St. Paul’s Cathedral in Boston will transform into a clandestine location for six intimate performances October 31st through November 2nd, of Concert Theatre Works’ production of “Secret Byrd,” an immersive musical experience celebrating the music and activism of English Renaissance composer William Byrd. Presented by Revels, this is how Byrd intended for his Mass for 5 Voices to be sung- for worship and in strict secrecy. “Secret Byrd,” was created and directed by Bill Barclay, and features The Gesualdo Six, one of England’s leading vocal ensembles, and Abendmusik, New York’s Early String Band. Bill Barclay Artistic Director of Concert Theatre Works and Revels Senior Artistic Advisor, Paddy Swanson join The Culture Show. Tickets and information are at revels.org.

From there we get a preview of Porter Square Books’ “Night of the Living Books ( a Halloween Party).” It kicks off at 7:00 PM at the Porter Square Books: Boston Edition in the Seaport District. Assistant Store Manager Jen Fryar joins us for a preview. To see Porter Square Books' staff recommendations, visit their website.

Finally Mary Grant, President of Massachusetts College of Art and Design, joins The Culture Show for her monthly appearance to discuss a range of topics, which includes her thoughts on Ballot Question 2, and the recipients of the 2024 MassArt Common Good Award, which celebrates individuals who demonstrate the transformative impact of the arts on civic life.

The Culture Show, which presents,Community Canvas, is an initiative at GBH that features artwork from community members on our Digital Mural. Today’s mural, in the spirit of Halloween, is titled Spooky Mookie by Corinn Colford.

October 31, 2024 - Secret Byrd, Night of the Living Books, and Mary Grant

The Culture Show Podcast