The opioid epidemic in the United States continues to destroy American lives and families. Over the past 25 years, more Americans have died from opioid abuse (over 750,000) than American soldiers killed in combat since World War I. It’s no longer a dirty little secret – the epidemic has been chronicled in books, articles, and […]
Ken Abrams
Lifestyle Editor Ken Abrams writes about music, the arts and more for What'sUpNewp. He is also an Editor and Writer for Hey Rhody Media. Ken DJ's "The Kingston Coffeehouse," a roots/folk/rock radio show every Tuesday, 6-9 PM on WRIU 90.3 FM. He is a former educator in the Scituate, RI school system where he taught Social Studies for over 30 years.
He is on the board of the Rhode Island Folk Festival and Newport Live (formerly Common Fence Music), a non-profit that brings diverse musical acts to the Newport area.
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Blake Christiana of Yarn, playing the Rhythm & Roots Festival Friday, August 30th
The Rhythm & Roots Festival returns to Rhode Island this weekend! The annual Labor Day Weekend festival begins Friday, August 30th, with a tremendous lineup scheduled to perform this year. The three-day festival at Ninigret Park in Charlestown features headliners Emmylou Harris, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, along with Larkin Poe, […]
Posted inNews
Concert recap and photos: 2024 Rhode Island Folk Festival a big hit down by the river
The Rhode Island Folk Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary on Sunday, August 26, with over 40 performers, dozens of vendors and food trucks, and a guitar giveaway at Crescent Park in East Providence. The free festival enjoyed its largest crowd yet, with an estimated 2,500 fans in attendance. Fans young and old filled the sprawling […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Michael Graham of the River Bend East Songwriters Festival coming to Pawtucket August 30-31
Looking for some free music to kick off the Labor Day Weekend? We’ve got you covered. The River Bend East Songwriters Festival returns to Slater Mill in Pawtucket from August 30-31, as part of the Pawtucket Arts Festival. Featured performers include Motif music award-winning singer-songwriter Allison Rose, Chris Monti, RI Music Hall of Famer Mark […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Singer-Songwriter Michelle Malone, playing Rhode Island Folk Festival Sunday, August 25
The annual Rhode Island Folk Festival returns to Crescent Park in East Providence this Sunday, August 25. The free festival has grown from modest beginnings in Providence to a “not to be missed” event held annually on the last Sunday in August. This year’s headliners include folk legend Tom Rush and Atlanta-based singer-songwriter Michelle Malone, […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Ocie Elliott, Canadian duo on playing the Newport Folk Festival
By Ken Abrams and Anna Lofgren The 2024 Newport Folk Festival is fondly remembered for headliners like Joan Baez, Conan O’Brien, and Gillian Welch. But as always, first-time artists serve to steer the historic festival in new directions, keeping things fresh while honoring the folk tradition. One of the standout acts at the July festival […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Judy Collins coming to Jane Pickens August 15-16 – We revisit our 2022 interview with legendary singer-songwriter
Note: This interview was originally published in July 2022. It has been updated. Click here for tickets to see Judy Collins at Jane Pickens Film and Event Center. So what do you ask a folk music icon who inspired one of the greatest love songs of all time? That was my challenge recently as I […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Malcolm Bruce, of Sons of Cream, playing the Greenwich Odeum Sunday, August 18
They were one of the great bands of the 1960’s, a supergroup that continues to influence the direction of modern music. Cream was a groundbreaking power trio featuring three rock legends – Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker. Now, a new band comprised of two children and a grand-nephew of the original members is […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Interview: Meet Mark Stickney, Founder of Historic Music of Newport
Newport’s contemporary summer music scene is dominated by three internationally known festivals: Newport Folk, Newport Jazz, and Newport Classical. But the city’s musical heritage runs deep. Live music on the island is a tradition going back almost two hundred years, when classical musicians and military bands entertained summer visitors and year-round residents. One organization working […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Ocean State Brewers Fest a hit at Farm Fresh Rhode Island
The 2024 Ocean State Brewers Fest brought over three dozen Rhode Island breweries to Farm Fresh Rhode Island in Providence on Saturday, August 10 for a celebration of local beer and the breweries that provide it. Sponsored by the Rhode Island Brewers Guild and BrewBox, a local beer delivery service, the event saw hundreds of […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Jazz Festival 2024: Jazz is alive, well, and thriving – Day 3 recap and photos
Jazz music as a popular art form has been declared dead more than once. But America’s original art form has endured, resurrected on several occasions, each time characterized by a slight change in direction. The core essence of the genre – improvisational music played collaboratively among a group of well-trained musicians – remains at the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Jazz Festival 2024: Classic jazz and new beats – Day 2 recap and photos
