Romance in the Streets with Marguerite Beane

02.14.2023 - A steady gulf breeze warmed our souls and enhanced a mid-winter balmy night that set the mood for another first in Historic Downtown Smithville, Tennessee:  Romance in the Streets presented by The Shoppes of West Walnut.  A mix of shopping, food, drinks, art, live music and carriage rides.  

It was quite nostalgic as I drove down the boulevard because I could hear the clip-clop of hooves around the town square while the foot traffic and laughter of children both young and old permeated the rarified air on the streets of Smithville. The crossroads of College Street (yes, there once was a college in Smithville called Pure Fountain College which featured a five story bell tower). The convergence of College and Walnut has witnessed many horse drawn carriages since its founding in 1838.  One can picture the hustle and bustle of a romantic holiday in the newly formed hamlet 184 years ago, and for the citizens of yesteryear, my oh my, what must they think of downtown in 2023. The sentiment is the same then as it is now…we long to be with the one we love…which never goes out of style.  

The red lights emanating from the historic and newly refurbished Harvester were a draw to those seeking an even more ratified air with the smooth stylings of Marguerite Bean who embodies charm, class, and a soulful approach to her craft...JAZZ, a true American invention. Not the first time we’ve hosted the Wilmington, Delaware, native for she has graced the stages of The Burlap Room and The Harvester before and she also performed live on the Walnut Street Stage last September during the Art Walk. The reds light both outside and inside  splashed with pink and purple gave the Flatwoods Stage a glow that was alluring as it was relaxing.  Oh yea, a big screen also accompanied Marguerite and David in the backdrop of the stage playing the black and white classic movie Casablanca for the duration of the performance..how avant-garde. 

Yes, that is it, jazz has a way of touching the inner passions of the human experience and again, none more in depth as Marguerite. Moving through the American songbook with ease and mesmerizing all of us with her guitar playing and sultry vocals. Her partner David Cooper (Dr. Trombone) displayed his own talents as he tantalized and melted with the guitar in a harmonious unfolding melody that jazz provides…you see, they color outside the lines and interpret the vibe of the room and for those there in attendance understand when I say there was a peace that washed over the whole building. Could it be the love that was in the air, the notes in the air, the smiles, the laughter, the relaxed feeling that we all seek…only minutes from our homes. The glow drew the patrons to our doors and once inside the array of displays was impressive. 

Beautiful long stem roses provided by Angela Pedigo (Lotus Pod). Angela has been a long time member of the is community and really set the standard for creativity through her career and still continues to wow us with quality and style. Newcomers John Bell and his wife Juanises of the Sweet Sweet Bakery showed us a wonderful selection of plant based sweet treats “air light cupcakes “, guava turnover, macaroons, and banana pudding like I never had…light, creamy, and not too sweet. John and his family have recently moved here from New York City and this was their first foray into the local scene.

Our long time friends from Harmony Lane Farm and Creamery were also with us for the evening with samples of fudge to taste and to purchase.  This is one of the finest, most well run goat dairies in the land and I would encourage a visit to their farm which is only minutes from downtown and they have tours daily Monday through Saturday. Thanks again for being part this special evening. 

Thanks also go out to our local Papa John’s Pizza for setting up on site to feed the patrons. Richard and his crew at the Smithville Papa John’s are working hard to be part of the community and we appreciate their support. The Harvester staff and bartenders are always classy and we do appreciate them ever so much.

In all, St. Valentine was pleased as he peered down on us from the sky. Success he must think for the peaceful community vibe brought together through music…so good for the soul. Happy Valentine’s Day, y’all!

Join us for Bert’s on Thursdays at the Harvester with John Rose and Damian C. on 2/16, Finally Fridays with Harry Clark and Maddie Denton on 2/24, Finally Fridays St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with the John Boulware Trio on 3/17, and two separate events to benefit the DCHS Band: DCHS Fighting Tiger Band Jazz Ensemble Benefit Concert on 3/23 and a 1920's Spring Formal with Beasley Court Big Band on 3/25. And our Burlap Room 2023 Outdoor Series was just announced - check it out here!

All the details for upcoming events at burlaproom.eventbrite.com. Stay up-to-date with all the events in the Bert Driver Network (Nursery, Burlap Room, and the Harvester) by signing up for our Burlapper Newsletter!

📸 @m.m.antoniak, Brenda Pedigo, and Harvester staff