Glimmerglass Festival and Bard College Announce New Appointments

The Glimmerglass Festival has appointed acclaimed American bass Kevin Burdette as its 2026 Artist-in-Residence. Burdette, known for his comic brilliance and commanding stage presence, will take on the role of Don Alfonso in the Festival’s new production of “Così.” His involvement aims to enrich the season’s theme, encouraging audiences to reflect on personal and national ideals. Additionally, Burdette will collaborate closely with participants in the Festival’s Resident Artists Program, which nurtures emerging talent.

Burdette’s career includes performances with many prestigious opera companies and symphony orchestras worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera and Teatro alla Scala. His unique blend of humor and vocal mastery has earned him accolades, with The New York Times describing him as “the Robin Williams of opera.” Artistic & General Director Rob Ainsley expressed enthusiasm for Burdette’s appointment, highlighting his artistry and community spirit.

In another significant announcement, Bard College has named multidisciplinary artist and professor Carlos Motta as the 2025-26 Keith Haring Chair in Art and Activism. This position, established in 2014, brings scholars, activists, and artists into Bard’s Human Rights Program and the Center for Curatorial Studies (CCS). Motta’s work focuses on the narratives of sexual, gender, and ethnic minority communities, making him a fitting choice for a role that emphasizes the intersection of art and social justice.

Motta’s diverse artistic practice includes video, installation, and performance, often exploring post-colonial themes. Mariano López Seoane, Director of the Graduate Program at CCS, praised Motta’s ability to challenge conventional boundaries between art and activism. The announcement coincided with the opening of the new Keith Haring Wing at Bard College, a 12,000-square-foot addition funded by a $3 million donation from the Keith Haring Foundation.

Meanwhile, Berkshire Agricultural Ventures has appointed Kristen Moriarty as its new Development Director. Based in Great Barrington, Moriarty will spearhead fundraising initiatives, focusing on donor cultivation and grant management. Her background includes leadership roles in the arts, including positions at Shakespeare & Company.

Moriarty’s extensive experience in development, coupled with her commitment to diversity and community engagement, was highlighted by Rebecca Busansky, Executive Director of Berkshire Agricultural Ventures. She recently began her role, which includes expanding the organization’s capacity for farmer-focused programming.

In local business news, the candy shop formerly known as Robin’s Candy has rebranded as Coco’s Candy. Continuing its legacy as a cherished Main Street destination in Great Barrington, the new owner, Elise Contarsy, aims to preserve the shop’s whimsical spirit while introducing new confections. Contarsy emphasized her commitment to maintaining the shop’s community connection.

Additionally, the WAM Theatre has launched a new education program called Ballot Ballad, designed to engage students in civic issues through the arts. The curriculum was introduced during a recent professional development day at Tanglewood, where thirteen educators participated in workshops designed to inspire collaboration and performance.

Also noteworthy is the initiative by Berkshires Jazz, Inc., which has announced a series of workshops aimed at enhancing jazz education for middle and high school students in the region. These workshops will focus on improvisation and ensemble skills, fostering a legacy of jazz education that has been present in Berkshire County since the late 1950s.

Lastly, MountainOne has committed $25,000 to support local organizations providing food and fuel assistance in Berkshire County. This donation is particularly crucial as many communities face rising food insecurity and increasing fuel costs. MountainOne’s efforts include contributions to various local food pantries and a dedicated donation for fuel assistance to the Pittsfield Area Council of Congregations.

Through these initiatives and appointments, the Glimmerglass Festival, Bard College, and local organizations are making significant strides in the arts and community development, highlighting their commitment to excellence and social impact.