List View

May

2

Image
"THE GOOD STUFF" - KENT COUNTY'S OWN SUPER GROUP

$25
Saturday 5/2
7:30 pm

“THE GOOD STUFF” - The Mainstay continues its tradition of bringing exceptional regional talent to the stage with an exciting Saturday Night Special on May 2nd, featuring the debut of The Good Stuff, a group that could easily be called Kent County’s own supergroup. Bringing together a lineup of widely respected musicians from across the region, the band unites a shared love of classic American country music and the songs that have shaped generations of artists.

Philip Dutton, a familiar name to Mainstay audiences and a longtime supporter of the venue brings us “THE GOOD STUFF”. While Dutton is widely known for his deep connection to Louisiana-rooted music, his musical influences run just as strongly through the classic country tradition. His appreciation for artists like Hank Williams and Jerry Jeff Walker brings an added layer of authenticity and storytelling to the group’s sound, blending Gulf Coast spirit with honky-tonk heart.

Joining him are Laura and Bob Taylor, whose musical partnership has long celebrated the rich harmonies and emotional depth of country’s golden era. Their interpretations of songs made famous by Patsy Cline and the Louvin Brothers have earned them a loyal following, and their voices bring warmth and timeless character to the ensemble.

On drums, Greg Burrows adds a unique dimension to the group. With a career in jazz that has taken him to stages around the world, Burrows brings both precision and versatility, along with a deep respect for the groove-driven styles of Levon Helm and Buck Owens. His playing grounds the band while allowing space for its many influences to shine.

Zack Kelleher rounds out the lineup with a guitar style that moves effortlessly between blues and country. His fluid, expressive playing ties the group’s sound together, bridging genres and adding an edge that keeps the music fresh while staying true to its roots.

Together, these musicians have assembled a set of songs that span the classic country catalog while also embracing newer material destined to stand the test of time. It is this blend of reverence and discovery that inspired the name The Good Stuff, a nod to the songs that continue to resonate across generations.

For Mainstay audiences, this performance is more than just a debut. It is a gathering of familiar faces, dedicated supporters, and standout musicians coming together to celebrate the music they love. Whether you are drawn by the timeless songs, the caliber of the players, or the sense of community that defines The Mainstay, The Good Stuff promises an evening that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly alive.

 


May

9

Image
Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo Return to The Mainstay

$25
Saturday 5/9
7:30 pm

Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo

GET READY for an unforgettable night of world-class guitar music at The Mainstay on Saturday, May 9 at 7:30 PM. Guitar virtuosos Frank Vignola and Vinny Raniolo will take the stage for a special duo performance that showcases their remarkable technical skill, seamless musical rapport, and wide-ranging repertoire. Known for their vibrant interplay and effortless command of swing, gypsy-jazz, and contemporary styles, the two longtime collaborators create an experience that is both thrilling for devoted jazz listeners and welcoming for anyone who simply loves exceptional live music.

Frank Vignola has built an international reputation as one of the leading guitarists in jazz and swing, performing with legends from Bucky Pizzarelli to Wynton Marsalis. Vinny Raniolo, his longtime musical partner, brings a warm, inventive energy that perfectly complements Vignola’s electrifying virtuosity. Together, their performances blend dazzling technique with musical storytelling, creating a sense of intimacy and excitement that thrives in The Mainstay’s close-up setting.

Join us on May 9 at 7:30 PM for a full evening of inspired guitar duets, inventive arrangements, and the kind of spontaneous musical conversation that happens only when two master musicians share a stage. Tickets are $25 in advance, and early purchase is recommended due to limited seating. This concert promises to be one of the highlights of the season, offering a rare opportunity to experience two of today’s finest guitarists in an intimate venue where every note can be heard, felt, and appreciated.

Save the date, spread the word, and plan to be part of a remarkable night of music at The Mainstay.

Visit Website | Watch Video


May

15

Image
An Evening with Mad Agnes - Acoustic Trio

$25
Friday 5/15
7:30 pm

Mad Agnes returns to The Mainstay on Friday, May 15 at 7:30 PM for an evening of rich harmonies, inventive songwriting, and warm, engaging performances. This acclaimed acoustic trio featuring Margo Hennebach, Adrienne Jones, and Mark Saunders is known for blending folk, jazz, and pop influences into music that is both thoughtful and fun. Their songs move effortlessly from heartfelt to humorous, paired with tight vocal arrangements and a genuine connection with the audience. Whether you are a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, Mad Agnes delivers a memorable night of music that lingers long after the final note.


