Rising Star Gushes About Saratoga: “Do You Guys Know You Live in a Hallmark Movie?”

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Stella Cole, a 26-year-old jazz singer, heaped praise onto the Spa City while performing here as part of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s “Sounds of the Season” series.

In between her renditions of jazz standards and Christmas tunes, the New York City-based Cole said she’d been to Saratoga before during the summer months. “I love Saratoga,” she said. “It’s the best.” But her Dec. 14 concert at Skidmore College’s Arthur Zankel Music Center marked her first time here outside of the busy tourist season. “Do you guys know you live in a Hallmark movie?” she asked the audience, gesturing towards the snowy trees seen through the stage window.

Cole has been a rapidly rising star after attracting attention on TikTok with her version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” She performed the song in Saratoga as well, somehow making one of the world’s most recognizable melodies sound fresh. Called a “powerhouse rivaling Judy Garland and Rosemary Clooney” by People, Cole has released a trio of albums since acquiring millions of social media followers. This year, she released “It’s Magic,” a record produced by Grammy winner Matt Pierson that features Cole’s signature blend of songs made famous by movies and entries from the Great American Songbook.

Cole’s performance took place at the Zankel Music Center due to the renovation of the Spa Little Theater, where SPAC typically holds its indoor concerts. “Christmas Dreaming with Stella Cole” was SPAC’s final show of 2025.