Dec 5th, 2025 – Last night’s First Friday performance brought Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ari Hest to the Playhouse Café—and the energy in the room was electric. Performing to a full house, Hest treated the audience to not only his unmistakable vocals and musicianship, but also to intimate stories gathered over more than two decades on the road.
Between songs, Hest reflected on his long-running collaboration with folk icon Judy Collins, recalling the early days of opening for her before eventually recording an entire album together. He spoke about touring across the United States, the musical communities he’s built along the way, and the evolution of his creative projects—from his early major-label releases to his ambitious fan-driven ventures like 52 and his ongoing Treehouse Project.
The night blended original music with crowd-pleasing covers, and the audience enthusiastically joined in for standout moments including Hest’s renditions of “Take On Me” and “Sara Smile.” The sing-alongs filled the café with warmth, making the performance feel as personal as it was unforgettable.
Ari Hest’s artistry, storytelling, and easy rapport with the audience made this First Friday one of the most memorable yet—an evening of connection, creativity, and pure musical joy.
Check out his website here.
📸 Peter T Michaelis