The Arkentones

Both lifelong artists, Tess & Chris have had the privilege of living and working as performers and theatre-makers in the Pacific Northwest for many years, proudly performing for myriad professional companies, large-scale events, and private parties throughout their beloved Wood River Valley and beyond. They were among a handful of co-founders of The Liberty Theatre Company in Hailey, ID, and were lucky enough to work together as staff for the company for years, dedicating themselves to building a home for professional theatre arts in Hailey where all could feel welcome and loved. When not singing, acting, dancing, or making art of some kind, they can both be found spending time together on their ultimate passion - raising their unfathomably cool and kind children, Lachlan & Bronwyn. And finally the name. The Arken… wha? The Arkentones? Are they, like, from Arkansas or something? No. No they’re not. As massive Tolkien nerds, Tess & Chris let the words of JRR Tolkien inspire the strangest band name this side of Daft Punk and whatever a Goo Goo Doll is. Named after the legendary, multifaceted, and radiant gemstone from The Hobbit, the Arkenstone is known as “the heart of the mountain”, a priceless heirloom that shines with its own inner light and has the power to unite the people of the mountain. As artists hoping to use their vocal tones and instrumental talents to provide a similar light for others and to bring people together, Tess & Chris are proudly known as The Arkentones, a duo dedicated to creating live music from the heart of the mountains. But that’s a pretty lengthy explanation. You can just say they’re from Arkansas or something