Emerson College UnCommon Corner

Jonah & Maya
2026-07-19 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York)
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Jonah and Maya are a pair of musical friends based in Boston. The two originally met through a jazz improvisation class at Berklee, quickly discovering each others’ shared love of all things folk music.

Originally from Connecticut, guitarist and songwriter Jonah Birtwell grew up playing and writing indie folk music, inspired by artists such as Adrienne Lenker and Field Medic. While studying at Berklee, Jonah delved into traditional American music through his involvement with Berklee’s American Roots Department, creatively combining his intricate fingerstyle guitar playing with traditional ballads and instrumental tunes.

Originally from Pennsylvania, fiddler/violinist Maya Leibowitz grew up steeped in various fiddle music traditions, deepening her understanding of American roots music and her improvisational skills at Berklee. While at Berklee, she learned how to accompany songwriters such as Jonah, lending tasteful melodic ideas to any song.

The two have brought their shared roots music language, improvisational ideas, and harmonic sensibilities to many projects and jam sessions alike. The duo most recently collaborated on a live concept album titled The Fox’s Tale, a collection of Maya’s original folk-jazz instrumentals that center around a fairytale. Their blend of Jonah’s profound songwriting, Maya’s repertoire of original and traditional fiddle tunes, and re-interpretations of folk songs is both ancient and timeless, creating an unique musical experience that anyone is sure to enjoy.

Instagram

Facebook

Maya Leibowitz

Instagram

Spotify

TikTok

Jonah Birtwell

New England Sports Trivia Night
2026-07-21 18:00 - 19:45
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

with The Boston Globe

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Trivia begins at 6:30 p.m.

Can You Beat the Boston Globe Sports Department at New England Sports Trivia?

Join the Boston Globe Sports department for a free evening of fast-paced New England sports trivia and put your knowledge to the test against some of the most celebrated sports editors and reporters in the business. Hosted by Andy Rosen, Assistant Business Editor at the Boston Globe, this friendly competition invites teams to see if they have what it takes to outsmart the experts.

Prizes will be awarded throughout the evening, with first-, second-, and third-place teams recognized after the first two rounds. Final standings for all teams will be announced at the end of the event, and winners will take home a grab bag of swag — plus, of course, ultimate bragging rights.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening. Gather your team and bring your sports knowledge on July 21!

Instagram

Facebook

X

YouTube

Spotify

HipStory Presents Rhythm and Roots
2026-07-22 17:00 - 19:00
Screenshot

HipStory Presents Rhythm and Roots featuring Louie Lou Louis and Ray & The Lovers

Join HipStory for their bi-weekly series, “Rhythm and Roots,” a live music and dance event that celebrates the deep-rooted traditions of Black music and movement. Rhythm & Roots will feature a rotating lineup of live bands, dance performances, and open jam sessions where musicians and dancers can exchange rhythms and movement.

Artist Bios

Louie Lou Louis

Louis Apollon (Louie Lou Louis) is a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter whose music blends folk, jazz, and global influences. Known for his warm presence and infectious positivity, Louis engages audiences through stories and songs that inspire joy, connection, and reflection.

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Ray & The Lovers

Ray & the Lovers are a can’t-miss soul band hailing from Boston, fronted by the charismatic lead singer Ray Hendricks. Known for their electrifying performances and emotionally charged songwriting, the band blends raw power with soulful melodies, creating a sound that is resonating deeply with audiences across New England. Ray & the Lovers draw inspiration from classic r&b, blues and modern influences crafting a unique sound that is both fresh and nostalgic.

Instagram

BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice
2026-07-23 17:00 - 19:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Every Thursday, join Toki Wright and BAMS Fest at UnCommon for the S.O.U.L.stice series. This week’s performance will feature Toki Wright & Mkeka!

Artist Bios

Toki Wright

Toki Wright is a two-time Emmy Award-winning MC, poet, producer, and cultural diplomat. He has received two CLIO Award for advertising with General Mills for the number one worldwide Twitter trending project “Watch the Stove” which was also nominated for a Cannes Lion Award. Wright is currently the chair of the Professional Music Department at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Before relocating he was the Department Head of the United States’ first fully accredited Hip-Hop Studies program at McNally Smith College of Music. The program was awarded the “Best Transformative Higher Learning Model” from the Hip-Hop Education Center at NYU. Toki also facilitated seven Twin Cities Celebration of Hip-Hop Festivals and helped establish “Hip-Hop at H.E.A.L.S,” a program for former child soldiers in Gulu, Northern Uganda.

