The Dorset Theater Festival Presents: THE UNDERSTUDY
2026-07-10 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-07-11 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-07-12 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-07-15 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-07-15 19:30 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | The Dorset Playhouse, 104 Cheney Rd, Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
THE UNDERSTUDY
July 10 – 19 (11 PERFORMANCES ONLY!)
https://dorsettheatrefestival.org/the-understudy

A WICKEDLY FUNNY, FAST-PACED COMEDY
Written & Directed By Theresa Rebeck

ABOUT THE PLAY

Break a leg… or someone else’s.
Down-on-his-luck actor Harry finally catches a break: he’s cast as the understudy in a long-lost Kafka play playing to sold-out Broadway crowds. But when the show’s swaggering Hollywood star, Jake, sweeps into rehearsal, the stage becomes a battlefield of ego, ambition, and insecurity of truly Kafkaesque proportions.
Caught in the crossfire is the razor-sharp stage manager—with a complicated history with both men—desperately trying to keep the production (and her sanity) from imploding before opening night.
Theresa Rebeck’s THE UNDERSTUDY is a wickedly funny, fast-paced backstage comedy about ambition, jealousy, second chances, and the fragile line between art and ego. Smart, biting, and unexpectedly moving, it’s a love letter to the theater—and a no-holds-barred look at what happens when the spotlight isn’t big enough for everyone.
Schedule:
FRIDAY, JULY 10th – 7:30 PM (PREVIEW)
SATURDAY, JULY 11th – 7:30 PM (OPENING NIGHT)
SUNDAY, JULY 12th – 2:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, JULY 15 – 2:00 PM
WEDNESDAY, JULY 15 – 7:30 PM
THURSDAY, JULY 16 – 7:30 PM
FRIDAY, JULY 17 – 2:00 PM
FRIDAY, JULY 17 – 7:30 PM
SATURDAY, JULY 18 – 2:00 PM
SATURDAY, JULY 18 – 7:30 PM
SUNDAY, JULY 19 – 2:00 PM (CLOSING)

HITS: Manchester Summer Festival
2026-07-11 08:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-12 08:00 - 12:00 | Harold Beebe Farm, 3028 Rt 7, East Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Manchester Summer Festival

July 8, 2026 – July 12, 2026

Located just outside the town of Manchester in picturesque Southwestern Vermont, HITS Vermont is tucked between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Mountains, which provide the perfect backdrop for events of all types. The facility offers a relaxing and welcoming environment to families, competitors, spectators, and their horses.
The six-week USEF National/4*-Rated Vermont Summer Festival offers an all-inclusive horse show in July and August. The entire family will enjoy this boutique-style competition, which features divisions for every level of equestrian, from the Short Stirrup Classic to the weekly Grand Prix.
Manchester Summer Festival

Harold Beebe Farm

3028 Rt 7
East Dorset,VT05251

Canopy Exploration with Women's Tree Climbing Workshop
2026-07-11 08:30 - 15:30 | Merck Forest, 3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT, United States
Canopy Exploration with Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop
Jul 11, 2026, 8:45 AM – 3:30 PM
Merck Forest & Farmland Center, 3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT 05768, USA
Leave the forest floor behind. Using harnesses and rope, ascend into Merck Forest’s canopy guided by the instructors from the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®, an all-women instructor team with years of experience elevating people into the tree canopy. This program is open to all.

https://www.merckforest.org/programs-and-events

Garden Club at Merck!
2026-07-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Merck Forest, 3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT, United States
Garden Club
Jul 11, 2026, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Merck Forest & Farmland Center, 3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT 05768, USA
Join Farm Manager Hadley Stock for this month’s Garden Club meeting, a hands-on gathering for garden enthusiasts interested in growing their skills and knowledge. Each month, participants dig into the particular rhythms of that season.

Garden Tour, with The Garden Club of Manchester
2026-07-11 10:00 - 16:00
The Garden Club of Manchester (GCM) will once again host its beloved biennial Summer
Garden Tour on Saturday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A favorite tradition among local
residents and visitors alike, this year’s self-guided tour offers exclusive access to eight
exceptional private gardens in Manchester and Dorset.
Participants are invited to explore the gardens at their own pace, choosing their own route
through a day of spectacular views, abundant blooms and inspiring landscape design. The event
will be held rain or shine. Proceeds from ticket sales support GCM’s scholarship fund for local
college students.
Guests wishing to enhance their day can enjoy a special luncheon menu at The Equinox Resort,
with a portion of the proceeds benefiting GCM’s ongoing community beautification efforts.
Advance tickets are $30 and may be purchased online at www.gardenclubofmanchester.com, as
well as at H.N. Williams in Dorset and Northshire Bookstore in Manchester. Tickets the day of
the event are $35 and can be purchased at all gardens. Garden addresses and additional
information can be found at www.gardenclubofmanchester.com.
“It’s always a special treat to peek beyond the garden gates and experience some of Vermont’s
most beautiful and thoughtfully designed private landscapes,” said Becky Burke, Tour Co-Chair.
“This year’s gardens showcase exotic specimen plants, vibrant flower displays, artistic water
features, and charming outbuildings—all set against the magnificent backdrop of the Green
Mountains. It’s the perfect outing for friends, couples, and families looking to enjoy a memorable
summer day together.”
Because these are private residential properties, guests are asked to note that pets and smoking
are generally prohibited. Photography is at the discretion of the garden owners, please ask one of
the GCM hosts at each garden. Some areas may not be handicap accessible and public restroom
facilities are not available on site.

