Audio LAB - Live Audio Workshop
Discussion Topics: - Audio Technician Fundamentals for Live Sound Applications -Hands-on training for small sound system installations -Language and Etiquette as applied to audio equipment.
The LAB
SMALLTOWN LAB // AUGUST 5!!
Get ready for one of our most energetic nights of the summer as Day Labor takes over the LAB stage!
Hailing from Pittsburg, California, Day Labor is a 9-piece punk/ska powerhouse blending infectious horn lines, driving rhythms, and high-energy performances. Drawing inspiration from punk and ska while weaving in Latin, Afro-Cuban, jazz, and metal influences, they’ve created a sound that’s impossible to stand still to.
Over the years they’ve shared stages with legendary acts including The Offspring, The Interrupters, The Skatalites, Mustard Plug, Kill Lincoln, The Toasters, HR (Bad Brains), and many more. From 924 Gilman and Cornerstone to DNA Lounge and The Uptown, Day Labor has earned a reputation for bringing an unforgettable live show wherever they go.
If you’ve never experienced a nine-piece ska band in an intimate room… this is your chance. Think Tiny Desk of the East Bay.
And as always, the night doesn’t end after the headliner.
The second half of LAB becomes our Open Mic & Works-in-Progress Showcase, where musicians, poets, writers, comedians, and artists from across the community share what they’re creating right now. Whether it’s a polished performance or something still taking shape, LAB is a place to experiment, encourage one another, and celebrate the creative process.
Hosted by Paul Keim and Michael Kim-Eubanks, everyone is welcome to perform, or simply come listen and support local artists.
Featured Performance: Day Labor
Community Open Mic & Works-in-Progress Showcase
Wednesday, August 5
7:30 PM
Smalltown Clinic
No cover. All ages. Community over competition.
Taste of Castro Valley
Smalltown Society at Taste of Castro Valley
Smalltown Society is bringing live music and local art to the annual Taste of Castro Valley, happening August 12 from 5–8 PM along Castro Valley Boulevard.
Throughout the evening, five incredible local artists—LUNA JENN, Boyhood, Noah Lux, Neveah, and Kevin Seal—will perform as guests stroll the Boulevard, visit participating businesses, and enjoy food and drink samples from more than 25 local restaurants, shops, and eateries.
Smalltown is also partnering with the Hayward Arts Council to create a small art walk featuring visual artists from across our community sharing, displaying, and discussing their work.
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Castro Valley, Taste of Castro Valley is a celebration of the people, businesses, artists, and flavors that make our community what it is. Grab your friends, bring your appetite, and spend the evening discovering local food, live music, visual art, and the creativity growing throughout the East Bay.
August 12 | 5–8 PM | Castro Valley Boulevard
The Creative LAB
The Creative Lab is our “open house,” where we invite our community to join us in creating and collaborating. N agenda, just space, gear, and dedicated time dedicated to your art. Bring a project, bring an instrument, or simply come and meet fellow artists. From time to time, we’ll be collaborate on long-term projects, such as a Smalltown album, which will be recorded from scratch in our space during these events.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
Ideas LAB
Ideas LAB
An open mic for ideas
Smalltown Society has launched a new kind of LAB: a space for the ideas you’ve been carrying, wondering about, dreaming through, or trying to bring into the world.
Ideas LAB is a gathering for brainstorming, collaboration, conversation, and creative possibility. It’s a place to bounce a new idea, share something half-formed, ask better questions, connect with others, and begin moving an idea from your head and heart into existence.
At Smalltown, we believe creativity is not just about songs, poems, films, or paintings. Creativity is also how we imagine new ways of living, building, organizing, healing, gathering, and seeing the world.
Bring an idea for a project, event, business, artwork, community effort, movement, invention, story, or anything else that might generate positive change for our communities.
You don’t need a finished plan. You just need a spark.
Writing JAM
Smalltown Society continues our Writing Jam series, a free two-hour creative gathering for writers, poets, and anyone who’s ever felt the pull to put words on a page.
Hosted by author and story doula Amy Henderson of Writing One True Thing
the evening offers a welcoming space to follow your creative impulse, write in short bursts, and (for those who wish) share your words — not to impress, but to be real. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just beginning to explore your voice, the Writing Jam invites you to take creative risks, reconnect with your truth, and rediscover why your words still matter. RSVP on Eventbrite (Smalltown Society’s Writing Jam) Starts at 7:30 PM. Everyone’s welcome.
