Broadway's Woodstock? New Three-Day Summer Outdoor Festival Draws Big-Name Stage Stars
Get ready for a summer extravaganza like no other! A groundbreaking three-day outdoor music festival is set to take place in Kingston, New York, this August, celebrating the magic of Broadway. This festival promises to be a star-studded affair, featuring a stellar lineup of renowned Broadway performers, including Audra McDonald, Kelli O'Hara, Christopher Jackson, and many more. But here's the intriguing part: it's not just about the music; it's a destination event that will immerse you in the world of Broadway, complete with interactive experiences and a celebration of the iconic musical Rent.
The Festival, announced today, will be held at the historic Hutton Brickyards along the Hudson River waterfront from August 14-16. This venue, just a two-hour drive north of New York City, is the perfect setting for a festival that aims to be a 'destination event.' Producers Josh Saltman and David B. Schwartz, former colleagues at The Walt Disney Company, have curated a diverse roster of Broadway talent, including Renée Elise Goldsberry, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and many others, with more to be revealed. The festival will also pay homage to the 30th anniversary of the musical Rent, reuniting its original Broadway cast members.
The concert performances will showcase Broadway classics and innovative mashups, directed by the Tony Award-winning choreographer and director Jerry Mitchell and D.B. Bonds. But that's not all! The festival will offer a range of immersive experiences, including campfire sing-alongs, a 'Club Cumming on the Hudson' piano bar (named after the Manhattan cabaret co-owned by actor Alan Cumming), a dance party, theatrical costume contests, and more. Throughout the festival, featured performers and industry professionals will engage in outdoor events, hosting lectures, panels, and masterclasses.
Food and beverage options will be locally sourced, with Hudson Valley chefs and mixologists serving up delicious treats. A curated marketplace will showcase the region's artisans, makers, and merchants. The festival will also include special events to support Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
Festival passes start at $399 and offer various tiers, including general admission, reserved seating, and exclusive VIP experiences. The official programming for the three-day festival will be announced soon, and more details, including ticket packages and lodging and shuttle options, will be available on the official website (https://www.broadwayfest.com/).
This festival is a production of A Weekend in the Country, the live production company founded by Saltman, promising an unforgettable experience for Broadway enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