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Spotify

Mkeka

Mkeka is a melding of the minds of saxophonist Joseph Borsellino III, bassist Tony Irons, pianist Jesse Taitt, drummer Tyson Jackson, and percussionist Brandon Mayes, each highly acclaimed composers, educators, and community leaders.

The mkeka is a tablecloth used in Kwanzaa celebrations, representing foundation, history, and tradition– the idea that today is built on yesterday. Mkeka captivates with effects-laden textures and intricate grooves, weaving sonic tapestries from the vibrant fabrics of African diasporic music.

Jules Grace
2026-07-24 15:00 - 17:00
Jules Grace

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Jules Grace is an independent artist from Boston who just released her debut album “Diaries & Daydreams.” She has been playing guitar since she was nine and grew up playing in cover bands. Jules enjoys making a variety of music, ranging from dreamy indie-pop to heavier rock. Performing on radio station WERS, Musicians Wanted, and local venues around Boston, Jules has been gaining momentum in her music career.

Tríptico
2026-07-24 18:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Claudio Ragazzi, Georgie Rodríguez, and Manolo Mairena come together to form Tríptico at UnCommon Corner.

Artist Bios

Claudio Ragazzi

Claudio Ragazzi, a GRAMMY and EMMY-winning film composer and guitarist, has scored dozens of award-winning film and television projects. His music has reached global audiences, and he has performed at prestigious concert halls around the world alongside some of today’s most respected artists.

Georgie Rodríguez

Georgie Rodríguez is a celebrated Puerto Rican multi-instrumentalist whose solid career as a bassist and guitarist is matched by his talents as a composer, arranger, producer, and music director. His versatility and deep musicality bring a rich foundation to every performance.

Manolo Mairena

Manolo Mairena is a dynamic Costa Rican singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist based in Boston. Known for his captivating stage presence and soulful voice, Manolo’s music resonates with audiences across the globe.

Puppet Showplace Theater Presents: “A Pirate’s Great Adventure” by Peanut's Playhouse
2026-07-25 12:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Join Pirate Kasandra and her puppet pals for an interactive high-seas adventure full of surprises, laughter, and treasure hunting! The audience will help the Peanuts crew search for hidden treasure, while meeting colorful puppet friends along the way, including a plush sea turtle, blue elephant, and more. As the journey unfolds, the pirates discover that the greatest treasure of all is friendship — especially the new friends we make on our adventures together!

Puppet Showplace Theater is Boston’s home for puppet show joy — with shows nearly every weekend, for kids and adults, just steps from the Brookline Village T stop! Puppet Showplace is dedicated to presenting outstanding puppetry to diverse audiences through performances, workshops, and community outreach. From children’s birthday party performances to provocative Puppets at Night shows, our programming is designed to reach a large and diverse audience of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. View our full calendar at puppetshowplace.org

As a special treat for the kids, El Jefe’s will feature a kids’ meal! For $7.50, kids can get 1 Taco, a Juice Box, a side of Chips & Salsa, AND crayons!

All ages welcome, especially enjoyed by ages 4 – 10

Artist Bios

Kasandra Vargas

Kasandra Vargas discovered her passion for puppetry in 2019, when she picked up her first puppet and taught herself ventriloquism using only a mirror. With years of experience as an educator, she has combined her love for teaching and performance by bringing her puppet characters to life in libraries and schools across her home state of California and in Massachusetts. Kasandra is passionate about spreading the joy of puppetry throughout Massachusetts and creating memorable, laughter-filled experiences for children and families at every show.

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Zion Rodman
2026-07-25 14:00 - 16:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Zion Rodman is a multi-instrumental singer-songwriter. He grew up in Cape Cod where he played around since the age of 15 and eventually received a B.A. in music from the University of Massachusetts in Boston.

In 2017, Zion teamed up with producer Alex Katz and released his debut full-length record You’re Invited. The folk-rock album received praise and local media attention following its anticipated release. Crossfader Magazine wrote that in an era of “lo-fi bedroom projects, it’s refreshing to hear a young creative voice this professionally produced, fully realized, and cohesively structured around a distinct personality and energy.”