Day two at the 2024 Newport Jazz Festival saw a continuation of a trend that began on Day one. That trend saw both new and veteran acts bringing their A-game to the historic happening at Fort Adams State Park. The 70th annual festival saw another banner day, with rising stars blending in brilliantly alongside several […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Jazz Festival 2024: This is not your grandfather’s festival – Day 1 recap and photos
The 70th Anniversary of the historic Newport Jazz Festival kicked off on Friday August 2 at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, RI. A sellout crowd saw a warm summer day usher in cool vibes that rained down on musicians and attendees. Good feels were abundant. There was great jazz of course, but there was […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Michael Corrente produced film ‘The Tributaries’ to screen at the Rhode Island Film Festival August 8
Note: The film The Tributaries contains mature subject matter. The Tributaries, a new film produced by longtime RI filmmaker Michael Corrente, is screening as part of the Rhode Island Film Festival on Thursday, August 8 at 6:30 PM in the RISD Auditorium in Providence. The movie is the first full-length feature directed by Kat Gueli, […]
Posted inThings To Do
“Six Picks” Newport Jazz Edition – Don’t miss these sets at the historic festival this weekend
The Newport Jazz Festival is back! Founded 70 years ago, the historic festival at Fort Adams State Park begins Friday, August 2, and runs through Sunday, August 4. With over 50 performances on the schedule, every fan has their favorite. Below are my “Six Picks” for 2024 with an important reminder – like last weekend’s […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Kamasi Washington, headlining the Newport Jazz Festival on Friday, August 2
NOTE: Portions of this story were originally published in May 2023. Kamasi Washington exists on the cutting edge of jazz. He is the avant-garde, who along with a group of fellow visionaries, is setting the tone in the jazz world. Like Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Ornette Coleman, Washington’s music transcends what came before, pushing […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Folk Festival 2024: Conan and Friends wrap up 65th annual event – Day 3 recap and photos
The 2024 Newport Folk Festival is in the books, and oh, what a time it was. The 65th anniversary of the historic festival closed out on Sunday, July 28, with an all-star set led by musician, podcaster, and former late-night host Conan O’Brien. Sprinkling in a bit of comedy as a light rain fell in […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Folk Festival 2024: Diverse lineup plays Fort Adams – Day 2 recap and highlights
Day two of the 2024 Newport Folk Festival reflected the level of diversity on stage that this festival has achieved. Where else can you experience a poetry reading from Joan Baez, a gospel-inspired hip-hop set from Killer Mike, a spot on Grateful Dead tribute band in drag (Bertha), and a masked gay cowboy (Orville Peck) […]
Posted inNews
Newport Folk Festival 2024: High energy at Fort Adams – Day 1 recap and photos
65 years since it was established by the late George Wein, the Newport Folk Festival still knows how to “rumble.” The festival got off to a great start Friday, July 26, with beautiful weather and a diverse line up of new and established stars in folk music and beyond. The Fort Stage opener, Medicine Singers, […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Folk Family celebrates return of Newport Folk Festival
It’s hard to find fans anywhere more passionate about music than Newport Folk Festival fans. On Thursday, July 25, a pair of events were organized by members of the “Newport Folk Festival Family,” a Facebook fan group that was started in 2009 and has since grown to over 5,000 members. The afternoon began with a […]
Posted inNews
PPAC Announces Collaboration with Trinity Rep – “A Christmas Carol” to run at PPAC this holiday season
At a press conference held this morning, Lynn Singleton, President of the Providence Performing Arts Center, announced a partnership with Trinity Repertory that will bring the annual Dickens story “A Christmas Carol” to the PPAC stage in December. The change in venue is necessary due to construction at Trinity’s Chace Theater, which is expected to […]
Posted inNews
“A Complete Unknown,” Bob Dylan biopic trailer released – Movie due out in December
Music fans rejoice! The first trailer from the upcoming Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown” dropped earlier today. The two-minute trailer features official footage of Timothée Chalamet, who plays the iconic singer-songwriter, on the Dylan classic “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall,” with accompanying clips of iconic New York City clubs and concert venues. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcNNteP22gQ The […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Woods Hole Film Festival to feature documentary “Linda Perry: Let it Die Here” on July 29
A compelling new documentary, screening July 29 at the Woods Hole Film Festival in Woods Hole, MA, examines the life and career of singer, songwriter, and producer Linda Perry. We viewed an advance screener of Linda Perry: Let it Die Here and found it to be an often-disturbing look at a fearless artist in search […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
“Six Picks” Newport Folk Festival Edition – Don’t miss these sets at the annual festival this weekend
The Newport Folk Festival is back! Founded 65 years ago, the annual event begins on Friday, July 26, at Fort Adams State Park and runs through Sunday, July 28. With over 50 performances on the schedule, every fan has their favorite. Below are “Six Picks” for 2024 with an important reminder – you can’t go […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Concert Recap and Photos: Foo Fighters hit it out of the park at Fenway
