Songwriter Showcase (2nd Wednesday)
EC-CHAP "Songwriter Showcase"
Free Admission - Donations Graciously Accepted
CALL TO BE PLACED ON THE SCHEDULE
860-922-1214
2nd Wednesday of the month thru May 2025
CHANGES, CHANGES, CHANGES!
The 2024-2025 Performance Season initiated EC-CHAP’s reorganization strategy bringing about a number of program changes. A decision was made to retire our “Talent Showcase” model after seven years. The Talent Showcase served as a platform for members of local and regional communities to share a variety of talents with extended time before a live audience. We would like to thank all those who shared their talents with us each month; through our virtual series during the Pandemic; and our “All Star” performers who graced our stage last year. Moving forward, specific focus will be placed on a music only format.
In the fall 2024, EC-CHAP launched the “Open Mic at The Packing House”. The program was facilitated by musician and EC-CHAP Board member Dean Bolt, which 1) Scheduled musicians ahead of time; 2) Offered extended time to musicians with experience; and 3) Provided a quiet, attentive and respectful environment focused on the artists.. This format concluded in January 2025.
In March 2025, the program was again changed to a Songwriter Showcase featuring 5 regional songwriters sharing the stage each month. The show now runs from 6:30-9:00 with the doors opening at 6:00.
The music is all original and exceptional and The Packing House provides a perfect listening room for this type of show. This venue is unique; a large hall in a historic mill where you can bring your own food and drink and relax while listening to excellent musicians. Admission is free, although we gratefully accept donations to help keep live music alive in CT.
THE MUSICIANS FOR APRIL INCLUDE:
Tom Rotchford is from Coventry and plays out at local venues such as the Bidwell Tavern under the name “Right Moment Band”. He is excited to be playing his original music for the Packing House audience.
Terri LaChance is a prolific songwriter from Madison who coordinates music at multiple cafes and coffee shops in the eastern half of CT. She has several CD’s and tries to do a live new song every day on Facebook. She is a connector for all of us musicians looking for places to play live music.
Bonnie Jacobson is an artist and floral designer who expanded into music about 13 years ago. She started writing and performing her own songs inspired by life experiences. She performs at venues around the state as a solo artist and with the Bonnie Jacobson Trio. With a beautiful voice and some stories to tell, she is worth a listen.
Tom Stankiewicz is a musician who has been playing acoustic music for over 40 years. He is recently retired from his day job and now performing occasionally at local restaurants and bars with his talented friends Bill Tomlinson and Bob Slater. He is excited to have a venue where his original songs can be appreciated.
John Clark is a Willimantic musician who has been playing music all his life He has played in bands and has appeared at the Breadbox and other venues in the area. He is an accomplished songwriter who has recently decided to pursue a solo career and is excited to share his music at The Packing House.
We extend a big THANK YOU to all EC-CHAP Members and Volunteers for their support in allowing us to offer this program.
The "Songwriter Showcase” is hosted by the Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance (EC-CHAP). Open to the general public. Free admission / Donations accepted. Doors open 6:00pm / Show 6:30pm.
Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).
The Packing House is located at The Mill Works, 156 River Road, Willington, CT
