Ahead of the upcoming Northwords and Music performance at the Peter White Public Library Community Room, local creative staples B.G. Bradley, Marty Achatz, and Linda Smith gathered to preview an evening themed around phantoms. Blending quick-witted banter with genuine camaraderie, the performers described how the October show captures the season's spirit through humor, mystery, and seasonal nostalgia. Rather than sticking strictly to classic ghost stories or Upper Peninsula folklore like Bigfoot sightings, the production uses its eerie framework to explore broader themes, from the haunting transition of autumn to the unseen emotional burdens people carry in everyday life.
Attendees can expect a dynamic variety format that transitions fluidly between original poetry, thematic acoustic music, and theatrical skits. Achatz shared pieces touching on nostalgic family routines and Halloween traditions; Bradley showcased the show's comedic side with a satirical commercial for a dog-based alarm system alongside his more reflective prose. Musician Linda Smith explained that Big Lake Acoustic uses the thematic freedom of the series to weave in tailored musical arrangements (including a reimagined performance of The Cranberries' song "Zombie") designed to highlight internal struggles and complement the spoken word pieces. The troupe emphasized that live audience energy heavily dictates delivery and pacing, keeping the evening fluid and spontaneous.
Listen to the show preview and interview here:
The ensemble aims to deliver a multi-layered community experience that moves naturally from sharp comedy to quiet poignancy. Whether confronting memories, remembering lost loved ones, or simply enjoying the seasonal atmosphere, audience members are invited to reflect on the personal phantoms that linger in their own lives.
Event Details:
- When: Thursday, October 22nd, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
- Where: Peter White Public Library Community Room.
- Online: Livestream available via the Peter White Public Library YouTube channel (under the "Live" tab).
Find out more at the Peter White Public Library event page.
