James Keelaghan & David Woodhead and Shanna in a Dress

The Folk Project Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents James Keelaghan & David Woodhead and Shanna in a Dress

James Keelaghan & David Woodhead
James Keelaghan, hailed by leading critics as Canada’s finest singer-songwriter, is a defining voice in folk and roots music. For nearly 25 years, he has crafted songs with passion, precision, and curiosity, earning a reputation as a poet laureate of the genre. Known for his distinctive craftsmanship and narrative depth, Keelaghan blends historical storytelling with deeply personal reflections on human experience. His nine recordings have captivated audiences worldwide, from Australia to Scandinavia, garnering awards and acclaim. A disciplined visionary with a love of language, history, and melody, Keelaghan connects powerfully with listeners through masterful storytelling and compelling live performances.

David Woodhead is a versatile musician deeply rooted in independent music, known for a distinctive melodic and textural style adaptable to many settings. With credits on nearly 300 recordings, he has collaborated with influential artists including Stan Rogers, Gil Scott-Heron, David Sanborn, and James Keelaghan, touring internationally and performing with ensembles ranging from jazz and classical-folk to global and improvisational projects. An experienced educator and Banff Centre resident artist, Woodhead’s own music blends folk intimacy, jazz harmony, and classical precision with space for improvisation. His projects range from the adventurous Confabulation ensemble to the folk-jazz chamber-focused Oriana Quartet.

Shanna in a Dress
Shanna in a Dress is your quirky best friend who refuses to wear pants. She says what everyone has felt but no one else will say and you’ll get an uncensored journey of clever humor and heartbreak, extreme candor, and a hefty side of entertainment at her shows. This witty wordsmith is known for taking you on an emotional roller coaster, sometimes within the same song. Think John Prine mixed with Ingrid Michaelson with a twist of Phoebe Buffay from Friends all wrapped up in a sweet voice accented by guitar, piano, and ukulele.