time for a change

— THE 21 st ANNUAL — Celebration of Women and Their Music

After 20 years, it was time for change for the annual Celebration of Women and Their Music. Founder Deb Jenkins says that with a primary goal of the event being to raise award money for students, it makes sense to use a smaller venue. Plus, she says, with a smaller line-up, this allows each artist more time on stage.

Jenkins says they have now expanded the award applications to include female high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. Students can apply for financial awards by submitting their work in the areas of visual, musical, dance or performing arts. She says the show will continue to feature quality performers, with a new emphasis on award winners, past and present.

And with the on-going support of the community, verbally and financially, plus the testimonies of previous winners and how the show has empowered them, Jenkins feels driven to continue the annual celebration.

“We are so blessed to live in a community of support,” says Jenkins. “That’s huge.”

The show will feature 2016 award winner Laura Jossund, plus several performers from previous years. Renowned local singer/songwriter Brenda Weiler returns to the stage after several years. She says, “I’ve always loved the Celebration for its strong focus on women artists and especially appreciate that it supports younger women just starting out.” Weiler last performed when she was nine months pregnant with her daughter, Ruby. “I’ve since gone through a lot of personal changes and losses and have felt in some ways a sense of disconnection from my music and writing,” she says. “I’ve continued to sing but it has taken on a different meaning and focus.” Weiler describes leading a chanting group out of her yoga studio, ECCE Yoga, as a unique way to connect with others through music and vibration. “I also sing with my daughter every day,” she adds, “which is one of the greatest joys of my life.”

The 21st annual Celebration of Women and Their Music will be Saturday, Jan. 20, 2018, at the Stage at Island Park. Showtime is 6:30 PM with doors opening at 6:00 PM. General tickets are $20. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $40. Tickets are available at Eventbrite and at the door the day of the event.

Scheduled to appear are:

Karen Atwood

Emily Holt

Laura Jossund

Haley Rydell

Rosie Savageau

Brenda Weiler

And more….

Show sponsors are Ruth Roseberg Evans, The Forum, The Arts Partnership and Gate City Bank.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT the show and award applications please visit debjenkins.com/celebrationofwomen.html or visit our Facebook page.