David Adkins’ Story of Stockbridge

David Adkins in Thoreau at BTG, 2015. Photo by Michael J Riha.

David Adkins in Thoreau at BTG, 2015. Photo by Michael J Riha.

My Story

How did I find Stockbridge?

Maybe it was just good luck. Or was it chance? Or was I just ready?  I tell my students, luck will be of no use to you if you’re not ready when your chance comes. So work hard, do everything you can to be ready for luck, and if you get the chance—­ready or not—say YES!

It was about 1983, I guess. I had been at Dartmouth College for two years and really didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I liked reading. I liked the outdoors. And I liked acting: I certainly wasn’t going to be an actor, though.

On a break, back home in Baltimore I visited my high school theatre director and on one of the coffee tables in the teachers’ lounge was an application for the Berkshire Theatre Festival. On a whim, I filled out the application and sent it in. Weeks later, after I had all but forgotten about applying, I got a call for an interview, and in June I found myself driving from Maryland to Massachusetts. I arrived at the Lavan Center on route seven and entered a world I’d never seen before: professional theater.

I was suddenly thrust into all aspects of theater—particularly the technical side—with hours spent in the scene shop, the costume shop, working concessions at the main stage, giving tours to patrons, and parking cars. We had acting classes in the morning and that was a whole other world I’d never experienced. I met teachers who approached the work in ways that were wondrous to me—with such commitment and passion and years of dedication to the work.  I saw that acting took work and potentially years of training—not just training for acting, but training for the voice and body. And it was that summer that I began to understand from the professionals surrounding me in all departments what it meant to have a single-minded determination. To have a singular focus that requires an intense examination of life, and the discipline it takes to explore, sculpt, fail, and then get back up and refine a performance.

It was that first BTF summer in Stockbridge where I began to learn that a life in the arts isn’t just something a person does or just a way of life. It is in fact a way of viewing the world: a way of viewing one’s place in the world and realizing I have a responsibility to that world as an artist.

That same summer, there was a hilarious production of Beyond Therapy (1985) on the Main Stage. It featured the great actors: David Schramm (Wings, and frequent BTG alum), Julie Hagerty (Airplane), David Rasche (Sledge Hammer!), and the wonderful Peggy Cosgrove. The cast had been invited to an apprentice showcase and afterward David Schramm asked if I had ever thought of going to a training school for acting. He told me he had gone to Juilliard. I said, “Juilliard? You mean the music school?”

Cast of Beyond Therapy at BTF, 1985. Photo from BTF Archive.

Cast of Beyond Therapy at BTG, 1985. Photo from BTF Archive.

And as luck would have it I secured a last-minute audition at Juilliard, because as chance would have it, the incoming Juilliard acting class had lost an actor. On a Wednesday I got a telephone call from Juilliard on the hall payphone in the Lavan dorms offering me an audition for that Friday!

Well I had one monologue which I’d been working on that summer. But I needed another. I went to my acting teacher, the great James Luce, and he said, “You need Shakespeare.” I said, “I don’t have a Shakespeare monologue.” He said, “do you know any lines from Shakespeare?” I answered, “to be or not to be…” He replied, “no that won’t work. Anything else?”  I said, “oh that this too, too solid flesh would melt.” I’m sure he winced, but that’s what we went with.

That Friday, two days later, I stood in front of the head of the Juilliard Drama School and the third year acting teacher and did my monologues. I didn’t know that both of them were famous: The late Michael Langham—who would later hire me for a job on Broadway—and Michael Kahn who is the Artistic Director of the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington D.C.—he’s never hired me, ahem!

I finished my monologues and Mr. Langham wrote something on a piece of paper, handed it to Mr. Kahn, and walked out. That didn’t seem like a good sign. Michael Kahn then wrote on the piece of paper and said, “take this to the office.” Another bad sign. I went down to the office and handed it to an administrator. She looked at the paper and then said, “Welcome to Juilliard. Do you have a place to live?” I said “No.” She told me to try the YMCA because they might still have rooms. They didn’t.

I walked down to the corner of 65th St. and Broadway and called my mother from a telephone booth. I told her, “I’ve gotten into Julliard.” “The music school?” she said. I replied, “I’m going to be an actor.”

I went back to Stockbridge and several weeks later my first summer at the Berkshire Theatre Festival had come to an end and I was on my way to New York City to be an actor at the Juilliard School. The Artistic Director, Josie Abady, had been keeping track of me and introduced me to the late Don Roe who worked in the BTF offices. Don said he would put me up in his apartment in NY for as many weeks as I needed until I found a place to live.

I would graduate from Juilliard four years later and go on to have many great experiences—and many heartbreaking ones as well—in my life as an actor. I would make my professional debut on the Fitzpatrick Main Stage under the direction of the late Artistic Director Richard Dunlap. I would travel the country performing in many of its great cities. I would work on and off Broadway, do some television, and hammer out a life in what some of us call “Show.” I would meet and work with a number of famous actors (and I would work a number of times with my now beloved David Schramm). The best part has been working, and learning from my fellow actors and writers and designers and technicians. I would return many summers to Stockbridge.

