the hedgehog music showplace

Bob Foster and his wife run a hidden musical jewel in Hamilton County. Just off State Road 19, in the charming town of Arcadia, sits The Hedgehog. Home to local favorite musicians, they also present national and regional stars in the jazz and folk genres. A rustic laid back hall assures a good seat for everyone. Snacks are available for purchase. The variety and quality of performers that pass through is the amazing thing about this place.

On Saturday, April 6th, my husband and I visited The Hedgehog Music Showplace to see a Bluegrass/Fusion ensemble live. The group was "The Whipstitch Sallies". We paid $12 per ticket in advance. Tickets run from --FREE winter jam sessions, $10 to $30 for well known acts. Most tickets are between $10 and $20.The performances run from Blue Grass, Blues, Gospel, Jazz, Country, Gypsy Jazz, Swing, and a few things in between. For advance tickets, you can request seating closer to the artists. However, there are no BAD seats in the house. The Hedgehog is an historic store front in down town Arcadia. It is a small, narrow space with good sound. The decor is exposed brick, a worn wooden floor, and old timey fixtures. Chairs can be a little hard so bring a cushion if you need padded chairs.The owner and his wife are always there to meet and greet. Bob also teaches guitar on the side but rarely even tells anyone he does. No hard sell there.Seating is limited--under 200 with a mixture of small tables and chairs along one wall. There is no alcohol. The Hedgehog is family friendly. They offer water, pop, coffee and a few snacks in the back. There is one his/hers restroom. Once you step up into the Hedgehog, everything is on the same floor level--including the restroom. Parking is free across the street for music events. The only "down side" has nothing to do with The Hedgehog at all. The only restaurant in town, The Brick House Grill, is directly across from the venue. The food is good and reasonably priced; they even serve alcohol. But service is sketchy as they tend to be understaffed on "Hedgehog" nights. I had pan fried white fish and meat loaf both of which are very good. Go hear live, local music. Drive away from the traffic and crowds. If you want to eat in Arcadia, allow about an hour & half to have dinner across the street before the show so you don't feel rushed. Then walk across the street to The Hedgehog and have a great time.