Less than a year later, Zion released an EP titled “Did Not Wake up Today” on January 20th, 2018. This project features heavier topics and harder rock than his debut album. Even before its release, the title track was recognized by AFROPUNK: “Rodman turns up the volume of his melodic indie pop, with his stunning voice just barely masking his anger beneath the hook.”

His most recent album “Whatever Happens” was recorded in Chicago and released in 2020. Zion currently lives in Boston with his fiancé and their cats. Check the calendar for upcoming shows, or catch the full band every Fourth Friday at Ford Tavern or at the Melodies On Tap open mic every First Thursday at Medford Brewing.

project constellation
2026-07-25 18:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Community Curator Departure Arts brings project constellation to the UnCommon Corner! Featuring a live band and live MCs this is sure to be an unforgettable Saturday Night under the stars!

Departure Arts builds community through facilitating creative collaborations, amplifying historically underrepresented artistic voices, and supporting artistic risk-taking for Boston area artists, organizations, and audiences.​

Featured MCs To Be Announced!

Artist Bios

We Are Lofi

Introducing WeAreLoFi, a multi-Grammy-nominated, Golden Globe Award and NAACP image award winning duo who captivates listeners with their signature blend of soulful melodies and laid-back beats. With a passion for creating atmospheric and nostalgic soundscapes, WeAreLofi effortlessly combines elements of jazz, hip-hop, ambient music and MANY more genres to craft a truly unique sonic experience. The group consists of Charles Haynes and Mitch Henry, whose attention to detail and meticulous production techniques result in tracks that transport listeners to a world of tranquility and introspection. With a growing fan base and ever-expanding catalog of mesmerizing compositions, WeAreLofi is making waves in the lo-fi scene. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or a transcendent musical journey, WeAreLofi’s music is the perfect soundtrack for those moments of reflection and escape.

Instagram

Spotify

BEX
2026-07-26 14:00 - 16:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

BEX (Rebecca Strong) is a singer-songwriter based in Massachusetts — and an alumna of Emerson College (BA, 2010) and The Boston Conservatory at Berklee (MFA, 2017). Her music spans multiple genres, including alternative pop, country, and R&B, and in recent years, her songs have garnered airplay on a number of Boston radio stations, including 92.5 The River, Country 102.5, and WATD 95.9. Prior to recording her first album in 2019, BEX served as the graduate teacher’s assistant for the voice department at The Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Beyond singing and songwriting, BEX is a professional actress, model, and voiceover artist represented by New England Models Group. She’s also a topliner who’s written and recorded hooks for Emmy-nominated rapper T.O.N.E-z., and a full-time wellness and lifestyle journalist contributing to Men’s Health, Business Insider, and numerous other outlets. Her music — including her debut album Sink or Swim, and singles Sensitive and Secondhand Smoke — can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, and other leading platforms.

YouTube

Spotify

HipStory Presents The Break
2026-07-29 17:00 - 19:00
HipStory Presents The Break featuring Mez.Wav

“The Break” is bi-weekly showcase dedicated to Boston’s hip-hop/R&B artists and DJs, connecting the city’s underground talent with new audiences. This program is curated by HipStory.

Artist Bios

Mez.Wav

Born and raised between the Bustling neighborhoods of Dorchester and Roxbury, DJ Mez.Wav is an open format DJ humbly making waves in Boston’s music scene. Recognized throughout the city, he can be located DJing at many of Boston’s premier clubs and lounges and is the trusted DJ for the city’s rising artists. Currently Mez is the creator of VIBRATION an open format dance party, Holds residencies as a DJ for SILK R&B PARTY and HUE BOSTON, and is a 2026 EMBRACE BOSTON Artist in Residence. On occasion you might see him DJ events for the City of Boston and other community events. His versatility, genuine passion and deep rooted connection to his hometown, Mez channels the spirit of Boston into every DJ set.

Instagram

X

TikTok

YouTube

Bandcamp

BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice
2026-07-30 17:00 - 19:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Every Thursday, join Toki Wright and BAMS Fest at UnCommon for the S.O.U.L.stice series. This week’s performance will feature Toki Wright & Riah!

Artist Bios

Toki Wright

Toki Wright is a two-time Emmy Award-winning MC, poet, producer, and cultural diplomat. He has received two CLIO Award for advertising with General Mills for the number one worldwide Twitter trending project “Watch the Stove” which was also nominated for a Cannes Lion Award. Wright is currently the chair of the Professional Music Department at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Before relocating he was the Department Head of the United States’ first fully accredited Hip-Hop Studies program at McNally Smith College of Music. The program was awarded the “Best Transformative Higher Learning Model” from the Hip-Hop Education Center at NYU. Toki also facilitated seven Twin Cities Celebration of Hip-Hop Festivals and helped establish “Hip-Hop at H.E.A.L.S,” a program for former child soldiers in Gulu, Northern Uganda.

