Massachusetts is the perfect home for Gregory Maguire, author of “Wicked”

By Jane Keller Gordon, Assistant Editor Twenty-five years ago, "Wicked" exploded into our consciousness. Gregory Maguire's bestselling book—and its spinoff blockbuster musical—helped us see the...
Musician Digney Fignus performing

Cambridge native Digney Fignus continues musical evolution, now on the Cape

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Region – Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Digney Fignus began making a name for himself in Boston’s late-1970s art-rock scene with...
McDonald 1

Quincy entertainment and event producer faces pandemic challenges

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Quincy – Entertainment and event producer John F. McDonald Jr. of Quincy is accustomed to planning logistics year-round to accommodate...
Tai Irwin

‘Morning Guy Tai’ advocates mentoring, helps homeless get jobs

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Boston – Tai Irwin became better known as “Morning Guy Tai” beginning in 1985 on Boston’s now-closed alternative rock...
The Tony Soul Project performing

Tony Soul Project’s frontman strives to perform until he’s 80

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Marlborough – During the same time period when some workers consider retiring to get rest and relaxation, Tony “Soul”...
Mick Lawless performing at a Monkees convention

Singer-songwriter, record collector, Monkees fan shares longtime passions

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Region – Singer-songwriter and guitarist Mick Lawless, a Southborough native now residing in Milford, began collecting vinyl records as...

ArtSpace Maynard’s director takes topical artworks on the road

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Maynard – Jerry Beck has creatively covered a lot of ground with public art projects since relocating from his...

Musician friends meet for ‘Uke-a-Rama Llama Ding Dong Day Y’all’

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Region – A group of friends from several communities enjoy playing ukulele together. The group is known as Uke-A-Rama...

Pandemic inspires heartfelt music by Waltham singer-songwriter

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Waltham – Despite challenges posed by the pandemic restrictions, Linda Marks of Waltham has her heart firmly set on...

Hudson’s internationally-recognized calligraphist continues studies

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Culture Editor Hudson – Gerry Jackson Kerdok of Hudson has honed her calligraphy skills for over 40 years. Cumulatively for three...