Tag: capital region

  • Immerse Yourself in the Heritage of Bluegrass at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival

    On a sunny Friday, July 19, the fields of Walsh Farm in Oak Hill, NY, came alive with the strums of banjos and mandolins as the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival kicked off day two of this year’s annual celebration. This festival isn’t just a series of concerts; it’s a community where every chord and lyric weaves deeper into the tapestry of bluegrass tradition.

    The Camping lot at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival

    Grey Fox isn’t just a stop; it’s a destination steeped in the heritage of bluegrass. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the festival draws enthusiasts and families annually, promising not just a top-tier lineup but a vibrant, living celebration of music. With educational tents like the Bluegrass Academy for kids and Jam Central, Grey Fox ensures that the legacy of bluegrass vibrates through every attendee and echoes beyond New York’s borders.

    Jam central station at Grey Fox Bluegrass Fest

    As dawn breaks, Grey Fox awakens to serene yoga and meditation, setting a peaceful tone. This tranquility transitions into lively jam sessions at Jam Central and the Bluegrass Academy for kids, as well as impromptu jams throughout the camping areas. As the day progresses, the smaller stages like Creekside and Gig Rig come alive with intimate performances.

    The Clements Brothers on the Gig Rig stage at Grey Fox Bluegrass Fest
    The Clements Brothers playing an intimate set on the Gig Rig Stage

    Throughout, attendees navigate a bustling schedule, often catching artists multiple times on different stages, sometimes with special guests. By late afternoon, the energy crescendos with larger crowds gathering at the main stages, where the tents strain to contain enthusiastic fans.

    Della Mae was joined on stage by Darol Anger and Bruce Molsky
    Artist-in-Residence Della Mae‘s set featured surprise guests Casey Driessen and Darol Anger

    As the night wound down, nobody was in a rush to leave. Instead, they lingered, guitars in hand around campsites, recounting the day’s performances and what they are looking forward to from the rest of the festival. It’s clear why Grey Fox is more than just a festival; it’s a cornerstone of bluegrass culture. With plans already buzzing for next year, it’s evident that for many, Grey Fox is an annual pilgrimage, essential for anyone who cherishes bluegrass and vibrant community gatherings.

    A massive crowd gathered to see Ireland's I Draw Slow
    A massive crowd gathered to see Ireland’s I Draw Slow (Next show at Caffe Lena in Saratoga Springs July 24th)
  • Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Set to Premiere at theREP in Albany

    Coming to Albany’s Capital Repertory Theatre (theREP) this summer is their very own rendition of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Previews begin on Friday, July 12. The official opening night is Tuesday, July 16, and the show will run through Sunday, August 18.

    Featuring over two dozen pop classics, including “You’ve Got a Friend,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling,” and “Natural Woman,” this international phenomenon is filled with the showstoppers everyone knows and loves.

    beautiful: the carole king musical

    The Tony® and Grammy Award®-winning Carole King musical thrilled Broadway audiences for six years, and now makes its way over to theREP in its own up-close-and-personal production for a unique experience unlike anything on Broadway. On certain days of the show’s running, theREP will host pre-performance events serving complimentary food and drinks, all provided by local restaurants, distilleries, and vendors. Events include a chef’s table, a happy hour, and special conversation with cast and crew members. Below is the full list of events and their descriptions.

    REP-ception nights sponsored by Delmar Beverage Center

    Preview Performance – Friday, July 12-Sunday July 14
    Patrons can act out their own “Beautiful” dreams by jumping on stage for a karaoke session before each preview performance.

    Opening Night – Tuesday, July 16
    Includes complimentary post-show champagne toast. Sponsored by Columbia Development Companies. 

    Chef’s Table – 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 23
    Hors d’oeuvres will be provided by local restaurants

    ASL Performance – 3 p.m. Saturday, July 27
    This performance features sign language interpreters. To request access to the designated seating section, please call the box office at 518.346.6204

    Thirsty Thursday – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, August 1
    Light fare and tasting samples from local breweries, cideries, and distilleries.

