Marquette's celebrated series, North Words and Music, returns with its next edition on November 13th at the Peter White Public Library. The event blends poetry, storytelling, music, and theater into an unforgettable evening. Kurt Hauswirth sat down with B.G. Bradley, poet and storyteller; Marty Achatz, U.P. Poet Laureate; and Linda Smith, one-half of the acoustic duo Big Lake Acoustic, to delve into this iteration’s theme: Momentous.
“Momentous can mean a grand event or a tiny but significant moment,” explained Bradley. “It’s about capturing those microcosmic moments that suddenly feel huge.” He shared how this thematic direction emerged organically in conversation with Achatz. “I said, ‘Let’s do something about moments.’ Marty immediately added, ‘It has to be momentous.’ It all clicked.”
Achatz expanded on the idea, noting how poetry often elevates the everyday. “When I write, I’m inspired by tiny moments. Exploring those leads to something momentous. It could be as simple as the best piece of chocolate you’ve ever had or a hug from your child before school,” he shared, emphasizing poetry’s power to transform the ordinary into something meaningful. “I hope audiences connect and see themselves in what we do.”
Linda Smith brings her own unique contribution to North Words and Music through music woven into the narrative fabric of the show. She explained, “Music, like poetry, is tied to moments and memories. It can touch hearts and bring people to a different place.” For Smith, the chance to perform alongside her son Seamus adds a personal layer of connection. “I’m blessed to create art with him.”
Smith and her musical partner aim to evoke a range of emotions in their audience, using songs that might bring joy to some and stir melancholy in others. “Our goal isn’t to sway feelings in one direction but to make people feel—whatever that may be,” she said. Reflecting on the timing of the event near the election, Smith acknowledged the divided emotions in the air. “We hope to touch hearts on both sides.”
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's interview with B.G., Marty, and Linda:
Bradley added that North Words and Music thrives on elastic, professional performances that often come together with minimal rehearsal. “Everyone shows up ready, and an hour and a half later, we’re good to go,” he said, underscoring the collaborative magic of the show. The versatile Jacque Love will also return, lending her acting talents to keep audiences guessing and engaged, and special guest stars The Make-Believe Spurs.
As Bradley concluded, “Art is about making connections—between performers and audiences, between past and future. It’s about trying to figure things out together through storytelling, poetry, and music.”
So whether you’re seeking a moment of reflection, laughter, or connection, North Words and Music promises a momentous evening that won’t soon be forgotten.
North Words and Music's "Momentous" show takes place Wednesday, November 13th at 7 pm EST at Peter White Public Library, with free admission.
