Brogan: It Must Be The Water!

Last Wednesday evening it almost felt like the pre-pandemic days on South Main Street in Concord.

Crowds poured into the Bank of NH Stage (formerly the Concord Theatre) to enjoy an evening with four local authors. The event was moderated by the legendary, Laura Knoy, who remarked at one point while acknowledging the local talents and support for the arts in Concord that, "it must be something that's in the water..."

Indeed, after a nearly two-year pause, life in the Capital City is not only returning to where it once was, but possibly even more so. After the lengthy respite, people seem even more eager to get out and experience the multitude of options available in Concord.

There is indeed "something for everyone". Whether you are a sports fan, outdoor fanatic, someone who finds joy in shopping or dining out, your choices are endless. The arts are more than represented with the Capitol Center for the Arts, Bank of NH Stage, City Auditorium, Red River, the music school, Hatbox, as well as dancing classes, our parks, Gibson's Bookstore, and the best library in the state, to mention only a few of the seemingly endless options.

Having lived in Concord for most of my life, I can attest to the fact that we have always been a city of diverse interests. I have never been bored for even a moment when I am in Concord. There has always been a natural vitality in this city, nestled by the Merrimack River. If anything, I wish I had more time available to partake in what is offered and available.

The local writers who find inspiration while telling their stories are a fascinating group, who are always willing to share their own experiences with others who might be contemplating putting pen to paper. There is nothing elitist about them and they often draw inspiration from time spent with one another - sometimes at Gibson's. The environment at this destination stop on south Main is palpable. Whether browsing the store, seeking out something to read, sitting in the cafe enjoying a beverage or attending one of the many book events held there, the creative energy in the air almost crackles.

That was certainly the case last week at the Bank of NH Stage. The crowd, who filled the seats, were there to not only show their support for the local authors, but to ask questions and get answers. The affection they showed as evident to all of us on the stage. Laura Knoy skillfully fielded their queries and I, along with Margaret Porter, Virginia Macgregor, who also writes as Nina Monroe, and Mark Okrant happily responded.

After the 70-minute on-stage portion, we mingled in the lobby with the attendees, and the atmosphere was festive in nature. We all felt as though we were amongst friends and could have stayed all night.

It was another example of what makes Concord such a wonderful place to live, to work and to play. The response to the evening and its concept was so overwhelming, that it will return next year on Wednesday, April 5 with an array of more local voices. It will be at the Bank of NH Stage and will once again be moderated by Laura Knoy.

For those of you who couldn't attend, here is a link to the evening, thanks to the great folks at Concord TV, including Matt, Emmett and Josh. (8) Conversations with Concord-Area Authors - YouTube

Thanks to the Bank of NH Stage and their brilliant staff, Gibson's, Concord Public Library, Steve Duprey, Laura Knoy and my wonderful author/friends - Margaret, Virginia and Mark.