The Berkshires has become a hub for the arts in Massachusetts, so much so that the bountiful theater and performing arts festivals and offerings helped fuel that area's economic renewal.
But with the economy shuttered in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the future of the region is becoming more and more uncertain. WGBH Executive Arts Editor Jared Bowen told Boston Public Radio on Thursday the summer season is what the Berkshires' economy is geared to, and now it's at risk.
"The Berkshires really become a summer arts hub for Massachusetts," he said. "It is the lifeblood of that region, a lot of the year in terms of economy is geared toward that summer season, and now we've seen it just collapse."
MASS MoCa, which Bowen said relies heavily on large events and concerts, has closed, and many of the festivals have cancelled, like the Jacobs Pillow Festival, and the Williamstown Theater Festival, which has moved its entire season to Audible.
"It's so entwined with what that region not only represents for itself for its economy and livelihood of people there, but its wider reach into the arts world," said Bowen. "Every time I get one of these announcements it's just so heartbreaking."
