A trio of much loved local musicians will do a Words & Music Tour in April: Penny & Dude Berry and Ben Harsten will perform in Portola on Friday, April 20th and in Chester on Thursday, April 26th.

Ben Harsten and Penny & Dude Berry have been on separate but somewhat parallel musical paths for many years. In the spring of 2011 though, those musical paths somehow met and an interesting new musical collaboration began in eastern Plumas County.

Focusing on the best tunes of the "old" folky, bluesy, country-rock era and sprinkling in some of the best of the "new" folky, bluesy, alt-country tunes, they've found a place where all their musical desires can be reached. With Penny and Ben on various acoustic guitars, a little mandolin sprinkled in here and there and Dude on harmonica or keeping the beat on the cajon, there is a great foundation upon which to lay their solo and harmony vocals.

Like a favorite old shirt that you find at the bottom of the drawer, Benny, Penny & Dude's music feel like that perfect fit: comfy & something that you know and love.

Portola Words & Music on Friday, April 20th will take place once again in the rustic and intimate setting of the Williams House Museum on Hwy 70 right across the highway from Dollard's Market. A "Bring Your Own" beverages and snacks policy will be observed for the evening. This venue change represents a new partnership between Plumas Arts and the City of Portola.

Chester Words & Music on Thursday, April 26th is at the Coffee Station in Olde Towne.

Doors for both events open at 7:00 pm with featured performances beginning shortly thereafter. Admission is $3 at the door.

Open stage follows the featured set. Any aspiring poets, musicians, storytellers, actors or performers are encouraged to sign up at the door for a 5 to 7 minute time slot. All music performances must be acoustic only. Original work is encouraged, but not required.