Worcester Magazine
@worcestermagazine.bsky.social
Worcester Magazine is a weekly guide to arts, entertainment in Central Mass., available online at WorcesterMag.com and in print Fridays in the T&G.
"My wife and I had lived in a three-decker off Lincoln Street for 17 years. That’s the longest I’ve lived anywhere, which means we’d accumulated ... stuff. Lots of stuff. And parting with stuff? Well, that’s easier said than done."
Moving out of three-decker apartment means learning to part with stuff
WoMag editor Victor D. Infante wanted to ensure the stuff he was getting rid of when he moved went to good homes. He was almost successful.
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December 19, 2025 at 10:20 PM
"My wife and I had lived in a three-decker off Lincoln Street for 17 years. That’s the longest I’ve lived anywhere, which means we’d accumulated ... stuff. Lots of stuff. And parting with stuff? Well, that’s easier said than done."
As director Troy Siebels said in an article previewing the production, this year brings many changes, including new sets and scenery, choreography, lighting and special effects.
John Little brings Scrooge to life in Hanover's 'Christmas Carol'
Actor John Little brings Ebenezer Scrooge in The Hanover Theatre's annual production of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol."
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December 19, 2025 at 7:02 PM
As director Troy Siebels said in an article previewing the production, this year brings many changes, including new sets and scenery, choreography, lighting and special effects.
In his “American Notes” Dickens noted of Worcester, “Every little colony of houses has its church and schoolhouse peeping from among the white roofs and shady trees; every house is the whitest of the white; every Venetian blind the greenest of the green; every fine day's sky the bluest of the blue.”
A ghost of Christmas past: Charles Dickens' ties to Worcester, WPI
"He understood human nature" — "A Christmas Carol" and Dickens have ties to Worcester and WPI.
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December 19, 2025 at 4:32 PM
In his “American Notes” Dickens noted of Worcester, “Every little colony of houses has its church and schoolhouse peeping from among the white roofs and shady trees; every house is the whitest of the white; every Venetian blind the greenest of the green; every fine day's sky the bluest of the blue.”
Alma Gaucha’s location near the Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts was a draw for DeOliveira, who said the theater brings a constant flow of people to the area before and after performances.
Brazilian steakhouse Alma Gaucha seizes attention with downtown debut
The Brazilian steakhouse Alma Gaucha at 526 Main St., Worcester, is an emerging spot, rapidly gaining positive buzz since its Dec. 4 opening.
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December 19, 2025 at 2:45 PM
Alma Gaucha’s location near the Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts was a draw for DeOliveira, who said the theater brings a constant flow of people to the area before and after performances.
"In the forest around Ramshorn Brook are the remains of Rich’s Mill, which produced wool, and the dam that powered it, which has long since been breached by the pond behind it. The section of the dam that is still intact stands dozens of feet above the brook."
Stowe Meadows offers a walk into Millbury's industrial past
The 100-acre Stowe Meadows conservation area in Millbury surrounds Ramshorn Brook, behind Stowe Farm, and contains about six miles of trails.
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December 16, 2025 at 7:48 PM
"In the forest around Ramshorn Brook are the remains of Rich’s Mill, which produced wool, and the dam that powered it, which has long since been breached by the pond behind it. The section of the dam that is still intact stands dozens of feet above the brook."
A special holiday guest appearance by columnist Janice Harvey!
Online ornament shopping turns out to be a source of humbug
Columnist Janice Harvey ordered some cute holiday ornaments from a website. What she received was very, very different.
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December 16, 2025 at 7:07 PM
A special holiday guest appearance by columnist Janice Harvey!
On Dec. 15, the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts held a Hanukkah celebration at the Hanover Repertory Theater and Performing Arts Center. "There is something poignant in this moment for us," said Steve Schimmel, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts.
When hate strikes, Hanukkah celebrations hit back with light
Looks, buzzers, and police detail are a thing at many Jewish observances. The deadly attack at Bondi Beach is the latest reason why.
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December 16, 2025 at 3:47 PM
On Dec. 15, the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts held a Hanukkah celebration at the Hanover Repertory Theater and Performing Arts Center. "There is something poignant in this moment for us," said Steve Schimmel, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts.
There have since been a number of spin-off shows, and "Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold" promises lots of mirth and audience involvement in a family-friendly environment when it comes to the BrickBox Theater at the JMAC for three performances Dec. 19 and 20.
Pay attention — Sister's Christmas Catechism set for BrickBox Theater
"One of the funniest in the series" — 'Sister's Christmas Catechism' coming to the BrickBox Theater.
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December 12, 2025 at 9:12 PM
There have since been a number of spin-off shows, and "Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold" promises lots of mirth and audience involvement in a family-friendly environment when it comes to the BrickBox Theater at the JMAC for three performances Dec. 19 and 20.
Fans of the rock and country The Mavericks who saw the Grammy Award-winning band's popular annual shows at Indian Ranch in Webster are among the many who have expressed sadness at the death of lead singer and guitarist Raul Malo on Dec. 8.
