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

Welcome to the May Songwriter Showcase featuring 5 new regional songwriters. 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 MAY

Meggie is from Cheshire and has played out at venues around New Haven and other areas of the state. She has also played in Nashville! Equal parts playful and earnest, Meggie writes songs that sound like conversations with a close friend. She conveys often-overlooked stories – such as platonic breakups and queer joy – with the gravity of romance and heartbreak. Her warm personality shines through in her thoughtful lyrics and lilting melodies, often serious but never lacking a sense of humor. Fans love Meggie's music for its “air of positivity and confidence,” noting that even her ballads usually land “on the happier side of bittersweet” She is excited to be playing her original music for the Packing House audience.

James Cook AKA CaptC, is a singer songwriter who describes his style of music as “Flannel Country,” - a blend of Americana, folk rock, and modern country. His songs bring together heartfelt storytelling with picturesque and often humorous lyrics with wry takes on modern life and romance. Over the past couple years, he’s been gaining a loyal audience on Youtube and TikTok for my Flannel Country music.

Dave Dersham grew up in the Pioneer Valley of MA, attended Oberlin College, embarked on a few adventures out west before finding the Cambridge Folk scene and gaining a reputation as an excellent songwriter and a “sly humorist” Club Passim states: “Dersham taps hopeful melodies and reverses lyrical expectations at every turn… exudes a brand of humane charm which sets him apart from every other songwriter you’ll see this year.” Simply put, he writes some fine songs and is worth a listen.

Jon Tarbox is a folk singer, self-reflective and direct, a little loose, a little ragged. Songs filled with pieces of his heart. A lifetime musical dabbler, a student of songwriting and a keen listener. He's committed to writing the best songs he can write. He believes the fleeting joy of a live performance is the best way to experience those songs.

Flynn Ayers is an up-and-coming 17-year-old singer-songwriter with more than 50 songs to her credit. She has a unique voice and heartfelt songs that range from nostalgic memories, narcissism and bullying, finding fun in travel and the value of friendship. Her songs resonate deeply with her audiences and can be found on her YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@flynnayers7876/shorts

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

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

EC-CHAP "Open Mic at The Packing House"

Free Admission - Donations Graciously Accepted

CALL TO BE PLACED ON THE SCHEDULE

860-922-1214

Our Open Mic events are scheduled on the 2nd Wednesday EVERY month beginning December 11, 2024.

Our Schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday, December 11, 2024

• Wednesday, January 8, 2025

• NO SESSION IN FEBRUARY

• Wednesday, March 12, 2025

• Wednesday, April 9, 2025

• Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Additional sessions may be added - so check back for updates!

We’re doing something a little different this month…

The March 12 Open Mic will feature a Songwriters Circle with five local musicians playing original songs. The evening will start at 6:30 and go until 9:00. The doors open at 6:00. Each musician will introduce, then play a song before passing the mic on to the next performer. The following performers will participate in this event: Joe Pomeroy, Curtis Brand, Becky Ellert, John Clark, and Dean Bolt. As always, feel free to bring food and drinks for your group! Seltzers and some snacks will be available. Admission is free but your kind donations help provide a home for local live music. 

Unlike a traditional "Open Mic", EC-CHAP's “Open Mic at The Packing House”: 1) Will schedule musicians ahead of time; call 860-922-1214  to be included; 2) Offers extended time to musicians with experience; 3) Provides an opportunity for first time performers or inexperienced performers to get on stage and get guidance on performing 4) Provides a quiet, attentive and respectful environment focused on the artists.

 Musicians are invited to share your original or cover music at The Packing House. Join us for an opportunity to showcase your talent in an intimate historic setting before a live audience. Test ideas and concepts and solicit feedback. PA / sound reinforcement, and up to 3 microphones provided (Please - No full drum kits or amps unless prior arrangements have been made).

 Unless otherwise noted, Open Mic at The Packing House is offered on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 6:30pm to 9:00pm at The Packing House located at The Mill Works facility in Willington, CT.

If you're interested in performing, please call Dean at 860-922-1214 in advance to sign-up. Not performing? No problem! Come join us for an evening of great music. Invite everybody you know! Admission - Free to all. Feel free to bring your own food and drink.

 We extend a big THANK YOU to all EC-CHAP Members and Volunteers for their support in allowing us to offer this program. We are pleased to include images and soundbites (where available) of those who have shared their various talents with us.

If you're interested in performing, please give Dean a call 860-922-1214 in advance to sign-up. Not performing? No problem! Come join us for an evening of great talent. Invite everybody you know!

The "Open Mic at The Packing House” 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 6:30pm / Show 7:00pm.