Oh, Stockbridge. The stories you can tell.

Today

David Adkins HeadshotIn addition to his work on stage, Mr. Adkins is the Director of the Acting Intern Program at Berkshire Theatre and helps to shape the next generation of theatre artists.

Plan Your Visit

Read our suggestions on where to dine, and where to hang your hat.

Get Started
Did You Know?
Just like NPR, Berkshire Theatre Group depends on the generous giving of its members!
Join Today!
We believe the performing arts can transform a community.
Learn More
Of the 16,000 Berkshire County school children, we serve 13,000 through our BTG PLAYS! Year-Round Educational Programs.
Learn More
Theatre is the place where we go to understand what lies in the human heart.
About Us
BTG's buildings, on two campuses in Stockbridge and Pittsfield, are historic treasures.
Theatre Info
Berkshire Theatre Group believes that the creative arts encourage freedom of speech and debate.
Get Involved
"Out of need will come the way. Once the pandemic ebbs, whenever that is, there will be an incredible need to gather again." - Artistic Director, Kate Maguire
Join Today!
The theatre has existed from the time of the Greeks. We will go on.
Learn More
Join Our Mailing List

Receive the latest BTG News, Updates, Special Offers, and more right to your inbox.

Subscribe

News & Articles

From the Archive: Eva LeGallienne

By: Katie Birenboim (She/Her/Hers)   Devoted fans of BTG may gasp to discover that until doing a first round of research in the amazing BTG archives, I had never heard … Read On

On this day, we remember and thank all those who have served, those who have sacrificed their lives, and those currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces for all you have done for our country and our lives. Your sacrifices will never be forgotten. Thank you ❤️
Missed our 2017 production of Million Dollar Quartet? That's all right, because you get another chance to dance along to the music of Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and Carl Perkins at the Colonial from June 27 - July 16. 🎹🎸Groove along now and get your tickets at berkshiretheatre.org! 

(Photo by Emma K. Rothenberg-Ware)
Can you believe it? 🌟 We are adding ONE LAST SHOW, June 4 at 2pm, to our production of What the Constitution Means to Me at the Unicorn Theatre, so get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org if you haven't yet!
See how one photograph altered our understanding of life itself. 🧬 Launch back into the 1950s with us and join the race between scientists to unlock the mysteries of DNA after Rosalind Franklin took Photograph 51. 🔬 Get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!
We are thrilled to see former BTG intern Adam W Johnson win the Hayes award for Outstanding Sound Design in Washington DC! 🌟🎉
Two new performance dates means TWO MORE CHANCES to see What the Constitution Means to Me at the Unicorn Theatre! ✨Join us and @wamtheatre on May 28 at 7pm or May 30 at 7pm and witness the breath-taking play that speaks volumes about how the Constitution has affected countless Americans' past, present, and future. Get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!
Tom Rush is on his way to the Colonial Theatre TOMORROW for an afternoon of sweet, passionate ballads and terrific story-telling! 🎼 Come join him by getting your tickets at berkshiretheatre.org!
The five-time Grammy nominated ensemble, Ambrosia, is joining our summer line-up with their performance on August 4th at the Colonial!

Founded in 1970, Ambrosia today is comprised of three of the original members, Joseph Puerta, Christopher North, and Burleigh Drummond, with the addition of guitarist Doug Jackson, contributing keyboardist Mary Harris, and powerful lead vocals of Kipp Lennon (from the band Venice).

Launch back into the 70s and get your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org! 🎼🎸
TONIGHT is the night! ✨ Previews of What the Constitution Means to Me begin at the Unicorn at 7pm tonight, so grab your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!

(Photo by Emma K. Rothenburg-Ware Photography @ekrwcreative )
Two authors, two back-to-back shows! Tomorrow, The House in the Pines author Ana Reyes (@anareyeswriter)  and one of America’s preeminent humor writers, David Sedaris (@davidsedarisbooks), take on the Colonial stage. Seats are still available, so grab your tickets today at berkshiretheatre.org!
Tomorrow at the Colonial, see why @reesewitherspoon, who announced The House of the Pines as the Reese's Book Club Pick for January 2023, and millions of others deem @anareyeswriter as a stand-out debut author. Grab tickets to see Ana Reyes talk about her thriller novel and her process of writing suspenseful fiction at berkshiretheatre.org! Special thanks to @lovepittsfield for making this event happen!
Did you know that On Cedar Street will feature a dog actor? 🐾 Rescue dog to show stealer, 6-year-old pup Addison will be transitioning from touring the country in her role as Sandy in "Annie" to the Unicorn in our production of On Cedar Street at the end of the summer. Get tickets now at berkshiretheatre.org!
Looking for a musical that will make you tap your feet and sing along? Check out "Million Dollar Quartet"! This musical tells the story of the historic recording session that brought together four legendary icons of rock 'n' roll - Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins - for the first and only time. With hit songs like "Blue Suede Shoes," "Hound Dog," and "Great Balls of Fire," you'll be transported back to the golden age of rock 'n' roll. Don't miss your chance to see this high-energy show - get your tickets now! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/million-dollar-quartet/
Max Creek is coming to The Colonial Theatre on Friday April 7 at 7:30pm ! 🎸🎶 Their unique blend of rock, country, reggae, soul, jazz and calypso has been captivating audiences for over four decades. With powerful vocals and exceptional musicianship, Max Creek knows how to put on a show that you won't forget. 🤘 Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of Max Creek live! 
Get your tickets today!! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/max-creek/

