Archive for the culture category
April 14th, 2008 by will n
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April marks the beginning of tourism season for Boston. Yes, April! Campus visits for incoming freshman to the many local colleges is in full swing. For many visitors, they don’t realize how much of a role academia plays in Boston. There are 122 colleges and universities in the Massachusetts, so it is nearly impossible to go anywhere that doesn’t house or cater to students. Every year releases its list of top colleges and Boston has dominated these lists for as long as I can remember.
Here are some of the must sees when visiting these colleges: (more…)
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April 2nd, 2008 by jamie a
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My latest field trip proved that spring is a wonderful time of year to visit the Institute of Contemporary Art on the waterfront in Boston. From the magnificent views from the wide windows, to the sun that filters in just perfectly into the galleries, you’ll love the museum’s relationship with its environment.
In anticipation of my visit, I read up on and was very excited about The World as a Stage, the newest undertaking at the museum. In association with the Tate Modern in London, the exhibit features works by 16 international artists, and blurs “the lines between theater, performance, visual art, and everyday life.” The exhibit was a perfect one for myself and my two visiting friends– all certified theater nuts.
The west gallery on the 4th floor features Renata Lucas’ Falha, involving the construction of a stage and playing space, Jeppe Hein’s Rotating Labyrinth, and Rita McBride’s Arena. These works invite the guest into the space to both make it their own and interact with the work, thus forming a concrete relationship between audience and artist. We were also mesmerized by the creepily accurate businessman sculpture named Bob by Markus Schinwald, Geoffrey Farmer’s Hunchback Kit, and we had a ball playing in the shadows of Dominique Gonzales-Foester’s Seance du Shadow II.
On another note, we also discovered a new artist to admire! As part of the ICA’s Momtentum series, Indian artist Ranjani Shettar’s Sun-Sneezers Blow Light Bubbles was one of our favorite works we saw all day. Based on the photic sneeze reflex that causes uncontrollable sneezing when one is exposed to the sun, it’s a whimsical and inspirational take on the ailment. The piece was created especially for a particular space in the museum, where you can walk around, under, and through it to experience its magic. Using non-art materials like muslin cloth and tamarind kernel powder paste, the sculpture takes on a incredibly unique texture that requires up-close inspection to appreciate her handiwork.
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March 26th, 2008 by will n
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Do you feel the madness?? March is a crazy time for Bay Staters. Even though we are officially in the Spring Season, the 29 degree temperature isn’t quite the spring you may be thinking of, but the madness doesn’t end there. It is basketball season and the NCAA tournament is in full swing.
Even though Massachusetts doesn’t have a representative in the big dance this year, we surely have enough madness to last us through March. If you are planning a sports trip to the Bay State, don’t forget to make a pit stop at the . Boston has made a huge footprint in national history and with the success of our local professional sports; we’re making sure that history attracts an audience for all interests. (more…)
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February 8th, 2008 by jamie a
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Celebrate Black History Month with the from February 7-10 at the Citi Performing Arts Center.
Founded in 1958 in New York City, this dance troupe has been called “the worlds most successful modern dance company.” Since its introduction at the 92nd Street Young Men’s Hebrew Association, it has changed the perception of modern dance along with promoting the African-American cultural experience.
This weekend includes the world premiere of The Groove to Nobody’s Business, the company premiere of Firebird, a new production of Reflections in D, along with many other amazing performances.
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January 22nd, 2008 by susan j
Brownstones in Boston’s South End Photo uploaded by
One of the things I love most about living in Boston is being surrounded by the city’s rich history, which is reflected in its varied architectural landscape. Whether you’re window-shopping on Newbury Street, strolling along the Freedom Trail, or jogging around Boston Commons, you are bound to notice some of Boston’s distinctive buildings. Here is a short primer on what you’ll see…
Eighteenth Century: As the site of the infamous Boston Tea Party and the Boston Massacre, Boston is steeped (get it? Tea Party + steeped? anyway…) in history. Take, for example, the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, and the Harrison Gray Otis House, all reminders of Boston’s place in American history.
Nineteenth Century: During the 1800’s, Boston became a major New England port. The Liberty Fleet Tall Ship Adventures documents the region’s maritime history. Many of the brownstones in Boston’s South End, Back Bay, and Beacon Hill neighborhoods also sprang up during the late nineteenth century. One of my favorite buildings in Boston, the Boston Public Library, was built in 1888 by the famous architectural firm of McKim, Mead and White.
Twentieth Century to today: The Victorian period brought us ornate buildings like the Custom House. More modern additions to Boston’s skyline include the John Hancock Tower, the Zakim Bridge, and the Institute of Contemporary Art.
So, what’s your favorite example of Boston architecture? Leave a comment and let us know!
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January 10th, 2008 by jamie a
January 8-13
The Wang Theatre presents for one week only! This smash hit rock-opera by Jonathan Larson took Broadway by storm in 1996 won both a Tony Award and a Pulitzer Prize.
Thursday, January 10 - Saturday, January 12
Head over to the Opera House to see the . With amazing music and traditional dances, this is a wonderful way to experience Chinese culture.
Thursday, January 10 - Sunday, January 13
Warm up with Argentina’s hottest tango company, , at Emerson’s Cutler Majestic Theatre. As The New York Times said, “Glides along as smoothly as an express train without ever derailing…excellent orchestra…daring speed…silken extensions. As the title goes, they were on fire!”
Thursday, January 10 (7 pm)
Join the Harvard Book Store in welcoming , a Harvard alum, as she reads from her first novel, A Golden Age, about her native country of Bangladesh.
(more…)
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January 7th, 2008 by susan j
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Of all Boston’s great landmarks, the (BPL to those in the know) is one of my favorites for the variety of its offerings an the classic architecture. As the first publicly supported municipal library in America, the BPL is filled with history.
The McKim Building (BPL’s main research library and a National Historic Landmark) in Copley Square houses an impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and more. The building includes a beautiful Roman-inspired courtyard that was restored in 2000, a , and a . The courtyard is one of my favorite reading spots on a nice warm day, but I also enjoy like to read in one of the Gothic-style research rooms. If you’re interested in the library’s architecture, you might take one their .
With 27 neighborhood branches and free internet access (including wifi for those who have a card #), the BPL is a great resource for visitors and locals alike. Check out their each year.
Related posts:
Boston for Book Lovers, Part 1
Boston for Book Lovers, Part 2
Boston for Book Lovers, Part 3
Planning a trip to
Boston?
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January 4th, 2008 by jamie a
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Welcome to the North End, better known as Boston’s “Little Italy.” There’s an abundance of historical landmarks, fantastic restaurants, and great people-watching all along these cobbled streets, which are also remarkably close to Fanueil Hall and the Financial District.
If you’re in the area, make a stop at , Boston’s oldest building. It was from this very spot that Paul Revere set out on his famous ride. is also in the area, immortalized by signaling the beginning of the War for Independence. It’s the oldest church building in Boston and still has a thriving congregation.
After you hit both of those stops, head over to for an authentic cappuccino or espresso shot. Cheer on the Italian football teams while you savor your beverage with friends and family. Now that you’re in the sporty mood, check out the for one of the greatest collections of sports artifacts and memorabilia all about Boston’s great sports history.
For dinner, there’s an amazing amount of choices. With a combination of Italian and Peruvian cuisine and many awards to boot, is a great pick for dinner. Try an antipasti sampler to start off and then the gnocchi with lamb sauce or one of the chef’s nightly specials for your entree. There’s also , known for taking traditional Italian cuisine to the next level. You can enjoy an elegant evening at Strega, complete with black and white clad waitstaff and classic Italian films playing on televisions at the bar.
To end your evening, grab a famous cannoli, torrone, or biscotti from . Even if the line’s out the door, stick it out! You’ll be so happy you did.
Planning a trip to
Boston?
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December 20th, 2007 by jamie a
Thursday, December 20 (5-9 pm)
Head over to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum for Gardner After Hours, happening on the third Thursday of every month. This week’s theme is .
Thursday, December 20 (5-9 pm)
Take advantage of , sponsored by Target.
Friday, December 21 - Sunday, December 23
Catch the last weekend of , an adaptation of the Hans Christian Anderson tale, at the Firehouse Center for the Arts.
Through December 31
Take the kids over to Boston’s South Station to admire the . After a week-long construction process, the 448-square-foot display is sure to delight all ages.
Planning a trip to
Boston?
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December 13th, 2007 by jamie a
Friday, December 14 - Sunday, December 16
Join the Brattle Theatre in Harvard Square for a screening of the holiday favorite . Everyone who attends the Saturday and Sunday shows will be given a special treat!
Friday, December 14 (11 am)
Find the perfect gifts for friends and family at the , held at First Church. Meet the artists and mingle with others admiring the wares and then relax with some live music and meditation.
Saturday, December 15
Enjoy the kitschy magic of Somerville with the where you can admire the light displays of residents who love to share their holiday spirit.
Sunday, December 16 (3 pm)
Warm up from the chilly outdoors with at Upstairs on the Square. There will be delightfully toasty beverages along with many snacks and tiny sandwiches to try!
Sunday, December 16 (5:30 pm)
Catch the , the classic ballet with an edge, at the John Hancock Hall featuring the BalletRox company and over 40 area children.
Planning a trip to
Boston?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Boston Card.
