YEAR’S END Number 9 Second Street, First Quality

FORT SMITH — Second Street Live had hosted concerts before - just not like this. And not this many.

The Fort Smith events organization moved into a new home at 101 N. Second St. in February, at the end of its 2009-10 season. In September, Second Street Live kicked off its new season with a performance by Asleep at the Wheel. The 2010-11 season, which continues through late March, will feature 24 music acts, about twice as many as any Second Street Live season that preceded it.

The new location was modeled after several small performing arts venues in the country, particularly the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, Calif., and the Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake, Wis., says Dick Renko, SSL’s formerexecutive director.

“We are very pleased with the building and the venue,” says John Pearce, the organization’s new executive director. He replaced Renko, a veteran music businessman who manages folk duo Trout Fishing in America and operates a company called Muzik Management Productions. Renko parted ways with the organization in September after the two parties were unable to reach a new contract which would have included a pay raise.

The current season, which has already featured performances by Latin rockers Del Castillo, songwriter Paul Thorn and classically trained string group Ethel, is an eclectic affair. Pearce says that tradition will continue, with the 250-seat venue hosting “some of the best artists you’ve never heard of.”

Pearce says that there will likely be fewer mainstage acts next year, but the venue will be focusing on adding both local talent and accommodating national touring artists on their way through the area.

Pearce also announced that a Jan. 12 concert by Richie Havens has been canceled, but a replacement performer has been found. Piano legend Leon Russell will perform on that date instead, and tickets are currently on sale for that event.

“I really enjoyed what we did at Second Street Live, and we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished,” Renko says.

“And I do hope it continues to thrive. It’s a challenge, and I hope they’re up to it.”