ARUNDEL — George Dvorsky is setting the stage for a successful first season at Vinegar Hill Music Theatre, a new music venue at the former Arundel Barn Playhouse.

Vinegar Hill LLC announced in November its plans to purchase the former farmhouse and barn on Old Post Road, just off Route 1. The barn was used as a summer theater from 1997 through last year, and is now being renovated for use as a music venue beginning June 24.

Dvorsky, who began March 1 as the theater’s first creative director, brings with him an impressive résumé of theater and musical experience, including starring roles in Broadway, off-Broadway and regional productions.

The Pittsburgh native met Vinegar Hill Managing Partner Debbie Lennon last year when Dvorsky was performing in a production of “Victor Victoria” at the nearby Ogunquit Playhouse.

“It’s a learning experience, because I’m from the performance side,” he said. “Every day is a brand-new adventure. It’s been great.”

The renovated barn will seat 200 people, said Lennon, and plans are in the works for musical acts of different genres along with comedians and author talks. About 20 shows have been scheduled, and another 24 are planned for the first season.

Dvorsky has been making as many contacts as possible, using his insight in the theater business, making cold calls and taking referrals. He talks enthusiastically about his new job, and is working diligently to book national acts including Juice Newton, Paula Cole and comedian Caroline Rey.

“We’re going to try to get everything in here that we can,” he said.

When asked about the early success in booking the first season, Lennon laughed and attributed it to Dvorsky’s charm. But Dvorsky said the rustic, pastoral setting is attractive to many people.

“The barn itself is such a beautiful idea. People are looking for more intimate venues,” he said.

The barn and former farmhouse were built in the late 1800s, and the property is known to locals as “The Smith Sisters’ Farm.” Vinegar Hill refers to traditional lore about the part of Arundel where the Smith Sisters’ Farm is located, according to a press release from the theater. The name is derived from a transliteration of the Gaelic term for “hill of the wood with the berries.”

Lennon is a partner in the venture with Tim Harrington. The two are well-known in local business circles for their extensive experience developing and managing high-end restaurants and boutique hotels in southern coastal Maine.

The former farmhouse on the property will be used to house performers coming in from out of town and provide space for a green room, said Lennon. There will also be a garden sitting area, and Vinegar Hill plans to get a liquor license, she said.

A website on which people will be able to buy tickets online will be up and running next month, said Lennon.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.