January Staff Picks
Our New Year’s Resolution? See more great art!
Get 2019 off to the perfect start with a performance, exhibit, or concert of your choosing. Take a look at what the ArtsBoston’s staff is most excited for this month…
What We’re Recommending:
Two Mile Hollow | Presented by Apollinaire Theatre Company
Now – January 20
“If theatre is supposed to be a mirror to the world we live in, then I could definitely go without seeing another play about how hard it is for white people in their beach houses. Apparently I’m not the only one who feels this way, and that’s why I’m so excited to see Apollinaire’s production of Two Mile Hollow, a standard beach drama in which the overwhelmingly white Donnelly family is played exclusively by people of color. Written in direct response to the state of American Theatre, this production calls out the absurdity that is privileged angst, which has been glorified on stages across the country for decades. I’ve really been looking forward to this one, as I am such a fan of this entire cast and creative team, and I can’t wait to see their take on this beautiful satire.”
Jason Moran | Presented by Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
Now – January 21
“Catch multimedia artist Jason Moran’s first museum exhibit this month before it plays its last note on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Videos, charcoal drawings, sculptures, and even performances make up a presentation that really sings! Stop by on January 19 to see a very special in-gallery concert by the NEC Slug Ensemble, headed up by Moran himself.”
Small Mouth Sounds | Presented by SpeakEasy Stage Company
January 4 – February 2
“This summer, I spent some time really trying to unplug from technology. As the Advertising Sales Manager for ArtsBoston, this is nearly impossible. When I was able to find even a short moment of quiet, the experience was quite amazing. Small Mouth Sounds at SpeakEasy Stage Company greatly intrigues me. The play follows six strangers who meet at a wellness retreat to attempt to abandon technology and observe a vow of silence to confront internal demons and seek peace. With wonderful actors like Marianna Bassham, Kerry A. Dowling, and Celeste Oliva and direction by M. Bevin O’Gara, I’m sure Small Mouth Sounds will not disappoint.”
Othello | Presented by American Repertory Theater
January 13 – February 9
“American Repertory Theater has already had several successful pieces this year, including two works by and featuring black artists: The Black Clown and Barber Shop Chronicles. I’m sure Othello, a new take on an old tale, will be another feather in the cap of this excellent season at the A.R.T.”
New Work for Goldberg Variations | Presented by Music Worcester
January 15
“I’m excited to see this new take on a classic work by Bach, that is rarely performed because it calls for a synchronized performance between piano and dancers. This arrangement on the Goldberg Variations was created in 2014, and hasn’t been done locally to my knowledge. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness some brilliant interdisciplinary art!”
Kacey Musgraves | Presented by Boch Center
January 19
“Kacey Musgraves is just about the only country music artist I care about right now. She’s a new voice on the scene and just won Best Album at the Country Music Awards. I actually hate country, but her music is amazing. If anyone wants to get me tickets, I will attend AND even wear a cowboy hat. ‘Butterflies’ is a jam.”
Dance UP Boston | Presented by World Music/CRASHarts
January 25 – 27
“I’m choosing a feast of Boston contemporary dance this month with WorldMusic/CRASHarts presentation of Danza Orgánica, the Wonder Twins, and Prometheus Dance at the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston over three evenings. There’s an extra treat with my colleague Debra Cash, Executive Director of Boston Dance Alliance, giving pre-performance talks and also post-performance artist Q & A’s. Can’t wait!”
Ragtime | Presented by Wheelock Family Theatre @ Boston University
January 25 – February 17
“Ragtime is a story of the trials faced in search of the American dream. Following three different family stories, it gives its audience a firsthand look at how inequalities in race, class, and gender impact our daily life. Its songs are powerful, moving, and timeless. Wheelock Family Theatre’s timing of this show is poignant, and absolutely worth a trip out to see.”
Check out all these picks and more on the ArtsBoston Calendar.
What arts or cultural event are you most excited for this month? Let us know on Twitter by tweeting us, @artsboston!
Want weekly recommendations on what to see and do in Boston?
Pictured above: The Wonder Twins (Billy and Bobby McClain) perform.