One of rock and roll’s all-time greatest bands, the Foo Fighters brought an epic show to Fenway Park on Sunday, July 21, in their first trip to the historic ballpark since 2018. The band played for nearly three hours, powering through a robust set of new music, old favorites, and a few deep cuts to satisfy […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Billy Bragg, singer and activist, playing the Newport Folk Festival on July 27
English folk singer, songwriter, and activist Billy Bragg is no stranger to the Newport Folk Festival. He first played the annual gathering at Fort Adams State Park in 1993, returning most recently in 2017 as part of the “Speak Out” sessions, where he shared the stage with Jim James, Margo Price, and Nathaniel Rateliff. Bragg […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Cranston’s Park Theatre introduces staff and announces the 2024 Fall line-up
At a press conference held earlier today, Park Theatre staff and local officials announced the re-opening of the historic Cranston venue. Officials also shared the first round of concerts, including five events scheduled for the fall, with more to be added soon. Media and community members welcomed Brandon Caron, Chief Operating Officer of Lexington, MA-based […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Tommy Gardner, aka Tommy Buoy of Yachtley Crew, playing PPAC July 27
Yacht Rock enthusiasts, prepare “sail away” with Yachtley Crew, a band guaranteed to “make your dreams come true.” The band cruises on into the Providence Performing Arts Center where they’d “really like to see you tonight,” (well, July 27), and even better, you don’t have to be a “Rich Girl” or boy to attend. Appearing […]
Posted inThings To Do
What’s Up Interview: Katrina Fortier of Lady & the Lovers, playing One Pelham East on Sunday, July 14
A rising star on the music scene who got her start on stage in Newport is returning to town this weekend for a show Sunday night at One Pelham East. Katrina Fortier leads her band Lady and the Lovers to the area for her first visit back since relocating in 2021. “I went to Salve […]
Posted inNews
Cranston’s Park Theatre re-opening soon – We speak to new manager Sara Shevlin
You may have already heard that Cranston’s historic Park Theatre is scheduled to re-open this Fall. The venue, which has served theater-goers since 1924, has struggled in recent years, partially as a result of recent flooding as well as a slowdown in the live entertainment industry as it recovered from the pandemic. Spectacle Live, a […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Breweries of the Month: Ravenous and Phanton Farms leading the way in Northern RI
With two brewhouses in town, Cumberland is fast becoming the beer capital of northern Rhode Island. For June’s “Brewery of the Month,” we decided to check out both Ravenous Brewing and Phantom Farms Brewing, two breweries that call Cumberland home. First stop, Ravenous Brewing Company, the first Latino-owned brewery in the state, headquartered in a […]
Posted inSports
International Tennis Hall of Fame announces major renovation plan
The International Tennis Hall of Fame is about to get a facelift. Plans for significant renovations at the historic facility were announced at a press conference on Tuesday, June 25. As part of the project, exhibit space will increase and the visitor experience will be improved. “The new space more than doubles the existing exhibit […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Nels Cline of Wilco, playing Solid Sound Festival June 28-30
The weekend of June 28-30 welcomes the return of the Solid Sound Festival to the lively village of North Adams, in western Massachusetts. The festival takes place every other summer at Mass MOCA, the celebrated modern art museum in the Berkshires. The event is organized and curated by members of the seminal alt-rock band Wilco, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: RI music legend John Cafferty, playing PPAC on July 13
In a little over a week, the Providence Performing Arts Center will come alive with the sounds of “Cool Summer Nights,” a series of concerts at the downtown theater featuring ticket prices as low as $10. Kicking off the series on June 22 is the world’s #1 Bruce Springsteen tribute band, Bruce in the USA. […]
Posted inNews
A Night at the Ballgame – Summer tradition alive and well at Cardines Field
Monday evening June 10, was a perfect night for a ball game at Cardines Field in Newport, where the Newport Gulls faced the visiting Mystic Schooners. The two seaside clubs fought hard in a close game, with the Gulls pulling out a 7-6 victory on a walk-off hit in the bottom of the ninth. But […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Dan Hassett, founder of the Levitate Music and Arts Festival
One of the more popular music festivals in the region returns to Marshfield, MA, the weekend of July 5-7 with a stacked lineup. The Levitate Music and Arts Festival celebrates its 11th year at the Marshfield fairgrounds with headliners Sublime, Lake Street Dive, and Mt. Joy. The story is certainly about a great weekend of […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Providence Brewery named a finalist for the Sam Adams “Brewing the American Dream” award
A Rhode Island brewery has been nominated for the highly prestigious “Brewing the American Dream” experience, a program sponsored by Sam Adams Brewery that provides mentorship and capital to food and beverage entrepreneurs. Providence Brewing Co., located in the Farm Fresh RI building on Sims Street in Providence, has been selected as a finalist for […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: James Montgomery headlining concert at Jane Pickens Friday, May 24