    Behind the Scenes – 1 p.m. Sunday, August 4
    12:30 p.m., complimentary coffee and pastry before the pre-show presentation of the special effects behind “Beautiful,” hosted by Producing Artistic Director Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill. This special conversation is free and open to the public.

    This production also sees the return of several alumni from theREP, including Elizabeth Nestlerode, playing the role of Carole King. Nestlerode returns to the MainStage in the titular role after playing Darlene in Honky Tonk Angels, and Evelyn/Mary Bailey in It’s A Wonderful Life. Shannon Rafferty (Cynthia Weil) and Taylor Hilt Mitchell (Barry Mann/Dance Captain) make their way back to theREP stage after stellar performances at theREP’s production of Jersey Boys earlier this year.

    beautiful: the carole king musical

    However, several actors make their debut at theREP with this production. Male lead Nikita Burshteyn (Gerry Goffin) is performing at theREP for the first time in his life after his landmark Off-Broadway performance as Romeo in Romeo and Bernadette.

    Making their debut at theREP are Stavros Koumbaros (RB Bobby Hatfield), Adriana Vicinanzo (Betty), Christian A. Boyd (Drifter), Byron St. Cyr (Drifter), Damon McToy (Drifter)and Cal Mitchell (Drifter)

    Previews for Beautiful: The Carole King Musical take place at theREP, 251 N. Pearl St., Albany ,July 12-14. Opening night is Tuesday, July16. Regular performance times from July 16 to August 18 are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday with matinees 3p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Sundays. There is no matinee on July 17. Tickets are available on theREP’s website, linked here.

  • Rensselaer Announces City and Summer Jam Concert Series

    The city of Rensselaer, NY, has two separate concert series on tap this summer.

    The first, the Rensselaer City Concert Series, began on June 17 and will last until July 29 at Riverfront Park. The second, the Summer Jam Concert Series, began on June 26 and will last until August 7 at the North End Firehouse on Washington Avenue. Each concert for both series is weekly from 6 pm to 8 pm. The full lineups for both events are listed below.

    While the city hosts two separate series at the same time, each serves a different purpose and centers on different artists and organizations. The Rensselaer City Concert Series is a government-affiliated program hosted by the City of Rensselaer. All events for the Rennselaer City Concert Series are free and available for all ages.

    rensselaer concert series

    A wide variety of performers make the lineup of the City Concert Series, encompassing all genres for all listeners. Performances range from rock outfits like Gone Grey and Pete & Friends to Donny Elvis, a nationally known Elvis impersonator making an appearance at both series, to intimate smooth jazz from Standard Edition.

    However, the Summer Jam Concert series is hosted by Kiwanis, a charity that provides after-school programs to children and schools across the country. Summer Jam Concert Series promotes rock artists of all subgenres: classic rock, hard rock, pop rock, contemporary, and even a night of Celtic folk music. Each week, the artists performing at Summer Jam bring the audience back to the roots of rock and roll. Celebrate the summer with a throwback to the classic rock songs everyone knows and loves. The series is a free event enjoyed by the whole family.

    rensselaer concert series

    The full lineup for the Summer Jam Concert Series

    June 26: The Lost Art Band (classic rock)

    No concert on July 3

    July 10: Hands of Time (rock oldies)

    July 17: Diva and the Dirty Boys (60s and 70s rock)

    July 24: Kilashandra (contemporary and Celtic)

    July 31: Donny Elvis

    August 7: Bobbie VanDetta and the Split (pop, rock, and country)

    The full lineup for the Riverfront Concert Series:

    June 17: Pete & Friends

    June 24: Gone Gray

    July 1: Donny Elvis

    July 8: Paul Slingerland & Friends

    July 15: Standard Edition

    July 22: Joe Adee & The Lug Nuts

    July 29: Donny Elvis

    For more information on both of the summer concert series, visit the City of Rensselaer’s website here.

