Wayne County Jazz Showcase returns to the Arts Council
GOLDSBORO — On its 10th anniversary, the Wayne County Jazz Showcase (WCJS) returns to the Arts Council of Wayne County on February 16 from 6-8 p.m. This performing arts series is sponsored by the North Carolina Arts Council. Programs Director, Anna Hinson, contacted WCJS founder, Eric Dawson, to see if he is up for managing the series once again.
“It’s great to be back!” he said.
“The Wayne County Jazz Showcase stands out as the most requested event, demonstrating the overwhelming enthusiasm of our community,” Hinson said. “We want to emphasize that we value their voice, and as an organization, we are committed to listening.”
Dawson, a Kinston, North Carolina native, has been immersed in music since childhood, inspired by his father’s musical talent and the local musicians who frequented his home. His journey led him to pursue jazz, eventually culminating in the creation of the Wayne County Jazz Showcase in partnership with the Arts Council of Wayne County in Goldsboro in February 2014.
The showcase, initially highlighting North Carolina-based artists, experienced remarkable growth with sponsorship from PNC Bank, attracting over 2,000 attendees. Through his passion and dedication, Eric continues to be a driving force in promoting live music and fostering artistic growth in his community.
“Although we know that our community would like the Wayne County Jazz Showcase to return monthly, with all of the many recent changes the Arts Council has been through, we are focusing on quality performances instead of quantity until we are comfortable expanding the program in 2025,” Hinson said.
2024 Wayne County Jazz Showcase
- $10 admission at the door
- February 16, May 24, June 7 and October 4
- Any questions, comments, or inquiries can be sent to:
anna@artsinwayne.org