The historic Jane Pickens Film and Events Center is hosting a special concert this Friday, May 24, a benefit show for two local causes with headliner and hometown hero James Montgomery. The concert benefits Newport’s Broadway Streer Fair as well as Operation Stand Down RI, an organization dedicated to supporting local veterans. The singer/harmonica player […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival returns to Bowen’s Wharf
The 8th annual Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival returned to Bowen’s Wharf on Saturday, May 18. Despite a little rain from time to time, large crowds gathered at the historic site in Newport Harbor for a day of delicious food and drink. With dozens of area restaurants and oyster farms participating, the menu featured the […]
Posted inThings To Do
Newport-themed MONOPOLY unveiled at Audrain Auto Museum
Move over Atlantic City – there’s a new board game in town. If you’ve ever wanted to buy a hotel on Bellevue Ave., we got you covered – as long as you do it on family game night. MONOPOLY: Newport Edition was introduced today in a brief ceremony at Audrain Auto Museum, an event that […]
Posted inNews
2024 New England Summer Music Festival Guide
Outdoor music festivals featuring some of the top names in the music business are back and better than ever this summer. From Ed Sheeran at Boston Calling to Joan Baez at Newport Folk, here’s our round-up of festivals in New England through Labor Day Weekend. We’ll update the list throughout festival season, so check back […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Brewery of the Month: Newport Craft offers a premier experience in expansive new space
Newport’s newest tasting room houses one of its original micro-breweries. Newport Craft Brewing and Distilling has built one of the top taprooms in the region, with an expansive new indoor space and an inviting outdoor patio with views of the Pell Bridge certain to be a busy spot all summer long and beyond. The facility […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Brad Roberts of Crash Test Dummies, band playing Newport May 9
Although the weather is not quite keeping pace, the concert season in Newport is certainly heating up. Next up at Jane Pickens Film and Events Center – iconic 90s band Crash Test Dummies roar into town on May 9. Click here for tickets. Tagged as adult-contemporary act in the early/mid 1990s, the band was also […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
Independent Bookstore Day returns Saturday, April 27 with specials and events at local bookstores
Bookstore fans – your day is almost here! Saturday, April 27th is Independent Bookstore Day, a day to celebrate and shop at your local independently-owned bookstore. IBD is a one-day national party that takes place at indie bookstores across the country every year. Bookstores large and small around the region have special events planned for […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Rhythm and Roots announces 2024 lineup for Labor Day Weekend festival
The Rhythm and Roots Festival announced its 2024 lineup today. The festival, which takes place annually at Ninigret Park in Charlestown, includes an impressive lineup of headliners Emmylou Harris, Larkin Poe, Drive-By Truckers, and Old Crow Medicine Show. Also on the bill are Ruthie Foster, Shemekia Copeland, Will Evans, Julia Pratt, and Daniel Donato’s Cosmic […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Photo Gallery: 2024 Newport Beer Festival at Fort Adams
Dozens of local and regional craft brewers were on hand to share their brews and more, welcoming hundreds of beer lovers to Newport on Saturday, April 20. The rain stopped just in time for the cannon-fire opening of the 2024 Newport Beer Festival and the sun even peeked out at Fort Adams State Park just […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Concert Preview: Jefferson Starship playing Twin River May 3, we speak to lead vocalist Cathy Richardson
You know the hits, staples of classic rock radio, and soundtrack to many out-of-body experiences. Jefferson Starship, child of Jefferson Airplane, was a top-grossing band in the 1970s and 80s, and continues to tour to adoring fans today. You’ll have a chance to be one of those fans when the band plays a May 3 […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Brewery of the Month: Tower Hill Brewing Company opens in South Kingstown
The Rhode Island craft brewery scene continues to evolve, with several new breweries opening over the past six months. That means it’s time to resurrect our column “Brewery of the Month,” which has been on hiatus for a bit. I visited the brand spanking new Tower Hill Brewery tasting room last weekend, located off Route […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Newport Classical’s Gillian Friedman Fox on the 2024 Newport Classical Music Festival
Summers in Newport are widely known for world-class musical events. Historic festivals like Newport Jazz and Newport Folk certainly attract massive crowds over a pair of mid-summer weekends. However, the festival with the largest number of concerts is the Newport Classical Music Festival, which this year runs from July 4th to July 21. The annual […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Concert Review and Photos: Indigo Girls and Rhode Island Philharmonic outstanding at PPAC
Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, the duo better known as the Indigo Girls, are often mentioned in the same breath as Simon and Garfunkel, Hall and Oates, and the Everly Brothers. Ranked among the best musical duos of all time, their songs have charted on the Billboard Top 40 in every decade since the 1980s. […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Concert Photos: Micky Dolenz of The Monkees charms the Greenwich Odeum crowd with songs and stories
