A new Hawkesbury-based arts and entertainment group is making waves for local live music

Rozzie Chia Davis

In July, a small collective of local performing arts professionals quietly formed the Hawkesbury’s newest not-for-profit group. Within mere weeks, they held their inaugural jazz jam night at the Regent to enthusiastic feedback, giving a surprisingly large crowd of local live music fans an unforgettable sneaky school night out.

But now, says Hawkesbury Entertainers & Artists Regional Theatre Society (HEARTS) Founder and President Meera Webster, word is getting out about the chillaxed new live music event which welcomes locals of all ages.

“We’re looking for every way that we can to be relevant, answerable and responsive to this community. We’ve got a super venue in the Regent. It’s theatre-style seating, but having said that, it’s casual,” she explains.   

Meera Webster, HEARTS Founder and President, pictured in Richmond yesterday. [Photo: Rozzie Chia Davis]

Meera replies, “People should understand that while it’s a jazz jam, it’s not ‘high’ art. Jazz is relevant. Music is relevant. There are aspects of jazz that all people should have the opportunity to explore.”

Hawkesbury residents are always invited to be a part of their own show at the monthly event. Ahead of the night, held on the last Wednesday of each month, locals are invited to get in touch with HEARTS via their Facebook page and submit a lead sheet for the house band to review. Then the stage is theirs to enjoy.

Tonight, the doors are open again for locals to grab a drink and nibble from the Regent’s range, enjoy the show and express their interest in joining the mission to achieve the creative self-determination and economic empowerment aims of the collective. With the not-for-profit group aiming to eventually open the doors to audiences free of charge, local businesses of all backgrounds are invited to jump on board to sponsor the nights.

“Something that we really loved to see at the inaugural jazz jam were the number of younger people and even children who came along. That’s something we really, really appreciate. When you bring young people along, you are broadening their horizons exponentially. So the fact that they can come to a family-friendly event at a reasonable hour means a lot. It’s really valuable, and something for the community to consider. We look forward to seeing you tonight!”

HEARTS JAZZ JAM
TONIGHT @ The Regent Richmond
Doors Open: 7:30pm
General Admission: $15
Pensioner/Concession: $10
All Ages Welcome
Held on the last Wednesday evening of every month.
To become one of the founding members, contact Meera at the Hawkesbury Entertainers &
Artists Regional Theatre Society’s Facebook page.