The Berkshire Eagle:
Readings at Rockwell debuts with dramatic performances of Wharton, Jackson and Morrison
Readings at Rockwell debuts with dramatic performances of Wharton, Jackson and Morrison
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February 3, 2025
STOCKBRIDGE — Readings at Rockwell, a new literary series highlighting the power of the written word through dramatic readings, will feature the works of three iconic American authors: Shirley Jackson, Toni Morrison, and Edith Wharton.
The literary series, a new partnership between the Norman Rockwell Museum and The Mount, will take place the first Wednesday of each month from March through May, in the museum’s galleries. The series, curated by The Mount’s Director of Public Programming Sarah Margolis-Pineo, aligns with Anita Kunz’s “Original Sisters: Portraits of Tenacity and Courage.”
Kicking off during Women’s History Month, the readings, according to a news release, will bring to life selections from the works of Wharton, Jackson and Morrison, authors whose stories explore complex themes of social class, identity and the human experience. Each event will begin with a short talk introducing the featured author and their work, followed by a dramatic reading by a local actor.
“Illustration, or narrative art, has the power to connect us across time and space, and Readings at Rockwell offers an opportunity to celebrate the images, stories, and voices of women who have contributed to our perspectives on society and culture,” Kathryn Potts, chief learning and engagement officer at the Norman Rockwell Museum, said in a news release. “We are delighted to collaborate with The Mount to bring this exciting program to life.”
Margolis-Pineo added, “This program series celebrates the enduring legacy of women writers and the relevance of their stories today. Edith Wharton believed in the transformative power of literature, and we are thrilled to join the Norman Rockwell Museum in honoring these literary icons and their profound contributions.”
READINGS AT ROCKWELL AT A GLANCE
Where: Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Glendale Road, Stockbridge
When: 6 p.m. March 5, April 2 and May 7. Doors open 5 p.m., allowing guests to enjoy Kunz’s exhibition. A cash bar will be available.
Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 for Rockwell and Mount members.
Information and tickets: nrm.org
Edith Wharton’s “The Rembrandt” read by Anne Undeland
When: 6 p.m. March 5
What: Edith Wharton, one of America’s most important writers, is best known for her acute observations of the upper class and the moral decay within society. Her short story, “The Rembrandt,” reflects Wharton’s keen eye for the complexities of human nature. Anne Undeland, a seasoned theater artist and playwright, will bring Wharton’s prose to life. Introduction by Sarah Margolis-Pineo, director of public programming at The Mount.
Shirley Jackson’s “The Tooth” read by Tod Randolph
When: 6 p.m. April 2
What: Shirley Jackson, a master of horror and psychological suspense, is famous for her ability to blend the ordinary with the extraordinary. Her story “The Tooth”explores the dark side of everyday life, with Jackson’s signature unsettling atmosphere. Tod Randolph, an actor with deep roots in the Berkshires, will perform this gripping tale. Introduction by Jamie Franklin, director of collections and exhibitions at the Bennington Museum.
Toni Morrison’s “Recitatif” read by Sandra Seoane-Serí
When: 6 p.m. May 7
What: Toni Morrison, the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, is celebrated for her exploration of race, identity, and the African American experience.
“Recitatif,” Morrison’s only short story, delves into issues of race and memory in a uniquely powerful way. Sandra Seoane-Serí, an award-winning actress, will read this thought-provoking work. Introduced by Daphne Lamothe, Ph.D., provost and dean of the faculty at Smith College