Iconic 60s hitmaker Micky Dolenz of the legendary band The Monkees made a stop at the Greenwich Odeum in East Greenwich on Sunday, March 24, with rare stories about the band along with classic tunes, thrilling the near-sell-out crowd. Backed by a stellar band, and featuring his sister Coco Dolenz on vocals, the former teen […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Adam Levin, Artistic Director of RI Guitar Guild announces Spring concerts
You may be familiar with the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra or Newport Classical, but there’s another organization gaining widespread recognition in local classical music circles. We’re talking about the Rhode Island Guitar Guild, a non-profit organization that presents concerts and workshops with internationally acclaimed artists and educators in unique Rhode Island venues. This spring, the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Ticket Giveaway: Chris Spedding Trio with Anton Fig playing Colony House Friday, March 22
Guitar great Chris Spedding returns to Newport for a concert on Friday, March 22 at the Newport Colony House. We’ve got a pair of tickets to give away courtesy of Newport Live. To enter, e-mail Ken Abrams at mrabrams11@gmail.com by Noon on Thursday, March 21, for your chance to win. More about Chris Spedding: March […]
Posted inThings To Do
Save the Bay cuts the ribbon on the new Hamilton Family Aquarium
Newport’s newest family attraction, Save the Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium, was unveiled earlier today in a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by aquarium staff, state and local dignitaries, invited guests, and enthusiastic students from Thompson Middle School. Hamilton Family Charitable Trust President Chekemma J. Fulmore-Townsend officially cut the ribbon alongside Save the Bay Executive Director Topher Hamblett, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Concert Photos: Jax Hollow brings hot guitar grooves to the Jamestown Arts Center
Nashville-based singer/songwriter/guitarist Jax Hollow rocked her way through a nice set of original songs (and one notable cover) on Saturday, March 16, at the Jamestown Arts Center in a Newport Live concert. She played several from her debut album Only the Wild Ones, as well as several new songs she plans to record in the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
St. Patrick’s Day Weekend begins with AOH Pipes & Drums and AOH Men’s Singers at Midtown Oyster Bar
The 2024 St. Patrick’s Day weekend kicked off in style at the Midtown Oyster Bar Friday afternoon March 15. The celebration featured a performance by the Ancient Order of Hibernian’s (AOH) Pipes & Drums and AOH Men’s Singers. A packed house was there to support the two organizations, with funds raised going directly to the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Jim McCarty, drummer in The Yardbirds, band playing Narrows Center March 21
He’s set the beat for some of the all-time greats – Clapton, Beck, and Page – all once members of the pioneering 60s British Invasion band The Yardbirds. The blues/rock band may be best remembered for its guitarists, but Yardbirds co-founder and drummer Jim McCarty, one of the driving forces responsible for the band’s distinctive […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Providence Performing Arts Center announces 2024-25 Broadway season
Providence, RI – J.L. “Lynn” Singleton, President and CEO of the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), and Joseph W. Walsh, Esq., Chairman of PPAC’s Board of Directors, unveiled PPAC’s 2024/2025 Broadway Season at a press conference in the theatre’s Grand Lobby. PPAC 2024-25 Season Announcement (Photo: Ken Abrams)PPAC 2024-25 Season Announcement (Photo: Ken Abrams)PPAC 2024-25 Season […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Ticket Giveaway: Rising star Jax Hollow playing the Jamestown Arts Center Saturday, March 16
Rising Nashville star Jax Hollow is playing the Jamestown Arts Center on Saturday, March 16, and we’ve got a pair of tickets to give away to the show courtesy of Newport Live. To enter, e-mail Ken Abrams at mrabrams11@gmail.com with “Jax Hollow” in the subject line by 5 PM on Thursday, March 14. The winner […]
Posted inFood & Drink
‘Six Picks’ Newport area breweries celebrate RI Craft Beer Week
Rhode Island Craft Beer Week rolls into the weekend with dozens of special events and new releases. Stop by local taprooms this weekend to see what’s in store. Ragged Island Brewing Ragged Island Brewing, located at 54 Bristol Ferry Rd. in Portsmouth, has established itself as the leading Aquidneck Island brewery. Just in time for […]
Posted inSports
Meet Nate Silveira and Kevin Vang, RI FC soccer players from Rhode Island
By now, you’ve probably heard that Rhode Island is home to a new professional soccer team. RI FC kicks off its inaugural season on March 16 with a home game against New Mexico United at Bryant University’s Beirne Stadium. The team expects to be in its own stadium, at Tidewater Landing in Pawtucket, by the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Outlaw Music Festival returning to Xfinity Center on July 2 with Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, and Celisse
The 2024 Outlaw Music Festival Tour returns to the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, MA on July 2, 2024 with headliners Willie Nelson & Family, Bob Dylan, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, and Celisse. Complete ticket information is available here. “This year’s Outlaw Music Festival Tour promises to be the biggest and best yet with this lineup […]
Posted inNews
Meet Rhode Island ‘leaplings’ – Born on February 29, a select few celebrate their birthday every four years