  • The Park Theater Foundation Unveils Its Upcoming May Events

    The Park Theater Foundation has unveiled its highly anticipated May events which include diverse shows and performances at the Park Theater in Glens Falls. 

    One of the most notable events of the season will begin on May 2, with “The Park Presents:” Fellow Pynins. The Park Theater Foundation will host the Oregon-based contemporary folk duo, Fellow Pynins, live on May 2nd. Fellow Pynins are known to have a keen and bucolic sense of vocal harmony and song craft anchored in the balladry tradition. They are songwriters, collectors, and interpreters who were previously described as “Folk Music with a hefty touch of whimsy…”

    There are a variety of shows and performances scheduled for most of May, from May 2 to 31. Some other performances  will include Ariel Posen, The Matt Niedbalski Trio, The GNP Trio, Jimi Woodul, Little Saints, comedians Matt Vita and Joe Pontillo and more. 

    Additional May Events and Lineup

    “The Park Presents:” Ariel Posen (5/9/24):

    The Park Theater Foundation will present “The Park Presents” that will feature the  acclaimed virtuosic guitarist and singer-songwriter, Ariel Posen, live on May 9th. Ariel Posen’s music occupies the space between genres. It’s a rootsy sound that nods to his influences of heartland rock & roll, electrified Americana, blue-eyed soul, R&B, Beatles-inspired pop – while still moving forward, pushing Posen into territory that’s uniquely his own.

    5/4/24: “Rewind At The Park”

    The Park Theater Foundation will present “Rewind At The Park” featuring Harvest & Rust – A Neil Young Experience. From the chart-topping Harvest material and the electric explorations of Rust Never Sleeps, to songs from Neil’s time in Crosby Stills Nash & Young and Buffalo Springfield, fans are in for a night of  “complete Neil.” 

    5/16/24: “Third Thursday Jazz”

    The Park Theater Foundation will present “Third Thursday Jazz”  with The Matt Niedbalski Trio on May 16. The performance night will also feature Albany-based Jazz trio GNP Trio, which is made up of Matt Niedbalski, Dylan Perrillo and Tyler Giroux. Fans will be able to experience some of the best Jazz music  the Capital Region has to offer. 

    5/23/24: “Live & Local: Songwriters’ Showcase”

    On May 5, the Park Theater Foundation will present an intimate evening that will feature some of the Capital Region’s favorite songwriters. Hosted by producer and musician, Jimi Woodul, these “artist-in-the-round” performances will give audiences the opportunity to hear local musicians’ songs and the stories behind them. Performing artists will include Dustin Lowman, Belle Skinner and Marty Wendell.

    5/29/24: “Damn The Torpedoes.”

    The Park Theater Foundation will host Rochmon Record Club for a series of listening parties. Hosted by Chuck Vosganian, this listening party will focus on Tom Petty’s 1979 album Damn The Torpedoes

    5/30/24: “Live & Local”

    The Park Theater Foundation will present “Live & Local” on May 30. The event will feature the  genre-bending group, Little Saints, an original band born in Saratoga Springs. Little Saints craft a style they call their own somewhere between americana, indie-folk, and modern soul. 

    5/31/24: “Comedy After Dark”

    The Park Theater Foundation will close the month with a “Comedy After Dark” that will  feature the highly-acclaimed comedians, Matt Vita and Joe Pontillo. Matt Vita is known to keep his  audiences on their feet with his high energy performance by interweaving improvised songs, freestyle raps, and off kilter impersonations. He is also the co-founder of both the Vermont Comedy Festival and the Vermont Film Festival. Joe Pontillo has appeared on AXS TV’s “Gotham Comedy Live,” MTV, Sirius XM, and NY1, but he is best known for his comedy special, “Delete Your Account,” on Amazon. Fans will be able to enjoy an evening of laughter and fun with family and friends.

    For the full performance listing or to purchase tickets, fans can visit www.parktheatergf.com.

