I’m excited to share information on the Mama Hellcats show, a gig of mamas who rock and care, happening May 16 at the Hook and Ladder. The artists are amazing performers and parents. The event will feature information booths and representatives from local organizations dedicated to providing support and resources for survivors of domestic violence. Also, I get to host the event. I’m thankful to Katy Tessman for creating the event and answering five questions about the feel-good-do-good mini-festival.
Please tell us about the ethos behind the MAMA HELLCATS show.
At its core, the ethos of MAMA HELLCATS revolves around the importance of community and support networks, highlighting how these bonds can uplift individuals and enable them to achieve their dreams. MAMA HELLCATS celebrates the remarkable talent of mothers in music, offering a platform to share stories through song.
In addition to captivating performances, the event will also feature information booths and representatives from local organizations dedicated to providing support and resources for survivors of domestic violence and housing instability. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about these vital services and how they can make a difference in their community.
This event has truly been a collaborative effort. Thank you, Ann Treacy of Mostly Minnesota Music, for hosting this event. The unwavering support the Mostly MN platform has offered our music community is deeply appreciated. Partnering with The Hook and Ladder Theater has been a delight. It’s not just a stage; it’s a vibrant hub that fosters both artists and community.
Samantha Grimes affectionately coined us “Mama Hellcats,” highlighting how we, as musician-moms, defy stereotypes and societal norms. Through courage, compassion, and solidarity, we’ve shown that no obstacle is insurmountable. Nikki Lemire envisioned the artwork concept — “winged kittens on motorcycles” — and I was thrilled to bring it to life graphically, capturing both whimsy and strength. Kashimana, Annie Enneking, and Haley E Rydell have helped get local organizations involved.
Please tell us about the lineup.
The MAMA HELLCATS showcase honors mothers from various backgrounds, encompassing single moms, married moms, lesbian moms, BIPOC moms, and those raising children, tweens, as well as young adults. The event will embody a music festival, utilizing both stages within The Hook’s theater.
The line up includes KATY TESSMAN & THE TURNBUCKLES, KASHIMANA, ANNIE & THE BANG BANG, NIKKI LEMIRE, SAMANTHA GRIMES, and HALEY E RYDELL.
What are some of the special challenges you’ve experienced as a mama who rocks?
Before becoming a mom in 2003 (and again in 2006), I spent nearly a decade as a performing singer-songwriter. Motherhood shifted my focus, leading me to a 20-year hiatus from songwriting. During this time, I taught Music Together, performed annual concerts at my sons’ elementary school, and self-published an award-winning children’s book about breast cancer.
Since becoming a mother, I’ve experienced both ends of the spectrum, using the resources advocated by MAMA HELLCATS,which makes this event deeply personal to me. There were times of abundance when I donated furniture to Bridging, and there were moments of need when I sought support from Sojourner to obtain a restraining order.
Now that I’ve returned to the stage, my songwriting centers on honoring life’s stumbles and summits. As a decade-long cancer survivor, I wrote “Hero Now Crowned” and published a lyric picture book as a tribute to all of us who have faced hardships. I also have an outreach program where I share my story and positivity with organizations serving children and families.
What is one special joy you can share about being a rockin’ mama?
Since my “re-debut” in 2022, my first-born son, Louis Tessman Stanoch has been my sideman. My Mama-heart just about bursts when I perform with him. He started playing guitar in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. I taught him the basics however he flourished quickly! He has faced some hardships in his young life; As an offering of support and encouragement, I wrote “Courage After All” for him. Performing with Sweet Lou (as a Mom+Son duo and with my band The Turnbuckles) holds all the emotions, mostly because music saved him.
Please give us specifics about the event:
What: MAMA HELLCATS Concert: Authentic and Passionate Performances by Talented Mothers to Raise Awareness for Domestic Violence Resources – May 16 at The Hook & Ladder Theater.
Representatives of Sojourner, Minnesota Women’s Press, as well as spokesperson Andrea Bennett will be at the event.
T-shirts featuring the winged kittens on motorcycles will be for sale and proceeds will go to Bridging, an non-profit organization that assists families with furnishing homes.
Where: The Hook & Ladder Theater, Minneapolis, MN
When: Thursday, May 16th, 2024
Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM
Tickets: Available at the door and online: https://thehookmpls.com/event/mama-hellcats/
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