The UPPERCUT
The Uppercut — Smalltown’s Comedy LAB
Wednesday, July 15 | 7:30 PM |
The Clinic, Castro Valley
Smalltown Society presents The Uppercut, a monthly gathering for anyone passionate about the craft of comedy—whether you're brand new or looking to sharpen your next set.
This isn’t your typical open mic. The Uppercut offers dedicated stage time and the option for instant feedback from a supportive room of fellow comics and comedy lovers. Whether you’re into stand-up, sketch, character work, or something experimental, this is a space to take creative risks and test new ideas in good company.
Led by James Strawser, a local comedian with over a decade in comedy, The Uppercut is rooted in the belief that funny thrives in community—not in isolation.
No judgment. No pressure. Just a mic, a room, and people who love to laugh.
Try something new. Bring something weird.
All levels welcome. All styles encouraged.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
#ComedyLAB #SmalltownSociety #CastroValleyEvents #BayAreaComedy #WorkOutTheFunny #EastBayCreatives #NewVoicesInComedy #CreativeCommunity
The LAB: Featuring Boyhood
🌙 SMALLTOWN LAB // JULY 8 🌙
Join us for another evening of music, conversation, creativity, and community as we welcome Boyhood to the LAB stage.
Led by Bay Area singer-songwriter Alex, Boyhood blends indie folk warmth with alternative rock energy, crafting songs about growing up, finding your place, and making sense of life in the modern world. What began as a DIY home-recording project has evolved into a full band whose live performances feel equally intimate and expansive.
Boyhood’s music carries the spirit of backyard shows, late-night conversations, and the kind of honesty that reminds us we're all figuring things out together.
But the night doesn't end there.
The second half of LAB transforms into an Open Mic & Works-in-Progress Showcase, where artists, musicians, poets, writers, comedians, and creators from across our community are invited to share what they're currently working on. Whether it's a finished piece, a rough draft, a new song, or an idea still taking shape, LAB is a place to experiment, receive encouragement, and grow alongside fellow creatives.
Hosted by Paul Keim and Michael Kim-Eubanks, this evening is about highlighting voices and and process—creating space for new voices, bold ideas, and meaningful connections.
Featuring: Boyhood
Wednesday, July 8
Smalltown LAB
Doors: 7:00 PM
Music: 7:30 PM
Community • Conversation • Creativity
Bring a friend, grab a seat, and discover your next favorite local band.
Ideas LAB
Ideas LAB
An open mic for ideas
Smalltown Society has launched a new kind of LAB: a space for the ideas you’ve been carrying, wondering about, dreaming through, or trying to bring into the world.
Ideas LAB is a gathering for brainstorming, collaboration, conversation, and creative possibility. It’s a place to bounce a new idea, share something half-formed, ask better questions, connect with others, and begin moving an idea from your head and heart into existence.
At Smalltown, we believe creativity is not just about songs, poems, films, or paintings. Creativity is also how we imagine new ways of living, building, organizing, healing, gathering, and seeing the world.
Bring an idea for a project, event, business, artwork, community effort, movement, invention, story, or anything else that might generate positive change for our communities.
You don’t need a finished plan. You just need a spark.
Courtney Jean: Forget It - Let's Ride! Album Preview Show feat. ITMP VIBZ
ITMP VIBZ and Smalltown Society presents Courtney Jean as she takes you through the winding roads of her newest album, Forget It - Let’s Ride!
Don’t miss an intimate, exclusive evening with Courtney Jean as she takes you through the winding roads of her newest album, Forget It - Let’s Ride!, ahead of its release later this year. This one-night-only event has limited seating, so be sure to gear up, bring your crew, and get ready for one wild ride!
Proceeds of this event will directly crowdfund the Album as well as Smalltown Society and ITMP VIBZ. We appreciate your support!
More info and RSVP here
The Creative LAB
The Creative Lab is our “open house,” where we invite our community to join us in creating and collaborating. N agenda, just space, gear, and dedicated time dedicated to your art. Bring a project, bring an instrument, or simply come and meet fellow artists. From time to time, we’ll be collaborate on long-term projects, such as a Smalltown album, which will be recorded from scratch in our space during these events.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
The LAB: featuring The Cires
The LAB: June 10 featuring The Cires
On Wednesday, June 10 at 7:30 p.m., The LAB welcomes back The Cires to The Clinic in Castro Valley!!
Made up of four brothers from Hayward, The Cires have built a sound that draws from classic rock, Latin rock, and vintage pop influences—channeling artists like The Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Los Freddys, and Los Enanitos Verdes into something distinctly their own. Their live performances carry an unmistakable sense of chemistry: rich harmonies, sharp musicianship, and the feeling of a band deeply locked into one another.