  • The Park Theater Foundation Announces March Events

    The Park Theater Foundation has announced the highly anticipated March events which include diverse shows and performers. The Theater will present seven events for this season, complete with several different bands.

    Performer Jimi Woodul

    The most notable event of the season begins on March 14, with “Park Presents: The Mammals.” The folk/Americana act comes to Glens Falls to get folks stomping their feet to the indie-banjo and fiddle ballads. March 16 sees a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner and Celtic duo, Rakish.

    There is a variety of shows and performers scheduled for most of March, from March 8 to 29. Some other performances include The Brit Pack, The Matt Niedbalski Trio, Rochmon Record Club, Jimi Woodul, comedian Atheer Yacoub, and more.

    The Brit Pack

    The Park Theater Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Glens Falls community by providing a venue for quality and affordable entertainment and educational opportunities in the performing arts.

    The foundation hopes its upcoming events this March will see an uplift through music and performance. The community will feel a sense of togetherness driven by the wonderful talent and the hospitality of The Park Theater.

    The times, dates, and ticket prices for each event vary. Make sure to check out the Park Theater website. For the full 2023/24 performance listing visit parktheatergf.com. The link will provide full menu options, dates, times, and ticket prices. These events are not to be missed.

  • Music in the Capital Region – Navigating New York’s Vibrant Music Venues

    In the heart of the Capital Region, you’ll find more than just streets and buildings – you’ll discover a lively melody that reverberates through Albany, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, and Troy. These cities collectively host a variety of venues, each adding its unique flavor to the local music scene.

    From lively stages to cozy spots, every venue contributes to the dynamic soundtrack of the region stretching from Lake George to the tip of the Hudson Valley.

    Be sure to check out our look at the venues of New York City, the Hudson Valley, North Country, Southern Tier, Western New York, Rochester and the Finger Lakes, the Berkshires, Long Island, and Central New York as well.

    Capital Region Music Venues

    Arthur Zankel Music Center (Saratoga Springs)

    The Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College has a capacity of 600. Offering a highbrow lineup featuring classical and jazz artists, the center also occasionally hosts mainstream heavyweights. The venue, with upgraded facilities, provides a unique experience for both students and the wider community.

    Address: 815 N Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    The Brook Tavern (Saratoga Springs)

    Situated in the heart of historic Saratoga Springs in the Capital Region The Brook Tavern is a beloved neighborhood gathering spot at the crossroads of Union and Nelson Ave. Only a short walk from the Saratoga Race Course and within walking distance of Congress Park, it offers a convenient and welcoming locale for locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the live music every Tuesday, adding a delightful rhythm to the vibrant atmosphere.

    Address: 139 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866  

    Website

    Bye-i Brewing (Cohoes)

    Bye-i ™ Brewing is dedicated to delivering the Capital Region the beer they deserve, prioritizing quality over profit. As they aspire to become a symbol of American culture, their commitment extends to community involvement and giving back to those who support their growth. The brewery also features live music as a focal point of its offerings.

    Address: 122 Remsen St, Cohoes, NY 12047  

    Website

    Caffé Lena (Saratoga Springs)

    Caffè Lena is the oldest continuously operating folk venue in the US. With a capacity of 110, it has hosted iconic artists like Bob Dylan and Emmylou Harris. The venue’s intimate setting underwent a $2 million renovation in 2016, offering a cozy space for folk enthusiasts to enjoy live performances.

    Address: 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs  

    Website

    Capital Repertory Theatre (Albany)

    Nestled in downtown Albany, Capital Repertory Theatre (theREP) stands as an acclaimed professional theater, recognized for its diverse range of productions. From contemporary and classic drama to off-Broadway musicals, cutting-edge comedy, and world premieres, theREP’s year-round season draws theater enthusiasts of all ages. Beyond providing opportunities for seasoned professionals and rising stars, theREP extends its impact by offering unique educational programs to students in the Capital Region.

