LuLu Small performing at Alaska State Fair

PALMER — Local musician LuLu Small is performing throughout the 2023 Alaska State Fair season.

Small is an eclectic rock and roll musician known for her whimsical humor onstage, whether it's playful banter between sets or the humorous lyrics in several of her original songs.

During her performance at the Watering Hole Thursday, Aug. 24, Small sang little sound bites that were parodies of classic rock songs. In one instance, she sang a parody of the Eagles' "Hotel California" and sang "... I'm handing out stickers at Walmart in California." The audience cheered loudly during her soulful ballads and roared with laughter during her funny antics.

"I loved that crowd," Small said.

Small has been putting on shows at various venues across the Fairgrounds since the opening day of the 2023 season. She said there were a lot of spectators on the first day.

"It was a really good turnout. I'm happy to be back," Small said.

Small has been performing at the Fair for well over two decades. She said that they've treated her well over the years. She said that she's made a lot of different friends between Fair staff, fellow musicians, and everyone in between and she always looks forward to reuniting with so many familiar faces each year.

"I like the Fair family, I really do," Small said.

The Alaska State Fair is known for pulling big names from the music industry to the main stage but they're also known for giving local artists a chance to shine throughout the season. Small said the amount of opportunities for Alaskan performers has continued to grow over the years and the general public has been increasingly supportive as well. She said the various Fair staff, volunteers, and partners have been very helpful in their efforts promoting local talent. It's the single largest public gathering in the state and highly sought after by those interested in showing everyone what they're made of.

"We're very grateful for this opportunity,"

Small turned 70 this year. She has a long and diverse experience with the Alaskan music scene. She's collaborated with various local artists and performed across the state. She said her favorite thing about this lifestyle has always been the People she's met over the years. She said each show is different and each crowd is different. All in all, it's been a very positive experience for her.

It keeps you young. It keeps that feeling, that energy," Small said. "You got a chance to hear our soul… That's why I do what I do."

LuLu Small is set to perform at the Watering Hole at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. __ and at the Sluicebox at 3:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. __

She was also invited to participate as a judge for the upcoming yodeling contest and Alaska's Got Talent during the final weekend of the Fair.

For more information about events, activities, and live performances at the Alaska State Fair, visit alaskastatefair.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com