Donovan Woods
The Centre In The Square's OnStage series was one of the most rewarding projects I had the privilege of working on. It was this initiative that initially drew me back to the venue and ultimately inspired me to apply for a position there. Over time, I advanced to the role of Director, Marketing & Box Office. The series, designed to create an intimate concert experience with 400-700 audience members seated directly on the stage, fostered a uniquely close connection between artists and fans. It also provided a platform to showcase exceptional talent, often featuring artists who had first performed at the Centre as openers for larger acts.
A standout memory from the series was Donovan Woods, who initially appeared at Centre In The Square as the opening act for Alan Doyle. Captivated by his talent, we quickly rebooked him to headline an OnStage show. This approach of elevating promising openers to headliners resulted in countless unforgettable performances.
For Donovan’s OnStage performance, Katie Pruitt opened the evening with a breathtaking set, including her song Loving Her, which remains a personal favorite I revisit often. These moments went beyond entertainment, leaving a profound and lasting emotional impact.
Donovan Woods is an extraordinary singer-songwriter celebrated for his heartfelt and introspective storytelling. In addition to his solo work, he has gained acclaim as a songwriter for some of the biggest names in music. His compositions have been recorded by artists like Tim McGraw (Portland, Maine), Charles Kelley of Lady A (Leaving Nashville), Billy Currington (Sweet Love), and Tenille Townes (The Most Beautiful Things). His ability to craft lyrics that are both universal and deeply personal resonates powerfully with audiences.
Woods has received widespread recognition for his artistry. He won the 2019 Juno Award for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year for Both Ways. His song What Kind of Love Is That was nominated for the Polaris Music Prize, and he has earned multiple Canadian Folk Music Awards. While he generously shares his songwriting talents with others, many of his most poignant tracks are reserved for his solo career, offering fans music that feels like an intimate conversation.
The OnStage series provided a space for artists like Donovan Woods to connect deeply with audiences, creating memorable and transformative experiences. These moments not only defined my time at Centre In The Square but also reinforced my passion for live music and storytelling.