The group will be performing material from their forthcoming album, set for release later this year, making this one of the first chances to hear where their sound is headed next.
The second half of the evening opens into The LAB’s community open mic, where local artists, songwriters, poets, and musicians share works in progress, new ideas, and songs still finding their shape.
Hosted by Paul Keim and Michael Kim-Eubanks.
If you’ve seen The Cires before, you already know. If you haven’t, this is the night to catch them.
Presented by Smalltown Society
#TheLAB #SmalltownSociety #TheCires #BayAreaMusic #LatinRock #OpenMic #LiveMusicEastBay #CastroValleyEvents
Writing Jam
Smalltown Society continues our Writing Jam series, a free two-hour creative gathering for writers, poets, and anyone who’s ever felt the pull to put words on a page.
Hosted by author and story doula Amy Henderson of Writing One True Thing
the evening offers a welcoming space to follow your creative impulse, write in short bursts, and (for those who wish) share your words — not to impress, but to be real. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just beginning to explore your voice, the Writing Jam invites you to take creative risks, reconnect with your truth, and rediscover why your words still matter. RSVP on Eventbrite (Smalltown Society’s Writing Jam) Starts at 7:30 PM. Everyone’s welcome.
The Uppercut
The Uppercut — Smalltown’s Comedy LAB
Wednesday, May 27 | 7:30 PM |
The Clinic, Castro Valley
Smalltown Society presents The Uppercut, a monthly gathering for anyone passionate about the craft of comedy—whether you're brand new or looking to sharpen your next set.
This isn’t your typical open mic. The Uppercut offers dedicated stage time and the option for instant feedback from a supportive room of fellow comics and comedy lovers. Whether you’re into stand-up, sketch, character work, or something experimental, this is a space to take creative risks and test new ideas in good company.
Led by James Strawser, a local comedian with over a decade in comedy, The Uppercut is rooted in the belief that funny thrives in community—not in isolation.
No judgment. No pressure. Just a mic, a room, and people who love to laugh.
Try something new. Bring something weird.
All levels welcome. All styles encouraged.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
#ComedyLAB #SmalltownSociety #CastroValleyEvents #BayAreaComedy #WorkOutTheFunny #EastBayCreatives #NewVoicesInComedy #CreativeCommunity
Resistence Choir
Smalltown Society invites you to join the Resistance Choir
In every generation, when the world has grown weary with violence, injustice, and division, communites have found a way through with songs.
Songs have carried protest through the streets, through churches, through jail cells, through picket lines, through marches, and through movements. They have helped people survive what was meant to break them. They have turned grief into courage, isolation into community, and ordinary voices into a force that cannot be easily silenced.
We need songs that can carry our protest when words alone are not enough. Songs that help us stand against empire, racism, greed, and every story that teaches us to fear one another. Songs that do more than resist what is wrong—they point us toward what is possible. A more just world. A more human world. A world where our communities are not divided, disposable, or forgotten, but alive with dignity, belonging, and collective power.
The Resistance Choir is a space to lift our voices together in that spirit.
No experience is required. You do not need to be a trained singer. You only need to come ready to sing with others, to listen, to learn, and to add your voice to something communal, creative, and alive.
Come sing against despair.
Come sing toward justice.
Come sing the world we still believe is possible.
Wednesday, May 20
7–9 PM
Smalltown Society
Introducing the Ideas LAB
Introducing Ideas LAB
An open mic for ideas
Smalltown Society is launching a new kind of LAB: a space for the ideas you’ve been carrying, wondering about, dreaming through, or trying to bring into the world.
Ideas LAB is a gathering for brainstorming, collaboration, conversation, and creative possibility. It’s a place to bounce a new idea, share something half-formed, ask better questions, connect with others, and begin moving an idea from your head and heart into existence.
At Smalltown, we believe creativity is not just about songs, poems, films, or paintings. Creativity is also how we imagine new ways of living, building, organizing, healing, gathering, and seeing the world.
Bring an idea for a project, event, business, artwork, community effort, movement, invention, story, or anything else that might generate positive change for our communities.
You don’t need a finished plan. You just need a spark.
The LAB: featuring Duke James
The LAB: May 6
Smalltown Society’s monthly showcase returns on Wednesday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. at The Clinic in Castro Valley, featuring the return of Duke James.
