Coffee’s on at Powerhouse

Coldstream Coffee House at Vernon's Powerhouse Theatre features a performance by Vernon musician Betty Johnson.

Vernon’s Betty Johnson is the feature artist at the next Coldstream Coffee House, taking place at the Powerhouse Theatre in Vernon Saturday.

Vernon’s Betty Johnson is the feature artist at the next Coldstream Coffee House, taking place at the Powerhouse Theatre in Vernon Saturday.

Vernon’s Powerhouse Theatre stage is once again opening to the monthly Coldstream Coffee House.

Saturday’s event, which includes an open mic, will feature a performance by Vernon musician Betty Johnson.

Known for her expressive voice and accomplished guitar and banjo playing, Johnson’s performances emphasize acoustic jazz, blues, and her own songwriting originals.

“Audiences also love her exploration and re-styling of beloved familiar tunes,” said Kerry Parks, with the Coldstream Live Music Society which puts on the coffee house.

Johnson has recorded three albums, I’m Ready (2007), Water Ring, produced by David Essig (2008), and Saving My Heart, produced by Andrew Smith (2012).

She is currently recording The Letters with Smith at his Lake Studio in Kelowna.

“This project is based on letters found in her mother’s closet from her father who was in prison at the time in Montreal; a stirring examination of circumstance,” reads a release about the project.

Two singles from The Letters have so far been released: Sending my Love for Christmas and Bless the Child in Me. They are both available on Johnson’s website at www.bettyjohnsonmusic.com.

Johnson will be accompanied by well known Vernon guitarist Neil Fraser, of Lent Fraser Wall fame, at the Coldstream Coffee House.

Presented on the third Saturday of the month from September to May, the coffee house’s open mic runs from 7 to 9 p.m., with the feature act taking the stage at 9 p.m.

Doors open for the open mic sign up at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $5, and there is a concession by donation. Powerhouse Theatre is located at 2901 35th Ave.

 

Vernon Morning Star