Dead of Summer Music Festival
2026-07-11 10:00 - 23:30, 2026-07-12 10:00 - 19:30 | Hunter Park, 410 Hunter Park Rd, Manchester Center, VT, 05255, United States
The Dead of Summer Music Festival at Hunter Park in Manchester, Vermont – July 9-12th!
A weekend of live music on two stages, with over 20 food and craft beer vendors. It’s a family-friendly event with activities like yoga, kids’ sets, tie-dying, and disc golf. You can camp on-site or explore nearby hotels in our area.
Details on website: https://www.deadofsummermusicfestival.com/schedule

Second Saturdays at Manchester Community Library
2026-07-11 11:00 - 12:30 | Manchester Community Library
Second Saturdays at Manchester Community Library
Jul 11, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Manchester Community Library, 138 Cemetery Ave, Manchester Center, VT 05255, USA
MFFC field educators provide seasonally themed environmental science learning and facilitate exciting and hands-on nature-based activities for kids ages 6+

Dorset Historical Society's Annual Ice Cream Social
2026-07-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Dorset Historical Society, Corner of VT 30 & Kent Hill Rd, Dorset, VT, 05251
Annual Ice Cream Social
July 11th 1-3p
Free Ice Cream at The Dorset Historical Society 🙂

Dog Days Cookout
2026-07-11 13:00 - 15:00 | The Dorset Village Library, 13 Church Street, Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Dog Days Cookout | Saturday, July 11th from 1PM to 3PM
It’s our 10th annual cookout at the library! Come enjoy a FREE hamburger, hot dog, or veggie burger made by the Library Board of Trustees. Play yard games, enjoy music and shop our used books to support the library. Furry friends are welcome.

Library Events

Dorset Farmer's Market!
2026-07-12 10:00 - 14:00 | HN Williams, 2732 VT-30, Dorset, VT, United States
Every Sunday from 10am-2pm.
This time of year the market is outside – across the street from HN Williams!
At the Dorset Farmers Market, everything you see comes directly from the people who grew it, raised it, made it, or baked it. We’re proud to be a producer-only market, which means every vendor is directly involved in the creation of what they sell. No resellers, no middlemen. Just real people offering what they make themselves.
This model keeps our market personal and authentic. It builds trust, supports local livelihoods, and gives you the chance to truly know where your food and goods come from, and who made them.
Also, this model isn’t just about transparency, it’s about community impact. When you shop here, your dollars stay local, supporting the farmers, food producers, and artisans who live and work right here in our community. That means stronger small businesses, more resilient local food systems, and a vibrant local economy.
It’s a more sustainable way to shop, one that supports the land, the local economy, and meaningful connections.

GMALL’s Stars and Stripes Celebration!
2026-07-12 17:00
Mark your calendars! This will be a fun event. More details to come!
Save the Date:
Stars and Stripes Celebration to benefit Green Mountain Academy for Lifelong Learning
Sunday evening, July 12, 2026 at The Inn at Manchester
For more information, contact Gloria Palmer at 802-867-0111

GMALL Presents: Behind the Headlines
2026-07-14 10:00 - 11:30
Behind the Headlines: A Weekly Conversation
moderated by Peter Radford

Join this engaging weekly forum to explore the deeper themes and ideas shaping today’s news. Each session features a topic introduced by the moderator, who may share background materials and guide a thoughtful, balanced discussion. Hear diverse perspectives, exchange ideas, and share your own views in a welcoming, small-group setting. Enrollment is limited.
Register Here: https://greenmtnacademy.org/

Ten consecutive Tuesdays
beginning April 21 and ending on June 23
10-11:30 am
via Zoom
$100

Dorset Knitters at Library
2026-07-14 17:00 - 18:00 | The Dorset Village Library, 13 Church Street, Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Are you an expert knitter? Can only knit and purl? Or want to learn from scratch?
Join the Dorset Knitters at 5pm every Tuesday!
Snacks (finger foods) and beverages are pot-luck style!
Email: dorsetvillagelibrary@gmail.com if you have questions…or if you’re interested in Loom Knitting!