Blending folk and soul with a midcentury vibe, his sound draws from artists like Bob Dylan and Billie Holiday—timeless, understated, and transportive.
All are welcome to attend, share, or simply listen.
Presented by Smalltown Society
#TheLAB #SmalltownSociety #DukeJames #CastroValleyEvents #LiveMusicEastBay
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
A Special Collab: Smalltown's Writing JAM
Smalltown Society continues its Writing JAM series with a special collaboration alongside Prana Yoga & Wellbeing and Writing One True Thing.
Taking place on Sunday, May 3 from 2:30–4:30 PM at Prana Yoga & Wellbeing (20948 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley, CA 94546), this free two-hour creative gathering invites writers, poets, and anyone drawn to the page into a welcoming space to write, reflect, and reconnect with their voice.
Hosted by author and story doula Amy Henderson of Writing One True Thing, the afternoon will feature short writing bursts, gentle prompts, and the chance to share your words if you’d like—not to impress, but to be real.
Whether you’ve been writing for years or are just beginning to explore, Writing JAM is a space to take creative risks, follow what’s true, and remember why your words matter. Everyone’s welcome.
Resistence Choir
Smalltown Society invites you to join the Resistance Choir! No experience required, just come ready to sing with others in our creative community. Lift your voice in song to fight against hatred and division.
Friday, May 1st from 7-9pm
Smalltown Jam Night
Join us for Jam Night, a new monthly gathering for musicians, singers, and music lovers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just getting started, this is a space to play, collaborate, and connect—no pressure, just good vibes.
We’ll have a piano, guitars, drums, percussion, and mics ready to go. Bring your own instrument if you’d like, or just bring yourself and jump in.
Come make music, meet fellow creatives, and be part of something spontaneous and joyful.
All are welcome. No RSVP needed. Just show up and jam.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
Rhythms & Resilience Benefit for the Middle East featuring The Soapbox Salute
AN EVENING OF ART IN SOLIDARITY WITH COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY CONFLICT
Together with Partners in Relief Development, we are creating a night of protest, support, and solidarity with those suffering in the Middle East. Help us create art that tells their stories and supports relief efforts across the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
The night features a set from The Soapbox Salute, and will be followed by our artist community (including you!) sharing songs, poems, visual art, or anything else, open mic style. Interested in sharing art in solidarity with those impacted by war? Fill out the form here to express interest. Note: There is a 5-minute time limit for [presentations/submissions].
$15 suggested donation, beverages will be available.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joe’s, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
To see how funds are being used, visit partners.ngo
Video LAB: learn the basics of video editing and production
Want to create videos for YouTube, TikTok, Reels, and more? Come join us for our first Video LAB — a hands-on intro to video editing using DaVinci Resolve, one of the industry's most powerful (and free!) tools. No experience necessary. No equipment needed. Just show up ready to learn.
By the end of this session, you'll know how to edit a live music performance from start to finish.
Want to edit along with us? If you have a laptop, sign up on Eventbrite before the event and we'll send you video assets and setup instructions so you're ready to go from minute one.
Can't bring a laptop? No problem — you're still welcome to watch, follow along, and take everything in.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Chruch, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
The Uppercut: Comedy Workshop
The Uppercut — Smalltown’s Comedy LAB
Thursday April 16, 2026 | 7:30 PM |
The Clinic, Castro Valley
Smalltown Society presents The Uppercut, a monthly gathering for anyone passionate about the craft of comedy—whether you're brand new or looking to sharpen your next set.
This isn’t your typical open mic. The Uppercut offers dedicated stage time and the option for instant feedback from a supportive room of fellow comics and comedy lovers. Whether you’re into stand-up, sketch, character work, or something experimental, this is a space to take creative risks and test new ideas in good company.
Led by James Strawser, a local comedian with over a decade in comedy, The Uppercut is rooted in the belief that funny thrives in community—not in isolation.
No judgment. No pressure. Just a mic, a room, and people who love to laugh.
Try something new. Bring something weird.
All levels welcome. All styles encouraged.
How to Find The Clinic: We work out of a space in First Presbyterian Church, but are not a part of the church. To find our office, park in the lot behind Trader Joes, near the Gymnasium. Find the string lights and you will see a door that has a sign that says "Clinic".
#ComedyLAB #SmalltownSociety #CastroValleyEvents #BayAreaComedy #WorkOutTheFunny #EastBayCreatives #NewVoicesInComedy #CreativeCommunity
The LAB: featuring Namorados Da Lua
The LAB: Featuring Namorados Da Lua
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 7:30 PM | The Clinic, Castro Valley
Join us for a vibrant night of global rhythm and community as The LAB welcomes Namorados Da Lua, the Bay Area’s premier Brazilian band.