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Spotify

Riah

Riah is a Cape Verdean-American artist from Boston with a musical style that blends alt/pop, R&B, and neo-soul. After amassing over two million combined streams with her first widely successful hit “Too Fast,” riah released her first EP “Head/Space” in 2024. Beginning her career from her studio apartment in Madrid, she’s since played shows in the States, Europe, Africa, and Australia. Her debut album “Garden” deals with themes of self-love amidst anxiety and uncertainty, and is streaming everywhere.

Instagram

YouTube

Spotify

TikTok

Soulelujah
2026-07-31 15:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-14 15:00 - 17:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Formed in 2003 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Soulelujah is an all-vinyl DJ collective and dance party that has been spinning the finest soul, funk, and R&B 45s, along with other slabs of wax, for the past two decades. Playing freshly-unearthed gems to solid favorites, this award-winning dance party has become a Boston-area staple, captivating dance-ready crowds with sweet soul grooves and infectious funk that gets bodies moving.

What began as a modest gathering at ZuZu in Central Square quickly transformed into a weekly, line-down-the-block beloved Cambridge nightlife institution you had to experience up close and personal. Soulelujah’s room-packing popularity led to its expansion, adding a second space at The Middle East Upstairs. After 15 years of resounding success, earning accolades from the Boston Music Awards, the party moved to The Sinclair in Harvard Square, establishing a vibrant weekly Saturday night residency for five years. Soulelujah has currently set up shop at State Park in Kendall Square, hosting its smooth, pulsating grooves on the third Saturday of each month.

Led by a rotating crew of seasoned resident soul DJs, including Raligh Fingers, IPL, DJ Rad Joy, Sean Marquand, Johnny Stevens, Claude Money, Ty Jesso, and John Funke as well as a variety of guests from around the world, Soulelujah thrives on an endless collection of records carefully curated to create an uplifting party like no other. Their deep crate-digging, musical knowledge, and passion for bringing vinyl rarities to light fuel their performances, inviting you to experience a dance night of musical soul bliss that will keep your own soul happy.

Instagram

Facebook

Puppet Showplace Theater Presents: “Magnificent Monster Circus” by CactusHead Puppets
2026-08-01 12:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Come one, come all, to a circus like no other! Encounter magnificent creatures from the wilds of your imagination as their quirky human caretaker tries to teach them new tricks. Kids can lend a hand to Eustace the Unicycling Unimonster, make friends with a Fiery Fanged Worm, cheer for Agnes the many-legged Acropod, and more! This colorful, silly, multi-sensory show is a perfect match for our youngest audiences.

Puppet Showplace Theater is Boston’s home for puppet show joy — with shows nearly every weekend, for kids and adults, just steps from the Brookline Village T stop! Puppet Showplace is dedicated to presenting outstanding puppetry to diverse audiences through performances, workshops, and community outreach. From children’s birthday party performances to provocative Puppets at Night shows, our programming is designed to reach a large and diverse audience of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. View our full calendar at puppetshowplace.org

As a special treat for the kids, El Jefe’s will feature a kids’ meal! For $7.50, kids can get 1 Taco, a Juice Box, a side of Chips & Salsa, AND crayons!

All ages welcome, especially enjoyed by ages 4 – 10

Artist Bios

CactusHead Puppets

CactusHead Puppets was started in 2010 by John and Megan Regan. Known for their playful performance style and exuberant creativity, they have created six fun family shows including The Pied Piper of Hamelin, Bremen Town Musicians, and Magnificent Monster Circus. They tour throughout the Northeast and are affiliated artists with the Puppet Showplace Theater. Both Megan and John are graduates of the University of Connecticut’s Puppet Arts program, and were interns at Puppet Showplace Theater way back! Megan is originally from the Kansas City area, where she worked with Paul Mesner Puppets, now known as What is Puppets. John is from western Massachusetts, and is honored to be performing in some of the same venues where he saw puppet shows growing up.

