MOUNT VERNON – The Kokosing Valley Arts Alliance invites music lovers to an evening of original music and storytelling as Songwriters & Circles returns to the Woodward Opera House on Friday from 7 to 9 p.m.
Held in the intimate Black Box Theater, the event will feature four talented singer-songwriters: RJ Cowdrey, Vernon Schubel, Jess Crook-Collins and John Brenneman.
Unlike a traditional concert, Songwriters & Circles invites audiences to experience the creative process firsthand. Each artist performs original compositions while sharing the personal stories, experiences, and inspirations that shaped their music.
The listening-room atmosphere encourages a meaningful connection between performers and audiences, celebrating not only the songs themselves but the artistry behind them.
Featured artists
RJ Cowdrey. An award-winning Ohio singer-songwriter with Appalachian roots, Cowdrey is celebrated for her heartfelt lyrics, distinctive guitar style, and engaging blend of honesty and humor. Her acclaimed recordings include In This Light and What If This Is All There Is.
She has earned recognition through prestigious songwriting competitions, including Kerrville New Folk and Mountain Stage NewSong, establishing herself as a respected voice in contemporary folk and Americana music.
Vernon Schubel. A Mount Vernon-based singer-songwriter and acoustic guitarist, Schubel creates original folk music exploring themes of love, humanity, spirituality, and the complexities of everyday life. Performing under his own name and as These Things Too, his 2025 album A Dervish in the Meyhane features ten original compositions that reflect his thoughtful approach to songwriting and storytelling.
Jess Crook-Collins. One of the evening’s featured original songwriters, Crook-Collins will bring her own compositions and creative perspective to the circle, sharing the experiences and inspirations behind her music.
John Brenneman. Rounding out the evening’s lineup, Brenneman will share original songs and the stories behind their creation, contributing his individual songwriting voice to this collaborative listening-room experience.
Together, these four artists will create an evening that highlights the diversity of original songwriting and the power of music to connect people through shared experiences.
The Woodward Opera House’s Black Box Theater provides an ideal setting for this unique performance format, offering an up-close atmosphere where audiences can appreciate every lyric, melody, and story.