Northwest Women Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert “Plays It Forward”

The 15th Annual Northwest Women Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert, produced by Sonny Hess, is a highlight of Portland’s holiday music season. This year there will be two opportunities to catch this amazing event featuring a combination of many of the Pacific Northwest’s foremost female artists. The line-up this year will include Duffy Bishop, Rae Gordon, Sonny Hess, Linda Hornbuckle, Ellen Whyte, Lisa Mann, June Howell, Vicki Stevens, Lady Kat, Theresa Lowe, Janice Scroggins, Arietta Ward, Claudia Knauer and Kelly Pierce. (Please note: Linda Hornbuckle is looking forward to performing at this year’s event, but this may depend on her own health considerations.)

Seven years ago Sonny Hess was diagnosed with cancer and was grateful for all the support she received, so she formed Musicians for the Cure as a means of “playing it forward.” Since that time, the concert has been a benefit for the Candlelighter’s for Children with Cancer for the past five years. Some of the women in the show have also battled (and are battling) cancer and all of them create an energy and camaraderie that make the occasion a joyous celebration of more than just the holidays. These women love music, love performing, and love each other. You’ll love watching!

The concert will be held at The Spare Room, NE 42nd & Alberta Streets, on Thursday, December 12th at 6pm and again on Sunday, December 15th at 5pm.  The venue offers a large space but with a “club” atmosphere to compliment the blues. Tickets are on sale on-line at www.northwestwomenblues.com or can be obtained by sending a check by mail to PO Box 571, Fairview, OR 97024. Tickets $12 each and $20 for 2 tickets. This is a Cascade Blues Association co-sponsorship, so members may receive a $3.00 discount on admission.