Arts Center of the Ozarks will turn its spotlight on singer-songwriter Cameron Johnson at Main Street Music Night at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Joining Johnson onstage for the cabaret-style event, now in its fourth year, is popular area musician and Trumann Railboys member Marcus Garoutte.
Eve Smith, ACO's visual arts and program director, says that cocktail tables and a small stage will be added to the lobby gallery, creating an intimate space for both performer and audience members.
FAQ
Main Street Music Night
WHEN — 7:30 p.m. Saturday
WHERE — Arts Center of the Ozarks, 214 S. Main St. in Springdale
COST — $5-$15
INFO — 751-5441
"It invites a more one-on-one, close-up experience with the musicians," she says.
Smith first heard Johnson perform on the back patio at Emma Avenue Bar and Tap.
"As I was sitting there, I thought, 'He would be perfect for Main Street Music Nights!'" says Smith.
Johnson has been playing music since he was a teenager, and started writing his own songs two years ago in collaboration with his father, veteran songwriter Bruce Johnson. Johnson recently recorded his debut EP, "Stack Your Stones," in Nashville.
"Writing with my dad is awesome," says Johnson. He says the quote he uses on his website sums up the experience nicely: "'The songwriting on 'Stack Your Stones' is a true collaboration and a testament of what can be created when the bond of blood and a mutual love of music are combined.'
"It's something that's timeless."
Smith says she hopes that Main Street Music Nights will continue exposing audiences to musicians they might not have otherwise heard.
"[I'm hoping] that our community will have access to our local musicians and singer-songwriters in a more intimate space -- sort of like a 'house concert' experience."
Smith adds that she is excited to give emerging artists like Johnson "a place to tell their story through music."
-- Lara Hightower
NAN What's Up on 03/17/2017