Rooted in Song: The Folk Origins of Modern Musicals

Join us for Rooted in Song: The Folk Origins of Modern Musicals, a captivating concert that celebrates the rich connection between folk traditions and the musical theater stage. This program highlights the deep roots of folk and folk-rock in Broadway storytelling, featuring songs from Come From Away, Finian’s Rainbow, Once, The Notebook, Hadestown, Hair, Bright Star, and more. With heartfelt melodies and rhythmic drive, the concert will blend classic and contemporary musical theater through the lens of folk expression.

URI faculty artists Rachel Hanauer (vocals), Michael Kelly (piano), Kyle Forsthoff (percussion), and Joseph Bentley (string bass) are joined by guest musicians Paul Patinka (vocals), Chris Capaldi (guitar), and Tom Swafford (violin) for an evening of music that’s both soul-stirring and steeped in tradition. This is part of the Music Department's University Artist Series.