Visitors from Philly

I must admit, my house was a wee bit quiet after this gang left.  We had more late night grilling, friendly banter, laughter, music and fun at all hours of the day.  Throwing four very different schedules, and distinct personalities into one house can be entertaining and it certainly delivered.  Of course Shannon and Eric are used to my crazy world, but this time we brought in Michelle to join us and she just added to our laughter and fun.    

Since we conned Eric into a confirmed date in May, he insisted with bring this Philly vocalist that had this deeply soulful voice.  He knew I would personally adore her and also she would bring a unique style to Topeka with her vocal stylings.  

An artist whose voice was formed by the triumph of her experiences
​-  Eric Wortham II

Of course anyone that Eric recommends I should probably listen to, and of course he was correct.  Michelle Lordi has not only a sultry look and voice, she has a heart and spirit that has triumphed and is contagious.  

Michelle landed on Wednesday and hit the ground running.  She made it to Topeka and then shortly onto Serendipity for their first concert of the trip.  Following day she was game to do the Danielle Norwood show on WIBW with me to promote their final performance on Friday. And of course you can see, it didn't take me long to get them into their own #Iamtopeka shirts.

Interview Danielle Norwood, Eric Wortham, & Jenny Torrence WIBW 

Their performance  Wednesday evening was the launch of our Underground Concert Series at Serendipity. Many unique music opportunities and experiences from Eric and special guests at Serendipity are to come.  After Eric's first visit, he was able to see the spirit in Topeka and the forward momentum that we have as a community, and is proud of NOTO.   I guess my passion is contagious because Eric has committed to making NOTO a regular stop along his travels to help be a part of the change.  

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Goetz

The evening was just magical and I'm quite sure at one point or another everyone may have shed a tear.  It was truly beautiful.  The ambiance, our new piano (to us...), Eric, Michelle and those that were in attendance just made the evening a once in a lifetime event.  

Friday evening Eric and Michelle helped with a fundraiser for NOTO Arts and Entertainment District.  The NOTO Arts center hosted a VIP reception for Eric and Michelle and allowed for a meet and greet with the artists.  

Of course the reception was amazing, especially the food from Front Door Catering.  Holy cow!  They had these lil bread things with brown stuff and avocados, to die for. (that is my technical description)  We all then headed down to Serendipity for the private fundraiser for an intimate evening with Eric and Michelle.  

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The evening was as expected, spectacular.  This intimate, private event filled another round of hearts in Topeka.  Especially when our newly elected, Mayor Michelle De La Isla, decided to get up and show us just another talent of hers.  So proud of her on so many fronts!  

My heart is full although my house may be quiet.  As fast as they all come in, they all head back out, leaving us with beautiful memories and reasons to look forward to their next visit.  

​-Jenny

If you missed this last concert and would like more information next time one hits the calendar please fill out below.  

For more about Michelle:  
https://michellelordi.com/about

https://michellelordi.com
​http://www.ericworthammusic.com
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