The magic of a summer playhouse
In the quaint, scenic town of Dorset you'll find a surprise that resonates with the heartbeat of the community - the Dorset Playhouse. This isn't just a theater; it's a portal to a world where every performance is a celebration of life and creativity.
Rewind to 1929, when Dr. and Mrs. Edward Goodman, along with other Dorset residents, used three local barns to build what would become a cultural cornerstone. The Playhouse, with its rustic charm, became a sanctuary for stories, laughter, and connection.
My own encounter with the Dorset Playhouse began one summer night in 1998, just before the restoration. I had the pleasure of attending a riotous comedy that still twinkles in my memory as one of the most magical evenings of theater I've ever experienced. The laughter, the camaraderie of the audience, and the sheer joy of the performance were unforgettable. It was simple, not even the comfortable seats that adorn it today - just simple wood benches, and yet the performance was of the quality one would expect on Broadway, without the extravagance. Staying at the Dorset Inn that night and enjoying a wonderful dinner in their restaurant after the show, added to the magic. It was a perfect summer evening, one that reminds me why I would return in a heartbeat. Did I mention that the cool summer weather made me question why southerner’s don’t escape to Vermont every year!
The Playhouse unveiled its $3 million restoration in 2001 and now boasts enhanced comfortable seating, 298 seats to be exact, better sightlines for the audience and a new rehearsal studio, yet ensuring that the charm and character of the original structure continue to delight audiences. The Dorset Players, the lifeblood of the Playhouse, create performances that range from the classics to contemporary works. Their dedication to the craft brings a unique energy to every show, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Dorset. For many years they have extended their season to extend from the Spring through the Fall.
The Dorset Theatre Festival, is a significant event but is just one of the many vibrant offerings of the Playhouse. The role of the Playhouse in the community transcends seasons, bringing together people from all walks of life. Whether it's your first visit or a fond return, the Playhouse invites you to be a part of its ongoing, enchanting story – a story where laughter, drama, and the magic of theater come alive under the Vermont sky.
