work farther. Or is that further? Word Nerd Emily Brewster, Senior Editor at Merriam Webster launches us into a discussion about the origins and differences between the two words to see which one goes where. But theater is definitely being pushed further in Ashfield, where the immersive Summer Spectacle from Double Edge Theater is starting its sold out run (although you can put yourself on the waiting list if you would like!). "The Heron's Flight" is inspired by the grounds on which the troupe makes their home, and we talk with co-artistic directors Jennifer Johnson and Travis Coe about the ensemble's process, how the land affects the work inside and out, and the nature of myth. And music that pushes our ears farther is being performed in the Berkshires this weekend. The Festival of Contemporary Music runs July 25th -29th on the grounds at Tanglewood, and each day's program through the festival's run will include a different work of Grammy-award winning composer Steven Mackey. So of course we can't pass up a chance to sit with him to talk about teaching, his journey to "classical" music, and the moments in sound that can perk up one's ears.