LENOX, Mass. — The Mount, Edith Wharton's home, presents its second year of NightWood, an outdoor sound and light experience inspired by The Mount's architecture and setting. 

 

"Last year's run was a phenomenal success; we were sold-out," said Susan Wissler, The Mount's executive director. "Because of COVID restrictions and limits on gatherings, many people were not able to experience NightWood last year. This year we have greater capacity and are starting earlier. We hope to accommodate everyone who wants to experience the magic and wonder of NightWood." 

 

This year's NightWood combines music, lighting, and theatrical elements to create seven scenes. 

 

NightWood runs from Nov. 4 through Dec. 31, Thursday through Sunday evening starting at 5:00 pm. 

 

The special Opening Night Celebration on Nov. 4 includes bistro fare and craft cocktails. 

 

Tickets for Opening Night are $100/pp. General tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for kids 6 - 18, and free for children 0 - 5. Admission is limited and timed. Reservations are required and can be made at EdithWharton.org or by calling 413-551-5100.

 

The Mount is once again collaborating with designer Chris Bocchario of Clerestory Light to create this year's show. Bocchario has expanded the experience with two new scenes: 

 

The Eternal City: a journey deep into the woods that reveals a hidden metropolis teeming with life and energy and The Conference of Trees: a dense stand of trees in mid-conversation, with the voices of the trees imagined in light and rich earthy sounds.

 

"There is something evocative about being in the woods at night: a connection to our ancient past, to old traditions and long-forgotten experiences," said Bocchario. "It releases a host of emotions which differ from person to person. We wanted to conjure those emotions using a combination of light, sound, and sculpture to evoke an atmosphere that stimulates memory and awakens imagination."