#MaxCreek #RockMusic #FolkMusic #BluesMusic #LiveMusic #Concert #Band #MusicLovers #MusicIsLife
🎶 "See the line where the sky meets the sea? It calls me..." 🎶 
Get ready to set sail on a thrilling adventure with “Disney's Moana, JR”! Join us as we journey with Moana, Maui and all their friends across the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti. 🌊⁣⁣ Featuring unforgettable songs and characters, this show is not to be missed! 
Our talented cast of young performers are ready to bring the story to life and inspire audiences of all ages.⁣⁣ 🌺🌴🐚⁣⁣
Check out behind-the-scenes rehearsal images and catch the performance from April 21-23 at The Colonial Theatre. Tickets are selling fast, so book your seats now and let's journey together with Moana! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/disneys-moana-jr/
#MoanaJunior #ColonialTheatre #LivePerformance #DisneyMagic"
🎶👯‍♀️ Get ready to celebrate the amazing women of the Berkshires! 🌟 Join us at The Colonial Theatre TONIGHT for "Song & Dance: A Celebration of Women in the Berkshires." 🎉 Featuring a talented cast of female performers, this show will showcase the strength, resilience and creativity of women in our community. 💪🏼 From powerful ballads to stunning dance routines, this event will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. Don't miss out on this unforgettable night! Get your tickets now at https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/song-and-dance-a-celebration-of-women-of-the-berkshires/ #SongAndDance #WomenInBerkshires #BerkshireTheatreGroup #CelebrationOfWomen #Empowerment #Inspiration #PerformingArts #LiveEvent #GetYourTicketsNow
Have you heard of Hyprov? It's a hilarious and mind-bending show that combines hypnosis and improv comedy. The result is a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you laughing and scratching your head in amazement.

The show is led by two talented performers: hypnotist Asad Mecci and improv comedian Colin Mochrie. Together, they take volunteers from the audience and guide them through a series of comedic scenarios, all while under hypnosis.

What makes Hyprov so special is how the performers seamlessly blend the two art forms together. You'll see improvisational comedy taken to new heights as the volunteers' subconscious minds drive the scene, leading to unexpected and hilarious moments.

If you're looking for a night of entertainment that will leave you feeling amazed and delighted, then you definitely need to check out Hyprov on Saturday, March 25 at The Colonial Theatre. Trust us, you won't regret it! #Hyprov #hypnosis #improvcomedy #hilarious #mindbending #comedyshow #entertainment #laughoutloud #unforgettable #mustsee 

Get your tickets now! https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/event/colin-mochrie-presents-hyprov-with-master-hypnotist-asad-mecci/
Our very own Allison Rachelle Bayles will be one of the awesome women honored at Song and Dance! A Celebration of Women of the Berkshires! Allison is the Director of Education here at BTG and we can’t wait to honor her during this celebration! 

https://buff.ly/3ldCPGe
The Secret Garden: Spring Version, is a new adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway musical abridged for younger audiences in an enhanced concert-style production that is as beautiful and spirited as the original.
This enchanting classic of children’s literature of hope and perseverance is reimagined in brilliant musical style by composer Lucy Simon and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Marsha Norman. Orphaned in India, 11-year-old Mary Lennox returns to Yorkshire to live with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald and his disabled son Colin. The estate’s many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies and the “Dreamers,” spirits from Mary’s past who guide her through her new life, dramatizing The Secret Garden‘s compelling tale of forgiveness and renewal. Join us July 29 and 30 for this beautiful story.
Two-time Tony Award nominated actor, Kate Baldwin, joins the cast of “What the Constitution Means to Me!” This boundary-breaking play breathes new life into the Constitution and imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans.
Kristen van Ginhoven, who will direct this co-production with WAM Theatre, connected to the play as an activist and as a former speech and debate coach for the International High School in Brussels, Belgium. “As an artist, activist, and human, I find myself yearning for more collaboration, accountability, and engagement.” van Ginhoven explained, “This play answers that call with humor, intelligence and poignancy. I look forward to using my past experience as a
speech and debate coach while having the privilege and joy of directing this co-production.”
Follow Us