Since early October of this year of years, the CMH has been producing live shows showcasing a wide variety of artists. The eleven-show outdoor season had nine sell-outs of a socially distanced, outdoor tailgate/concert atmosphere in a pastoral field surrounded by mature oaks and massive pines. Sell-outs included two nights each of Shovels and Rope, St. Paul and the Broken Bones, and Jason Isbell with Amanda Shire, one night each of Susto, the Marcus King Trio and Ranky Tanky.
The Bend is a large open field bordering the Ashley River, north of the Charleston peninsula. It is surrounded by live oaks, tall pines and a variety of other live trees and shrubbery. There is a tidal pond near the entrance and the portable johns are found near the water. One of the main focuses of the CMH was to have a safe environment for all to enjoy. I’m here to report on their success.
The mission was to create a safe atmosphere so people would feel comfortable enjoying live music with friends once again. To that extent, the field was subdivided into 250 four-person pods for you and your friends to relax and enjoy within! They are large enough for four people to safely occupy the corners of their pod, yet feel close to those in their party. Ticket-holders are invited to bring their coolers of beverages and food to enjoy tailgate style. Bringing in your seats was encouraged. I saw patrons bring in tables and sofas, stringing up lights to their pod and setting out a buffet of foods for their friends to enjoy. Starting a fire is prohibited but relaxing in the sun with food and friends is encouraged. The staff enforces the current safety protocols and encourages groups to remain in their space unless they’re headed to the restrooms or their cars. Gates open at 5 and allow you up to two hours to enjoy this new venue. Concert tickets are on your phone for touchless scanning and the only amenity provided were the afore mentioned port-a-potties.
We have been blessed by good weather during the six-week run. The CMH staff, guided by the vision of director Charles Carmody, created an atmosphere where you can have a great outdoor music experience and keep yourselves reasonably distanced and safe.
People everywhere are eager to get out and enjoy live music once again. The demand appears to outweigh the supply. Several of the bands that performed here were playing their first shows since the shutdown in March. They were open with their compliments of the site and the atmosphere. Many, if not most of the patrons were experiencing their first live shows in eight months or more. I have heard many words of thanks from cars of patrons as they left after the show. The season came to an end November 14 with Grammy winners Ranky Tanky. The Music Hall reopened on the 12th of November with local artists the Travelin’ Kine and an album release party. Will there be a spring season of the Charleston Music Hall at the Bend? Stay tuned…
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Do You Believe in Magic 