A Freshwater Valentine

Feb. 8, 2015

Wine, Men, Chocolate, and Song

Boyne City’s popular Chocolate-Covered Boyne event takes place Valentine’s weekend (February 13-14) and, in addition to all of the shop sales and foodie fun, the city’s Freshwater Gallery is putting on its annual themed concert to amp up the holiday.

Called Wine, Women, Chocolate, and Song, the show usually highlights female musicians from Michigan. But this year, there’s a twist.

"This year, we’re calling the Valentine’s show "˜It’s All About the Guys!’" said Freshwater’s Robin Lee Berry.

Berry, who owns and runs the gallery with her husband Tony Williams, explained that with two strong female acts on either side of the holiday weekend, they thought the flip would be fun.

"We had Baskery in concert in January - they’re three high-energy sisters from Sweden - and then we’re bringing in singer-songwriter Antje Duvekot in March," Berry said, "so we felt it was important to bring some great Michigan male performers to this show."

The musicians at the Valentine’s concert usually sing "˜in the round,’ which means they take turns singing songs and sharing stories, making for a more eclectic show.

"Often, tunes will lead to them singing together, and since some of the artists have brought backing musicians, there’s also opportunity for added instrumentation," Berry said. "It’s always pretty spontaneous, and truly a delightful evening."

This year’s headliners are Dave Boutette and Brett Mitchell, both singer-songwriters with crowd-friendly personalities.

"I’ve known Dave for several years, and completely enjoy his writing style and his ability to warm audiences with his presence and his stories," Berry said, "he’s a true entertainer."

"Brett has been playing music for decades, and is also a seasoned performer with a great voice and wonderful songs - it’ll be a special treat for us to enjoy him performing live here at Freshwater."

While Berry -- a renowned performer in her own right -- has often been part of the Valentine’s show, she said she’s considering herself merely the "˜referee’ this year in order to leave more room for the guys.

Williams will serve as MC, host - and unexpected comedian.

"Tony really knows how to put people at ease," Berry said, "I’ve heard several people say they believe he could go on the road doing stand-up, since he’s so fluid and naturally funny!" Other performers will include Norm Wheeler, Jelly Roll Blues Band drummer Graham Fineout, and Berry’s pal Glenn Wolff, who will take a little time out from promoting his books and teaching art at Northwestern Michigan College to play slide guitar, bass, and dobro on stage.

And never fear - Freshwater’s legendary fudge will be making a return appearance during intermission, along with additional snacks from Boyne Provisions.

"This is going to be a really fun show," Berry added, "and a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. It’s one of those events where couples, folks floating solo, and groups of friends can all socialize and hear some wonderful music."

"And the folks who have procrastinated about what to do for Valentine’s Day can really cover a lot of bases by buying a ticket to our concert!"

Freshwater Gallery’s Valentine’s Show will take place at 8 pm on Saturday, February 14 at 217 South Lake Street in downtown Boyne City. Freshwater’s next three concerts after Valentine’s will be Antje Duvekot 3/14, Fred Eaglesmith 4/11, and Guy Davis in 5/9. For tix and more info, visit www.freshwaterartgallery.com or call 231-582-2588.