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).

For information, or to register in advance, please call 860-922-1214.

The Packing House is located at The Mill Works, 156 River Road, Willington, CT

EC-CHAP "Open Mic at The Packing House"

Free Admission - Donations Graciously Accepted

CALL TO BE PLACED ON THE SCHEDULE

860-922-1214

Our Open Mic events are scheduled on the 2nd Wednesday EVERY month beginning December 11, 2024.

Our Schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday, December 11, 2024

• Wednesday, January 8, 2025

• NO SESSION IN FEBRUARY

• Wednesday, March 12, 2025

• Wednesday, April 9, 2025

• Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Additional sessions may be added - so check back for updates!

As part of EC-CHAP’s reorganization strategy, we will be retiring our “Talent Showcase” model after seven years. 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.

Unlike a traditional "Open Mic", EC-CHAP's “Open Mic at The Packing House”: 1) Will schedule musicians ahead of time; call 860-922-1214  to be included; 2) Offers extended time to musicians with experience; 3) Provides an opportunity for first time performers or inexperienced performers to get on stage and get guidance on performing 4) Provides a quiet, attentive and respectful environment focused on the artists.

 Musicians are invited to share your original or cover music at The Packing House. Join us for an opportunity to showcase your talent in an intimate historic setting before a live audience. Test ideas and concepts and solicit feedback. PA / sound reinforcement, and up to 3 microphones provided (Please - No full drum kits or amps unless prior arrangements have been made).

 Unless otherwise noted, Open Mic at The Packing House is offered on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at The Packing House located at The Mill Works facility in Willington, CT.

If you're interested in performing, please call 860-922-1214 in advance to sign-up. Not performing? No problem! Come join us for an evening of great music. Invite everybody you know! Admission - Free to all. Feel free to bring your own food and drink.

 We extend a big THANK YOU to all EC-CHAP Members and Volunteers for their support in allowing us to offer this program. We are pleased to include images and soundbites (where available) of those who have shared their various talents with us.

If you're interested in performing, please call 860-922-1214 in advance to sign-up, or sign-in at the door (time permitting). Not performing? No problem! Come join us for an evening of great talent. Invite everybody you know!

The "Open Mic at The Packing House” 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 6:30pm / Show 7:00pm.

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).

For information, or to register in advance, please call 860-922-1214.

The Packing House is located at The Mill Works, 156 River Road, Willington, CT

EC-CHAP "Open Mic at The Packing House"

Free Admission - Donations Graciously Accepted

CALL TO BE PLACED ON THE SCHEDULE

860-922-1214

Our Open Mic events are scheduled on the 2nd Wednesday EVERY month beginning December 11, 2024.

Our Schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday, December 11, 2024

• Wednesday, January 8, 2025

• NO SESSION IN FEBRUARY

• Wednesday, March 12, 2025

• Wednesday, April 9, 2025

• Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Additional sessions may be added - so check back for updates!

As part of EC-CHAP’s reorganization strategy, we will be retiring our “Talent Showcase” model after seven years. 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.

Unlike a traditional "Open Mic", EC-CHAP's “Open Mic at The Packing House”: 1) Will schedule musicians ahead of time; call 860-922-1214  to be included; 2) Offers extended time to musicians with experience; 3) Provides an opportunity for first time performers or inexperienced performers to get on stage and get guidance on performing 4) Provides a quiet, attentive and respectful environment focused on the artists.

 Musicians are invited to share your original or cover music at The Packing House. Join us for an opportunity to showcase your talent in an intimate historic setting before a live audience. Test ideas and concepts and solicit feedback. PA / sound reinforcement, and up to 3 microphones provided (Please - No full drum kits or amps unless prior arrangements have been made).

 Unless otherwise noted, Open Mic at The Packing House is offered on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at The Packing House located at The Mill Works facility in Willington, CT.

If you're interested in performing, please call 860-922-1214 in advance to sign-up. Not performing? No problem! Come join us for an evening of great music. Invite everybody you know! Admission - Free to all. Feel free to bring your own food and drink.

 We extend a big THANK YOU to all EC-CHAP Members and Volunteers for their support in allowing us to offer this program. We are pleased to include images and soundbites (where available) of those who have shared their various talents with us.

If you're interested in performing, please call 860-922-1214 in advance to sign-up, or sign-in at the door (time permitting). Not performing? No problem! Come join us for an evening of great talent. Invite everybody you know!

The "Open Mic at The Packing House” 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 6:30pm / Show 7:00pm.

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).

For information, or to register in advance, please call 860-922-1214.

The Packing House is located at The Mill Works, 156 River Road, Willington, CT