What happens when world-class opera collides with the rugged beauty of the Adirondacks?

In this episode of ADK Talks, we pull back the curtain on the Seagle Festival—America’s oldest summer vocal training program, a cultural institution with a rich legacy, tucked away in the charming village of Schroon Lake, NY.

Hosts Jane and Steve of ADKtaste.com sit down with Artistic Director Darren Woods, a visionary leader who has not only led but also transformed the Seagle Festival into a hub for boundary-pushing performances and emerging talent, inspiring a new generation of opera enthusiasts.

Also joining us is Kate Morton, an electrifying young Mezzo-Soprano, who recently earned her Master of Music in Vocal Arts from the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City. A former Seagle emerging artist, Kate’s extraordinary path to the stage is as dramatic and unexpected as the operas and musical works she performs.

🎶 In this episode, we discover:

• How the Seagle Festival prepares the next generation of vocal talent
• Why rural audiences are craving more bold, contemporary works
• Kate Morton’s journey from small-town roots to center stage
• What it takes to make it in the international opera world today

Whether you're a music lover, arts patron, or curious traveler planning your next visit to the North Country, this episode offers a front-row seat to one of the Adirondacks' best-kept cultural secrets.

Don’t miss the drama, the dedication, and the high notes.

Mentioned in this podcast.

• Seagle Festival
• The Lodge at Schroon Lake
• Brown Swan Club
• Cherokee Nation
• Opera Saratoga
• Evan Mack
• Jerod Tate
• The Louis W. Ballard Project
• Barbara McAlister
• Thomas Valentine
• Sticks & Stones Wood Fired Pizza
• 9 Mile Coffee in Schroon Lake
• Schroon Lake Farmers Market
• Hiking Indian Head Trail
• Paradox Brewery

ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and things to do in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Your questions and comments are invaluable to us. We'd love to hear from you! Please, share your thoughts with us at info@adktaste.com.

Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast

info@nextdaypodcast.com