On Friday, September 11 at 7pm, an extravaganza of wild talent and celestial soul with original music, poetry, and comedy will transform people at the Briggs Opera House in White River Junction, Vermont. David Briggs, owner of the Opera House, wants a “year of fun.” Not only will this night be fun—this celebration of female performers will benefit WISE, located in Lebanon, with a goal to end domestic violence, share hope, and change lives.

“It has been said that when the stars align, a mob of angels will appear. When the angels gather, expect poetry and music for a night of revelry and transport,” says Jay Stevens of Caballbreaker, a group devoted to giving a platform to local and regional music and hosting parties for the community. “What we need is a really great party. This is one of many more to come.”

Mob of Angels showcases nine female artists who live in the local area or grew up nearby. Mistress of ceremonies Charen Fegard, from the Woodstock area, pulls it all together for a great party and a good cause—to help WISE fulfill its mission. Charen describes herself as a “natural clown.” She designs creative and colorful costumes with “wild peony.” When not on stage, she is an advocate for recycling legislation and a landscaper, and works with Sustainable Woodstock.

The night of revelry features Ida Mae Specker, a third-generation fiddler considered a rising force in American-roots music. Her old-time and bluegrass tunes and singer-songwriter Faith Wood’s raw and heartfelt songs and vocal harmonies form a duo that plays a rambunctious fusion of original and traditional music.

Lisa Piccirillo is “considered one of the most promising youngsters on the circuit” by the weekly newspaper Seven Days. She is Vermont based and worked with Syd, who grew up in Thetford, on the 2008 release of Momentum with the Northeast Artist Collective. Her songwriting provides a solid foundation for her hypnotic voice, drawing comparisons to vocalists from Patty Griffin to Christina Aguilera.

Senayit Tomlinson shares her unique vocal style along with accessible, infectious melodies and the lyrical sophistication of her songwriting. Her deep, natural musicianship and her free and open dedication to her calling are revealed at live performances. Her intuitive musicianship allows for a freedom of movement and expression indicative of jazz players, yet her style is contemporary alternative rock and soul-based music.

Special guests for the extravaganza of female talent include Suzan Seymour, who hit the comedy stage as “something that needs to be crossed off the bucket list.” From Northern Vermont, she uses her comedy to diffuse serious topics.

Angela Emery, a poet living in Central Vermont who grew up in Lebanon, shares her poems. She hopes to turn her words into songs some day.

Iva Wich from Strafford, 16 years young, performs her original songs. Trained by musical parents, she has played at open mic events, acted at many venues, and spent time recently at Interplay Jazz studying banjo and guitar. Iva is preparing to record her originals.

Ana D’Leon, an eager young performer from St. Johnsbury, plays acoustic music with many musical influences. With a gracious and humble nature, her delivery is soulful and from the heart.

Singer Kristina Dege, who lives in Lyndonville, covers many genres including soul, funk, classic rock, and jazz. She is taking time off from her college studies to pursue music and acting.

The “Mob of Angels” at the Briggs Opera House will benefit WISE, a non-profit with the mission to empower victims of domestic and sexual violence and stalking to become safe and self-reliant through crisis intervention and support services. WISE advances social justice through community education, training and public policy.

Jay Stevens sums up the extravaganza and party this way: “The rhythms will begin to change. The moon will start to dance.”

For tickets:

http://www.mobofangels.com/

$15 in advance, $20 at the door (check or cash only)