Jan. 24, 2002 – It hasn't come to "reserve seats ahead" yet, and the organizers don't expect that it ever will. But last week, an amiable standing-room-only crowd of more than 200 people turned out for "Friday Night Alternative" entertainment and socializing at American Yacht Harbor.
"It was amazing," Corinne Van Rensselaer, FNA founder, says. A big part of the draw was advance word that the visiting flamenco duo of Teye and Belen would be back to perform after wowing attendees two weeks earlier. But another part of it was that folks who enjoy live music in an informal, family-friendly setting are starting to make the "Alternative" get-togethers a regular thing.
House keyboardist/vocalist "Sunshine" Sally Smith and drummer regular "Mr. B" and friends will be making music again this Friday on the broad Marlin Deck outside the Color of Joy gallery and boutique overlooking the AYH docks.
Even with a couple hundred folks on hand last week, there was complimentary wine, cheese and crackers — thanks in part to Premier Wines and Spirits, which is again a sponsor this weekend, Van Rensselaer said.
As usual, there'll also be a video film to entertain youngsters and the two ongoing FNA fund-raising projects: selling T-shirts and tickets for a monthly artwork raffle. The January raffle winner will be drawn this week.
"Friday Night Alternative" hours are 6 to 8 p.m. The venue is just a few minutes' walk from the Red Hook ferry dock, making it a convenient stop for those heading from St. Thomas to St. John at the end of the day. For more information, call 775-4020.
