19 September, 2018
The Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA) announces the return of its First Friday Open Mic. Singer-songwriter Jack Byrne will take over as host of the series this fall. The first Open Mic will take place Friday, October 5 with guest feature, folksinger Rachel Marie. First Friday Open Mic provides an opportunity for singers and songwriters of all levels to perform before a live audience. Performers can now sign-up online at www.HopArtsCenter.org. The event takes place at the HCA, 98 Hayden Rowe St., with music starting at 7:30 p.m. The event is open to the public, but a $5 donation at the door is appreciated. Cash bar featuring Marty’s Fine Wines and beer from Start Line Brewing Company will be available at each performance.
First Friday Open Mic Feature Schedule
October 5: Rachel Marie
November 2: Meaghan Casey
December 7: Three at Home
January 4: Matt Hannigan
First Friday Open Mic host Jack Byrne has a Masters in Vocal Performance from the Longy School of Music of Bard College, and has extensive experience singing pop, classical, rock, and jazz. He has also been playing the guitar for 20 years under the instruction of Berklee-trained jazz guitarist, Timothy Byrne. While Byrne’s style is very much rooted in folk, his repertoire covers a wide range of styles from classic rock, to jazz, to top 40, and he writes his own music as well.
Rachel Marie is a cunning wordsmith, and precociously sophisticated. Clear and mature vocal production colors songs that are relevant, relatable, and far-reaching. The social awareness of folk meets the introspection of the singer-songwriter tradition with a moderate dose of snark. This Bethlehem, PA native has made regular appearances at Musikfest and at the acclaimed folk venue Godfrey Daniels. She has shared stages with Cheryl Wheeler, Antje Duvekot, and the Kennedys.
The Hopkinton Center for the Arts cultivates an inclusive and vibrant community committed to the exploration and enjoyment of the visual and performing arts throughout the MetroWest region. In 2015, the HCA opened its new arts center, consisting of newly renovated classrooms, and a brand new 200-seat performance space. The center houses classes in dance, music, fine arts, theater, ceramics, photography, and is home to theatrical, dance, and musical performances year-round. To learn more about the HCA, visit www.HopArtsCenter.org.
