Two acclaimed musicians invite us for an evening of autobiographical storytelling with plenty of wonderful music bubbling up between the lines. In this double bill, Ronnie Gilbert, one of folk music's leading ladies, and keyboard artist Adrienne Dorf share their extraordinary stories through a combination of words and music.

Ronnie has been a leading voice in music and activist circles for a half-century. A founding member of the legendary folk ensemble, the Weavers, her glorious contralto graced classics like "Wimoweh" and "Kisses Sweeter than Wine." As a solo singer, playwright and actress, she has performed and created works for a broad range of venues, and she continues to work as a writer, teacher and activist in feminist and global peace work. Tonight Ronnie treats us to "A Radical Life with Songs," a first-hand narrative of our country's progressive political movements from the 1930s on. Through her spoken word and songs, we experience exhilarating performances by Paul Robeson, the hopefulness of the Henry Wallace campaign, the crushing personal consequences of McCarthy era blacklisting and FBI harassment, and the enduring spirit of a lifelong political artist and activist.

A composer and an eloquent keyboard artist, Adrienne is well-known for her collaborations with numerous singers including Holly Near, Linda Tillery and Cris Williamson, as well as her colorful, eclectic solo work. Adrienne also shared a long writing and performing collaboration with the late poet and activist, June Jordan. Alternating between spoken word and original compositions for piano, Adrienne's "Myths, Legends and DNA" takes us along on the profoundly moving search for her birth mother. While leading us through laughter and heartbreak, Adrienne's story addresses universal questions of identity and belonging.

And as if that weren't enough, Ronnie has also promised to include a few of her classic songs, with Adrienne's rich piano accompaniment, to bridge the two sets!

Visit Ronnie Gilbert's website

Visit Adrienne Torf's website