Paul Benjamin, producer of Rockland’s infamous North Atlantic Blues Festival, is bringing Blues Night to Watts Hall in Thomaston! For one night only, he presents Johnny Rawls, the Mississippi Blues Man, live on tour from Mississippi. With a career spanning more than 50 years, Rawls is widely recognized as a pioneer of soul blues, a sound so distinctive the term was coined to describe his music. He has released dozens of albums, earned multiple Blues Music Awards, and carried the Southern soul tradition to stages across the country and around the world.
Born and raised in Mississippi, Rawls was backing major touring artists by age 15 and went on to serve as band director for O.V. Wright before launching his solo career. Today, he remains a true road warrior, performing nearly 200 dates a year and delivering shows that are smooth, gritty, heartfelt, and deeply human. This is your chance to experience a living legend up close at Watts Hall. One night. One stage. Real-deal Mississippi soul blues.
Tickets are $25 in advance / $30 day of show (if available).
FAQs
Q: What time do the doors open?
A: The doors open at 6:30. No one will be permitted in the auditorium prior to 6:30.
Q: Is this event family-friendly?
A: The recommended age for this event is 18+. Only guests who are 21+ with a valid ID will be served alcohol.
Q: Is Watts Hall an accessible venue?
A: Yes, it is! While the auditorium is located on the second floor, we do have an ADA-compliant elevator available to anyone who needs it. We also have an accessible restroom. The doorways and hallways are nice and wide to accommodate mobility aids.
Q: Will tickets be available at the door?
A: We don’t reserve any tickets for door sales and our events. If you want to guarantee entrance, we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. We will update our Facebook page and website regarding the availability of door tickets the day of the event. If door tickets are available, they will be priced at $30/person. We accept cash, cards, and local checks. Pro-tip: Plan to pay cash or check at the door to avoid the $2/ticket service charge.
Q: Will food and drink be available for purchase?
A: Yes! A beer and wine cash bar will be provided and light concessions (popcorn, chips, cookies, etc.) will be available for purchase. We ask that all guests drink responsibly. Anyone found to be overly intoxicated will be asked to leave the premises immediately without a refund.
Q: Can I bring my own drinks to Watts Hall?
A: No. Bringing in outside alcohol is a direct violation of our bar service’s liquor license. As such, anyone found to be in possession of outside alcohol will be asked to leave the premises immediately without a refund.
Q: Where should I park?
A: Plenty of free parking is available behind the business block on the side of Rt. 1 opposite Watts Hall.
Q: Who should I talk to if I have any other questions?
A: You can send an email to our Managing Director, Kendray Rodriguez at wattshallcommunityarts@gmail.com
*All ticket sales are final and non-refundable*