VERMONT Magazine Summer 24 | Page 22

CORTNEY ARMITAGE COURTESY SPRUCE PEAK ARTS

A Summer of Celebration !

A closer look at Spruce Peak Arts ’ sensational summer lineup
KT Tunstall performs June 13 at Spruce Peak Arts
Ever since Spruce Peak Arts ’ new Executive Director , Seth Soloway , took the reins in 2023 , the celebrated Vermont cultural institution has doubled down on its mission of serving as a welcoming sanctuary for artistic expression , offering both intimate and lively performances that resonate deeply with local and visiting audience . Over the past year , Spruce Peak Arts has hosted beloved artists such as Béla Fleck , Josiah and the Bonnevilles , Mat Kearney , and Jonathan Russell of The Head And The Heart .
Continuing their new “ Spruce Peak Unplugged ” series , Spruce Peak Arts was thrilled to host Matt Quinn of Mt . Joy for a solo performance on May 15 . This series brings audiences closer than ever to the artists , creating a unique , moving experience . Soloway is wholeheartedly enthused about the innovative format : “ We ’ ve been really excited about the unplugged concerts , in particular , because they really provide a unique musical experience .” In addition , Spruce Peak Arts ’ creative staff has curated an eclectic outdoor summer concert series at the Whistle Pig Pavilion , offering ample opportunities for great music and community connection .
The upcoming season at Spruce Peak Arts will host a vast range of musical performers , spanning all genres and delivering incredible entertainment . Highlights include performances by artists like Neo-Classical Hip-Hop piano prodigy , BLKBOK ( May 30 ); GRAMMY ® Award-Winning singer / songwriter , KT Tunstall ( June 13 ); and a highly anticipated performance by David Shaw , frontman of the lauded Louisiana rock outfit , The Revivalists ( June 28 ). Shaw will be performing with a new band . The musician lineup will be announced as the performance draws closer . Spruce Peak Arts ’ collective vision also extends to celebrating local talent through the “ Homegrown in Vermont ” Festival on July 6 and July 7 .
“ We ’ re incredibly excited for the first annual ‘ Homegrown in Vermont ’ Festival ,” says Soloway . “ It ’ s going to be a really exciting community event with incredible performances .” Featured performers include Christine Malcolm , Ryan Sweezy , Milton Busker , The Grift , and Troy Millette & The FB on Saturday , July 6 , and Lesley Grant , Andriana and the Bananas , Jaded Ravins , Fern Maddie , Wild Leek River , and Maple Run on Sunday . This festival aims to spotlight Vermont ’ s independent artists , offering them a platform to shine and bring the community together in celebration of local artistry . As Spruce Peak Arts ’ musical programming continues to evolve , it stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and community engagement in Vermont , offering an array of unforgettable performances for all who come to visit Stowe . n
20 VERMONT MAGAZINE