It only happens once every four years. No, we’re not talking about the Summer Olympics or the presidential elections, although both are on the same cycle as this calendric event. We’re talking about “Leap Day,” of course, February 29th, which occurs every fourth year during Leap Year. First, I confess that I have an inside […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Concert Recap and Photos: Cowboy Junkies bring warm vibes to Newport on a chilly winter evening
Newport’s Jane Pickens Theatre welcomed legendary Canadian alt-country rockers The Cowboy Junkies to town for a sold-out concert on Friday, February 23. The band warmed hearts and souls with a two-and-a-half-hour show before a friendly audience of long-time fans alongside a few newbies. The opening set featured mainly songs from the band’s critically acclaimed 2023 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gamm Theatre to present Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night beginning March 21
WARWICK, RI (February 21, 2024) – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre (The Gamm) presents Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night —a web of misdirected love and unexpected poignancy woven by a cast of unforgettable characters. Gamm Artistic Director Tony Estrella and Associate Artistic Director Rachel Walshe co-direct the Bard’s famous comedy. Twelfth Night runs March 21-April 14 at The […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Comedian Shane Gillis coming to Mohegan Sun Arena on Friday, August 16
UNCASVILLE, CT (February 21, 2024) –– Shane Gillis will bring his award-winning comedic genius to Mohegan Sun Arena for a night full of laughter on Friday, August 16th at 8:00pm. Tickets to see Gillis go on sale Friday, February 23rd at 10:00am via Ticketmaster.com. Subject to availability, Comedy fans can buy tickets at the Mohegan Sun Box Office […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Narragansett Brewery schedules events for RI Craft Brewery Week
With Rhode Island Craft Brewery Week beginning on March 1, Narragansett Brewery is gearing up for ten days of special events. The highlight of the week is the much–anticipated Lager CON on Saturday, March 2, a day-long celebration dedicated to Narragansett’s iconic Lager and featuring activities like Lager Cask Tapping, Lager Flights, Stone Path Malt […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Original Jersey Boy Frankie Valli to stop at Mohegan Sun on ‘The Last Encores Tour’ Friday June 7
UNCASVILLE, CT (February 19, 2024) –– Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons announced The Last Encores tour earlier today. The acclaimed band has decided to perform a limited number of shows, including an 8:00pm Mohegan Sun Arena show on Friday, June 7th. For over 60 years, Valli has sold over 175 million records while capturing the hearts […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Country singer David Nail, playing Greenwich Odeum March 8
A leading voice in country music is coming to the Greenwich Odeum on Saturday, March 8. David Nail is a widely regarded singer-songwriter and a Grammy award-nominated artist who has made Nashville home for over two decades. Nail broke out in 2002 with his song “Memphis,” and later hit #1 on the country charts with […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Concert Photos: The David Tessier All-Star Stars at Ragged Island Brewing
The David Tessier All-Star Stars kicked off the 2024 season of the Barn Concerts at Ragged Island Brewing in Portsmouth on Saturday night, February 17. A warm crowd greeting Tessier and his band on a chilly evening at the Aquidneck Island brewery, which hosts year-round barn sessions featuring locally and nationally touring musicians. Tessier’s band […]
Posted inThings To Do
‘Six Picks’ fun ideas for February School Vacation Week
Here’s our roundup of fun family activities for February vacation week. Keep the kids busy… and parents from going crazy … with these ideas for winter break around RI. Take the kids go-karting at RI Indoor Karting in Lincoln, which features a 1/3 mile track and speeds up to 45MPH. (No worries for the little ones; the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Festivals Foundation makes major instrument donation to Newport schools
The Newport Festivals Foundation, who run and operate the Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, bestowed another major local instrument donation Thursday at three local schools in the Newport school district including Pell Elementary, Thompson Middle School and Rogers High School. The donation reception was held at Thompson Middle School yesterday where $15,000 worth of instruments […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: BaoBao Chen of ‘Small Island, Big Song,’ coming to The Strand in PVD March 15
“The ocean doesn’t separate us; the ocean unites us.” Small Island Big Song is a unique music, film, and performing arts project bridging together the islands of the Pacific and Indian Oceans through artistic collaboration. The project is described as “a transcendent musical journey combining song, spoken word, and cinematic visuals filmed over a […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘Fresh Prince of Bel Air’ star & children’s author Karyn Parsons to visit Providence Children’s Museum during February school vacation week
Providence, RI – Get ready for a week full of fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories at Providence Children’s Museum (PCM) during the February school vacation. PCM will have extended hours as well as an extensive schedule of activities during the February break. Special activities start on Saturday, February 17th, with the museum open every day between […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Live to present the Chris Spedding Trio on March 23 at Colony House