@cactushead_puppets

Instagram

Facebook

Ry F.M
2026-08-01 14:00 - 16:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Ry F.M is an award winning internationally touring singer-songwriter from Boston, MA. As a singer, songwriter and storyteller, Ry uses his music and life experiences to create a fun, relatable and highly entertaining show that everyone will enjoy. Ry regularly collaborates with platinum writers & producers across the music industry & has amassed more than 1 million streams with his multiple musical projects. Including, 5 albums, 3 EPs, and a plethora of singles. With a buttery voice and big smile, Ry is ready to soothe any crowd. With his bands Ohyah. & Copilot, Ry has shared lineups with groups like, OneRepublic, RIPE, Nathaniel Rateliff & more.

Instagram

YouTube

Spotify

TikTok

Richard Peña Equilibrio Trio
2026-08-01 18:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

“Equilibrio” is Peña’s latest work, representing a musical journey that seeks the perfect balance between tradition and innovation. The music blends the rhythmic heartbeat of Puerto Rico’s Afro-Caribbean heritage with the harmonic richness, improvisational depth, and energy of modern jazz.

The trio’s sound, a constant conversation between the three musicians, draws inspiration from the lyricism of Chick Corea with Avishai Cohen and Jeff Ballard, while carrying the rhythmic fire of Chucho Valdés and the driving montunos of Eddie Palmieri. The compositions are rooted in rhythms like bomba, plena, guaracha, and son, mixed with the harmonic sophistication of post-bop, waltz, and modal jazz.

The “Equilibrio” project features Richard Peña (Guitar and Direction) alongside two internationally renowned musicians:

Ricky Rodríguez: Bass (from New York). One of the most sought-after musicians in Latin jazz, known for his work with the David Sánchez Quartet, Branford Marsalis, Miguel Zenón Quartet, and more. He brings world-class virtuosity and a deep groove.

William García: Drums. Winner of the Berklee High School Jazz Competition and trained in Puerto Rican percussion traditions, he has worked with cuatrista Fabiola Méndez and the JM Jazz World Orchestra.

Instagram

Facebook

X

YouTube

Spotify

Ron Reid
2026-08-02 14:00 - 16:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Ron Reid is a bassist, steel drummer, educator and composer. The Trinidadian musician is also a Professor of Contemporary Writing and Production at Berklee College of Music. He has performed with Randy Weston, Carmen Lundy, Dave Samuels Caribbean Jazz Project as well as a host of notable calypso and soca artists. He has three CDs as a leader, the most recent ‘Precious Metals’ was released on the Jazz Urbane label. Ron also leads the Sunsteel Quintet in which he exclusively plays steel pans.

Instagram

Facebook

HipStory Presents Rhythm and Roots
2026-08-05 17:00 - 19:00
Screenshot

HipStory Presents Rhythm and Roots featuring TBA

Join HipStory for their bi-weekly series, “Rhythm and Roots,” a live music and dance event that celebrates the deep-rooted traditions of Black music and movement. Rhythm & Roots will feature a rotating lineup of live bands, dance performances, and open jam sessions where musicians and dancers can exchange rhythms and movement.

Artist Bios

To Be Announced!

Stéfane
2026-08-07 15:00 - 17:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Stéfane is a RnB/Alternative-Jazz artist from France. Stéfane describes her style as ‘a mix between Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, and Yebba.’ Her songs, reflecting deep self-empowerment and awakening messages, feature rich harmonies, unique melodies, and an undeniable energic French Touch proper to herself. Stéfane just released her first single « Set Me Free », and she is actively working on the production of her debut album.

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok

YouTube

SoundCloud

Spotify

Leo Blanco
2026-08-07 18:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

THE MUSIC OF PIANIST & COMPOSER LEO BLANCO……pulses with global rhythmic elements influenced equally by his South American roots and European classical traditions interwoven with improvisatory developments.

Blanco was born in the Venezuelan Andes where he absorbed folk music genres that were a mix of Afro-Caribbean, North American and European musical styles. By age eleven he was a violinist in the Merida Youth Symphony Orchestra. In 1996, his interest in world music and jazz brought him to Boston’s Berklee College of Music and he later earned a Master’s Degree in Composition at New England Conservatory.

In 1997 Blanco became the first Latin American to win to the prestigious Boston Jazz Society Award. The next year, he received the Billboard Grant Award for his commitment, achievement and contribution to society through music. Currently, he is a faculty member at Berklee College of Music. Blanco has shared the stage with major international jazz artists including Terence Blanchard, Pat Metheny, Chucho Valdez (Irakere) and Joao Bosco. He has performed at numerous festivals including the Montreaux Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Edinburgh International Festival and the Latino Festival and at the Kennedy Center. Blanco has produced and composed four albums under his name.

