DAMARISCOTTA — Just like that, with autumn, we leave our old selves behind with a newer version of ourselves and our community. The season ignites fresh new beginnings giving way to exciting opportunities. The soundscapes and renewal that Autumn brings come our way through music, song and spoken word on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the long barn at Inn Along the Way’s, Chapman Farm, 741 Main St. in Damariscotta. With the arrival of October, Applefest and Pumpkinfest, cooler weather, the changing color of leaves and a natural shift in routines, Damariscotta’s Open Mic, celebrating music and verse, embodies fall’s harvest and spirit.
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, labyrinth and meadow 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 autumn 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 or simply enjoy the day.
Once each open mic performer has had the opportunity to step onto the Main stage The Rusty Hinges Trio (John Couch, Dan Townsend and Bob Ryan) will bring their unique blend of eclectic music from Midcoast Maine with a repertoire ranging from classic rock to country, bluegrass to the blues, folk to oldies-but-goodies. Their songs, mostly Americana, with the occasional Celtic tune thrown in among the many favorites with tight harmonies, great instrumentation and irresistible rhythms and more come to the main stage around 3 p.m.
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 Autumn 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.