Live music arrives at Rex Theatre in Thompson Falls

THOMPSON FALLS- The Rex Theatre in Thompson Falls played host to a live music performance on Saturday as the facility was packed to capacity to support a venue that was recently in danger of falling into obscurity. Organizer Randy Roberts helped set up the event as a way to continue utilizing the building.

“I didn’t want to see the building vacant after they stopped showing movies here,” said Roberts.

The show opened with a performance by The Clark Fork Valley Ramblers. The three-piece group played a 30-minute set of folk and bluegrass fusion for the audience. The headliners followed the Ramblers after a brief break in the entertainment.

Jeanne Jolly accompanied by her guitar player and drummer took to the stage all the way from Raleigh, North Carolina. The group has been on tour for nearly a year playing shows all over the country.

Jolly said she has been playing music her whole life and has performed with Grammy Award winning artists such as jazz trumpeter Chris Botti. She has played both the prestigious Carnegie Hall and the popular Monterey Jazz Festival.

“I would say my songs are like soulful folk music,” said Jolly. “I sing music that is inspired by my roots. It comes from life experiences.”

Jolly and her band delivered a versatile performance ranging from jazz to “Americana” always returning to poignant themes seemingly wrenched from deep within. Jolly is currently on tour in support of her debut full length album, “Angels.”

Roberts said he booked Jolly after watching a recent performance. He remarked that she held her own on the same stage with the legendary Emmylou Harris and other famous acts.

“She is probably the best performer that few people have ever heard of,” said Roberts. “She is truly excellent.”