News from Britt Hill – May 2022

It’s a pleasure to write my first column as Britt Music & Arts Festival’s new President and CEO, starting May 1. I’m pinching myself; I can’t believe I’ve been given the opportunity to steward this gem of Southern Oregon in its next chapter. And, of course, I’m arriving just in time to enjoy the season with you! The diverse range of music on Britt’s main stage is so exciting, don’t you think? Where else can you see ZZ Top one night (June 5) and the world-class Britt Festival Orchestra performing Beethoven’s 3rd Symphony a week and a half later (June 17)? Where else can you do it sitting in such a beautiful outdoor venue? This community has built something extraordinary over the past 60 years, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.

While I’m looking forward to every single show, there are three I’d like to particularly draw your attention to in the first part of the season:

Seth Parker Woods with the Britt Festival Orchestra (June 19)—Seth Parker Woods is incredible. He’s featured on a program of Teddy Abrams’ adventurous programming, making this Juneteenth celebration a not-to-be-missed show for lovers of orchestral music.

She & Him (June 20)—this hipster dream team includes Zooey Deschanel and Matt Ward performing dreamy tunes perfect for warm nights, good company, and a glass of something with bubbles.

CAAMP (July 13)—The music of CAAMP is perfect bonfire music: spacious, cozy Americana that begs for starry nights with friends who feel like family.

Right now, Britt’s magnificent staff is running on all cylinders as we prepare to welcome you to these shows and more. With our last complete season three years ago in 2019, we’re ecstatic to get back into the rhythm of our summers. Many of Britt’s staff have been here for decades, but there are new faces, too. All of us, whether newcomers or long-timers, love the moment when months of work materialize into gates opening.

As excited as I am for the season, the real highlight for me will be meeting you at a concert this summer. Only half of the magic of live performance is what happens onstage; the other half is the energy of the audience. I can’t wait to sit in the audience with you this summer, and I hope we’ll get to say hello!

Thanks for reading, and more soon, Abby