THOMASTON — Set sail for a night of musical adventure as Watts Hall Community Arts hosts a special International Talk Like a Pirate Day Concert featuring The Shank Painters on Saturday, Sept. 14, at 6:30 p.m. This lively, all-ages event will take place at Watts Hall, located at 174 Main Street in Thomaston.

The Shank Painters, a pirate-themed folk band from Portland, have been delighting audiences with their energetic performances of sea shanties and nautical folk songs, according to a news release.

“Their repertoire, filled with classic tunes and sing-along choruses, captures the spirit of centuries of seafaring life and has something for everyone—children and adults alike,” said Watts Hall Community Arts.

Midcoast residents may have caught their performances at this year’s Lobster Fest in Rockland or at the Maine Author’s Publishing Book Festival at the Thomaston Public Library. 

Formed in the summer of 2016 by a group of high school friends, The Shank Painters began as street performers and have since played at festivals, parties, and venues across the Northeast. Their sound, a blend of accordion, fiddle, banjo, guitar, and percussion, brings history to life with songs that are playful, rollicking, and at times, deeply moving.

Attendees are encouraged to don their best pirate attire, though it’s not required. For those who do, there will be a pirate costume contest during intermission, with the winner receiving a pair of tickets to a future show at Watts Hall.

Tickets for this event are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the concert starting at 6:30 p.m. Seating is general admission, so arriving early is recommended to ensure you can sit with your group.

“Join us for a night of sea shanties, storytelling, and pirate-themed fun that’s sure to delight audiences of all ages,” said Community Arts. “This event is perfect for anyone who enjoys pirates, folklore, fantasy, or Maine’s rich maritime heritage.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://wattshallthomaston.com

 For any additional questions, please contact Managing Director Kendray Rodriguez at wattshallcommunityarts@gmail.com.