The first Eve Rising music and arts festival was conceived and created in Haverhill. A concert by women artists from the Merrimack Valley and beyond will benefit services for women and families in Greater Haverhill.
Bradford's Elle Gallo, frontwoman of a popular band that plays locally and throughout New England, has gathered a group of women musicians from several genres to perform on Sunday, July 18, at Winnekenni Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission tickets are $10. Children 14 and younger will be admitted free.
"I believe strongly that when women unite for a common goal they are unstoppable. I also believe that the nurturing energy of women is precisely what the world needs today. This is why we chose to help empower women with our festival," Gallo said.
Organizers will donate the proceeds of the festival to Emmaus and the Lawrence YWCA. They would like to increase the number of agencies they can support and would welcome more sponsors and vendors.
"Our main priority is raising awareness and funds for the chosen charities, YWCA of Lawrence and Emmaus Inc. of Haverhill. The charities help women and families regain empowerment, and help with growth and development," said Tina Upton the festival's graphic designer and volunteer coordinator.
Performers are:
Karen Grenier, a New York native singer/songwriter who performs often in Provincetown.
Erinn Brown, described as a sultry singer/songwriter/musician, Brown performs solo or with a band, sometimes with fellow Eve Rising performer Alison Keslow.
Lisa Marie, a blues, R&B and rockabilly singer from Boston.
Jen Kearney, a Lowell musician who plays piano and guitar and writes and sings in a variety of styles, including funk, reggae, soul, Latin and rock 'n' roll.
Lydia Harrell, a jazz singer who relocated from Battle Creek, Mich., to Boston to pursue a music career.
Alison Keslow, a Boston-area bass player.
Julie Dougherty, a Boston-area folk performer since the 1960s, performs Irish, country folk, and pop folk, all in her original style.
Amy Petty,
Laura Vecchione, who arrived in Boston by way of New York, has a southern style that belies her northern roots. Lori Diamond, from the western part of Massachusetts, is a singer/songwriter, pianist.
Patti Derosa, another New York transplant who landed in Boston, performs music with a Caribbean beat.
The Elle Gallo band, after four years together, is making a name for itself around New England.
Haverhill comedian AmyTee will keep things moving between sets.
Vendors will include Circle of Wisdom, a metaphysical book store based in Andover. Owner Cathy Kneeland will sell books, music, crystals, jewelry, incense and gifts.
"The Eve Rising Festival is a great way for me to join with other creative women and make a difference in the lives of women and families in need," Kneeland said.
A few popular psychic and intuitive readers will offer 15-minute readings for $15 each.
With less than three weeks until the festival, Gallo said the organizers would welcome a local company to sponsor the event.
Portable toilets, a sound company and tents are still needed, Gallo said, and donations of goods or money are welcome.
"The big picture and main intent of this incredible event, is to not only support, but educate and empower women of all walks of life. From getting resources for basic life needs, to learning exciting ways to constantly grow and expand their spirits, the goal here is empowerment," said performer Lori Diamond.
