Things seem to have progressed since the Lilith Fair festival began in 1997 as a response to female performers' exclusion from other big fests of the time. Not that sexism doesn't still exist — the playing field just seems more level these days. Kelly Thomas (pictured), organizer of Friday and Saturday's “One More Girl on a Stage” benefit concerts at York Street Cafe, says the idea of putting together a lineup with mostly women isn't some sort of equal opportunity statement.
“This isn't a series about lack of opportunity for women in the local music scene,” Thomas says. “Far from it. If you have good songs and put on an entertaining show, the music scene will make room for you regardless.”
This year's OMG event again features a broad range of musical styles and some fun additions like the Black-n-Bluegrass Rollergirls lending a hand and chanteuse Vicki D'Salle hostessing. Performers include Thomas (playing with Ryan Malott), Lauren Houston, Tupelo Honey, Wonky Tonk, The Polly Esthers, Raison D’etre, Shiny and The Spoon, J. Dorsey Blues Revival, De Los Muertos, Jenny Ward, Stick Figure Drawings, Carole Walker and Smitten Hicks.
Proceeds from the fest go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research. An exhibition on the Cafe's top floor will feature the work of Art Academy student Sarah Baker (among other artists), who has been documenting her mother's now-terminal breast cancer struggle.
Music begins at 7 p.m. both nights.
(Get show details for Friday here and Saturday here.)