Led and produced by Nilo Ayele of Bahia, Brazil, the group brings together musicians from across North and South America, Africa, and Europe. Their music is a dynamic fusion of reggae, jazz, pop, rock, and funk infused with Brazilian rhythms like samba, forró, and axé.
With a repertoire largely composed of original songs, Namorados Da Lua creates an atmosphere of tropical warmth and unity. Their music celebrates love, spirituality, family, and respect for differences — offering an experience that is both uplifting and deeply communal.
The LAB is Smalltown Society’s monthly open mic and featured artist series dedicated to building creative community in Castro Valley.
All are welcome.
Smalltown's Writing JAM
Smalltown Society continues our Writing Jam series, a free two-hour creative gathering for writers, poets, and anyone who’s ever felt the pull to put words on a page.
Hosted by author and story doula Amy Henderson of Writing One True Thing, the evening offers a welcoming space to follow your creative impulse, write in short bursts, and (for those who wish) share your words — not to impress, but to be real. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just beginning to explore your voice, the Writing Jam invites you to take creative risks, reconnect with your truth, and rediscover why your words still matter. RSVP on Eventbrite (Smalltown Society’s Writing Jam) Starts at 7:00 PM. Everyone’s welcome.
The Uppercut: Comedy Workshop
The Uppercut — A New Space to Work Out the Funny
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM |
The Clinic, Castro Valley
Smalltown Society presents The Uppercut, a monthly gathering for anyone passionate about the craft of comedy—whether you're brand new or looking to sharpen your next set.
This isn’t your typical open mic. The Uppercut offers dedicated stage time and the option for instant feedback from a supportive room of fellow comics and comedy lovers. Whether you’re into stand-up, sketch, character work, or something experimental, this is a space to take creative risks and test new ideas in good company.
Led by James Strawser, a local comedian with over a decade in comedy, The Uppercut is rooted in the belief that funny thrives in community—not in isolation.
No judgment. No pressure. Just a mic, a room, and people who love to laugh.
Try something new. Bring something weird.
All levels welcome. All styles encouraged.
For more info: info@smalltownsociety.com
#ComedyLAB #SmalltownSociety #CastroValleyEvents #BayAreaComedy #WorkOutTheFunny #EastBayCreatives #NewVoicesInComedy #CreativeCommunity
Crafter's Collective: Blank Canvas Event
CRAFTERS’ COLLECTIVE
with The Ginger Pocket
Calling all creatives! Join our local community of artists for a hands-on art night hosted by Smalltown Society and led by The Ginger Pocket! Meet other artists, work on projects together, and get inspired by one another.
What: Blank Canvas Art Night
When: Wednesday, March 11th at 7:30 pm
Where: 2490 Grove Way, Castro Valley, CA
What to bring: a “blank canvas”* and/or a personal project**
*You can bring a literal blank canvas, or just anything you’d like to splatter paint, ie a picture frame, a coaster, a greeting card, etc. Paint will be provided.
*While we wait for our group projects to dry a bit, the space will be open to anyone who wants to hang out, grab a snack, work on a personal project, socialize, etc. Feel free to bring your sketchbook, your needlework, your digital art, your mixed media, crafts — whatever you’d like to work on! This is a wonderful opportunity to show off what you’re making, ask questions about what others are working on, and enjoy each other’s company.
The LAB: Featuring Corrie Tizon
The LAB: March 4
Join us for an evening of heart, soul, and presence with featured artist Corrie Tizon.
Corrie’s style—acoustic soul—is rooted in life transitions, motherhood, and the healing power of music. As an expressive arts therapist by day and performer by night, her songs carry emotion, reflection, and moments of deep calm. Whether you’re moved or simply put at ease, Corrie’s music is here to meet you where you are.
Wednesday, March 4 @ 7:30 PM
📍The Clinic – Castro Valley
Presented by Smalltown Society
#TheLAB #SmalltownSociety #CorrieTizon #AcousticSoul #BayAreaMusic #TherapyAndArt #CreateCollaborateInspire #CastroValleyEvents #EastBayCreatives
Castro Valley Student Movie Night
🌈 Student Movie Night: Princess Mononoke
Join us for a special CVUSD Student screening of Princess Mononoke at Castro Valley’s historic Chabot Theater. This night is designed as an affirming, low-pressure space to connect, relax, and enjoy a Studio Ghibli classic on the big screen.