Nonfiction Book Club
2026-07-14 17:00 - 19:00 | The Dorset Village Library, 13 Church Street, Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Nonfiction Book Club | Tuesday, July 14th at 5PM
This book club focuses on modern history and other nonfiction books chosen by participants. You will find good conversation and history buffs at each meeting! This month’s book: The Long Gray Line by Rick Atkinson
Library Events

GMALL Presents – Iran and the Near East: War, Consequence, and the Uncertain Road Ahead
2026-07-14 17:30 - 19:00 | Hildene, A Lincoln Family Home, 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT, United States
GMALL Presents – Iran and the Near East: War, Consequence, and the Uncertain Road Ahead
Tuesday, July 14 from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at Hildene’s Lincoln Hall

Green Mountain Academy welcomes author and former United States Ambassador to Croatia, Peter Galbraith, to talk about the situation in Iran and the Near East. In the spring of 2026, the United States launched military operations against Iran, opening a new and consequential chapter in the long and troubled history between the two nations. But what comes next? This talk will examine the origins, conduct, and human costs of the conflict — and wrestle honestly with the hardest question of all: what kind of Iran will emerge from the rubble? Drawing on historical precedent, regional expertise, and frank reflection on the limits of military power, Galbraith will explore three plausible futures — a Iran nudged toward political reform, a successor regime more hardline and hostile than the one it replaced, or a descent into prolonged civil war and fragmentation. This is not a lecture with easy answers but an invitation to think carefully and grapple with a crisis that will shape the region — and American foreign policy — for generations. Registration is $20 per person. For more information or to register, please call our office at 802-867-0111 or visit greenmtnacademy.org.

Golden Hour Farm Hike at Merck
2026-07-14 19:00 - 20:30 | Merck Forest, 3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT, United States
Golden Hour Farm Hike
Jul 14, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Merck Forest & Farmland Center, 3270 Rte 315, Pawlet, VT 05761, USA
Wander with a MFFC Field Educator through the working farm and surrounding woodlands during the evening golden hour, encountering the breathtaking views to the east and west along the way.

MarbleHouse Project - Pilates
2026-07-15 08:00 - 09:00 | Marble House Project, 1161 Dorset West Road, Dorset, 05251, United States
Beginning July 1, join instructor Gina Curley for a weekly Mat Pilates Foundations class designed to build core strength, improve stability, and enhance overall body awareness. Classes are beginner-friendly and well-suited for those new to Pilates, individuals returning to movement after an injury, or anyone interested in revisiting the foundational principles of the practice. $20/session. Bring a mat + water. Register with Gina Curley: email gina@gmcurley.com or text 858-344-4254.
https://www.marblehouseproject.org/events

HITS: Manchester Classic
2026-07-15 08:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-16 08:00 - 13:00 | Harold Beebe Farm, 3028 Rt 7, East Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Manchester Classic

July 15, 2026 – July 19, 2026

Located just outside the town of Manchester in picturesque Southwestern Vermont, HITS Vermont is tucked between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Mountains, which provide the perfect backdrop for events of all types. The facility offers a relaxing and welcoming environment to families, competitors, spectators, and their horses.
The six-week USEF National/4*-Rated Vermont Summer Festival offers an all-inclusive horse show in July and August. The entire family will enjoy this boutique-style competition, which features divisions for every level of equestrian, from the Short Stirrup Classic to the weekly Grand Prix.
Manchester Classic

Local’s Day @ JK Adams Kitchen Store
2026-07-15 09:00 - 17:00 | JK Adams, Rte 30, Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Local’s Day @ JK Adams Kitchen Store
Every Wednesday in February & March is Local’s Day – where everyone is a local! Spin the wheel and win a discount up to 30% of on your entire purchase (some exclusions apply). Exclusions include already discounted items and electronics.

Storytime at Dorset Village Library
2026-07-15 10:00 - 11:00 | The Dorset Village Library, 13 Church Street, Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Story Time | Wednesdays at 10AM
Join us in the Children’s Room* every Wednesday at 10am for stories, songs and play! Even the littlest kiddos learn at Story Time! No registration.
*Please note this room is only accessible by stair, we have no elevator.

Kits and Cubs at Merck Forest
2026-07-15 10:00 - 11:30 | Merck Forest, 3270 VT-315, Rupert, VT, United States
Kits and Cubs at Merck Forest
Wednesday and Fridays 10am-11:30am
Bring your toddlers and preschoolers (18 months to 5 years old) for an unforgettable outdoor adventure! Every session is packed with nature-themed activities, songs, stories, and take-home crafts designed to spark curiosity.

Lecture Series: Charles Maxwell Fish on The Library of Congress Veterans Oral History Project
2026-07-16 12:00 - 13:00 | Dorset Historical Society, Corner of VT 30 & Kent Hill Rd, Dorset, VT, 05251
Lecture Series: Charles Maxwell Fish on The Library of Congress Veterans Oral History Project
July 16th 12-1p
The Dorset Historical Society

Reader’s Club
2026-07-16 15:00 - 17:00 | The Dorset Village Library, 13 Church Street, Dorset, VT, 05251, United States
Reader’s Club | Thursday, July 16th at 3PM | Theme: Heroes
Join Reader’s Club—a fun seasonal book club! Each month, we’ll have a new theme, and readers can choose any book they like that fits the theme. We’ll gather to share what we’ve read, swap recommendations, and take part in an activity inspired by the month’s theme. For ages 8 -12. Please call 802-867-5774 to register.
Reader’s Club is all about choice, creativity, and connection—helping kids discover new stories, practice talking about what they read, and build friendships in a supportive, low-pressure setting. Visit the library for book suggestions for each theme.
Library Events