May

16

Image
FEAST YOUR EARS - THE STORY OF WHFS RADIO

$15
Saturday 5/16
7:00 pm

“FEAST YOUR EARS: THE STORY OF WHFS 102.3”

AN EMMY AWARD WINNING DOCUMENTARY FILM

Sat May 16th 7:00PM

A Panel including Executive Producer

Jay Schlossberg, Artistic Director Dick Bangham with ‘HFS DJ’s Jonathan “Weasel” Gilbert & Adele Abrams 

with special guest Phil Proctor from The Firesign Theatre!

Did you ever wonder why our generation learned to love music the way we do? The feature documentary film Feast Your Ears: The Story of WHFS Radio explores that very question by telling the remarkable story of progressive free-form FM radio and its profound influence on music, culture, and community. At a time when commercial playlists were rigid and predictable, stations like WHFS 102.3 FM broke all the rules, giving DJs the freedom to introduce listeners to emerging artists, new genres, and bold ideas. This era of radio helped shape pivotal moments in music history, from the rise of underground rock and folk movements to the countercultural explosion surrounding events like Woodstock, Watergate, Viet Nam and more when music became a vehicle for social change, identity, and shared experience. It was a period when radio didn’t just reflect culture, it helped create it, in ways that are unlikely to ever be repeated.

On Saturday, May 16th, The Mainstay is honored to present the Eastern Shore's only public screening of this Emmy Award–winning documentary, which is the number one most streamed doc film on DC's WETA. Ever! This screening is a true privilege for our community and will be followed by an exclusive panel discussion featuring legendary WHFS radio personalities including celebrity DJ Jonathan Gilbert AKA “Weasel”, participating artists, Artistic Director, Dick Bangham, Phil Proctor from Firesign Theater and the film’s Executive Producer, Jay Schlossberg. Together, they will share firsthand stories and insights into a groundbreaking chapter of radio and music history that continues to shape how we listen, discover, and connect through music today. Save the date for an unforgettable evening celebrating the sounds, stories, and spirit of a generation. TICKETS JUST $15.00 With Portion of proceeds going to Women in Film non-profit. 

 


May

17

Image
Kent County Generations Band Together 2026

Free
Sunday 5/17
7:30 pm

Experience the power of music across generations with Generations Band Together, a vibrant jazz collaboration that brings Kent County High School students together with accomplished local musicians. This unique ensemble highlights the energy of young talent alongside the artistry of seasoned performers, creating a rich, intergenerational sound rooted in mentorship, creativity, and community.

Join us at The Mainstay on Sunday, May 17 at 7:30 PM for a free concert featuring a lively mix of jazz standards and contemporary favorites.

Admission is free and donations are appreciated. All contributions will directly support Generations Band Together and help continue providing meaningful musical opportunities for local students.


May

21

Image
BOB DYLAN 85th BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE - SPECIAL PUB NITE

Free
Thursday 5/21
5:30 pm

Come Gather ‘Round People Wherever You Roam! 

SAVETHE DATE! Tomorrow Isn’t such a Long Time!

THURSDAY - MAY 21st - 5:30 PM - Special Pub Nite at THE MAINSTAY - IT'S FREE!

Captain Mark and Friends’ are celebrating Bob Dylan turning 85, and if last year was any indication, you might say “you don’t need a weatherman to know” this one’s going to fill up fast. The room was packed and the energy went electric. So plan to come a little early and stake your claim. If there's not too much wind a blowin' or hard rain a fallin', we'll plan for the outdoor stage.

The thunder gets rolling at 5:30 for an evening of songs that are still bein' born, not a dyin'. It’s free to attend, though donations to The Mainstay are always appreciated to help keep the music going strong. AND you can have your pizza and eat it too, along with snacks and our cash bar. 

Captain Mark will be joined by The Singing Captains along with a wide circle of guest performers, each bringing their own take on Dylan’s vast and winding songbook - and, you know they will know their songs well before they start singin'.

