Marc Douglas Berardo Hosts Craig Bickhardt at Harbor Songs Concert

In a celebration of songwriting, Marc Douglas Berardo will feature acclaimed songwriter Craig Bickhardt at the next installment of his “Harbor Songs” concert series on Sunday at the United Theatre in Westerly. This event continues Berardo’s tradition of showcasing talented artists, a journey he started years ago at The Malted Barley.

Craig Bickhardt has an impressive portfolio, having co-written songs for renowned artists including Art Garfunkel, Kathy Mattea, and Martina McBride. His collaborations include the Judds’ hit “I Know Where I’m Going,” co-written with Don Schlitz, and the chart-topping “It Must Be Love,” which he co-wrote with Jack Sundred.

Berardo’s Musical Journey

With over 30 years of experience, Berardo is not only an award-winning artist but also a dedicated promoter of original music. He established the “Harbor Songs” series to share the stories and songs of his favorite songwriters with local fans. The series began with a memorable performance by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter David Olney, who tragically passed away during a concert in 2021.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Berardo adapted by hosting online broadcasts, which eventually led to the resumption of live performances. These concerts have featured a mix of nationally recognized artists and local talents, including Walt Wilkins and Abbie Gardner of Red Molly, along with special guests like Sandman Allen and Kyle Rathburn.

After The Malted Barley closed in February 2023, Berardo found a new home for “Harbor Songs” at the United Theatre. His first concert there in November 2023 featured Grammy-nominated artist Ari Hest alongside special guest Kala Farnham. Since then, the series has included performances by notable touring artists such as Grace Morrison and Frank Critelli.

A Unique Concert Experience

Berardo emphasizes the intimate nature of the “Harbor Songs” format, allowing songwriters to share the inspiration behind their music. He describes these concerts as opportunities for the audience to connect with the essence of songwriting: “It’s a chance for the audience to feel and share in the beauty and mystery of song creation.”

Tickets for the upcoming concert featuring Craig Bickhardt are priced at $20 in advance and $25 at the door. They are available for purchase on the United Theatre’s website, unitedtheatre.org. Further information regarding future shows can be accessed at marcdouglas.com.