My girlfriends and I needed a getaway that was not very expensive – hence going when it was cold. The area would be absolutely beautiful in spring and fall. That being said we had a great time. Everyone was so friendly. There’s so much to do even if you’re not a skier. Many cool places within a short drive from where we stayed Lenox.We toured Susan B Anthony’s childhood home, Berkshire botanical gardens, a golden age mansion, still being restored to it splendor., The Norman Rockwell Museum, and his studio that was moved from in town to the site near the museum. We also visited a pottery studio and the Clark Gallery in Williamstown.There’s so many cute little places to eat, reasonably priced with interesting menus, not to mention great little shops, even one who supports animal rescue.Some things we have to come back to see as they were closed for the season is Edith Wharton‘s home and Herman Melville‘s home , Sturbridge Village, and Tanglewood.

On August 24th, Shakespeare & Co. in Lenox cancelled its Spruce Theatre performance due to heavy rain. The next day I went to the box office for a refund and was told none would be issued -- the back of the ticket indicates there would only be an exchange for another performance or a credit for future use.On. Aug. 29 I sent a letter to Stephen Ball, the General Manager, saying this was unfair, especially to tourists with limited time in the area and who may not return again. I noted that common practice is that when a venue cancels a performance, customers receive a refund. When the ticket was purchased using their website, nothing was indicated about a no refund policy. The website should have clearly indicated the policy before a purchase was made.I asked for a full refund. To date, this manager has not even had the courtesy to respond.

We saw the play, Lunar Eclipse, starring Karen Allen and Reed Birney. Playwright Donald Margulies was in the audience. Remarkable performances. We also had drinks and a cheese board before the play. Very good food at reasonable prices. Warm and friendly atmosphere.

When we visit the Berkshires we always try to attend a performance at Shakespeare and Company. This year was no exception and we saw a masterful performance of the play Fences. The grounds of Shakespeare and Company are beautiful. There are beautiful gardens, many areas to walk, ample seating and picnic tables if one wishes to enjoy a meal. Inside the theater is a concession stand and more areas to sit. Parking is plentiful. There is an outside theater and The Tina Parker Theater is indoors. Fences was held in The Tina Parker Theater. Tickets were easy to purchase and there were some discounts available. The theater really does not have any poor seats. The acoustics are excellent and theater patrons are quite close to the actors. The scenery was very effective for this play. Each actor in this play was excellent and added to the excellence of this performance. Fences was an excellent play and added to our wonderful experiences in The Berkshires.

Shakespeare & CompanyLenoxAstounding Production of Fences by August Wilson911625903We saw Fences by August Wilson. Every single actor in the cast was high level and evocative. Tears were pouring down my face as the entire audience clapped in standing ovation at the end. This is the third time in my life that I've seen this play, and it was like I had never seen it! The actors were absolutely captivating and each actor really held me in that magical space creating that third body. I just can't get over it. It is 4 days later, and I STILL feel the intensity they created. It is absolutely amazing what human beings can do. I will be following this theater at 70 Kemble Street and also this Great Barrington-area-based Shakespeare & Company. A fine group with superior skills! I am so thankful! PS: As for venue, they actually have snacks! I didn't know this in advance! It is a huge complex with lots of outdoor and indoor chairs/tables so you can really relax beforehand if you like. This entire place is a treasure and clearly provides lots of training and performance opportunities for actors and audiences in the area! Playing until the end of August, so I hope you, too, will get to see this amazing group of actors!