Indian Ranch fans moved by the death of Mavericks singer Raul Malo
'RIP, Raul' — Indian Ranch fans sad at death of Mavericks singer Raul Malo
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December 11, 2025 at 2:37 PM
Fans of the rock and country The Mavericks who saw the Grammy Award-winning band's popular annual shows at Indian Ranch in Webster are among the many who have expressed sadness at the death of lead singer and guitarist Raul Malo on Dec. 8.
“It’s a gathering ground. It's almost like a church of rock and roll. People come from all over to spend time there and feel a spiritual experience. We feel that energy radiating from the crowd when we're there.”
Silverstein still rocks hard as it eyes 20th show at the Palladium
When Silverstein comes to the Palladium Dec. 19, it will be celebrating two milestones: 25 years as a band and 20 shows at one of its favorite venues.
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December 10, 2025 at 9:43 PM
“It’s a gathering ground. It's almost like a church of rock and roll. People come from all over to spend time there and feel a spiritual experience. We feel that energy radiating from the crowd when we're there.”
“We also have the 20th anniversary of ‘Rise Or Die Trying’ coming up around the corner, so we just felt it would be a really cool thing to also record a live album with these shows.”
Four Year Strong to rock out 2025 with annual Palladium holiday shows
At its annual holiday shows at the Palladium this year, Four Year Strong is set to record its first live album.
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December 10, 2025 at 7:31 PM
“We also have the 20th anniversary of ‘Rise Or Die Trying’ coming up around the corner, so we just felt it would be a really cool thing to also record a live album with these shows.”
Barbara Houle gives us the scoop on some of the region's most popular steakhouses!
Central Massachusetts' favorite steakhouses? Eight crowd pleasers
What are Central Massachusetts' favorite steakhouses? From chains to high-end favorites, here are eight places that deliver a great steak.
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December 10, 2025 at 4:57 PM
Barbara Houle gives us the scoop on some of the region's most popular steakhouses!
ICYMI: Last week was WoMag's annual "Hometown Heroes" issue. This is the introduction, with links to the profiles of this year's honorees.
‘Bringing people together’
This year's "heroes" are people who do things that makes life better for others, and in turn, makes their community better and stronger.
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December 3, 2025 at 9:34 PM
ICYMI: Last week was WoMag's annual "Hometown Heroes" issue. This is the introduction, with links to the profiles of this year's honorees.
"At 68, DuBois still provides consulting work for public defenders, as well as practicing psychotherapy. His work and life experiences have inspired a book of poetry, "Desperate Souls, Hopeful Hearts."
Lifelong Uxbridge resident Art DuBois releases debut poetry book
Art DuBois talks about his new poetry book, and his lifelong quest to help people find a brighter path.
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December 3, 2025 at 9:03 PM
"At 68, DuBois still provides consulting work for public defenders, as well as practicing psychotherapy. His work and life experiences have inspired a book of poetry, "Desperate Souls, Hopeful Hearts."
"The Silverbacks, aka 'The Delta Force of Rock ‘n’ Roll,' are planning to blast the roof off of the White Eagle, 118 Green St., this Saturday night, Dec. 6, with an uncompromising, maximum R&B blitzkrieg delivered by some of the best-seasoned players in the region."
Worcester rockers the Silverbacks set for show at White Eagle
The Silverbacks, aka “The Delta Force of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” are planning to blast the roof off of the White Eagle Dec. 6.
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December 3, 2025 at 5:28 PM
"The Silverbacks, aka 'The Delta Force of Rock ‘n’ Roll,' are planning to blast the roof off of the White Eagle, 118 Green St., this Saturday night, Dec. 6, with an uncompromising, maximum R&B blitzkrieg delivered by some of the best-seasoned players in the region."
Just off Route 9 in Westborough is the Wayne F. Maccallum Wildlife Management Area, which has a solid few miles of wide trails and also contains the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife’s headquarters at its southwestern corner.
Explore the Wayne F. Maccallum Wildlife Management Area
Just off Road 9 in Westborough is the Wayne F. Maccallum Wildlife Management Area, which has a solid few miles of wide trails.
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December 3, 2025 at 4:40 PM
Just off Route 9 in Westborough is the Wayne F. Maccallum Wildlife Management Area, which has a solid few miles of wide trails and also contains the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife’s headquarters at its southwestern corner.
"It's a brand-new show this year," said Troy Siebels, who has directed his own adaptation of the 1843 Charles Dickens novella about Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption at The Hanover Theatre every year it has been staged there.
'It's a brand new show' — 'A Christmas Carol' gets glowup at Hanover
The Hanover Theatre's annual production of "A Christmas Carol," has enjoyed great success. This year, the production has a new set and look.
www.worcestermag.com
December 3, 2025 at 3:22 PM
"It's a brand-new show this year," said Troy Siebels, who has directed his own adaptation of the 1843 Charles Dickens novella about Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption at The Hanover Theatre every year it has been staged there.