    Address: 251 N Pearl St, Albany

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    Centre Street Public House and Beer Garden (Schenectady)

    Centre Street Public House and Garden offers a distinctive and inviting atmosphere, featuring top-notch craft brews, a gastropub menu, and exquisite banquet facilities. Additionally, the venue hosts weekly live music, adding a vibrant and entertaining element to its appeal.

    Address: 308 Union St, Schenectady

    Website

    Cock n Bull (Galway)

    Opening in 1976, the Cock n Bull celebrates a near half-century of great food and more recently, Music in the Barn. As notes by the business, the custom of playing music in a barn has been a lively part of American rural life since the 19th century, with the acoustics of the Cock n Bull’s post-and-beam barn continuing this regional tradition.

    Address: 5342 Parkis Mills Rd., Galway

    Website

    Cohoes Music Hall (Cohoes)  

    Established in 1874, Cohoes Music Hall in Cohoes is the fourth oldest operating music hall in the US. It hosts solo artists, theater troupes, jazz acts, and tribute bands. The venue actively supports up-and-coming acts, contributing to the local arts community.

    Address: 58 Remsen St, Cohoes  

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    The Egg (Albany)

    A distinctive landmark in Albany’s skyline, The Egg offers two theaters with capacities of 982 and 450. Completed in 1978, it hosts a range of events, from jazz-rock acts to ballet performances. The Egg stands out not only for its unique architecture but also for its diverse programming, including roots, rock, jazz, and comedy.

    Address: Agency Building 1, S Mall Arterial, Albany

    Website

    Electric Grinch (Schenectady) 

    ​​Owned by Michell Ramsey, who also owns Jay St. Pub in Schenectady, The Electric Grinch derives its name from a Schenectady bar of the 1970s and 1980s. Situated at 116 Jay Street, the venue offers live music and a full bar, with operating hours on Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Friday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. 

    Address: 116 Jay St, Schenectady  

    Website

    Empire Live (Albany)

    Empire Live in downtown Albany, a top music venue in the Capital Region, features two stages: Empire Live and Empire Underground. With a 1,000-person capacity, Empire Live offers a spacious setting and excellent stage views. In contrast, Empire Underground, located in the basement, provides a more intimate experience with a 350-person capacity.

    Address: 93 N Pearl St, Albany

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    The Eighth Step at Proctors (Saratoga Springs) 

    The Step stands as America’s oldest continuously running non-profit coffeehouse and concert stage, showcasing the finest independent acoustic music in Upstate New York, Western Massachusetts, and lower Vermont. Featuring a diverse range of genres, including contemporary and traditional folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, Celtic, and more, our five-decade performer roster reads like a folk Who’s Who. From Pete Seeger and Janette Carter to The Chicks and Jeff Daniels, The Step continues to bring exceptional acoustic performances to its audience.

    Address: 432 State St, Schenectady 

    Website

    EMPAC (Troy)

    The Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) is a multi-venue arts center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, opening in 2008. A variety of adventurous programming in music, performance, media, theater, and much more can be found at EMPAC, including a state-of the-art concert hall, leading the New York Times to call EMPAC a “technological pleasure dome for the mind.”

    Address: 44 8th St, Troy

    Website

    Fuze Box (Albany)

    Since 1985, The Fuze Box has been a historically diverse live performance venue, consistently at the forefront of championing the next generation of alternative misfits and miscreants.

    Address: 12 Central Ave, Albany

    Website

    Glove Theater (Gloversville)

    The Glove Theatre opened in 1914 and hosted movies, music, vaudeville, and civic events, and in 1920 it became the flagship theatre and home office of Schine Enterprises until 1965. In 1971 the venue officially closed, though it did have a few civic engagements during that decade, and reopened in Oct. of 1997 with the “The Phantom of the Glove.” The Glove Theatre is a non-profit organization dedicated to establishing an accessible expression platform for the arts that engages, entertains, and educates the regional community, giving economic opportunities to the Southern Adirondack and Mohawk Valley regions.

