Robert Hartwell: The Pride Of The Berkshires

Photography by Danielle Cohen

There are entrances, then there are Robert Hartwell entrances. A dozen emojis couldn’t paint the proper picture.

Toward the end of what was, in hindsight, the absolutely perfect day last summer, I first laid eyes on one Robert Hartwell. In the mid-evening splendor that was unmistakably in the air, about two dozen of us were milling around the bucolic grounds of our hostess, the fabulous Dorinda Medley, on her magical estate in the Berkshires, Blue Stone Manor. Medley’s fellow “Real Housewife” Margaret Josephs and acclaimed Hollywood actor Elizabeth Perkins were in attendance among the other carefully selected chic/vibey guests. As small groups gathered in the stunning backyard of Medley’s home, the single-most colorful and dynamic man suddenly revealed himself. Robert Hartwell had arrived at Medley’s soirée and none of us will soon forget the moment.

New to the Berkshires as a homeowner, Hartwell instantly established himself to be nothing short of a sheer delight and genuine force of positivity. Let’s talk clothes, shall we? Let’s just say, if Italian couture houses made a contemporary ’fit for King Louis XIV we’d be somewhat close to imagining what Hartwell was wearing that night.

What emerges from Hartwell is brilliance, pure and simple. Yes, he’s a genuine conversationalist, a raconteur with few peers, but he’s also a deft listener, a quick study and—not-so-subtly—mischievously hilarious with impeccable timing to boot. In short, I couldn’t like Hartwell more; in fact, everyone who’s met him seems to be low-key obsessed with him. Best part? Our man of the hour is, undeniably, having a moment in the pop cultural zeitgeist. So there’s that.

First some context.

Hartwell seems taller than his six feet, boasts luminous, flawless skin and shames coiffure pretenders with his stunning braided dreadlocks. Impressively, Hartwell is a standout Broadway actor whose credits include Motown, Memphis and (easily my favorite), Hello, Dolly! starring the delicious Bette Midler. Hartwell currently runs The Broadway Collective, a New York City-based musical theater training company that hosts national programs.

His it’s-happening-right-now-for-him moment stems from the recent six-episode docuseries on HBO Max, Breaking New Ground, featuring his purchased amazing 203-year-old house near downtown Great Barrington, MA, the epicenter of the Berkshires fabulosity. But, in a community of 7,000 residents—more than 83 percent of whom are white—let’s just say Hartwell isn’t exactly blending in. Nor should he.

Since our initial meeting (our friendly connection was effortless), I’ve seen Hartwell several times, each time better than the last. And the clothes…oh my! Consider this my contribution to our region. For the very few of you left unaware or misinformed about this fantastical addition to the neighborhood, I caught up with my friend as he was in Europe (Rome! London!) on a much-deserved sojourn from the madness. I suspect you just may fall for his spell, too. We’re only human, after all.

Now that Breaking New Ground aired and you’re a certified reality television star, is life different? Are your neighbors aware of your situation?

My heart and mind are still the same, but there are more people who now recognize me in public especially when traveling. I’ve always loved people’s stories; so, to hear first-hand how our show touched someone or how they created their own “Paulette’s Parlor” fills my heart. You never know what will land with an audience, but to see families across the world creating their own homecoming because of our show makes the journey beyond worth it. As far as my neighbors, they’re so lovely. Everyone’s just stunned to learn that I really do live in Great Barrington full time.

Have any of our mutual famous friends in the Berkshires offered up advice about navigating life there with your higher profile?

One of the most beautiful lessons I’ve learned from Dorinda [Medley, The Real Housewives Of New York City] is that life is about family and friends who become family. To get to know her heart has been a gift I’ll always thank the Berkshires for. Dorinda reminds me that none of it is worth it if you don’t deepen your gratitude practice and love of the beautiful land we get to call home.

On that topic, tell me why you love the Berkshires? What makes it special?

I love the Berkshires because we’re all in on the secret! I also love rooting for all of the small businesses and cultural institutions. Hope is quite alive here.

Of all the musicals you’ve starred in on Broadway and nationally—Dreamgirls, Memphis, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Cinderella, Motown and Hello, Dolly!—what’s your favorite and most challenging?

Memphis was definitely the most challenging. It was my Broadway debut so there were tons of feelings and pressure around the moment. I played the role of Wailin’ Joe, an ode to Little Richard, one of my favorite artists. The challenge was that I understudied the three principal roles as well. So, in a given eight-show week, I could end up performing four different roles. My mom helped me print four copies of the script out in different colors so I could visualize what lines, music and dances I needed to execute each night. I’ve never been prouder of my brain and determination.

My favorite was Hello, Dolly! with Bette Midler. At the time I knew I wanted to move into full-time entrepreneurship so it would be my last Broadway show. The late and dearly loved fellow actor Gavin Creel said nightly “Isn’t the world full of wonderful things?” Indeed. And my God was that show wonderful night after night. I have goosebumps as I tell you this, Richard. Dolly was a cast, crew and creatives full of pure magic makers. I couldn’t have asked for a better send off. Truly.

What I really want to know…what was Bette Midler like to work with? Amazing, I hope. You know, she lives down the road in Millbrook, NY.

They don’t make hearts like Bette Midler any more. She’s more magnetic and dynamic than one could ever imagine. Bette was the first person in the theater each day and always the last to leave. Her generosity and work ethic for excellence knew no bounds and I’ll forever be grateful that her love and friendship will hold permanent residence in my heart.

Finally, as you continue to defy gravity, exceed expectations and face the future with enthusiasm and panache, how excited are you about what’s next?

Oh, be still my heart Richard! [Pause] The world is crying for hope right now and I’ve never felt more energized to create more meaningful conversations and connections that center it. I have a new television show that’ll be debuting later this year—Hartwell House will be the backdrop and joy will be on the agenda.

That may be the least surprising thing you’ve said all day. With Robert Hartwell, joy is always on the agenda.

As it should be. [Laughs]