The Broadway Street Fair enjoyed beautiful weather for its 7th Anniversary, and the crowds came out in great numbers to enjoy the entertainment, local food vendors, and artisans.
The roadway was blocked from Equality Park down to Washington Square as in years previous and every square inch on both sides of Broadway hosted a local artisan, more than 200 in number. Stages were set up along the route hosting local talent of all varieties. Solo and duo artists were featured on the Stone Street Stage while larger groups were showcased on the many other stages down the near 1/2 mile stretch of Broadway.
One feature that was a repeat from last year was having a band playing on the rooftop of Caleb & Broad. They garnered a good deal of attention as folks stopped to grab selfies in front of of the site. Tucked into the parking lot of Newport Cosmetic Dentistry to avoid the sun was Heidi List Murphy featuring her Legends Group – CHIME (Cognitive Health Interactive Music Ensemble). In addition to the balloon artists entertaining the children, Mr. & Mrs. Claus were present with Eddie Spaghetti, Santa’s “Favorite Elf” (according to Eddie himself). Just down the road were actors in period costume representing Paradigm Escape Rooms on Williams Street. In addition to representatives from the MLK Center and the Maher Center there was a table showcasing the Belmont Chapel located in the Island Cemetery. A large restoration project began in 2021 and now an open house is offered next Saturday, October 19th from 2-5 PM and open to the public, free of charge to show the process and results of their efforts.
There was food of every variety at strategically placed food trucks and art was embraced in Washington Square park by the Perry Statue as well as chalk drawing on the sidewalks and on the road by adults in cordoned off spaces.
The Providence Drum Troupe made a huge splash with their dancers and huge puppet supported by many drummers and a singer with a megaphone. The sea of people on the street smoothly parted to allow the passage of this colorful group.
James Montgomery, local Newport by way of Michigan was rained out last year. He made a powerful statement this year with his stellar band, each of whom has played with other national acts over the years. James did his thing and blows blues harp as well as anyone ever has and shows no signs of slowing down. Steve Smith and The Naked were booked for a later set.
This event is a true local communal hug. Folks from town who haven’t seen one another all year will find their friends at this event – lots of hugging, everywhere. It is truly a heartwarming experience to remind ourselves, especially in these times with so much division, that there is much love to be shared and this event made it visible and palpable. Hats off to all the coordinators and collaborators who made it happen.
Photo Gallery
All photos by Jack Casey / What’sUpnewp
