I’m so excited to be joined by Thee Holy Brothers (Marvin Etzioni and Willie Aron); Circe Link & Christian Nesmith; Joselyn & Don; Celsi, Bragg & Ivan; and The Hardship Letters (from Kansas City) for my annual holiday show at Genghis Cohen.
My mother is visiting from New Hampshire, so I wanted to put on a show. It became a celebration! And we’re going to donate proceeds to Hillsides Youth Moving On in Pasadena.
Hillsides in Pasadena is an organization that works with foster kids, emancipated kids, and families in crisis. I decided to donate to them this holiday season for a number of reasons. I edit a podcast for All Saints Church in Pasadena and was listening to an interview with an amazing young woman who talked about wanting to give back to her community who came out of Hillsides, she seemed so self-aware and positive as she detailed a schedule of school and multiple jobs, including graveyard bicycle security shifts that would certainly put me in a sour mood. When she mentioned Hillsides, I remembered that I’d just done one of my children’s shows there a couple weeks ago, and had met really lovely, challenged kids. One was an eager, dutiful participant in our show, then came back later to visit while we were breaking down. Then he acted out in a way to draw negative attention. But that boy could be the girl who so inspired me in her interview in a few years. I’d like to help facilitate that. Also, they bring in artists monthly (with compensation) to present to the kids, (one of which was me!), so I think it would be great to give back after I’ve been doubly inspired and supported by the organization. And, lastly, kids in the system really need our help. The more love and resources we can share the stronger our investment in a future for all of us.
Here’s the basic running order:
Joselyn & Don
Celsi, Bragg & Ivan
Circe Link & Christian Nesmith
me
The Hardship Letters (from Kansas City)
Thee Holy Brothers (Marvin Etzioni and Willie Aron)
Supporting Imani Tolliver on her book launch. Read more about the event 
