DAMARISCOTTA — The sounds and spirit that the traditional end to summer brings through music, song and spoken word will take place on Saturday, Sept. 5 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. With the arrival of Labor Day Weekend, back to school fever, fall festivals and a natural shift in routines Damariscotta’s Open Mic, celebrating music and verse, continues in the long barn at Inn Along the Way’s, Chapman Farm, 741 Main St. in Damariscotta.
This vibrant afternoon of live music is a by-donation fundraiser, supporting the mission and community programs of the Inn Along the Way. Local performer sign-up begins at 1 p.m. Artist performances, Inn tours, labyrinths and hay field walks plus the ambiance in the Inn’s newly renovated, handicapped accessible long barn, are all part of bringing people together through music and shared purpose.
Musicians and performing artists from all genres and generations this is your opportunity to step onto the DOM spring stage beginning at 1:30 p.m. Guests can expect an eclectic mix of folk, jazz, blues and storytelling all performed in a relaxed and welcoming barn setting. There’s magic in watching neighbors take the stage and hearing voices you didn’t know were right in your own backyard. All are welcome — whether to perform, listen, dance, jam or simply enjoy the day. Once each open mic performer has had the opportunity to step onto the Main Stage local musicians Pixie Lauer and David Foley will bring their unique blend of instruments and vocals on original songs, Americana, folk, Celtic, blues and more to the stage (3 p.m.-ish).
Lauer is a musician and songwriter living in Alna. She grew up in Camden, where she studied with musicians such as Gordon Bok and Sarah Grey. She’s been in several well-regarded groups, including “Different Shoes” and “Well Seasoned.” “Different Shoes” released two albums, and Lauer recorded and released a solo album. She has toured extensively around the United States, and accompanies her warm alto vocals with guitars and mandolin. She is also the proud owner of Puddleduck Kennel’s Maddie and many other AKC champion Cardigan Welsh Corgis.
Foley lives in Northport. He has played and sung since age fourteen, and might be starting to get the hang of it. He studied guitar with musician Cindy Kallet, and has played with Maine musicians including Will Brown, Kat Logan, Nick Apollonio, Ed Geis, Judy McMahon, Mia Mantello and others. He has been overjoyed to play with Lauer for several years now, adding baritone vocals, guitars, bouzouki and mandola.
The Inn Along the Way is a collaborative community offering older adults, and those seeking temporary relief from the responsibilities of caregiving, an environment of support, purpose and sustainability in a multigenerational and mutually interdependent setting. The IAW model is a unique and innovative community design in which older adults will, in the years to come, be able to live interdependently in a neighborhood-style setting of small, environmentally friendly homes. Plans are currently underway to build two interconnected respite cottages.
For more about DOM participation or the IAW’s Say Hello to Fall musical fundraiser schedule please contact Sylvia Tavares at 207-766-8469 or sylviatavares502@gmail.com. For more information about the Inn Along the Way and the Respite Cottage project, please go to www.innalongtheway.org or contact Inn Director Sherry Flint at 207-751-6261 or info@innalongtheway.org.
If you enjoy Damariscotta Open Mic performances in the Long Barn at the Inn Along the Way remember to save the date of Saturday, Oct. 3 for our next family friendly gathering. Our Main Stage performers will be the Bristol Boys.