An Open Mic Show took place Saturday, June 26, at the Vienna Town Green. The performers included Vienna residents Jim Dowell, Tom Duesterhaus, Art Hildebrand, Jessica McHenry, Shawn Askins, Nate Tenhunfeld, Ed Schnittger, John Landers and Polly Lohrman. Dowell acted as the event’s host.
Deborah Larson, who sponsored the event, said she looked at it as a way to say thank you to her past, present and future clients.
"I am a Town of Vienna resident and love the Town Green Concerts," she said. "It is a very ‘green’ way to enjoy summer evenings. One can walk to the Green or even bike as it is right along the W&OD bike trail. Whole Foods Market is across the street, so many people staked out a good spot and went across the street to buy a ‘carry out’ treat to enjoy on the Green while listening to great music."
Larson also gave out glow-in-the-dark bracelets and mini Frisbees to children as well as notepads, with her business information, to others. "As a former elementary school teacher, I also like family oriented events," she said.
Performers were given a time frame of 15 minutes and could perform any music that they wanted to. Guitarists sang blues, country music and 1960s genre music. McHenry performed a music from Taylor Swift and Jordan Sparks. Tenhunfeld, a student at the University of Virginia, sang original pieces including "Good Night Mercury," which entertained the audience as the sun set.
For more information on events at the Vienna Town Green, visit http://www.viennava.gov/Town_Departments/towngreen.htm.
For more information on future Open Mic Nights contact Cathy Salgado, the Parks & Recreations director, at 703-255-6340.