Set in a mystical world shaped by nature, spirits, and the clash between industry and the wild, Princess Mononoke follows San, Ashitaka, and the forest gods as they fight to protect what they love. The film explores themes of identity, belonging, courage, and how we choose to live when the world is out of balance. It’s a powerful story that resonates deeply with community, transformation, and chosen alliances.
✨ Details
CVUSD 6-12 students & Parents Only
📅 Saturday, February 28, 2026
🕖 7:00 PM (doors at 6:30 PM)
📍 The Chabot Theater — Castro Valley
🎟️ Free (Must bring Student Permission Slip)
This event is exclusively for students.
💛 Notes
– Respectful, judgment-free environment
– No recording or photography
– School sponsored event - all standard school expectations apply.
Come grab some snacks, meet new friends, and experience a cinematic masterpiece in a welcoming, inclusive setting.
We can’t wait to see you.
For any questions please email: wellness@cv.k12.ca.us
Smalltown Society Town Hall
Join us for a night of reflection, storytelling, and vision as we share where Smalltown has been, where we stand today, and where we’re heading in 2026 and into the future.
This gathering is for anyone who has been involved, inspired, curious, or simply feels connected to the spirit of what we’re building. We’ll be sharing the deeper “why” behind our work, the dreams on the horizon, and the ways this community continues to grow as a creative and cultural home.
Come listen, ask questions, and help shape what comes next.
Writing Jam
Smalltown Society presents our second Writing Jam, a free two-hour creative gathering for writers, poets, and anyone who’s ever felt the pull to put words on a page.
Hosted by author and story doula Amy Henderson of Writing One True Thing, the evening offers a welcoming space to follow your creative impulse, write in short bursts, and (for those who wish) share your words — not to impress, but to be real. Whether you’re an experienced writer or just beginning to explore your voice, the Writing Jam invites you to take creative risks, reconnect with your truth, and rediscover why your words still matter. RSVP on Eventbrite (Smalltown Society’s Writing Jam) Starts at 7:00 PM. Everyone’s welcome.
The LAB: Featuring BJ Kemp
The LAB: Featuring BJ Kemp
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 | 7:30 PM | The Clinic, Castro Valley
Join us for a night of music and community featuring BJ Kemp, a San Francisco Bay Area native and seasoned artist whose talent spans decades and disciplines. As a drummer, bassist, vocalist, producer, and engineer, BJ has worked with legends like Raphael Saadiq and Sheila E., toured worldwide, and performed at top festivals including Coachella, Outside Lands, and Montreux Jazz.
Now pursuing his own path as a solo artist, BJ brings a sound rooted in gospel and soul, with rich harmonies, storytelling lyrics, and a quietly powerful presence. His recent releases include the EP Adult Conversations, the single The Moment, and a soulful remake of The Delfonics’ Ready Or Not.
The LAB is Smalltown Society’s monthly open mic and featured artist series, where community, creativity, and authenticity meet. All are welcome to share or simply take it all in.
For more info, visit @smalltownsociety
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World with a Live Band! - Secret Screen Takeover
🎬 Secret Screen Takeover returns to The Chabot Theater 🎬
In partnership with the SF Chronicle’s 2025 Best Movie Theater in the Bay Area, we’re bringing back Secret Screen—this time with Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. Before the film, a live band will perform songs from the movie.
Directed by Edgar Wright and stacked with an iconic cast (Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin, Brie Larson, Chris Evans + more), this cult classic blends indie rock, video game chaos, and heart.
🎸 Live music: 7:00 PM
🎥 Film: 7:30 PM
🎟 $10 tickets: thechabot.com
Hosted by Smalltown Society, a non-profit artist collective uplifting local creatives in the Eden Area.
Art Reception Featuring the Work of Cory Bardwell
An evening of art, music, and shared space.
Join us at Pampas Cafe for a special Art Reception featuring the abstract work of Cory Bardwell — bold, layered paintings that invite you to slow down, look closer, and feel your way through color and form.
This is a chance to experience the work up close, meet the artist, and spend a couple of easy hours in community, surrounded by creativity. Whether you’re a longtime art lover or just curious, you’re welcome here.
The night will be accompanied by live music from Zack England, adding a solid backdrop to the evening as people wander, talk, and take it all in.
📅 Saturday, Jan 31
🕕 6–8pm
📍 Pampas Cafe — Castro Valley
Hosted by @smalltownsociety
22222 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley