A live broadcast originating from six spots around the world will converge on Saturday afternoon in an effort to make the world a little bit smaller.
Using some two dozen short films and six live broadcasts, the goal of Pangea Day is create connections across the globe introduce the peoples of the world to each other as neighbors.
The program will be broadcast in seven languages over the Internet, television and mobile devices. If you're not sure how to catch it, head to the Colonial theater in Pittsfield.
The Colonial, along with the Barka Foundation and other nonprofits, will begin the celebration at 1 p.m. in the Colonial lobby; the entire four-hour broadcast begins at 2 at the theater. The event is free and open to the public.
It will end at Lake Mansfield with live drumming and speakers. For further information, contact Monument student Emilyn Bona at 413-269-6543. Donation forms and information kits can be downloaded from the theater's Web site.
If you want an earlier start for Pangea Day, the Barka Foundation, which provides humanitarian aid in Burkina Faso, is sponsoring a Walk for Water beginning at 9 a.m. at the former Searles Middle School in Great Barrington. The community is invited to participate in the walk to raise funds to drill a drinking water well in Burkino Faso.
The free event is a contest to see who can shoot, edit and screen the best videos in 24 hours. The contest is open to all ages and all experiences in filmmaking.
Individuals and groups wishing to participate should meet at Images on Spring Street in Williamstown on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. for important instructions and clues. Filmmakers have to be back at the cinema by noon on Sunday with their completed projects.
The public screening starts at 1 p.m. so get your cameras ready.
Publicity Hounds
So, you've made a film. Now what? Berkshire International Film Festival's offering a hourlong forum on how to publicize your work ... and just about anything else.
"Art and Commerce: From Film to Farming ... How Publicity Can Work for You" begins at 4 p.m. on Saturday at Pearl's Restaurant, 47 Railroad St., Great Barrington; BIFF is hosting a following wine and cheese reception.
David Carriere will be signing copies of his new book "Publicity." The event is free and open to the public.
Now for a WordPlay
The monthly reading series at Papyri Books, 45 Eagle St., North Adams will feature David McLaughlin, the author of "The Unfolding History of the Berkshires" on Saturday evening at 7.
McLaughlin will discuss how he worked with scores of residents and local experts to uncover revealing facts, insider tips and captivating stories, and how the book's format evolved.
Winds at Williams
The Williams College Symphonic Winds will present its final concert of the school year Friday night at 8 in Chapin Hall in Williamstown.
The free event will include the American premiere of Kyle Gann's "Sunken City" (Concerto for Piano and Winds in Memoriam New Orleans) (2007), with students Brian Simalchik and Noah Lindquist as soloists.
The 50-member ensemble dedicated to presenting performances of the most significant music written for the chamber and large wind ensemble mediums. Its peformances are free and open to the community.
The college's music department has a number of finales coming up as graduation nears. To find out more, click here.
Shhhhh!
Blues artist Marjorie Thompson, known for her original songs and finger-style guitar playing, performs at 2 p.m. on Saturday at the Mason Public Library in Great Barrington.
Birdhouse in Your Soul
Berkshire Botanical Garden in Stockbridge continues its annual plant sale on Saturday featuring plenty of plants and advice on bringing butterflies and bees into your garden. The sale runs from 9 to 5 but take time to see the new exhibit "Homes for Birds."
The works of garden art were created by regional and international artists and craftsmen and curated by fine art dealer Joyce Nereaux.
It's all part of the garden's 2008 series "The Nurturing Garden for Birds, Bees, Butterflies and Best Friends."
Admission is $7 adults, $5 seniors, $5 students, children under 12 free.
Ever Wanted to Walk the Boards?
Here's your chance to try on the Bard. Main Street Stage is holding a free Shakespeare workshop will be held on Saturday from 5 to 8 at 57 Main St., North Adams. Actors and potential production staff, all levels of experience are invited to apply. To sign up or for more details, call 413-663.3240 or contact lex@mainstreetstage.org.
A Little Mulan
Williamstown Elementary School is presenting "Mulan Jr." on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. at the school and Sunday at 3. Cost is $3; $1 seniors.
Bring Mom to Monet
The Clark Art Institute is inviting children of any age to bring their mother to visit the museum on South Street in Williamstown. Any mother accompanied by a child will get a free beverage at the Clark cafe. The museum is open from 9 to 5 and admission is free through May.
Exhibitionists Everywhere
Artwork by students at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, "Stories of North Adams: MCLA Student Art Show 2008," continues through May 25 in MCLA Gallery 51. Gallery hours are daily from 10 to 6 and admission is free.
"The Art of World War II" is an exhibit of propaganda broadsides created by artists to promote various American, Nazi and Japanese messages. Exhibit opens Sunday, May 11, in the Brill Gallery in the Eclipse Mill, Studio 109 at 243 Union St., North Adams; open Friday through Sunday from noon to 6 and by appointment.
Art At Bagels Too at 166 North St., Pittsfield, hosts a reception on Saturday from 5 to 7 for its May show of watercolor landscapes by Joel Rudnick of North Adams. Rudnick has won many awards, prizes and honors.
Pittsfield City Hall is featuring photographic works by Larry Kratka, well-known newsman on WUPE radio and local deejay and iBerkshires contributor.
The exhibit, "Colors," is his first. The photographs will be on display through May. Stop by City Hall at 70 Allen St. during business hours to the see the gallery.
