Member Spotlight: Elaine Appatang-Butts and Fred Butts
“In celebration of May Membership Month, we are spotlighting members of our community. Let us introduce you to Elaine and Fred, who have been Music Hall Members since 2015! We recently asked them about their favorite things about The Music Hall, and they were kind enough to take the time to share:
What is your favorite thing about The Music Hall?
Our favorite thing about The Music Hall is how it makes us feel. From the moment we step under the nostalgic marquee, into the beautifully designed ticket and lobby areas, and take our seats in the majestic theater, we feel excitement and anticipation before the show even begins. The warmth of the volunteers, staff, and community makes The Music Hall feel like a place where we truly belong, while the quality and range of what it brings to Portsmouth are unparalleled for a city of this size.
What’s the best or most memorable show you’ve attended?
Elaine: There are so many memorable shows, and I’d like to share two that come to mind.
I first saw the Preservation Hall Jazz Band live in April 2015. I love traditional New Orleans jazz, and they performed with so much joy, spirit and vibrancy – I’ve been a fan ever since. I only wish there were more performances that left both the musicians and the audience dancing in the aisles.
More recently in February, JJ Grey and Mofro blew me away once again. Fred and I first saw them opening in Boston for another amazing talent, Trombone Shorty, which made seeing them in the intimate setting of The Music Hall even more special – the energy in the theater was electric! Whether it’s a concert, a show, a movie, a festival, or some other program, The Music Hall never disappoints.
Fred: Sarah McLachlan gave an intimate unplugged performance that, to this day, remains one of the most deeply heartfelt musical performances I have ever experienced. It felt as though I was in a small room, and she was playing just for me. Unforgettable.
Why would you encourage someone else to become a member?
There are so many reasons to become a member of The Music Hall, from being part of an incredible community of people with diverse interests to supporting the remarkable range of events it offers throughout the year. As members, we are honored to support an organization that makes Portsmouth stronger, more connected, and more vibrant.
Why is The Music Hall’s mission important to you?
The Music Hall is part of the DNA of Portsmouth and the Seacoast community. It is one of the most meaningful places where people from all diverse backgrounds come together to be entertained, inspired, and connected through shared experiences. Being part of that in any form is important to us.
Cheers to Elaine and Fred, and to the rest of our Music Hall Members! Not a member yet? Find out more information at themusichall.org/membership