We are still reliving the magical evening we had during the Barn Theatre's Fall Gala. Thank you to all who attended Sharing the Stage With the Stars, from the season ticket holders to first-timers at the Barn, and of course our fabulous stars! We enjoyed casual conversations with celebrity "Barnies" in the Rehearsal Shed, and of course, had the chance to dine under the stage lights. This was a night that reminded us all why we love the theatre.
Photos by CorinneJMedia
Stars, Stories, and Cocktails
As the sun set on a crisp autumn evening, the Barn Theatre's rehearsal shed came alive with laughter and the buzz of excited conversations. VIP guests mingled with our special celebrity guests, creating an atmosphere electric with anticipation and star power.
Guests were treated to behind-the-scenes anecdotes from popular shows, teasers of upcoming projects, and even impromptu cameos. The celebrities' genuine enthusiasm for the Barn Theatre was palpable, as they reminisced about their early days as young actors.
We heard stories about long days and late nights, how as apprentices they were learning their lines as they used a push mower on “cardiac hill,” and when asked about their favorite memories of their time at the Barn, a mischievous smile played across their faces. Some stories stay at the Barn.
Throughout the cocktail hour, one theme remained constant: the profound impact the Barn Theatre had on each of these successful careers. From first auditions to breakthrough roles, every star had a story that traced back to this beloved institution.
Photos by CorinneJMedia
Dinner and Memories Center Stage
After the exclusive cocktail hour, guests were ushered into the main theatre, where an extraordinary sight awaited them. The stage, usually home to elaborate sets and passionate performances, had been transformed into an elegant dining area.
After dinner, each of our celebrity guests took their turn at center stage. But instead of performing, they shared heartfelt memories and reflections on their time at the Barn.
Lance Barber shared he was bit by the acting bug, and the Barn is the place where it happened. His grandparents and parents brought him here every summer. He emphasized, "IT STARTED HERE." Lance passionately declared, "The magic (of the Barn) is why everyone comes here. This place is special! And what other options do we have? This is the place for 78 Years." He even joked about not being invited back in '94 after his '93 season, which had everyone laughing.
Adrienne Barbeau expressed her deep affection for the Barn. While it was a long time ago, she will always remember the summer at the Barn, and that it changed her life. She shared stories of building sets, babysitting Brendan, and how all of the experiences and work done behind the scenes and on stage gave her professionalism and an appreciation for what it takes to be backstage and work with everyone involved. She learned it here. From being Rizzo in the original Broadway Show of Grease to her role on Maude, it all started at the Barn. Adrienne also reminisced about returning to perform in Love Letters in 1995 with fellow Barnie Dick Fuchs.
Robert Newman emphasized that "the only way a place like this (the Barn) exists is because of the people. It takes people to buy the tickets, to bring friends, to donate to the Barn." He shared many great stories and experiences of his start at the Barn and his numerous appearances back on the stage.
Eric Petersen stated, "If the Barn did not exist, you have no idea what you'd miss." He also shared the heartwarming fact that he met his wife at the Barn, adding a personal touch to the theatre's legacy of bringing people together.
Stephen Lynch, still living in the area, looked back at his career and all he accomplished, crediting the Barn for giving him so many opportunities to learn, grow, and experience all aspects of live performances and theatre.
While she couldn't be there in person, Jennifer Garner’s presence was felt through a video where she shared many great stories of Jack & Betty Ragotzy, of working behind the scenes, and even being "the best" toilet cleaner the Barn's ever had - to which Stephen Lynch vehemently challenged.
The night was made even more special with a performance by Barn favorite Charlie King, who played a classic song that had everyone smiling and maybe even a few teary eyes.
Photos by CorinneJMedia
For those lucky enough to attend, the Fall Gala wasn't just a fundraiser - it was a reminder of why we fell in love with theatre in the first place. And for the Barn, it was a promise of many more years of nurturing talent, entertaining audiences, and creating unforgettable memories.
If you missed out this time, don't worry. The magic of the Barn Theatre happens every year, not just at galas. So come to a show, join our 100 for 100 Friends of the Barn, or support us in any way you can. Because as our celebrity guests reminded us, the Barn isn't just a theatre - it's a launchpad for dreams. And the next big star might be taking the stage any day now.
