Erin Lunsford is an award-winning singer-songwriter from Fincastle, Virginia, now based in Richmond, whose work blends Appalachian roots with Americana, folk, and country influences. Her music is pound cake-folk that’s equal parts sweet, delicate, rich, and warm. Erin’s songs are built on a foundation of bluegrass and thoughtful, Blue Ridge Mountain storytelling that showcase her self-styled guitar, banjo, and keyboard melodies.
Desirée Roots is a celebrated music and theatre icon in Central Virginia and beyond. With over 35 years of experience, she has showcased her multi-hyphenated talents in the Gospel, Jazz, and Theatre scenes both regionally and internationally. Born and raised in Richmond, VA, Desirée began singing in church at the age of four and launched her professional theatrical career at 13, following the path of her musically inclined family.
Punch and Judy, the hilarious, slapstick hand puppetry tradition, was first brought to England from Italy more than 300 years ago; by a century later, it had made its way to the United States, with some of the earliest shows taking place in Maryland. According to a 1902 publication, Punch and Judy first appeared in the state at a show in Annapolis prior to the American Revolution. Another early Punch and Judy show was presented in Baltimore, at the city’s Peale Museum, in the early 1800s. But, by far, the city’s longstanding stalwart is Horn’s Punch & Judy Show, which is a part of an unbroken Baltimore tradition that dates back to 1897. Now in the care of puppeteer Mark Walker, Old Punch, the wisecracking trickster who exemplifies the best and worst of human nature, continues to bring smiles to the faces of both children and adults. Now he’s coming back to the Richmond Folk Festival to entertain you!
Laura Ann Singh and Bruno Alcalde present a program of Brazilian music featuring original songs alongside works by iconic composers of Música Popular Brasileira, including Tom Jobim, Chico Buarque, Moraes Moreira, and Joyce Moreno. The program moves between samba, bossa nova, and contemporary Brazilian song with warmth, intimacy, and energy.
Ron Collins performs as Tampa Taiko, delivering the powerful rhythms and dynamic spirit of Japanese taiko drumming in an engaging and interactive performance for people of all ages. Blending traditional techniques with playful storytelling, his performances invite audiences to experience the energy, discipline, and joy of taiko. With driving beats, expressive movement, and interactive elements, Tampa Taiko brings an unforgettable, hands-on introduction to this centuries-old art form.
