Duxbury inn hosts ‘Broadway in Vermont’

August 21, 2021  |  By Waterbury Roundabout 

Moose Meadow Lodge hosts outdoor summer performances on Crossett Hill in Duxbury. Courtesy photo

Given that Broadway theatres remain closed until later this fall, a Vermont native and Broadway performer has assembled a cast to travel to the Green Mountains for a special outdoor concert performance this Wednesday, Aug. 25, at Moose Meadow Lodge in Duxbury. 

Originally from Colcheser, Merritt David Janes performs regularly on Broadway and in national tours. He and a cast of friends from the world of Broadway musicals will present “Broadway In Vermont” at 6 p.m. on the grounds of the rustic inn known for its signature treehouse on Crossett Hill. 

Accompanied by a live band, the performers will present songs from Broadway hit musicals such as “Phantom of the Opera,” “Chess,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Shrek” and more.  The program will also allow for cast members to intermingle songs with stories about their careers and professional journeys, offering an intimate look at some legendary musicals from the perspective of Broadway performers.  

Vermont native Merritt David Janes has assembled a cast of fellow Broadway performers for this week's event at Moose Meadow Lodge. Courtesy photo

Janes' professional career includes credits in multiple national tours of Broadway shows including roles in “The Wedding Singer,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Shrek,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Phantom of the Opera.” He most recently performed in the national tour and Broadway run of “School of Rock.” 

Planning such an event was possible given the pause on Broadway due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "As a Vermont native and former resident of the Mad River Valley, I couldn't be more thrilled to bring my dear friends, who represent the very best of Broadway, back home to perform with me,” Janes said. 

Grounds open at 5 p.m. Audience members are invited to bring chairs and blankets and arrive early for picnicking in the meadow beside the pond. Food will be available for purchase from vendors familiar at the Waterbury Farmers Market: Mediterranean Mix and The Udder Guys ice cream tricycle. 

Parking is limited, so carpooling is strongly encouraged. Tickets: $30 for general admission; $25 for students and children. More information on the cast and the link for tickets is on the Moose Meadow Lodge website.