One of the most popular NPR offerings, the Tiny Desk Concert series has showcased talent from world-famous musicians to the up-and-coming. It was this very series which, in 2021, inspired the creation of the Small Stage Series by the Davis Arts Council, and the growing popularity of the returning series goes to show the similar format is a hit. 

“The series started inside our office building, where we built a 50-seat venue,” said Kim Ridl, director of communications for the Davis Arts Council. “We quickly outgrew that space in less than a year, and with us moving to a new office, we shifted the series to Abbington Senior Living last fall.” The Abbington, at 350 South 100 West in Layton, which sponsors the concert series, has turned out to be the perfect venue in fact. 

The Small Stage Series has been a great venue to showcase local artists in a way that both highlights their talent, as well as making quality musical entertainment available to the community for a price tag everyone can afford – free. While there may be no cover charge, the experiences to be had there, are priceless. 

Acoustic performances allow for a much more up close and personal show, and one which allows for each performer to “connect with the audience and share stories about the music,” said Ridl. “The audience gets a chance to really engage with the artists as well.”  With unforgettable opportunities like this, it’s no wonder that the first-come, first-serve seating fills up fast. 

The first in the Small Stage Series is Oct. 4, and will run first Fridays through March 2025, and features a lineup that’s sure to cater to a wide variety of musical tastes. “We’re delighted to bring back this cherished series at Abbington,” said Ridl. “The support from Abbington Senior Living has been invaluable, providing us with an inviting venue that truly enhances the experience for both the audience and the performers.”

Date

2024 -25 Small Stage Series

Friday, Oct. 4

Kyle Lambdin

Friday, Nov. 1

Hit N Miss

Friday, Dec. 6

Salt City String Quartet

Friday, Jan. 3

Allen Luker & Friends

Friday, Feb. 7

Sugartime

Friday, March 7

Karlie McKinnon

More information on the Small Stage Series, as well as the Davis Arts Council and the other events they’re putting on this season, can be found at www.davisarts.org.