It’s nearly springtime in Harrisburg and, as always, there’s plenty to do in and around our fair city.
Since it’s March, Irish pride takes over at a few venues for some St. Patty’s festivities. The annual Harrisburg St. Patrick’s Day parade kicks off on March 23, brought to you by the Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District. Up the road, Appalachian Brewing Co. hosts its ABC Irish Fest, filled with 17 days of Irish music performers, food and, of course, beer. Amidst the holiday fun, don’t forget to check out some other one-of-a-kind performances happening around the city. Here’s some of the best that the Burg has to offer this month.
GRAHAM NASH, 3/13, 7:30PM, WHITAKER CENTER, $49.50-69.50
Two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame legend Graham Nash makes a splash at Whitaker Center this month. He’s best known for his work with supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash (and sometimes Young) before heading on to a highly successful solo career. A seasoned musician, Nash was also in the UK pop group, the Hollies, inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame twice, and has won a Grammy award. His messages of peace and love come through in his soft sound and honest lyrics, capturing the spirit of several generations. Last December, Nash’s bandmate, David Crosby, also played at Whitaker Center for a very special evening. If you missed your chance to check out a CSN-styled performance, Graham Nash will have what you’re looking for.
TIG NOTARO, 3/16, 8PM, WHITAKER CENTER, $30
Sometimes, I like to throw in a performance that isn’t strictly music, but still qualifies as a performance that can’t be missed. If you like comedy but don’t want to go too far for a live performance, Tig Notaro is arriving right on your doorstep. Traditionally a stand-up comedian, Notaro has experience as a writer, radio contributor and actor. Her popular debut album, “Live,” earned a nomination for a Grammy Award for “Best Comedy Album,” and her special, “Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted,” earned a nomination for an Emmy award for “Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special.” Check out the show and her deadpan style of humor if you’ve been looking for some good laughs.
COLEBROOK ROAD, 3/30, 8PM, FEDERAL TAPHOUSE, FREE
It’s not a true music column without showing some local love, so here’s a show that’s bound to be quite the party. Colebrook Road is celebrating the release of their newest album with a show at the Federal Taphouse in downtown Harrisburg. The album, “On Time,” showcases the band’s newer sounds in their classic yet contemporary bluegrass stylings. The album drops officially on May 3, but trust me when I say that these guys are best experienced on a live stage. Buy a CD, support local music, and get swept away by their sweet, southern stylings.
Mentionables:
Shine Delphi, March 2, River City Blues Club;
Black Coffee, March 2, H*MAC Stage on Herr;
Illusions of Grandeur, March 8, H*MAC Stage on Herr;
The Marcus King Band, March 9, Club XL;
Willie Jack and the Northern Light, March 15, The Abbey Bar;
Goose & Catullus, March 22, The Abbey Bar;
Shawan & the Wonton, March 28, Boneshire Brew Works
