Sarah Donner found a pretty cool way to celebrate the world of post-Covid performances – a mini tour of the Pacific northwest.
With her guitar, ukulele and partner Michael McLean, Donner enjoyed herself by doing concerts in fields and backyards in Oregon and Washington, gigs she booked thanks to the Internet and her national reputation as a songwriter that includes 10 albums.
“After being at home for a year and a half it was nice to wake up not knowing what city I’m in and not knowing what day it is, but knowing that I’m going to be connecting with friends I haven’t seen in a while,” Donner says. “Being out of my house is great.”
The 10-day trip in early July included four outdoor performances – two in Portland, OR, one in Alsea, OR, and one in Seattle, WA. It was her sixth time playing in the region, including three cross-country tours. This voyage included songs from her latest release, “The Mess We Make,” and songs from her upcoming album, “She Makes Waves,” scheduled for release in November.
“I like it out here a lot,” Donner said via phone. “It’s a gorgeous location and there’s a softness to the people. The vibe is open and welcoming. Coming from New England you might wonder what they’re drinking and smoking.”
Donner’s return to SouthCoast will include a pair of performances – Saturday, July 31’st at Play Arcade on Union St. in downtown New Bedford, and Thursday, August 12’th at AHA! Night, also in downtown.
A resident of New Bedford, Donner has learned the practice of networking. When her musician friends from the West Coast travel to the northeast, she and McLean will provide them with a place to stay while they’re in the area.
“People have opened their houses and yards to us, and these little get togethers with music are really special. We’re having a good time making music and meeting folks. When they come to play in the northeast we’ll be there to help them and support them. Be kind and good things will happen.”
And Donner and McLean have been kind to friends and fans throughout the pandemic. Known as Kittens Slay Dragons, the synth-pop duo hosted virtual variety shows from their home every Saturday night, billed as “Quarantinapalooza.” Lasting three to four hours a night, the shows focused on art, science and mental health/well being, among other topics. The duo has performed more than 60 installments of the show, archived online.
Donner and McLean are planning to have Quarantinapalooza make a return in the fall on a monthly basis.
Sonic SouthCoast 