Expect everything from folk music classics to a few exciting electric gems that might make you stop and say, “TURN IT UP!”

So come gather ‘round people, bring a friend or two, and see what The Captains have in store for you. “the times they might be a-changin’” but Bob is still Forever Young.


May

24

Image
Rock Hall Porchfest 2026

Free
Sunday 5/24
11:00 pm

Rock Hall PorchFest

Sunday, May 24

Rock Hall’s Main Street comes alive with music on Sunday, May 24 as PorchFest returns for an afternoon of live performances across town. Five artists will perform at five locations, creating a walkable, music-filled experience from late morning through the afternoon.

Schedule

11:00 AM – Village Gazebo
Ashley Chapa opens the day with an engaging acoustic set, blending traditional country favorites with original songs delivered in a warm, expressive style.

12:00 PM – The Brick House
Jay Yerkes brings his familiar folk, rock, and blues repertoire, offering a relaxed and enjoyable set from one of Kent County’s well-known local performers.

1:00 PM – Village Quilting
Kiara Vos takes the stage with a strong, expressive voice and a theatrical, show-tune inspired style that shines in an intimate setting.

2:00 PM – Java Rock
Joe Dalto presents “The Joe Show,” mixing musical nostalgia, humor, and audience interaction into a lively and entertaining performance.

3:00 PM – The Mainstay
The Singing Captains close out the day with rich harmonies and a selection of well-loved songs that invite the audience to sing along.

The bar at The Mainstay will be open during the afternoon's performances.

Spend the afternoon exploring Rock Hall, enjoying live music, and experiencing the community one porch at a time.


May

30

Image
"On the Trail" with Hilary Gardner and The Lonesome Pines

$25
Saturday 5/30
7:30 pm

ANNOUNCEMENT!

We are thrilled to welcome Hilary Gardner and The Lonesome Pines to The Mainstay on Saturday, May 30. Hilary and The Pines will be performing songs from their multi award winning album On the Trail, which has just been named the 2025 Album of the Year by the International Western Music Association. We will be celebrating the enormous success of this musical masterpiece as it continues to earn recognition and admiration across the country.

This acclaimed recording has received praise for its rich storytelling, its connection to the musical traditions of the American West, and its blend of warmth, authenticity, and exceptional musicianship. When Hilary Gardner brings these songs to our stage, audiences can expect an evening filled with vivid imagery, heartfelt vocals, and the timeless beauty that defines her work.

Hilary will be joined by the musicians who make up The Lonesome Pines. Sasha Papernik on accordion and backup vocals, Justin Poindexter brings his distinctive guitar work and harmony vocals. Noah Garabedian provides the bass. Aaron Thurston completes the ensemble with tasteful percussion.

We invite you to join us for this special performance as Hilary Gardner returns to The Mainstay and shares the music that is capturing the attention of listeners everywhere. Tickets are now available, and we look forward to welcoming you for a memorable night of music.

The record, “On the Trail” won the 2025 Western Heritage Award for Outstanding Traditional Western Album as well as the International Western Music Association's award for 2025 Western Album of the Year. On the Trail was in the top 10 of The Times of London's 20 Best Jazz Albums of 2024.

 

Visit Website | Watch Video


Jun

6

Image
Welcome Back Zachary Smith and Mardi Gras Kings - Formerly Dixie Power Trio

$25
Saturday 6/6
7:30 pm

Formerly The Dixie Power Trio, Zachary Smith & The Mardi Gras Kings return to The Mainstay by popular demand, bringing with them the infectious energy and unmistakable sound that Mainstay audiences have come to love. For longtime fans, this performance marks the welcome return of a group that helped define the spirit of live music at The Mainstay during their earlier years performing as the Dixie Power Trio, delivering memorable, high-energy shows that remain a favorite among regulars.

Led by multi-instrumentalist Zachary Smith, a veteran performer with more than 30 years on the East Coast music scene, the Mardi Gras Kings carry forward that legacy while expanding their musical reach. Smith, an award-winning composer and arranger, seamlessly moves between trumpet, accordion, rubboard, and vocals, leading the band through a vibrant mix of styles rooted in the traditions of Louisiana.

