The October Surprise(s)

Now Playing Up North

By Joseph Beyer | Oct. 15, 2022

There’s no denying a slight cooling in the pace of live events and performances in this transitory month, but it’s a wonderful migration back to our local roots and experiences that feel a little cozier this time of year. From real world “Moth Radio Hour” esque storytelling to Halloween-inspired heavy-metal performances, there are still plenty of tricks and treats to be found as you explore the sonic landscape of NoMi.

Here:Say Storytelling
One of this writer’s favorite listening events in the region is the always moving, always unpredictable, and always one of a kind Here:Say, created by Karen Stein. Featuring real stories by real people that celebrate the shared aspects of our humanity, this latest rendition will be presented Wednesday, Oct. 19, at 7pm at the Friendship Community Center in Suttons Bay. Seating is limited, but tickets are free thanks to a collaboration with the Leland Township and Suttons Bay-Bingham District Libraries and support from Wool & Honey. Info at lelandlibrary.org.

Interlochen Arts Academy Student Showcase
Celebrating the musical theater canon from golden era classics to modern hits, this one-night-only review pairs students from the Interlochen campus with Broadway alums Alexandra Silber (Wicked) and James Harcourt (Hamilton, Girl from the North Country) on Thursday, Oct. 20, at 7:30pm at City Opera House in downtown Traverse City. Tickets and info at cityoperahouse.org.

Ryan Whyte Maloney Release Party and Concert
Also at City Opera House, at 8pm on Friday, Oct. 21, local artist Ryan Whyte Maloney invites fans of all ages to this launch event featuring songs from his latest album I’m Gonna Live and favorites from his performances on NBC’s The Voice. Maloney will meet and greet guests for photos and autographs after the show. Tickets and info at cityoperahouse.org.

Honor Metal Mile Presents: Halloween Jam 2022
Probably the most adventurous outing of the week ahead is the thrashers-meets-slashers Halloween party featuring a whopping three hours of live music on Saturday, Oct. 22, starting at 7pm and taking place in an unlikely venue: Winkler Contracting in Beulah (where jamming out is required but costumes are optional). Owner/rocker Josh Winkler has hosted the event for adults in his pole barn for the past three years. His band, Fragile Hammer, plays old-school metal and a few punk covers while his neighbors down the way, Skullcrusher, play their own brand of heavier metal on the dark side. Together, the “Honor Metal Mile” is a group of cool locals opening up their back yard to fans who wanna headbang. Bring your own chairs (and ear plugs). Check their Facebook event page for the latest deets at facebook.com/FragileHammer.