The Colony: A Must-See Concert Venue for Any Music Lover at Marist
Local Performer at The Colony in Winter of 2021. Photo Credit: Brian McHugh.
When traveling down the winding roads of Route 32, one may find themselves stumble upon the music capital of the Hudson Valley, Woodstock, New York. Although not exactly home to the famed,1969 Woodstock Music Festival, this small town is home to a vast history of incredible music. Some may say this town is a pastime to the folk-rock era of the 1960s and 1970s, but Neil Howard and his performing arts theater, The Colony, certainly makes it feel like there's still a lively music scene in Woodstock.
At The Colony this past July, I had the opportunity to see a stunning performance from Indie-Rock artist Lucy Dacus. The classical setting along with the sold out crowd made it a special night of music. After this performance, it was clear to me that The Colony has made itself a must-see destination for any music lover.
According to their website, The Colony Hotel initially opened in 1929. It was the tallest building in town, and served as a stopping point for visitors who were on their way up to the Overlook Mountain House. While they stayed, they’d dine and listen to big bands in The Colony’s great room. Since The Colony was built, it has served as a restaurant, hotel, concert hall and now a popular live music venue. In 2015, Neil and Alexia Howard bought the building and renovated it into the bustling concert venue that it is today. The venue officially reopened in 2017 and has since been an essential visit for any trip to Woodstock.
If you haven’t been to The Colony, it is certainly unlike any other music venue that you’ll ever experience. Unlike a lot of other venues, The Colony also functions as a restaurant. Audience members can enjoy a full menu of dinner options while listening to the performances. Additionally, the venue has an upper level balcony that surrounds the stage and adds to an unconventional intimacy with the performer. The newly renovated interior of The Colony gives off an old-fashioned vibe that makes it feel like you’re having the same experience of the earliest visitors of the concert hall back in 1929.
Marist students may know some of the many big name performers who have stopped by for a performance at The Colony in recent years. Mitski, Lucy Dacus, The Wailers and Caroline Rose are just a few of the popular voices that have filled the walls of The Colony. In addition to these prominent artists, The Colony also hosts smaller, local acts that give you a taste of the current music scene in Woodstock. Along with this wide range of musical acts, The Colony hosts comedy shows and even has weddings. This venue has certainly positioned itself at the center of the arts scene in Woodstock and has forced its way into being a must see destination when exploring the Hudson Valley.
Photo taken at The Colony in the Summer of 2021. Photo Credit: Brian McHugh.