The Hutton Company Brick Works is a cornerstone of New York’s architectural history, having literally constructed the city, brick by brick, for over a century. Nestled on a sprawling 100-acre site along the Hudson River in Kingston, this brickyard was the birthplace of the bricks that now form the foundation of iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building and Grand Central Terminal. Hidden within these storied walls are bricks stamped with the Hutton name, each telling a tale of craftsmanship that shaped the skyline of New York.
However, by 1980, the kilns that once belched smoke and warmth into the chilly air fell silent, leaving behind a melancholic landscape of decay. This desolation lingered for decades, but it caught the eye of Joshua Saltman, a Broadway enthusiast with a grand vision. When he first set foot on the hallowed grounds of the Hutton Brickyards, he perceived not just ruins, but the potential for an extraordinary revival—a Broadway “Woodstock,” just a stone’s throw from the original festival’s site.
“The area where there’s going to be performances is built on a landfill of millions of broken, discarded bricks. It feels historic,” Saltman reflected in the lead-up to what he dubbed The Festival, a three-day theater extravaganza that promises to be unlike any other.
The ambitious plan includes a main pavilion stage nestled beneath the roof of one of the original factory buildings, flanked by two additional stages, dining venues, and campfire grounds scattered among the site’s industrial relics. The juxtaposition of derelict kiln sheds and the old gantry crane, which once loaded bricks onto barges, presents a unique backdrop that honors the site’s storied past while embracing a vibrant future.
The revitalization of the Hutton Brickyards into a luxury venue is emblematic of a broader trend in arts and culture, where historical sites are reimagined to host contemporary events. As The Festival gears up to welcome over 40 Broadway personalities and a star-studded lineup—including luminaries like Audra McDonald and Kelli O’Hara—Saltman’s vision is set to unfold from August 14-16. Audiences can expect an eclectic mix of performances, from musical previews to Broadway “raves,” all designed to foster a sense of community among theater lovers.
Saltman, an unlikely impresario with a background in law and a penchant for Broadway, has spent the last decade nurturing this dream. His journey began during his time at Columbia, where he found solace in the magical world of theater amidst the rigors of law school. “It became a bit of a refuge for me,” he recalls, particularly citing the impact of Jerry Zaks’ revival of “Guys and Dolls” as a pivotal moment in his life.
His aspirations took shape as he reflected on the immersive nature of festivals. “We do these rituals that give our life meaning,” he explains, yearning for a communal experience where like-minded individuals could gather to celebrate music and theater. His initial pitch for a Broadway festival—dubbed “Mous-chella”—failed to gain traction within Disney, but Saltman’s determination only solidified his resolve.
After assembling a production team of seasoned veterans, including Broadway stars and directors, Saltman’s dream began to crystallize. The 30th anniversary reunion of “Rent,” featuring Adam Pascal and the original cast, became a cornerstone of The Festival’s programming, promising an emotional journey for fans.
Despite the excitement, the logistical challenges are immense. Saltman faces the daunting task of coordinating transportation and housing for hundreds of staffers, performers, and festival-goers. “It is so many logistics, the transportation and housing infrastructure for all of the people coming up,” he acknowledges, underscoring the complexity of staging such a large-scale event in a small town.
Financing the endeavor is another challenge. The Festival represents a significant investment, and while Saltman anticipates selling around 2,500 tickets, he openly admits that turning a profit may take years. “This can easily be profitable. It’s just going to take me a couple of years to get there,” he reflects, balancing the financial risks against the potential to cultivate goodwill among Broadway audiences.
His passion project, however, has not been without its detractors; even within his family, there are whispers of skepticism. “I think my father might be calling in complaints to Page Six,” he quips, illustrating the personal stakes that accompany his ambitious vision.
As The Festival prepares to unfold, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of creativity and community. It invites not only Broadway aficionados but also those seeking a unique experience, merging history with the vibrant pulse of live performance. In doing so, it honors the legacy of the Hutton Brickyards while paving the way for future generations to celebrate the arts in a space that resonates with both nostalgia and new beginnings.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