"I think everyone is looking for a place to find their joy. Holidays are a good source for that," said Tony Award-winner Matt Doyle, who will be performing a concert, "Make the Season Bright" on Dec. 10 as part of the Broadway in Worcester series at the BrickBox Theater at the JMAC.
Plenty of holiday concerts and shows will take the stage right after Thanksgiving
"A place to find their joy" — Plenty of holiday concerts and shows will take the stage right after Thanksgiving.
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November 26, 2025 at 7:58 PM
"I think everyone is looking for a place to find their joy. Holidays are a good source for that," said Tony Award-winner Matt Doyle, who will be performing a concert, "Make the Season Bright" on Dec. 10 as part of the Broadway in Worcester series at the BrickBox Theater at the JMAC.
A few things to do in the Worcester area in the week ahead ....
Things to Do: Mo Rocca, 'Home for the Holidays,' blues duo and more
A few things to do in the Worcester area in the week ahead ...
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November 26, 2025 at 6:57 PM
A few things to do in the Worcester area in the week ahead ....
"For Lester, singing has become a passion, one that provides a moment of sanctuary from worries, such as for family and friends in Jamaica, where the western part of the island sustained deaths and heavy damage during Hurricane Melissa. struck on Oct. 28."
Lifting her voice: QCC student Ashley Lester shares strength, inspiration in song
In this week's Last Call: Ashley Lester talks about a goal to bring strength to her community in Jamaica, and finding her own strength in singing.
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November 26, 2025 at 4:08 PM
"For Lester, singing has become a passion, one that provides a moment of sanctuary from worries, such as for family and friends in Jamaica, where the western part of the island sustained deaths and heavy damage during Hurricane Melissa. struck on Oct. 28."
"By all accounts, reptile species, both native and nonnative, have a large, and growing fan base. But this interest and admiration doesn't always translate into humane treatment. Some are kept illegally, defying state laws and restrictions around both native and non-native species."
Charles the alligator and Goose the water monitor show reptiles need respect
Reptiles are more loved than ever. But as Goose and Charles show, true love means respecting restrictions on ownership, and learning about proper care.
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November 25, 2025 at 7:34 PM
"By all accounts, reptile species, both native and nonnative, have a large, and growing fan base. But this interest and admiration doesn't always translate into humane treatment. Some are kept illegally, defying state laws and restrictions around both native and non-native species."
"I often find myself reprising the role of 'Quirky Sister' as I gear up for jewelry classes at the Worcester Center for Crafts. Yes, I’ve become a real metalhead of late. Earrings, necklaces, ornaments — you name it, I’ll hammer it. I find the whole process very therapeutic."
'I'm making jewelry now!' — Worcester Center for Crafts offers classes
Writes Sarah Connell Sanders, "Yes, I’ve become a real metalhead of late. Earrings, necklaces, ornaments — you name it, I’ll hammer it."
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November 25, 2025 at 5:40 PM
"I often find myself reprising the role of 'Quirky Sister' as I gear up for jewelry classes at the Worcester Center for Crafts. Yes, I’ve become a real metalhead of late. Earrings, necklaces, ornaments — you name it, I’ll hammer it. I find the whole process very therapeutic."
“Scratch pastries and sweets are fresh daily and help set us apart from competition,” said Diehl. Carrot cake, classic chocolate whoppie pies and quiche are among “customer favs,” she said. For the 10th anniversary celebration last month, customers were treated to Diehl’s lemon butter pumpkin cake.
Celebrating 10 years: Scratch pastries and other treats key to Sweets & Java's success
Sweets & Java in Holden is a woman-owned business that has survived and thrived, even in the age of coffee chain domination.
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November 25, 2025 at 4:39 PM
“Scratch pastries and sweets are fresh daily and help set us apart from competition,” said Diehl. Carrot cake, classic chocolate whoppie pies and quiche are among “customer favs,” she said. For the 10th anniversary celebration last month, customers were treated to Diehl’s lemon butter pumpkin cake.
"Thanks to a recent grant from the Mass. Department of Agriculture, the farm started building a creamery, endeavoring to make butter and cheeses to supply those flocking to its wildly popular brewery, kitchen and barbeque pit."
Stone Cow Brewery preps for ancient pairing, as its dairy farm begins making cheese
Thanks to a recent grant, Stone Cow Brewery started building a creamery, endeavoring to make butter and cheeses.
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November 24, 2025 at 9:48 PM
"Thanks to a recent grant from the Mass. Department of Agriculture, the farm started building a creamery, endeavoring to make butter and cheeses to supply those flocking to its wildly popular brewery, kitchen and barbeque pit."
A look at what customers at Annie's Book Stop are reading ...
Selections from what customers at Annie's Book Stop are reading
Selections from what customers at Annie's Book Stop are reading.
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November 24, 2025 at 7:45 PM
A look at what customers at Annie's Book Stop are reading ...