Pub adds singer-songwriter night

Frontiersman reporter

WASILLA -- The Great Bear Brewing Company, in Wasilla, added a singer/songwriter night to their growing list of live music performances.

The new Thursday gigs, follow the popular Wednesday night open-mics, where participation has steadily increased over the last three years.

On Wednesdays, musicians play on a first come, first served basis with each musician performing a handful of songs before turning the mic over. Wednesday's music usually goes from 7 p.m to 10 p.m. but there are no set time limits and often the music runs longer, depending on the crowd and the number of artists. Thursdays are more structured, however, with three musicians signing up a week in advance. Each performer then plays a one hour set, which can be a combination of both original songs and covers. Opening sets begin at 7 p.m.

"The idea is to have three different artists in three hours," said restaurant manager Dowie Ferguson.

Long time Valley musician and co-founder of the Wednesday open-mics, James Summers, is hosting both Wednesday and Thursdays nights. To sign up for either performance, call 373-4783 and ask to talk to Ferguson.