This week, WGBH News' Arts Editor Jared Bowen visits the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, the Peabody Essex Museum, and checks out the latest theater in Boston.
JFK 100: Milestones and Mementos, on view at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum through May 2018
JFK Presidential Library's Synopsis: "The Kennedy Library’s new special exhibit, JFK 100: Milestones & Mementos, features a compelling selection of 100 original artifacts, documents, and photographs, revealing the arc of President Kennedy’s life and political career. Historical items like a baby picture from his first formal photo session, notes for his 1956 book, Profiles in Courage, and his Cabinet Room chair, put visitors in touch with the man who occupied the office. A selection of his personal belongings – his sunglasses, neckties and gifts from his small children – are displayed here for the first time."
Jared Says: "A show that poignantly turns the monument back into a man."
Ocean Liners: Glamour, Speed, and Style, on view at the Peabody Essex Museum through October 9
Peabody Essex Museum's Synopsis: "From the mid-19th century through the mid-20th century, ocean liners were floating showcases of technology, opulence and social sophistication. As icons of modernity and aspirational living, artists, engineers, architects and passengers all vied for influence and access in the creation and enjoyment of these man-made islands at sea. Ocean liners were intricately constructed pieces of culture — in the appearance of their design, the elegance of their engineering and the division of their social space — and each with its own distinct personality. ... The exhibition brings together nearly 200 works including paintings, sculpture, models, furniture, lighting, wall panels, textiles, fashion, photographs, posters and film."
Jared Says: "A rich, fantastic show."
Midvale High School Fiftieth Reunion, presented at Central Square Theater through July 2
Central Square Theater's Synopsis: "It’s Midvale High School’s class of 1954’s 50th reunion. Tom and Bettina – returning for the first time – are looking for second chances. As the evening revs up to the highly anticipated dance contest, they flash back to formative moments – but are those memories real? Emmy winning actor Gordon Clapp (NYPD Blue) and Debra Wise star in Alan Brody’s romantic comedy about how we remember, how we choose and how we never stop looking for love."
Jared Says: "Putting a lifetime of memories into poignant perspective."
Days of Atonement, presented by Israeli Stage Company at the Calderwood Pavilion through June 25
Israeli Stage's Synopsis: "Israeli Stage brings the work of Sephardic playwright Hanna Azoulay Hasfari (Dina) back to the Calderwood Pavilion for the North American premiere of Days of Atonement. "Four estranged sisters reunite when their mother goes missing. Differences of religious beliefs, professions and class clash as Yom Kippur - also known as the 'Day of Atonement' - approaches. With a biting sense of humor, the Ohana family fills the room with warmth and love. Experience these four powerful women at their most vulnerable, struggling to reconnect, forgive and forget."
Jared Says: "At this time of holiday and introspection, these four women and their histories come together."
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This post has been updated.
