Willowdale Live brings big sounds to a small town

Just a few shows in and already Willowdale Live is taking root in Niwot. The live arts not-for-profit entertainment series has two more shows before the end of the year and 2020s early year talent lineup of Americana, bluegrass, and folk performers, along with artist-speakers, is nearly all booked.

The shows take place once a month at Niwot's community gathering spot, the Left Hand Valley Grange. Willowdale Live's local co-founders Nick Dunbar and Andy Mann kicked off the inaugural show in August with Dunbar's band 300 Days playing their original mix of bluegrass, rock, folk and Americana music and National Geographic photographer, Mann presenting compelling images and the story of his adventurous career thus far titled "Summits to Seas"

Award winning Texas swing trio The Western Flyers flew in to perform a concert in September and the Colorado duo, world-touring band By The Lee headlined in October.

"We've been building steam and have great acts on the horizon," Dunbar said. "The space has really come alive and the musicians really feel like they're part of something special and are honored to perform in Niwot." He also mentioned that national talent agencies have gotten word of the series and are reaching out to them with ideas for future entertainers.

The intimate homey feel of the Grange is enhanced with a low wooden stage, vintage pieces courtesy of Wise Buy Antiques, and twinkling lights strung across the ceiling.

Tickets, all of which feature top-notch touring musicians, are $20. Children ages 14 and under are free, making it a great cold weather family-friendly entertainment option.

On Friday, Nov. 15 is hometown favorite and internationally renowned banjoist Pete Wernick of the band Hot Rize, and his wife singer-guitarist, Joan Wernick. The final 2019 show stars singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Cahalen Morrison on Friday, Dec. 6.

Dunbar mentioned there's a high probability that come December's show, or perhaps by early next year, beer and wine will be served at the shows.

Next year's spring artists will be announced at the December concert. Telluride Bluegrass 2019 band contest winner Bowregard is rumored to be on the docket. Another National Geographic photographer speaker is also a pretty safe bet.

To buy tickets in advance and learn more about past and upcoming performers, visit http://www.WillowdaleLive.com. Performances are held at Left Hand Valley Grange, 195 2nd Ave., Niwot. The community is encouraged to reach out through the website to volunteer their help at upcoming shows.