Popping up every Friday at River Island Art Park is weekly favorite Geri’s Bluffing Boutique!
Owned and operated by entrepreneur, community leader and “Head Bluffa-Jo” Geraldine Barclay-King, Geri’s Bluffing Boutique offers community members a feel good retail shopping experience. A welcoming and unique Afro-Bohemian themed shop in downtown Woonsocket, with a mission to transform lives through fashion, art, and cultural education. Geraldine’s sense of style, event planning skills, and background in travel tourism allows her the opportunity to create the ultimate retail experience.
“The concept of Geri’s Bluffing Boutique comes from my Liberian (West
African) roots,” Geri shared. “The word ‘bluffing’ expresses the desire to not only look good but to feel good. It is used by Liberians to denote the use of fashion to project confidence and positivity, even when one might not be feeling their best. Our shop is invigorated with vibrant colors, unique styles, handmade fashion accessories, art pieces, music and customized gifts for all.”
In 2020 Geri developed the concept of a boutique that would deliver an uplifting experience, hoping to make a difference in a community dealing with the challenges of COVID-19. Designed for the unique buyer seeking a one-of-a-kind purchase, Geri helps people connect with their roots through an educational retail experience.
“Geri’s Bluffing Boutique has become a community place where positivity lives and confidence is discovered,” Geri said. “No two pieces are identical. Two hand-woven baskets may have the same shape but differ in prints, colors, size, or finish.”
Products found at Geri’s Bluffing Boutique include apparel for all ages, African-Bohemian-inspired home décor, art, and customized gift sets. While permanently located at 285 Main Street in Woonsocket, Levitt Concert Series attendees can also look forward to enjoying everything Geri has to offer Friday nights in the park–especially this Friday, when Geri’s Bluffing Boutique will be teaching concert goers the art and techniques of African drumming!
“On July 8, we’re hosting an interactive drumming session called Afrobeats in the Park!” Geri said. “Our goal is to bring people together to engage in a cultural experience of community connection.”
Please plan to arrive early for this interactive session–no prior drumming knowledge or experience necessary. The session will last 60 minutes. Instructions, guidance, and all the supplies to immerse in the rhythms of Africa will be provided. The session will be free to ten participants. Registration is required!
Joining our weekly series participant Geri’s Bluffing Boutique and Afrobeats in the Park will be this week’s headlining big brass act, Steve Smith and the Naked Truth!
With an almost 50 year musical history in the state, and a well-earned position in the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, The Nakeds are returning for a fourth season on our Levitt stage. Though well known for their covers, Friday’s show will feature original songs. The ten-man unit consists of a four-piece rhythm section, a five piece brass section, and lead vocalist, Steve Smith.
Their distinctive blend of rhythm, brass, and enthusiasm has gained The Nakeds loyal fans nationwide. From touring and performing with multiple renowned artists, including Bruce Springsteen’s legendary saxophonist Clarence Clemons, to appearing on MTV’s video countdown program and Family Guy, the Nakeds have made their mark across the country, and their home in Rhode Island. We look forward to welcoming this legendary band back to our Levitt stage!
This year’s free and family friendly Levitt AMP Woonsocket Music Series is about the music and so much MORE!
While the acts range in musical genres-from Pop and Reggae to Americana and Zydeco-concert attendees will also be treated throughout the summer to a variety of additional artisans, celebrations, food and events! The series, complete with food trucks, local craft vendors, and an on-site bar provided by Ciro’s Tavern, will occur Friday nights from June 17 through August 19 at River Island Art Park in Woonsocket.
Tune in next week to see what we have on deck at the
Levitt AMP Woonsocket Music Series!