Member Spotlight: Neely Barnhardt

Alexis Hahalis: Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Neely Barnhardt: My husband, Rick, and I moved here from Virginia 3½ years ago as empty nesters. For the first time we downsized and live in a condo in downtown Portsmouth. We love the accessibility to all the wonderful opportunities that downtown Portsmouth has to offer.
Throughout town I have enjoyed being able to volunteer in many different capacities. I’m most passionate about being a CASA (court appointed special advocate), serving at Common Table and working with the youth at St. John’s Episcopal Church, and volunteering at The Music Hall.

AH: How did you first get introduced to The Music Hall and what drew you to become a member?
NB: Almost immediately upon arriving in town, we heard about the wonderful shows at TMH. I wish I could remember the first show we saw, but I can’t, but from that moment we were hooked. Once you walk into the theater, there’s no turning back. It is truly a gem in Portsmouth. As a volunteer, I get to see the reaction of guests as they enjoy show after show in this magnificent space.

AH: What has been your favorite show that you’ve seen at The Music Hall?
NB: We got to see Seven Fingers of the Hand: Cuisine and Confessions in April. I’ve been anxiously awaiting this show since it was announced in 2016. WOW! It was above and beyond what I expected. Not only was the show stunning, it was a showcase proving once again that TMH can accommodate and provide to the greater community a vast array of shows. Over the course of our membership, we’ve seen shows that we would not have had the opportunity to see without great effort. All within a 5 minute walk from our condo. Guster, Lyle Lovett, the B52s, Melissa Etheridge, Sarah McLachlan, Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers, Ogunquit Playhouse productions, The Met @ TMH, and authors Dr. Brene Brown, and Dr. Mitchell Gaynor.

AH: You’re not only a Music Hall member but you’re also a volunteer!  How long have you been volunteering and what do you like most about it?
NB: I went through training 3 years ago and have probably volunteered at 75+ shows. If you have a question about Right Orchestra – I’m your go-to gal! One of my favorite things is to see children in the theater. I’ve seen their wide eyes as they enter the magical lower lobby and as they watched Mary Poppins fly through the sky. The Kitchen Tour is also a highlight for me.

AH: For those who may not be members yet, what would you say are some of the “unexpected benefits” of being a Music Hall member?
NB: Besides supporting a vital element of our community, there are discounts at local shops/restaurants, First Saturday, and The Monthly Magazine. As Director’s Club members, we have enjoyed the monthly gatherings around the Seacoast and special events at TMH.