MA's Barrington Stage Series presents Hannah Pixley: The Autobiography of a Berkshire County Woman (1862-1953) adapted and directed by Julianne Boyd, July 30-Aug. 10 at the New Marlborough Meeting House, and Aug. 12-17 at the The Berkshire Eagle Clock Tower Building.

Hannah Pixley is based on a recently discovered autobiography that tells the true story of an independent pioneering woman who lived her entire live in Berkshire County (The same county in which the theatre is located).

Pixley, who left school at age 9, went on to become one of the first women in America to obtain a business certificate. By maintaining her 150 acre farm and rug weaving, she was able to raise and support her four children. Pixley's story not only offers an understanding of local history and customs, but it illuminates the difficulties and pleasures of Berkshire County life during a period of great change.

Artistic Director, Julianne Boyd adapted the script from Pixley's autobiography and poetry. Pixley began development last year with a staged reading at Barrington Stages. Boyd's Eubie!, which she also both adapted and directed, garnered her 3 Tony nominations in the '78-79 Broadway Season.

Hannah Pixley is being played by Diane Kagan, whose Broadway credits include: Vieux Carre, The Chinese Prime Minister, Any Wednesday, Hedda Gabler, and A Doll's House with Claire Bloom. Hannah Pixley runs July 30-Aug. 10 at the New Marlborough Meeting House and Aug. 12-17 at the The Berkshire Eagle Clock Tower Building. For more information call (413) 528-8888, or refer to Barrington Stage Company regional listing at Playbill On-Line.

--By Sean McGrath