Formed in 1992, the group has earned a reputation as one of the East Coast’s premier Louisiana-style bands. Their sound blends zydeco, Cajun, New Orleans jazz, street parade rhythms, and Louisiana funk into a lively, engaging performance that invites audiences to dance, clap, and join the celebration. Equally at home on festival stages and in intimate venues, the band has a unique ability to connect with audiences of all ages.

Over the years, Zachary Smith & The Mardi Gras Kings have shared the stage with an impressive lineup of musical icons, including The Neville Brothers, Dr. John, Wynton Marsalis, Beausoleil, and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, reflecting both their authenticity and their standing within this rich musical tradition.

For those who remember their earlier appearances, this concert is a chance to relive the excitement and energy that made them such an important part of The Mainstay’s musical history. For those discovering them for the first time, it is an opportunity to experience a dynamic and joyful performance that captures the heart and soul of a New Orleans celebration. Whether you come ready to dance or simply to take it all in, Zachary Smith & The Mardi Gras Kings promise a night of music that will leave the room smiling and moving.

 


Jun

13

Image
Bluegrass Under the Stars with The Larry Stephenson Band

$25
Saturday 6/13
7:30 pm

The Mainstay is honored to present - all the way from Nashville, The Larry Stephenson Band on Saturday, June 13th under the stars on our outdoor stage. Join us for an evening of outstanding bluegrass from one of the genre’s most respected and enduring artists. With more than 20 album releases to his credit, Larry Stephenson has spent over four decades shaping the sound of modern bluegrass through his signature high tenor voice, expressive mandolin playing, and a repertoire that blends tradition with fresh, contemporary energy.

Larry is a multi-IBMA and SPBGMA award-winner, renowned for his warm stage presence, crystal-clear phrasing, and timeless repertoire that blends classic bluegrass with new, original material. Audiences can expect an evening filled with driving instrumentation, close harmonies, heartfelt ballads, and the polished craftsmanship that has earned the band a loyal following across the country.

The Mainstay’s intimate setting offers a rare opportunity to experience this music up close, creating an atmosphere that highlights every note and nuance. Whether you are a dedicated bluegrass fan or simply someone who enjoys finely crafted live music, this concert promises a memorable night of artistry and authentic musical expression.

Join us on Saturday, June 13, 2026, as The Larry Stephenson Band brings world-class bluegrass to Rock Hall.

This program is made possible by The Hedgelawn Foundation.


Jun

20

Image
HOT SAUCE TURNS UP THE HEAT

$25
Saturday 6/20
7:30 pm

Hot Sauce Makes Their Mainstay Debut – Saturday, June 20

Get ready to turn up the heat.

Hailing from Delaware’s “Lower Slower” coast, Hot Sauce brings a high-energy blend of crowd-pleasing favorites and feel-good grooves that span generations. Known for their lively, engaging performances, the band mixes popular hits with a fresh twist that keeps audiences dancing, singing along, and fully in the moment.

What sets Hot Sauce apart is their rich, layered sound. With a lineup that features dynamic percussion, expressive guitar work, and a distinctive touch of flamenco-inspired guitar woven into their arrangements, they create a sound that is both familiar and unexpectedly vibrant. That added rhythmic flair gives their music a unique edge and an infectious energy that feels just right for a summer night.

From beach-town festivals to regional stages, Hot Sauce has earned a reputation for bringing people together through music, whether you come to dance, listen, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

We’re delighted to welcome Hot Sauce for their Mainstay debut, and if their reputation is any indication, this promises to be a memorable evening.

Join us on Saturday, June 20 for a night of great music, great energy, and just the right amount of spice.

Visit Website | Watch Video


Jul

11

Image
THE BLAKE THOMPSON/KATE RUSSO BAND RETURNS

$25
Saturday 7/11
7:30 pm

The Blake Thompson Band returns to The Mainstay on Saturday, July 11th for an evening of rock, soul, and deeply rooted musical storytelling. With family ties in Kent County, this performance carries a distinctly local spirit while showcasing the talent and presence of a nationally recognized act.

At the heart of the band are Blake Thompson and his wife and musical partner, Kate Russo, whose collaboration brings both power and nuance to the stage. Blake’s commanding guitar work blends classic rock, blues, and soul, moving effortlessly between driving rhythms and expressive leads. Kate Russo adds a compelling dimension with her dynamic vocals and violin, creating a layered and engaging sound that defines the band’s identity.