    Address: 42 N Main St, Gloversville

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    The Hangar on the Hudson (Troy) 

    The Hangar is a concert venue and event space showcasing both local and national acts, with most shows occurring on Friday through Sunday nights. Nestled by the Hudson River in Troy, it offers an intimate, roadhouse-style experience for music enthusiasts. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, The Hangar consistently features entertaining bands, providing a great setting for friends and fellow music fans. The attentive, friendly, and professional bar staff enhance the overall experience. 

    Address: 675 River St, Troy 

    Website

    The Hollow Bar + Kitchen (Albany)

    Established in 2013, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen stands as a celebrated and distinctive downtown Albany establishment. It holds the distinction of being the sole 4-star restaurant in the Capital Region. Under the guidance of Anna Weisheit, the 2016 Albany Chef’s Food & Wine Festival Rising Star Chef Winner, The Hollow offers a remarkable combination of a craft beer bar and a recognized live music venue, making it a unique and acclaimed destination. 

    Address: 79 N Pearl St, Albany

    Website

    The Inn at Saratoga (Saratoga Springs) 
    The Inn, adorned with live music, becomes a haven for relaxation and entertainment.. The monthly-updated music calendar ensures a delightful experience for patrons seeking a harmonious blend of ambiance and talent.

    Address: 231 Broadway, Saratoga Springs  

    Website

    The Kings Inn (Schenectady) 

    In the evening, The Kings Inn hosts live music performances, enhancing its hospitality-driven atmosphere. The staff, known for their patience, plays a pivotal role in ensuring a welcoming environment. For those seeking prompt service, The Kings Inn stands out. Visitors have praised the bar for its exotic ambiance, making it a notable venue where bands regularly perform.

    Address: 6 McDonald Ave, Schenectady  

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    Lark Hall (Albany)

    Lark Hall, a historic music venue was originally constructed in 1916 by the Daughters of the Eastern Star. Meticulously restored and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, it provides a unique and unmatched experience for both performers and audiences alike.

    Address: 351 Hudson Ave, Albany 

    Website

    The Lark Street Tavern (Albany)

    Situated in the heart of the Lark Street district, Lark Tavern, an iconic establishment in the Capital District since 1933, serves as a cherished watering hole and gathering spot for locals. With a rich tradition centered around food, drink, and entertainment, the revamped Lark Tavern adds a retro vintage flair to the Tavern experience, featuring live music for an added vibrancy.

    Address: 453 Madison Ave, Albany

    Website

    The Linda – WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio (Albany)

    Founded in 2002, The Linda – WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, is a meticulously restored 1926 bank situated in the heart of Albany’s Central Avenues Business District. This versatile venue serves as a multi-purpose auditorium and recording studio, welcoming a diverse array of events such as concerts, debates, lectures, films, celebrations, and more, many of which are broadcasted across WAMC’s seven-state listening area and online at wamc.org.

    Address: 339 Central Ave, Albany  

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    MVP Arena (Albany)

    The Arena hosts a variety of events including concerts, family shows, sporting contests and trade shows. Home to the AFL Albany Empire, and the Siena Saints MAAC basketball team, the MVP Arena is a regular host to premier NCAA events.

    Address: 51 S Pearl St, Albany

    Website

    No Fun (Troy)

    No Fun, presented by Pint Sized, serves as the primary hub for experimental music aficionados in the Capital Region. Recognized as a live music venue, it is celebrated for providing a platform for avant-garde and cutting-edge musical performances.

    Address: 275 River St, Troy

    Website

    Palace Theater (Albany)  

    Opening its doors in 1931, it has hosted iconic acts like The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen. The Palace Theatre continues to feature Broadway plays, dance concerts, and movies, providing a stunning setting for diverse performances.

