Investigating The Bird & The Book
Granted, there’s a lot to enjoy in Knoxville, but there’s no reason to give Blount County short shrift. Its sprawling environs offer an array of arts and entertainment options unique to the area and well worth an investigation for anyone willing to brave a drive south on 129. A stop in Maryville and/or Alcoa yields plenty of diversions, even though city folk sometimes tend to overlook the possibilities in favor of the variety of venues in Knoxville proper.
That need not be the case now, though, as BLANK will be giving Blount its due in a monthly feature that focuses on the places and possibilities the county has to offer. We begin by exploring a singular standout known as The Bird & The Book.
There’s something to be said for a local gathering spot that offers the surrounding community a place to congregate and be entertained. Over the course of the past year, The Bird & The Book has become one of the prime gathering places for the local community. It’s an establishment that provides a place for like-minded souls to share a meal, an adult beverage and comradery while engaging in discourse and enjoying a variety of entertainment options. An offshoot of a long-established local landmark, Southland Books and Cafe, it expounds upon the gregarious vibe of the original and offers additional options for fun and fellowship.
Owned by Lisa Misosky and Catherine Frye, the two individuals who oversaw the operation of Southland for the past 20-plus years, The Bird & The Book offers an array of events in March that are well worth investigating. It’s a varied array of enticements and attractions taking place in casual environs where an extensive selection of brews and casual cuisine offers locals a cool night out.
“The Bird & The Book is a community gathering space,” Misosky says, summing up the business. “We strive to make it a welcome place for everyone by providing great entertainment and a fun environment.”
Here’s what’s on tap over the next couple of weeks:
(Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19, the venue acknowledges that all events are subject to cancellation. The Bird & The Book is located at 1509 E. Broadway Ave. in Maryville. For updated information, call (865) 984-4847.)
Friday, March 20, 7:30 p.m. – Marcus Bunch and Sister Sam are a dynamic duo that offers happy harmonies and a wealth of fine tunes. With Marcus on guitar and Sam on violin, they’ve established themselves as regular fixtures on the East Tennessee music scene, but there’s no better place to catch them than in the intimate environs of The Bird & The Book.
Saturday, March 21, 7:30 p.m. – Singer-songwriter Andy Sneed digs deep into a musical mashup of his own creation, one that finds him sharing songs and stories. A personable performer, he can hold an audience by arming himself with no more than his guitar, memorable melodies and a few fanciful fables.
Thursday, March 26, 7 p.m. – Cristy B Comedy provides a perfect anecdote for these troubled times with an evening of comedy guaranteed to cause even the most cynical and skeptical individuals to toss their troubles aside … at least for a little while. Featured performer Darryl Rhoades has been at it for well over 50 years courtesy of a dozen comedy albums and numerous media appearances. Cristy B’s no slack herself, a veteran entertainer who’s both topical and tenacious.
Saturday, April 4, 7:30 p.m. – Singer-songwriter J.P. Baldwin makes his monthly appearance at The Bird & The Book, sharing songs with an acoustic affability. He’s chill and cheerful all at the same time.