For this special appearance, they are joined by family members whose own musical gifts have been warmly received in previous performances at The Mainstay. Those who have experienced these shows know the unique energy that comes from this extended collaboration, where talent, familiarity, and genuine connection shape an evening that feels both polished and personal.

Rooted in Kent County, the music carries a sense of home even as it reflects a broader national stage. That balance of local pride and professional artistry is part of what makes this group so compelling.

In the intimate listening room of The Mainstay, every note and lyric has room to resonate. The setting allows the audience to experience not just the energy of a live band, but the nuance and authenticity that define great musicianship.

This promises to be a memorable night where local roots, family tradition, and exceptional talent come together in a way that feels immediate, engaging, and truly special.


Jul

18

Image
CHUCK REDD'S VERY BIG BAND RETURNS

$30
Saturday 7/18
7:30 pm

Chuck Redd’s Very Big Band comes to The Mainstay on Saturday, July 18th for an evening that celebrates the depth, swing, and enduring vitality of big band jazz. Led by internationally acclaimed drummer and vibraphonist Chuck Redd, this performance brings together a powerful ensemble sound rooted in tradition and elevated by decades of world-class musicianship.

Chuck Redd has built a remarkable career as one of the most respected figures on the jazz scene, equally at home on drums and vibraphone. He began touring internationally at just 21 with the Charlie Byrd Trio and went on to perform across the globe, including dozens of European and Japanese tours and appearances with some of the most celebrated artists in jazz. His work has taken him to major stages including Carnegie Hall and the White House, and his playing is widely recognized for its combination of precision, energy, and melodic sensitivity.

With the Very Big Band, Redd expands that artistry into a full ensemble setting, drawing on the rich traditions of swing, big band, and American song. The result is a sound that is both expansive and tightly controlled, where dynamic horn arrangements meet rhythmic drive and expressive solo work. It is music that honors the great big bands of the past while remaining fresh, engaging, and alive in the present.

Redd’s long association with the Mid-Atlantic region, including his early work with Charlie Byrd and deep ties to the Washington, D.C. jazz community, gives this performance a strong regional connection that resonates naturally with The Mainstay’s own musical heritage. The setting provides the perfect environment to experience the full impact of a large ensemble in an intimate listening room, where the detail, balance, and interplay between musicians can be fully appreciated.

This is an opportunity to hear a master musician leading a remarkable group through a repertoire that swings, soars, and captures the enduring spirit of jazz at its most vibrant.

Visit Website


Jul

25

Image
THE NIGHTHAWKS BLUES BAND RETURN

$25
Saturday 7/25
7:30 pm

GET READY FOR SOME BLUES! SATURDAY, JULY 25th - The Nighthawks bring their legendary blues sound back to The Mainstay for an evening rooted in more than five decades of American music tradition. Formed in Washington, D.C. in 1972, the band has built a national reputation as one of the most enduring and respected acts in blues and roots music, carrying their sound from intimate clubs to major stages while remaining true to the spirit of the genre.

At the center of the band is founder, vocalist, and harmonica master Mark Wenner, whose playing reflects a lifetime immersed in the rich musical heritage of the D.C. region. Drawing on influences that span blues, rockabilly, soul, and early rock and roll, The Nighthawks have developed a sound that is both authentic and wide-ranging, grounded in tradition but alive with energy and invention.

Over the years, the band has shared stages with icons such as Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, and Carl Perkins, and has earned recognition not only for their recordings but for their reputation as one of the great live bands in American roots music. Their ability to move seamlessly between deep blues grooves, driving rhythm and blues, and roots-infused rock has made them a defining presence on the national scene for more than fifty years.

Despite their national reach, The Nighthawks remain deeply connected to the Mid-Atlantic region, bringing a sense of place and history to every performance. That connection makes their appearance at The Mainstay especially fitting, where the intimate listening room allows audiences to experience the full depth of their musicianship and the immediacy of their live sound.

This is more than a concert; it is an opportunity to hear a band that has helped shape the sound of American blues, delivering it with the authority, energy, and authenticity that only decades on the road can provide.