The North Words & Music collective is back with a new themed showcase titled "Fear Itself," taking place Wednesday, October 8, at 6:30 p.m. in the Peter White Public Library Community Room. The evening blends poetry, storytelling, theater, and live music, continuing a format that audiences have come to love from this creative ensemble.
Storyteller and poet B.G. Bradley helped launch the series several years ago alongside two-time U.P. Poet Laureate Marty Achatz. Inspired by classic live radio-style variety shows, they set out to build an event that brought writers, musicians, and performers together under one roof. What began as a simple idea has evolved into a recurring community favorite, now supported by a house band, Big Lake Acoustic, featuring Linda Smith and Seamus Collins.
This edition of the show unites familiar performers, including Bradley, Achatz, Smith, Collins, Jim Edwards, and Public Radio 90’s own Nicole Walton, along with special musical guest Brian Wallen. The theme centers on exploring fear from every angle, not only through the lens of October spookiness, but through personal reflection, humor, and catharsis. Expect laughter, raw humanity, musical interludes, and perhaps the occasional philosophical detour.
Achatz, who also coordinates adult programming at the library, credits the longevity of the project to long-standing friendships and a shared artistic trust among the performers. Many of them have worked together for decades, including Smith and Collins, who bring a unique musical chemistry to the stage - the result of a lifetime of collaboration as mother and son.
Kurt Hauswirth invited the participants to the studio to record a preview show and interview:
The group sees "Fear Itself" not just as entertainment, but as a reminder that creativity and community are powerful antidotes to uncertainty. The night also serves as a fundraiser and show of support for Public Radio 90, a cause the performers champion both onstage and off.
The public is invited to attend in person or online via livestream. As always, the performers encourage listeners to join the circle, laugh at the bad jokes, and maybe find courage in shared stories and songs.
Find out more at pwpl.info.
