GOOD GRACIOUS! Boyd Baker recreates old-fashioned variety show

By Clare S. Richie

Mark your calendar for the upcoming Good Gracious Show – March 14 at 8 p.m. at Variety Playhouse in Little Five Points. Bring your neighbors, kids, or parents to this showcase of Southern talent and Atlanta pride.

The March show line up includes singer-songwriter Gareth Asher, rockin’ Americana from Hannah Thomas, comedy with Dad’s Garage Improv, poet Theresa Davis, the Atlanta Drum Academy, 48 Hour Film Project, good deeds from The Giving Kitchen, news from Trees Atlanta, and more.

For show creator and Master of Ceremonies, Boyd Baker, this idea had been percolating for more than a decade.

“Being a fan of [NPR’s] A Prairie Home

Companion and the Colorado radio show eTown, I saw no reason Atlanta couldn’t mount something even better,” Boyd said.

While these radio shows inspired Boyd, he envisioned an on-stage community cultural experience that included conversations with the local artists. With community being a key ingredient.

Last year, with a little help from his family, friends and other believers, Boyd brought his variety show idea to the stage thanks to $15,000 raised through Kickstarter.

Carrie Shelvin serves as stage manager, assisting the acts and coordinating their timing. Melissa Pressman works the front of the house and merchandise. Stage technical support is Jeff Rosenberg with Martin Steib managing sound and lights. Boyd covers everything else from, securing acts, public relations, marketing, sponsorships, scripting and hosting the show.

The Good Gracious Show has found a home at the Variety Playhouse. The venue is a perfect fit and the location provides plenty of places to grab dinner and a drink within walking distance.

As the audience continues to grow, Boyd sees it becoming a regular bi-monthly event and believes it’s a natural to air on public television.

Tickets are $17 in advance at GoodGraciousShow.com.