With the SYRUP Festival, Piti Theatre Company in Shelburne Falls has hit on a tradition that most of us would never have realized we were missing: all-ages live performance, featuring world-class artists, mixed with handcrafted food and sweets from local artisans. Now in its eighth year, SYRUP comes back around this weekend. On Saturday, Jonathan Mirin performs the new solo physical comedy piece Sammy and the Grand Buffet at 2 p.m. An extended intermissions follows, full of syrup tasting and complimentary Real Pickles from Greenfield, plus a raffle, baked goods, and syrup-themed discounts around town. Then at 4 p.m., the Grammy-winning author, songwriter, and storyteller Bill Harley (pictured) performs with the Shelburne Falls Youth Troupe and Ballet Renversé. On Sunday, Piti Theatre leads a free acting and clowning workshop from children ages 7-12 at 2 p.m., followed by a 3:30 p.m. version of the workshop for grown-ups.
SYRUP — One Sweet Performing Arts Festival: Saturday and Sunday. $15 adults; $12 students and seniors; $5 ages 12 and under (admission applies to either or both performances). At Memorial Hall, 51 Bridge St. (Saturday) and at Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School, 75 Mechanic St. (Sunday) in Shelburne Falls. (413) 625-6569, ptco.org/shows/syrup.
— Hunter Styles
