Classic Theatre expands Sleepy Hollow production in Lincoln vineyards

The Classic Theatre will stage an immersive outdoor version of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow this fall at Rancho Roble Vineyards in Lincoln, Calif., adding a three-actor adaptation, dinner, wine, music and family activities. The expanded production is designed to deepen the audience experience and turn the ghost story into a full evening event.

Why it matters: - The Classic Theatre is turning a familiar Halloween-season story into a broader live event that blends theater, food, wine and outdoor entertainment. - The expanded format gives the Lincoln company a larger-scale way to present Washington Irving’s tale and draw audiences for an immersive fall outing.

What happened: - The Classic Theatre will present The Legend of Sleepy Hollow this fall at Rancho Roble Vineyards in Lincoln, California. - The production is presented in partnership with Rancho Roble Vineyards. - Artistic Director Jennifer Blair said the immersive staging fulfills a long-running goal for the company. - Blair said she first imagined the concept 10 years ago after hearing the story in the Old Dutch Church in Tarrytown, New York, by candlelight. - The company has presented The Legend of Sleepy Hollow as a one-actor production for the past three years. - This season, The Classic Theatre is using a new adaptation by John Minigan that expands the cast to three actors.

The details: - Guests will explore the Rancho Roble property before the performance. - The evening includes a catered dinner by Randy Peters. - Guests will receive a complimentary glass of wine. - The event also includes festive fall activities for families. - The performance begins as twilight settles over the vineyard. - After the show, guests can gather around fire pits, listen to live music and socialize outdoors. - Additional food will be available for purchase on-site. - Guests who want the catered dinner by Randy Peters must reserve it at least one week before the event. - Guests are encouraged to dress warmly because the performance is outdoors. - Coats and blankets are welcome and encouraged. - Event location: Rancho Roble Vineyards, 340 Fleming Road, Lincoln, CA 95648.

Between the lines: - The expanded cast and added production elements suggest The Classic Theatre is aiming for a more atmospheric and commercially appealing experience than a standard staged reading or solo performance. - The vineyard setting strengthens the production’s tie to the story’s wooded, twilight mood and helps position the event as part theater, part seasonal gathering. - Blair said the goal is to slow down, gather together and experience the story in a setting that feels like it belongs inside the tale.

What's next: - The Classic Theatre is encouraging advance planning for dinner reservations and outdoor preparation before the event date. - The company’s season will also be supported by signature sponsors Kerux Financial and Rancho Roble Vineyards.

The bottom line: - The Classic Theatre is widening Sleepy Hollow from a stage play into an immersive autumn night out in Lincoln.