Seagle Festival 2026: Opera, New Works & A Bold Vision for the Adirondacks

From Hill to Stage: Seagle Festival’s Next Act in the AdirondacksFor more than a century, the Seagle Festival has been a summer tradition on the shores of Schroon Lake—where emerging artists arrive with big voices and leave ready for the world stage.In this episode of ADK Talks, we welcome back Artistic Director Darren Woods along with Director of Education and Community Outreach Josh Cook. Together, they share how Seagle is building on its 111-year legacy while setting the stage for an ambitious, year-round future in the Adirondacks.From a rigorous national audition process to a bold capital campaign, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to grow a thriving arts ecosystem in a rural region—and why it matters now more than ever.What you’ll hear in this episodeSeagle Festival’s origin story—how a NYC voice teacher’s summer escape became the oldest vocal training program in the U.S.Inside the audition process: 400 applicants, 32 spots, and the search for something truly “extraordinary.”Highlights from the 2026 season, including The Sound of Music, HMS Pinafore, Mozart’s Così fan tutte, and the powerful contemporary opera Dead Man Walking.How Seagle alumni are making waves on Broadway, at the Met Opera, and across Europe.The expansion of youth programming—giving North Country kids hands-on experience both on stage and behind the scenes.“Opera shots” pop-up performances across the Adirondacks—bringing live music to bars, breweries, and unexpected venues.A vision for the future: a winterized campus, new theater, and year-round performances that could transform the regional arts scene.Resources:Seagle Festival — Explore the 2026 season, meet the artists, and purchase tickets (season passes available now; individual tickets on sale April 1).NewVida Preserve (Lake Placid area) — Scenic venue for upcoming Opera Shots pop-upsThe Deerhead Inn — Historic jazz venue and returning Opera Shots locationNorth Star Underground Railroad Museum (Keeseville)Produced by NOVA