Spotlight on the Stone Jug

Jam session at the Stone Jug.

Whether it's used to entertain, engage or promote the exchange of ideas, art is a true collaborative experience. From a painting or sculpture, to a musical or theatre performance, art brings people together in a way that nothing else can. As much as it promotes independent thought, it also creates cohesion and community.

While it has been in business for just under a year, the Stone Jug restaurant in Carbonear has been a strong supporter of local arts and has hosted a number of events and activities for locals and visitors to enjoy - everything from pottery classes and comedy shows, to dinner theatres and weekly jam sessions with musicians of all stripes. (Upcoming events include Berni Stapleton’s one-woman show “Woman, Naked,” taking place this Thursday.)

A big part of the Stone Jug’s focus has been on helping young performers to nurture and share their talents. Throughout the summer, the restaurant hosted regular open mic sessions, organized by a local high school teacher and featuring local students. It also hosted a St. Patrick’s Day concert with local youth, and is currently working on putting together a Christmas concert.

"We are constantly working with local performers to get them to showcase their talent. We work with the schools to get youth talent out there as well, and we work with the arts community by offering them a space to hold workshops, events, dinners and meetings. The Stone Jug also offers space for all locals that participate in Some Good Market (which will take place at the Stone Jug again on November 19 and 26, and December 17) to have a place to sell their goods,” says Janet Hynes, general manager of the Stone Jug.

"Hosting these events and activities brings locals in to see our beautiful establishment. I believe it creates awareness of this magnificent building in the middle of a small Newfoundland community, and brings a sense of togetherness as a community."

The building was originally constructed by the Rorke family in 1860 and was painstakingly restored by Bruce Branan. Sitting along Water Street in the town’s downtown core, the historic structure is a piece of art itself, boasting glittering chandeliers, fine woodwork and original stone walls - something which delights visiting musicians especially says Michelle O’Toole, special events coordinator.

“It’s just such a beautiful space to support the arts. The venue speaks for itself. We have musicians that come in here and they’re in awe when they see the stone walls and they know how the acoustics will sound in this building,” she says.

"And getting everybody together is important…it’s definitely a place that supports community.”