On its 10th anniversary, the Wayne County Jazz Showcase (WCJS) returns to the Arts Council
of Wayne County on Feb.16th from 6 p.m. to 8. Admission is $10 at the door.

The Wayne County Jazz Showcase will continue on May 24, June 7, and Oct. 4.

This performing arts series is sponsored by the North Carolina Arts Council. Programs Director, Anna Hinson, contacted WCJS founder, Eric Dawson, to see if he is up for managing the series once again.
“It’s great to be back!” exclaims Dawson upon returning to the helm.

Dawson, a Kinston native, has been immersed in music since childhood, inspired by his father’s musical talent and the local musicians who frequented his home. His journey led him to pursue jazz, eventually culminating in the creation of the Wayne County Jazz Showcase in partnership with the Arts Council of Wayne County in Goldsboro in February 2014.

The showcase, initially highlighting North Carolina-based artists, experienced remarkable
growth with sponsorship from PNC Bank, attracting over 2,000 attendees. Through his passion
and dedication, Dwson continues to be a driving force in promoting live music and fostering artistic
growth in his community.

“Although we know that our community would like the Wayne County Jazz Showcase to return
monthly,” Arts Council of Wayne County Programs Director Anna Hinson said. “With all of the many recent changes the Arts Council has been through, we are focusing on quality performances
instead of quantity until we are comfortable expanding the program in 2025.”