    Address: 19 Clinton Ave, Albany  

    Website

    Proctors (Schenectady)

    Originally a vaudeville venue, it has evolved into a multi-genre event space hosting Broadway musicals, dance concerts, and movies. Proctors continues to adapt its mission to the contemporary environment while maintaining its historical charm.

    Address: 432 State St, Schenectady

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    Putnam Place (Saratoga Springs)  

    Formerly known as Putnam Den in Saratoga Springs, Putnam Place underwent a major transformation into a classy music venue, nightclub, and event space. With a capacity of 500, it has become a year-round destination, hosting diverse acts and contributing to Saratoga’s vibrant nightlife.

    Address: 63 Putnam St, Saratoga Springs  

    Website

    Putnam Place, Photo by Frankie Cavone

    Riverlink Park (Amsterdam)

    Riverlink Park offers an ideal outdoor setting along the Central New York riverbanks for diverse performances during the Riverlink Concert series.

    Address: 2 Front St, Amsterdam 12010

    Website

    Rustic Barn Pub (Troy)

    Renowned as Troy NY’s premier live music venue, The Rustic Barn Pub consistently delivers high-quality live entertainment, emphasizing the importance of exceptional performances. Committed to creating memorable experiences, they invite audiences to join them on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights for live music spanning a diverse range of genres.

    Address: 150 Speigletown Rd, Troy

    Website

    Saratoga Performing Arts Center (Saratoga Springs)  

    Located in Saratoga Springs, SPAC is a versatile venue with a capacity of 25,000. It hosts a diverse range of events, from performances by The Philadelphia Orchestra and New York City Ballet to Live Nation’s pop, country, hip-hop, and classic rock acts. Surrounded by natural beauty and historic architecture, SPAC provides a unique experience, attracting top artists across genres.

    Address: 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs 

    Website

    Capital Region Music Venues

    Saratoga City Tavern (Saratoga Springs) 

    Nestled in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, NY, Saratoga City Tavern is a vibrant establishment offering a selection of over 110 draughts, delectable cuisine, and entertainment seven days a week. With five floors, this Saratoga, NY bar and tavern ensures there’s something to delight every visitor.

    Address: 19-21 Caroline St, Saratoga Springs  

    Website

    Spa City Tap And Barrel (Saratoga Springs) 

    Nestled in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, Spa City Tap & Barrel stands as the city’s newest hangout. With a rustic charm and a modern touch, this cozy pub offers 32 beers on tap, signature cocktails, and a pub-style menu perfect for pairing with any sporting event. Patrons can enjoy live music on weekends, along with game nights and themed events throughout the week, making Spa City Tap & Barrel a vibrant destination for entertainment. Open seven days a week, it’s the ideal spot to experience Saratoga’s lively atmosphere.

    Address: 13 Caroline St, Saratoga Springs

    Website

    Troy Savings Bank Music Hall (Troy)

    Built in 1875, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall in Troy is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics. With a capacity of 1,253, the venue attracts classical, folk, and Americana performers. The Music Hall preserves its 19th-century charm, providing an intimate connection between performers and the audience.

    Location: State and Second St, Troy  

    Website

    UAlbany Performing Arts Center (Albany)

    For over 50 years, the UAlbany Performing Arts Center has stood as a prominent cultural asset for the University at Albany and the wider Capital Region community. Hosting the Prime Performance Series annually, the center brings a diverse array of national and international artists in music, dance, and theatre. With five distinctive performance theatres, a dance studio, rehearsal spaces, and dedicated libraries, the UAlbany PAC serves as a vibrant hub for artistic endeavors.

    Address: 1400 Washington Ave, Albany

    Website

    Additionally, A Place for Jazz shares a few dozen or so venues in the Capital Region that offer Jazz occasionally, or regularly.

    Just north of the Capital District are a few venues that may fall outside of the typical ‘Capital Region’ geographic definition, but are still under an hour drive to see great live music.