March is for guitar heroes – and Chris Spedding is the iconic guitar hero. Newport Live presents The Chris Spedding Trio with Anton Fig on Friday, March 22nd at 7:30 PM at the the Colony House, Washington Square, in Newport, RI. Tickets are available on EventBrite or at the Newport Live website. It’s not often […]
Posted inBusiness
Newport Beach Hotel & Suites begins phase one of guest room update
Newport Beach Hotel & Suites, located directly across from Easton’s Beach on the Newport/Middletown line, has begun a significant guest room refresh project on the historic property on its campus. The considerable makeover, which will include a reimaged interior design replete with new bathrooms, furnishings, carpet, and wall coverings, will mark Phase One of a comprehensive multi-phase […]
Posted inArts & Culture
On This Day in RI History: February 9, 1976, Actor Charlie Day is born
Actor, writer, comedian, and producer Charlie Day was born on February 9, 1976, in New York City. His family moved to Middletown, RI where Day’s father worked as a Professor of Music History at Salve Regina University and his mother was a piano teacher at The Pennfield School. Day graduated from Portsmouth Abbey and later […]
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Interview: We speak to actors Richard Thomas and Jacqueline Williams, stars of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD at PPAC
You’ve got a few more days to get to the Providence Performing Arts Center to see TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, one of the best productions to come to the Providence theater in some time. (Read our review here.) Based on the 1961 novel by Harper Lee, the play revolves around the trial of an African-American […]
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Theater Review: ‘TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD’ soars at PPAC
When a legendary Hollywood actor headlines a play, there’s always a risk they could steal its thunder. No doubt, many theatergoers buy tickets to see one of their favorite actors on stage. In the case of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, running at the Providence Performing Arts Center through Sunday, February 11, the appearance of Richard […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Comedian Kathy Griffin on her career, women in comedy, and ‘Life on the PTSD List’
Kathy Griffin’s career has been a never-ending story of resistance, determination, and resilience. One might think that almost losing her career after a spat with the former President would be enough – but overcoming cancer and addiction in the past couple of years was perhaps a more significant challenge. The Emmy and Grammy Award-winning comic […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: We speak with Billy May, Starchild in KISSNATION tribute band
KISS fans, here’s your opportunity to “rock and roll all night” … with KISSNATION, a leading KISS tribute band coming to The Strand Ballroom & Theatre in Providence on Saturday, February 3. The show, originally scheduled for the Park Theatre, was moved to Providence when the Cranston venue closed. Tickets to the show are available […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
The Mystique of Newport Folk
Music fans, it’s that time of year again. Newport Folk Festival tickets go on sale Thursday, February 1 at 1:00 PM. For those not in the know, the 10,000 or so tickets available daily will sell out in seconds even though no performer has yet to be announced for the festival. This has been the […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: A.J. Croce on ‘Croce Plays Croce’ concert coming to The Vets February 17
If you grew up in the 1970s, you’ll certainly recall how Jim Croce’s songs ruled the AM radio airwaves. Folk-rock tunes like “Operator,” “Time in a Bottle,” and “Bad, Bad, Leroy Brown” are timeless classics, and remain in regular rotation on classic rock radio. Croce’s career was just beginning when he was tragically killed in […]
Posted inFood & Drink
‘Six Picks’ Special: Dark beers for the dark season from RI breweries
With another chilly weekend upon us and Spring still at least a couple of months away, we thought it would be a good time to indulge in a seasonal favorite: dark beer. By dark, we mean stouts, porters, black, brown, and red ales; beers specifically made and marketed for the winter months. With dozens of […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Interview: Michael Timmins of the Cowboy Junkies, playing Jane Pickens on February 23
One of the more innovative bands in rock and roll is headed back to Newport. The Cowboy Junkies last played the “City by the Sea” in 2022, a follow-up to a remarkable performance at the 2008 Newport Folk Festival. The Junkies have been making critically acclaimed music since the late 1980s, never veering far from […]
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Reflections on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2024
“The time is always right to do what is right.” I entered kindergarten in the Fall of 1968 at what was then the newly rechristened Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, a school that continues to educate a diverse population in the Mount Hope neighborhood in Providence. King was assassinated the previous Spring, and […]
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What’s Up Interview: Meet cast members of Wilbury Theatre’s HIR, opening January 18
It’s been a busy holiday season packed with rehearsals for the cast of the latest production at Providence’s Wilbury Theatre Group. Later this month, the Company begins the new year with a performance of Taylor Mac’s HIR, a play the New York Times declared “a remarkable, audacious, uproarious black comedy with a daring combination of […]
