The Bard At Bristow - An Immersive Stroll at Summer Theatre of New

The Bard at Bristow – An Immersive Stroll
 Presented by The Summer Theatre of New Canaan
 Sunday, October 5, 2025 – Bristow Bird Sanctuary, New Canaan, CT

New Canaan, CT – The Summer Theatre of New Canaan (STONC) and Artistic Director Melody Meitrott Libonati, in association with the New Canaan Land Trust, invite audiences to experience The Bard at Bristow – An Immersive Stroll—a one-day-only outdoor theatrical event blending Shakespeare’s timeless words with the beauty of nature.

Part of the town-wide October4Design festival, this family-friendly performance takes audiences on a guided 45-minute walking journey through the restored trails of the Bristow Bird Sanctuary. Professional actors and musicians bring to life beloved scenes and songs inspired by Shakespeare’s greatest works. Visitors may encounter the romance of Romeo & Juliet, the whimsy of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the magic of The Tempest, and the dark intrigue of Macbeth—complete with witches and sword fights—along with sonnets, madrigals, and more.

Groups of 15–20 will depart every 15 minutes from 11 AM–3 PM, ensuring an intimate and interactive experience. A Renaissance herald greets each group before guides lead them along the immersive performance paths.

Performers & Creative Team
Featured performers include Brett Alters*, Everly Alters, Brianna Bauch*, Ada Bland, Max Boone, Nick Depuy, Katie Fabel*, Anna Holbrook*, Christian Libonati*, Rachel Murdy, Daniel Oliveri, Dan Renkin*, Brian Silliman*, Richard Sheridan Willis, and members of the New Canaan High School Madrigal Singers. Creative team: Immersive Director & Adaptation – Allegra Libonati; Costume Designer – Arthur Oliver; Fight Director – Dan Renkin; Assistant Director and Stage Manager – Gabi Simmons*.   *Denotes members of Actors Equity Association.

Event Details:  Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025  - one day only (Light Rain or Shine)
Time: Reserved entry every 15 minutes, 11 AM – 3 PM  Location: Bristow Bird Sanctuary at Mead Park, New Canaan, CT  Tickets & Info: STONC.org

About the Summer Theatre of New Canaan
 Founded in 2004, the award-winning Summer Theatre of New Canaan (STONC) has produced more than 90 professional productions, from Shakespeare to Broadway-style musicals, featuring artists with credits spanning Broadway, regional, and international stages. Its educational and community programs have made it a cultural cornerstone of Fairfield County.

About Bristow Bird Sanctuary
 The Helen and Alice Bristow Bird Sanctuary and Wildwood Preserve celebrated its 101st anniversary in September 2025. The 17-acre park is home to dozens of bird species, tranquil streams, a duck pond, and restored trails, making it a cherished oasis for both wildlife and visitors.

Photo caption: Richard Sheridan Willis as Oberon in the Summer Theatre of New Canaan’s Production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Credit: Summer Theatre of New Canaan Archives.