Puppet Showplace Theater Presents: “Word Play” by Good Hearted Entertainment
2026-08-08 12:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Word Play uses clowning, puppetry, and live original music to take audiences on an adventure through the alphabet. Words come to life in the hands of Honey Goodenough and Harry LaCoste, who clown around with sounds and letters to create dozens of interactive characters and imaginative scenes. With an array of instruments by his side, Paul Watkins sets the stage with live music for every magical moment. It’s the perfect blend of education and entertainment — a play on words, literally!

Word Play was inspired by creator Honey Goodenough’s experience learning to manage her own dyslexia and literacy challenges. Audiences can make friends with vowels, teach tricks to a “C-A-T” and “D-O-G,” and visit a whole “Z-O-O” full of surprises.

Puppet Showplace Theater is Boston’s home for puppet show joy — with shows nearly every weekend, for kids and adults, just steps from the Brookline Village T stop! Puppet Showplace is dedicated to presenting outstanding puppetry to diverse audiences through performances, workshops, and community outreach. From children’s birthday party performances to provocative Puppets at Night shows, our programming is designed to reach a large and diverse audience of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. View our full calendar at puppetshowplace.org

As a special treat for the kids, El Jefe’s will feature a kids’ meal! For $7.50, kids can get 1 Taco, a Juice Box, a side of Chips & Salsa, AND crayons!

All ages welcome, especially enjoyed by ages 4 – 10

Artist Bios

Good Hearted Entertainment (Creator)

Honey Goodenough / Good Hearted Entertainment is a puppeteer, educator, and children’s party entertainer. Honey was Puppet Showplace Theater’s first resident teaching artist from 2017 to 2022, following years of experience working with diverse student populations in Greater Boston, New York City, Vermont, and Texas. She has taught a wide variety of professional development courses for educators and aspiring puppeteers at Brooklyn College, the University of Utah, and City College CUNY. Honey is also a trained marionette performer and has toured nationally with The National Marionette Theatre and Frisch Marionettes, and she has produced and performed in Puppet Slams across the country. She holds an MA in Educational Theater from New York University, and a BA in Theater Crafts and Technology from the University of Texas, Austin.

Instagram

Facebook

Harry LaCoste (Clown/Puppeteer)

Harry LaCoste is a performer, teacher, dad, ukulele rockstar. After working behind the scenes on Sesame Street, he was inspired to try his hand at puppeteering. Since then, Harry has performed all over the country with puppets including with NYC-based puppet improv team, Team Lopez. Harry uses puppets, songs, and magic to tell stories and inspire creativity with children of all ages.

Good Hearted Entertainment (Creator)

Paul Watkins is a composer and trombonist originally from San Jose, CA. In addition to Word Play, he has created incidental music for a number of puppet shows, including Taking Turns by Margaret Moody and Robin Hood by Brad Shur. Previously he worked at Puppet Showplace Theater as the Box Office Manager, and always enjoys returning to perform or catch a show. Paul holds an MM in Composition from the Longy School of Music in Cambridge, MA, and a BA in Music and Psychology from UC Davis.

Alyssa Barker
2026-08-08 14:00 - 16:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Embark on a musical journey with Alyssa Barker, a violinist celebrated for her transcendent performances that seamlessly blend classical elegance with contemporary innovation. Alyssa specializes in both acoustic and electric violin performances, showcasing her versatility and unique ability to bridge traditional and modern musical worlds. Alyssa’s extraordinary talent has graced iconic stages worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music scene. Her musical odyssey has flourished under the guidance of renowned mentors, including Dr. Bill Banfield, Julius Williams, and original Trans Siberian Orchestra member Mark Wood. Having studied with these luminaries, she not only honed her technical prowess but also developed a unique artistic voice that sets her apart. Mark Wood, praising her exceptional skill and leadership, remarked, “Not only is Alyssa a master on the violin, but she also has tremendous talent in leadership and commitment to her passion, which is music and life.” Known for her collaborative spirit, Alyssa has shared the stage with Grammy Award-winning and nominated artists such as Larry Klein, Allen Stone, Daymé Arocena, Kenny Werner, and Sweet Honey in the Rock. Her performances resonate with a fusion of genres, showcasing a dynamic range that captivates audiences around the globe. Alyssa’s impressive repertoire includes performances at illustrious venues like Carnegie Hall in New York and Symphony Hall in Boston. Beyond the classical realm, she has made significant contributions to the world of film and comedy, featuring on the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack of the Academy Award-contending documentary “Sky Blossom: Diaries of the Next Greatest Generation” and appearing on the latest Sarah Silverman comedy special, “Someone You Love.”

