Ken Waldman, widely known as Alaska’s Fiddling Poet, has been touring full-time as a musician, writer, and storyteller since 1995. With 25 published books and 12 albums to his credit, Waldman crafts a distinctive performance style that seamlessly blends traditional Appalachian string-band music, clever original poetry, and captivating stories set against the Alaskan wilderness. Described by The Austin Chronicle as feeling like a Ken Burns film come to life, his shows are acclaimed for their warmth, humor, and inspirational spirit. For this special performance, Waldman leads an all-star ensemble known as The Wild Ones, featuring the rising all-female roots trio The Little Mercies, two-time South Carolina state fiddle champion Kristen Harris, Brooklyn banjo player Ilan Moss, and versatile multi-instrumentalist Erica Weiss.

This performance serves as a heartfelt tribute to Deborah Smith, a cherished longtime friend of Waldman who shared deep ties to both Alaska and the Newberry community. Waldman and Smith spent years discussing a performance at the venue, making this gathering a poignant celebration of her life and legacy. In her honor, the concert will feature dedicated Alaskan storytelling recalling Smith’s time up north, alongside the world premiere of two brand-new poems written specifically for Deborah and the historic hall. Combining high-energy string-band jams, rich vocal harmonies, and moving poetic tributes, Ken Waldman and The Wild Ones deliver a uniquely meaningful roots music event.

Showings