Thanks to everyone who tuned in for our Book Week programming! We were proud to spotlight Philly's literary community with our reviews, giveaways, and our 2026 author panel. Hot tip: you don't have to wait for Book Week to read BSR book reviews. They're all right here in our Books channel. Peruse anytime and spread the good word among book-loving friends.
You can also catch a recording of our author event, which was truly an excellent conversation. It's up on YouTube now. Thanks again to our phenomenal authors Emma Copley Eisenberg, Eshani Surya, Ken Jaworowski, and Nathaniel Popkin for such a heartfelt, substantive conversation.
This week's stories
On to our latest stories! I sort of thought the week after Memorial Day would be quiet, but boy was I wrong. We're previewing a world premiere thanks to a partnership with PHILADANCO!, Martha Graham Dance Company, and Philly choreographer Tommie-Waheed Evans. The America Play by Suzan-Lori Parks is running at the Wilma through this Sunday. Critic Josh Herren calls it "a wonderfully realized production of a rare work by an American master."
Piffaro's latest concert has a recording streaming through June 4, and critic Gail Obenreder highly recommends it, lauding the ensemble's work in uncovering the Renaissance-era music of Mexico, where European and Indigenous cultures mingled. A new show from interdisciplinary artist Jesse Krimes at the Fabric Workshop and Museum sounds like a must-see: after reading Pamela J. Forsythe's review, I've added it to my list for this summer. Walt Maguire is also here to guide you into June's 250th events, with a bonus peek at the many (many!) festivities on July 2 and 3. And don't miss Darnelle's conversation with Philly playwright Chaz T. Martin.
As always, we are proud to bring you such an exciting range of Philly arts coverage. There's so much to see and do. You as readers deserve this access, and the hardworking artists and makers deserve this exposure. 2026 continues to be a year of profound evolutions at BSR. Thanks for being here.
Alaina Johns
BSR editor-in-chief
The summer of the Revolution starts now
Walt Maguire
The greater Philly area is packed
with exciting cultural events as we count down the final weeks til America’s
250th, including festivals, music, fireworks, storytelling, printmaking,
decorating, parades, and more. Walt Maguire dives in.
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