“How do you find your way when the signs point to all that could have been?” ~ Sunny Taylor, Paper Tiger”
I could never have imagined the poetry and music I was about to experience walking into the nondescript building just on the edge of downtown. Little did I know, the professionals from Sweetwater had generously ensured I’d have a perfect acoustical experience at Come to Go Music Hall or that TRIAAC, the Three Rivers Institute of Afrikan Art & Culture, Inc., had ensured I would have a moving arts experience.
In celebration of Women’s History Month – to be honest I had no idea there was such a month – TRIAAC presented For Love of the Arts – Celebrating Women in Word & Song.
SUNNY TAYLOR. In a simple, understated way, Sunny Taylor came to the stage with just her acoustic guitar, her poignant lyrics, and her sometimes haunting voice. She’s a self-proclaimed mixed genre artist, insisting fans who must decide consider labels rock, pop, folk, and Americana. Doesn’t matter how you label it, Sunny’s music is honest and heartfelt, sometimes tender, and sometimes playful. I laughed and I cried – doesn’t get any better than that.
ERIKA MARTINEZ. Inside this slightly built woman resides the heart of a storyteller and a lyrical voice touchingly bringing her life stories to the world. Born in New Jersey, Erika spent many of her early years in Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic, before abruptly returning to the streets and winters of New Jersey. Erika holds a Master of Fine Arts degree and is the recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship. Her work has been adapted for the stage and presented in New York City as well as published in several journals. But on Saturday, March 3rd, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, she held my heart captive with true life stories of resilience and courage. I laughed and I cried – doesn’t get any better than that.
CAROL LOCKRIDGE. Named the Woman of the Year for 2010 by the Indiana Blues Society, Carol Lockridge, takes the stage with powerful presence and voice. She wrapped it up by 11 as the producer directed, but quite honestly, we all could have gone on with her “All Night Long.” I laughed and I clapped and I sang along with her – doesn’t get any better than that.
What great local artists or venues have you found in your hometown?
52 Dates with Myself 