Then David and I set about co-sculpting all the various pieces for the project, pouring almost two ton of bronze in the process. Everyone seemed delighted with our concept and it was a big thumbs up. I do love my faeries! After lots of drawing and even more erasing we submitted our drawings to first The Barter and then the Architectural Revue Board of Abingdon.

And having already illustrated Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream and re-conceived it again in Sandman #19 it seemed a natural fit to base whatever design we came up with on the same play. I chose to collaborate with David Spence, a long time bronze artist that lives in the area, so that I wouldn’t immediately fall flat on my face as I ventured out into a new medium. So four years ago Rick Rose, their artistic director, asked me if I’d be interested coming up with a concept for a large bronze sculptural fountain for them. How did you get such a cool gig and did they ask for Midsummer or was that your decision?Ĭharles: I’ve had a long association with the Barter Theatre: designing their new logo back in 1992 and over the years, designing two very different production of Peter Pan. How did this beautiful statue come to find it’s home at Barter Theatre? Find out below with Irene Gallo’s interview of artist Charles Vess: Be sure to take a moment before the show to pay a visit to the fountain and maybe even make a wish. Faeries dance across the water in this breathtaking design. In between Barter Theatre and Barter Stage II, there lives a stunning incarnation of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Designed and sculpted by Charles Vess and David Spence, this 800 pound, 16-foot-tall bronze fountain has been a part of the Barter landscape since 2009. Small portable stage available for large outdoor events upon requestĬomplimentary coffee for groups having a meal Screen, podium & microphone available for meetings upon request Premium parking for groups dining before a showīus loading and unloading in front of Smith Theatre Reserve The Barter Green to accommodate additional space for up to 125 guestsĪdjacent patio area to accommodate up to 30 guestsĬatered meals available through local vendors Warm welcome by Barter Theatre staff members If you’re interested in booking the space for a meal during your next group visit or for your next gathering, contact Group Sales for pricing and availability. We also open up The Lounge as a place to host events outside of Barter productions: a birthday party, family gathering, meeting, luncheon, bridal or baby shower, etc. The Lounge is the perfect location for groups attending a show to host a cetered dining experience.

Smith center seating chart