Instagram

Facebook

Sheryl Bailey Three-O
2026-08-08 18:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Jazz guitarist, Sheryl Bailey brings her “Three-0” to UnCommon Corner, featuring drummer Neal Smith and bassist Ian Ashby.

Sheryl is the Assistant Chair of Guitar at Berklee, and has toured world wide with her own duo, trio and quartet projects and as a side person with artists such as: Jerry Bergonzi, George Garzone, Anat Cohen, and Rufus Reid. She has ten releases as a leader.

Sheryl will bring her “Sizzling Guitar Goddess” skills, the joy of improvisation and kinship with her bandmates as she plays her original music and choice standards for the UnCommon community.

Instagram

Facebook

X

YouTube

Spotify

Zack Bolles Band
2026-08-09 14:00 - 16:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

The Zack Bolles Band is an acoustic trio who play a variety of upbeat cover songs! Genres include 90’s, Rock n’ Roll, Classic country and more. The band features Abe Dewing on fiddle, Ed Cardenas on percussion and Zack Bolles on guitar and vocals.

Instagram

Facebook

HipStory Presents The Break
2026-08-12 17:00 - 19:00
HipStory Presents The Break featuring TBA

“The Break” is bi-weekly showcase dedicated to Boston’s hip-hop/R&B artists and DJs, connecting the city’s underground talent with new audiences. This program is curated by HipStory.

Artist Bios

To Be Announced!

Tim Hall

Tim Hall is an award winning musician, performance poet, and producer from Detroit, MI, while honoring Boston as his current home. His poetry draws inspiration from his lived experiences – charting the nuances of blackness, masculinity, and the beauties of life. Tim has shared stages and recordings with artists such as The Nappy Roots, Carolyn Malachi, Bilal, Chris Turner, Aloe Blacc, Maria Fenklemeier, The Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Diana Oh, among others. Additionally, Tim is faculty at Berklee College of Music, a member of the award winning band STL GLD, and a principal collaborator with Cliff Notez, Oompa, and Will Dailey. He was honored as “Session Musician of the Year” by the 2020 Boston Music Awards, and recognized by WBUR’s Artery 25 as 1 of 25 millennials of color impacting Arts and Culture in Boston. His work can be experienced through his new project – Trust the Process EP, as well as Colors Of My Soul, and self-published book – Trust The Process.

Instagram

Facebook

X

YouTube

Spotify

¡Baila Boston! Salsa Night
2026-08-14 18:00 - 22:00
Photo by Emerson College

Ágora Cultural Architects Present: ¡Baila Boston! Salsa Night

Featuring Live Music and Salsa y Control

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

In partnership with our community curator Ágora Cultural Architects, one of the premiere cultural presenting organizations in Greater Boston, and Hernan Choque of beloved Salsa studio Salsa y Control, UnCommon’s Salsa Nights feature a live Salsa band, DJ Hernan Choque, free community Salsa dance lessons from Salsa y Control, professional performances, and open dance. The Common comes to life with Salsa beats, and UnCommon provides an unforgettable opportunity for shared, cultural experiences.

To make the evening even more delicious, El Jefe’s Taqueria will be featuring a salsa tasting and for only $9.95 an Uncommon Salsa Flight featuring chips and Pico de Gallo, Red Salsa & Green Salsa

Featured Artist

To Be Announced!

Puppet Showplace Theater Presents: “SpinS” by Janoah...anygoodjokes?
2026-08-15 12:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

A pajama-clad unicyclist careens on stage, suitcase in tow. Unpacking, ze introduces the audience to a whimsical world of clothes-pin towers, erratic toothbrushes & gargantuan grins. Juggling with energy & presence, Janoah…anygoodjokes? constructs a playful performing-partner puppet from piles of props.​

SpinS frames skill through physical challenge, fashioning hilarious precariousness that is joyful and open. Objects and audience swirl into chaotic creation in this solo circus, recounting the learning and laughter of an itinerant performer.

