Behind the Scenes of a Musical Legacy: The Stephen Foster Story

✘ Bardstown, Kentucky • July 27, 2024

⌖ A Backstage Look at America’s Beloved Outdoor Musical and Its Enduring Spirit

① Arrival at the J. Dan Talbott Amphitheatre

Arrival and Setting

As we arrived at the J. Dan Talbott Amphitheatre in Bardstown, Kentucky, we were greeted by the charm of a stage production celebrating its 65th year. This captivating outdoor amphitheater was nestled among lush woods, offering access to the Nature Trail, which meanders through the picturesque landscapes of the park. This setting provided a perfect backdrop for an evening steeped in the history and music of Stephen Foster.

② Backstage Tour with Johnny Warren

Our backstage tour began approximately 50 minutes before the start of the production, led by Johnny Warren, the Executive Artistic Director for The Stephen Foster Story and the Stephen Foster Drama Association. Johnny’s enthusiasm for the Stephen Foster Story was evident as he guided us through the behind-the-scenes areas.

Stage Right and Stage Left

We first visited Stage Right, where the props for scenes 1 and 2 were meticulously organized, highlighting the meticulous planning required. It was fascinating to learn that a dedicated team was required to efficiently roll out these heavy props. We saw some of the vibrant costumes that would later grace the stage. Next, we moved to Stage Left, which also housed props for The Little Mermaid, another production currently in rotation at the J. Dan Talbott Amphitheatre.

The McDowell Parlor and Set Mechanics

Johnny then led us to the Parlor set of the McDowell family, a substantial piece requiring a slightly larger crew to maneuver. This detailed parlor setting would later play a pivotal role in the evening’s performance.

Meeting Cast Members

During our tour, we had the pleasure of meeting Abby McGough, who plays Lucy LeMoyne in the production. Abby graciously answered our questions and posed for photos, sharing insights about her role and the historical significance of her character. We also met Gary Vidito, a veteran cast member of 45 years and the production’s banjo and guitar player. His stories and dedication to the show deepened our understanding and appreciation of the production, offering us additional insights into its history and evolution over the years.

Ingenious Set Designs

One of the highlights of the tour was seeing the showboat stage and the gazebo. The gazebo was remarkable for its ability to transform into a cabin simply by turning it around, showcasing the ingenuity of the set designers. We also saw how the wheel mechanisms of these large props helped them move efficiently on and off the stage.

The Flipper Mechanism

Johnny introduced us to the flipper mechanism, an essential backstage feature that allows for quick scene changes. However, it requires anyone taller than five feet or in lavish costume to often duck to avoid hitting their head when the top of the stage is folded back. This clever design underscored the ingenious balance of practicality and creativity that goes into making the production seamless and visually captivating.

⟳ Optional Meal Stop: Amphitheatre Concessions

After our tour ended, we had about 15 minutes before the production started, so we grabbed a quick bite at the onsite food counter, which offered a variety of classic pub fare and refreshing drinks. Treating ourselves to a delicious wine slushy, we savored its cool sweetness as we made our way back to our seats. Despite the hot and humid weather, there was a general feeling of excitement in the air.

③ The Stephen Foster Story Performance

We were seated in the first row of the VIP section, center stage, about 60% of the way up. From this location, we had an excellent vantage point of the entire stage. As the performance commenced in the fading daylight, the transition from day to night added a magical ambiance to the experience. We quickly became engrossed in the enchanting music and compelling storytelling, soon forgetting all about the heat.

The Story of Stephen Foster

The Stephen Foster Story chronicles a day in the life of the renowned composer, known as the “father of American music.” Foster, who penned classics like “My Old Kentucky Home,” “Oh! Susanna,” and “Camptown Races,” drew inspiration from his time in both Bardstown, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati, located approximately 150 miles from Bardstown, significantly influenced Foster’s musical career with its vibrant cultural scene and bustling river port.

A Vibrant Performance

The performance was a vibrant celebration of Foster’s life and music. The colorful dresses and costumes worn by the cast added a lively visual element that beautifully complemented the musical numbers. Each scene was meticulously crafted to reflect the historical context and emotional depth of Foster’s work, making for an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Seamless Blend of History and Drama

The drama unfolded with a seamless blend of music, dialogue, and historical reenactments. The Parlor of the McDowell family set, which we had seen during the tour, was transformed into a focal point of the narrative. The gazebo’s transformation into a cabin was particularly impressive, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of the production team.

Personal Connections

We had the pleasure of meeting two cast members during our backstage tour, giving us a personal connection to the show. Abby McGough, who plays Lucy LeMoyne in this production and Ariel in The Little Mermaid, showcased her stunning talent on stage. Meanwhile, Gary Vidito, a veteran cast member in his 45th season, brought authenticity to the musical interludes with his skilled guitar and banjo playing.

Reflections and Historical Context

The Stephen Foster Story not only entertained but also provided a deep dive into the life and times of Stephen Foster. The narrative was enriched with historical context, shedding light on Foster’s contributions to American music and the cultural landscape of his era.

As the show concluded and the actors took their bows, the blend of vibrant performances, historical accuracy, and behind-the-scenes insights made for an unforgettable evening in Bardstown.

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☑ Who Is This Tour Best For?

• History Lovers: Celebrate America’s early composer and the Golden Age of songwriting.
• Theatre Enthusiasts: Gain rare backstage access to a long-running outdoor production.
• Music Fans: Experience live renditions of Stephen Foster’s beloved melodies.
• Cultural Travelers: Immerse in Kentucky’s heritage at My Old Kentucky Home State Park.
• Families & Groups: An educational yet entertaining evening under the stars.

⊞ Tour Summary

• Tour Name: Behind the Scenes of a Musical Legacy: The Stephen Foster Story
• Offered By: J. Dan Talbott Amphitheatre | Stephen Foster Drama Association
• Total Duration: Approx. 3 hours
• Main Stops: Arrival at Amphitheatre → Backstage Tour → Concession Dining → Performance
• Drive-By Highlights: Historic Bardstown town center and My Old Kentucky Home State Park

▣ Activity Summary

• Walking Distance: Moderate (under ½ mile total)
• Terrain: Paved paths and gentle slopes within park grounds
• Accessibility: Easy; amphitheatre offers ramps and designated seating
• Meals Included: None (in-venue food purchases optional)

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