    Charles R Wood Theater (Glens Falls)

    The Charles R. Wood Theater is a year-round performing arts facility in downtown Glens Falls, offering cultural events and productions with three spaces in the building for events – a 300-seat theater, a 3,000 square foot rehearsal hall, and over 2,600 square feet of lobby space.

    Address: 207 Glen Street, Glens Falls

    Website

    Charles R Wood Festival Commons (Lake George)

    The Festival Commons at Charles R. Wood Park, located at the southern end of Lake George, is home to many events during the summer, most notably Memorial Meltdown and Adirondack Independence Festival, and much more in between. The grounds also include a skatepark and have public restrooms, all within walking distance of “The Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George.

    Address: 17 W Brook Rd, Lake George

    Website

    photo by Frankie Cavone

    Cool Insuring Arena (Glens Falls)

    Cool Insuring Arena is a multi-purpose sports and music arena located in downtown Glens Falls. When they are not home to the Adirondack Thunder of the ECHL, the former Glens Falls Civic Center has hosted a great number of classic concerts – The Who’s first comeback show in 1989, Phish performing The White Album in its entirety (and playing past 3am), among many others – and has many great years left as the Glens Falls region sees a renaissance in their downtown over the past decade.

    Address: 1 Civic Center Plaza, Glens Falls

    Website

    DJs Nite Club (Lake George)

    DJ’s Niteclub is a seasonal club in Lake George, New York that offers a view of the village strip. They offer a variety of music and night life in Lake George for locals and tourists alike.

    Address: 89 Canada Streete, Lake George

    Website

    Fort Salem Theater (Salem)

    The building structure of Fort Salem Theater dates back to 1774, and after fires and rebuildings, by 1882, a chapel made this future theatre and arts venue, complete. Improvements in the 1970s made Fort Salem the premiere summer stock theater in the Northeast, with family-oriented musicals, comedies and dramas. Renovations from 2006-7 brought Fort Salem into the 21st century, with seats donated from Broadway’s Helen Hayes Theater. The theater is under new ownership and reopened in June 2021.

    Address: 11 E Broadway, Salem, 12865

    Website

    fort salem theater

    Hubbard Hall (Cambridge)

    Since 1878, Hubbard Hall has developed, produced, and presented theater, music, opera, dance, and the visual arts and in recent years has become a world-class development center for new work. A non-profit since 1977, Hubbard Hall attracts artists, students, and audience members as a fertile training ground for both young and seasoned artists, Offering classes in dance, theater, music, movement, visual arts, puppetry, creative writing, martial arts, yoga, and even gardening, this multi-purpose venue gives students of all ages an opportunity to train, collaborate, and thrive.

    Address: 25 E Main St, Cambridge, 12816

    Website

    Park Theatre (Glens Falls)

    Built in 1911, The Park Theater is the premier entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Glens Falls. The theater holds a rich history within the community and has been revitalized as a destination for performing arts, weddings, and events.

    Address: 14 Park Street, Glens Falls

    Website

    the park theater

    The Sembrich (Lake George)

    A former lakeside teaching studio of internationally renowned soprano Marcella Sembrich (1858-1935), The Sembrich has a distinguished operatic career and musical legacy, offering a variety of programs, articles, and multi-media presentations online and in person.

    Address: 4800 Lake Shore Dr, Bolton Landing

    Website

    Strand Theatre (Hudson Falls)

    The Strand Theatre opened its doors on January 17, 1923, and after being closed for a period of time, was reopened on October 7, 2016 through the nonprofit Hudson River Music Hall Productions, which came together in 2010 with the goal of helping to rehabilitate old buildings in Hudson Falls. Having a huge calendar each month (see below) with a wide variety of genres, shows and experiences, the Strand Theatre holds the distinction as the only major music venue in Washington and Warren Counties that is open year-round. Part of a chain of Strand Theatres built in the early 20th century, other venues under the name Strand can be found in Plattsburgh and Schroon Lake, as well as others that have closed over time.

    Address: 210 Main St, Hudson Falls

    Website