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This Day in History: January 9, 1948 – Bill Cowsill born in Middletown
Singer, songwriter, and producer William Joseph Cowsill Jr. was born on January 9, 1948 in Middletown, RI. Bill Cowsill was the eldest of seven siblings from the Newport-based family band The Cowsills, and also performed as a solo artist and produced several Canadian bands over the course of his career. Based in Newport, The Cowsills […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Six Picks: Best Hot Chocolate in Newport and beyond
As the dead of winter sets in, we all know the best way to cheer up these dreary days is a mug full of hot chocolate at a local café or restaurant. Here area few of our favorite spots for cocoa and other sweetened winter beverages in Newport and beyond. First, don’t forget to mark […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Todd Park Mohr of Big Head Todd and the Monsters
Blues-rock veterans Big Head Todd and the Monsters, known for their passionate fanbase, return to Rhode Island next month for a nearly sold-out show at the Greenwich Odeum on February 7. The Colorado quartet, who began as a trio in high school, includes Todd Park Mohr on vocals, guitar, keys, sax, and harmonica, Brian Nevin […]
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WUN Concert Photography: A Look back at 2023
2023 was an outstanding year for live music in Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts. As the number of concerts returned to pre-pandemic levels, WUN photographers were there to capture many special moments. We hope you enjoy the photos below from Rick Farrell, Jack Casey, Gary Alpert, and Ken Abrams. Look for more great regional concert […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
‘Six Picks’ New Year’s Eve: Music around RI to ring in the New Year
Not interested in spending a car payment on a night out this New Year’s Eve? Then check out some affordable options for celebrating NYE with some of the best bar bands around. Here’s a sampling of some great music happening in bars and music venues on Sunday night. Have fun, designate a driver, and welcome […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Family fun awaits at the Providence Children’s Museum on “Noon Year’s Eve”
Looking for something special to do with the kids on New Year’s Eve day? Look no further than “Noon Year’s Eve,” an annual celebration at the Providence Children’s Museum happening on Sunday, December 31. We learned more about the exciting program in a recent chat with Victoria Picinich, the Museum’s Director of Development and External […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Meet the cast of Moulin Rouge! – Playing PPAC through December 31
Looking for some vacation week fun or a last-minute Christmas gift? Look no further than the Tony Award-winning musical Moulin Rouge!, playing at the Providence Performing Arts Center through December 31. Tickets are still available here for most performances of the stage show, based on Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film which starred Nicole Kidman and […]
Posted inNews
Shop Local! Last-minute gift ideas in and around Newport for 2023
As online shipping deadlines approach, your options for gift-buying for the holiday season become more limited. Never fear – local businesses are here to answer the call. Here’s an updated list of stores with all kinds of gifts available for last-minute shoppers. FOR THE HOME Kristen Coates – Shop curated holiday gifts in the online shop here or […]
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‘Jingle, Jazz and Opera’ coming to the Columbus Theatre Friday, December 22
Update (December 21): This event has been canceled due to an illness. They may not typically be associated with each other, but on Friday, December 22, at 7PM, they’ll come together in harmony at the Columbus Theatre in Providence. We’re talking about jazz and opera, two musical forms with diverse traditions that are not usually […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Sweetback Sisters ‘Country Christmas Spectacular’ coming to the Jamestown Arts Center on Saturday, December 16
Get your holidays on when Newport Live presents The Sweetback Sisters “Country Christmas Sing-along Spectacular” at the Jamestown Arts Center on Saturday, December 16th at 7 PM at the Jamestown Arts Center; 18 Valley Street, Jamestown, RI. Tickets are available on EventBrite or at the Newport Live website. Technically speaking, The Sweetback Sisters come from Brooklyn, NY but philosophically, they hail from a […]
Posted inStyle & Shop
‘Six Picks’ holiday book shopping: Books about Newport
With the holiday shopping season reaching its peak over the next couple of weekends, now is the time to shop. Here are a few ideas for the book lover in your life; Newport-themed books curated by Charter Books owner Steve Iwanski, for you to add to your collection. Happy shopping! Newport Cottages 1835-1890: The Summer […]
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43 Years Later, We Remember John Lennon
Today marks the 43rd anniversary of the death of John Lennon. The legendary artist was killed by a lone gunman on the night of December 8th, 1980, at the age of 40. His murder was an outrage – and ironic – that one who spoke so loudly against societal violence became a victim of a […]
Posted inThings To Do
What’s Up Interview: Sadie Dupuis of Speedy Ortiz, playing Union Station in Providence on Dec. 15
“The goal is not to become a bigger font on the festival poster,” says Sadie Dupuis of Speedy Ortiz. “It’s to make things that we care about, play with people we care about, and find art that moves us.” That’s the mantra of Speedy Ortiz, who are playing Union Station Brewery in Providence on Friday, […]