After Los Angeles comedian Steve Mittleman entertained a packed house last Thursday night, Seward Playhouse will welcome another performer from California this Friday.  John Craigie, a folk singer from San Francisco, recently added Seward as the twelfth stop on his Alaskan summer tour.  “John played in Seward two years ago,” said Seward Playhouse owner Jennifer Swander, “and he’s excited to be coming back.” 

 Since its opening on July fourth weekend, Seward Playhouse has seen a variety of talent take the stage.  Even the types of music have been quite diverse, which was evident during the Open Mic/Jam Session on Friday.  Local jazz musician and instructor, Mark Teckenbrock, invited his friend Meghan Holden, founder of Anchortown Circus, to play clarinet with him.  A few playhouse patrons commented that the place turned into a little jazz club for twenty minutes.  “We will definitely schedule a jazz show soon,” Swander said, in response to the requests. 

And more local talent continues to emerge.  After an audition this weekend, His Grace, a talented group of young men from Resurrection Bay Baptist Church, has booked upcoming performances.  “Tourists came in and sat down during the audition Sunday afternoon, so we decided to actually do an open house show the same time next Sunday,” mentioned Swander.  Also there as the piano accompanist for His Grace was Stacie Werner.  She commented, “I’m inspired by a young group of guys who want to have fun serving the Lord with their talents.” 

Upcoming events at the playhouse include:

Friday, July 18, John Craigie, 8pm;

Saturday, July 19, Open Mic/Jam Session – all musicians welcome, 8pm;

Sunday, July 20, His Grace, 2-4pm open house.

Seward Playhouse is located at 215 #B Fourth Avenue, downtown Seward. It is a smoke-free environment and does not serve alcohol. The box office and concession stand open 30 minutes before each show. For information about viewing or booking shows, please call (907) 224-ARTS or email sewardplayhouse@yahoo.com.

Advance tickets for John Craigie can be purchased for $8.00 at Seward Playhouse, Monday-Thursday, 5:30-9:30pm, and at Artic Glow (across the street), Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm. Tickets will be $10.00 at the door.  www.johncraigiemusic.com     www.myspace.com/johncraigie