Two large earthquakes struck Nepal in April and May, leaving a death toll of over 15,000 and many more injured. An estimated 450,000 people were displaced and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley were destroyed.
The earthquakes and after-shocks of Nepal rippled their way across continents and struck a chord with local singer-songwriter Steph Johnson, which provoked movement of another kind.
“I wanted to get involved in putting together a benefit for Nepal,” says Johnson. “I imagined myself there and what I would be thinking, about my fate and the world. I would probably feel like the world was coming to an end. I wept for my friends and the people of Nepal.”
With Nepal plucking at her heartstrings, Johnson immediately reached out to local musicians and artists about playing together for a benefit concert. The response? Resounding.
“I was so blown away by how many amazing performers agreed to become a part of this show,” Johnson continues, “The venue, artists, promoters, photographers and local businesses who’ve donated… I feel confident that this evening will raise a good sum of money that will most definitely make a difference in the lives of those suffering.”
Please join us for ‘A Concert for Nepal,” hosted at the Merrow this Sunday evening, June 28, at 6pm. The event will start with a silent auction followed by traditional Nepalese Folk Dancers. The rest of the night will feature music by Peter Hall, Rosy Dawn, Dave Howard, Heather Nation, Michael Dwyer, Raelee Nicole, Viva Apollo, Rachael Eckroth, Steph Johnson, Rob Thorsen, Fernando Gomez, plus special guests Whitney Shay, Jamie Shadowlight, Robert Cowan, Jeffrey Joe, Rebecca Jade, and more.
Funds raised from the benefit will be sent to the hospital in Chautara that serves 300,000 people including the surrounding villages in the Sindhupalchowk District.
Of the upcoming concert, Johnson elucidates, “I feel excited for our community to be joining forces for this cause. Many talented singer-songwriters, musicians, dancers, and artists will be at this event raising the vibration of love for our brothers and sisters in Nepal. We are one human race and we need each other, always.”
Tickets for “A Concert for Nepal” are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. You can purchase them here. Doors open at 6pm and the music starts at 7pm. Raffles will be held throughout. If you are interested in donating a service or gift to raffle, please contact Steph Johnson at stephjohnsonband@gmail.com.