“SpinS is not your usual flashy juggling show at all. There are no strict boundaries to adhere by, just an unrestricted flow of energy, story-telling and creativity for all.” – Melissa Arditti, 519

“Probably the most awkwardly impressive thing you’ll see all year … the experience seem(s) less like you’re watching a performance and more like you’re helping to put it on … A must-see for anyone who wants to let loose and smile like a child again.” – ***** Eric Trudell, Theatre in London

Puppet Showplace Theater is Boston’s home for puppet show joy — with shows nearly every weekend, for kids and adults, just steps from the Brookline Village T stop! Puppet Showplace is dedicated to presenting outstanding puppetry to diverse audiences through performances, workshops, and community outreach. From children’s birthday party performances to provocative Puppets at Night shows, our programming is designed to reach a large and diverse audience of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. View our full calendar at puppetshowplace.org

As a special treat for the kids, El Jefe’s will feature a kids’ meal! For $7.50, kids can get 1 Taco, a Juice Box, a side of Chips & Salsa, AND crayons!

All ages welcome, especially enjoyed by ages 4 – 10

Artist Bios

CactusHead Puppets

Janoah Bailin (ze/zir), aka janoah…anygoodjokes? creates and performs energetic, stimulating and educational shows for family audiences with zir unique blend of circus, puppetry, story and dance. Ze learned unicycling in the empty corridors of zir middle school, practicing after-hours.

Janoah grew up juggling with the Suspenders Juggling Troupe in Falmouth (MA) then traveled New England with the Circus Smirkus Big Top Tour. Ze graduated in 2014 from College of the Atlantic, focusing in performance and movement. Janoah now coaches the Gym Dandies Children’s Circus of Scarborough (ME), as well as the Children’s Circus of Middletown (CT). In 2016 ze helped form the Living Room Dance Collective in Portland (ME), a space devoted to contemporary movement and performance.

In the summer of 2019 ze toured SpinS, a full-length solo circus-puppetry performance, across the Canadian Fringe Festival circuit, including Montreal, Winnipeg, Edmonton and Vancouver, winning “Best Variety” in London. SpinS has since enjoyed a 12-show run at Maddy’s Theatre in the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine. In May of 2019 Janoah premiered meSSeS, a second full-length circus-dance performance in which the audience learns to juggle during the show. Ze has brought the show to The Dance Complex (Boston), Redfern (Keene NH), Oddfellows Playhouse (Middletown CT), APA’s Contact East (Halifax NS), SPACE (Portland ME), as well as the Cincinnati, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Hartford and Elgin Fringe Festivals (where ze won “Spirit of the Fringe” 2022).

Janoah has been a resident artist at the Barn Arts Collective in Bass Harbor and Subcircle in Biddeford (ME). Ze has been awarded the 2020 MAC Fellowship in the Performing Arts, NEFA’s 2021 Public Art Learning Fund, as well as numerous MAC Project and NEFA Dance Fund grants. Janoah currently performs internationally for festivals, stages and parades, leaving behind a wake of tumbled juggling props.

@janoahthejester

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

The Water Street Wranglers
2026-08-15 14:00 - 16:00
The Water Street Wranglers

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Embark on a musical journey with the Water Street Wranglers, a Boston-based bluegrass/Americana band. Known for their blend of original and traditional tunes, join us for mesmerizing live performances that capture the essence of good old-fashioned vibes mixed with a modern touch.

Instagram

Facebook

DJ Troy Frost
2026-08-15 18:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest presents S.O.U.L.stice Featuring Toki Wright, EL Amado & MonaVeli

UnCommon Corner, Boylston St &, Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

Kyara Andrade-Howell also known as DJ TROY Frost is an artist, educator, and event curator from Dorchester and Roxbury. She started DJing in 2013 and completed Scratch DJ Academy’s certification program in 2015. After graduating from Barnard College in 2017, she worked for Boston Public Schools in varying roles. In 2019, she piloted The Breaks, an enrichment program which gave 15 Boston youth an introduction to the pillars of Hip Hop. Kyara now works part time as a library coordinator at middle/high school and at Frugal Bookstore in Roxbury. She teaches Hip Hop & Black History classes periodically. She is currently working on growing Purple Produce, an event series dedicated to creating events focused on Hip Hop, wellness, literacy and community collaboration.

Instagram

TikTok

SoundCloud
