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SAM 2nd Annual JazzFest: Saturday Shows at Vickers Theatre

Saturday, Sep. 19 | 12:30pm ET (11:30am CT)

Community EventJazz

The second day of SAM's 2nd annual JazzFest is a full day of jazz: Merrimans' Play-House Open Mic, Patti Shaffner with Buddy Pearson & Leandro Lopez Varady, and Sam Burckhardt with Jeremy Kahn + Jake Vinsel all take the stage at Vickers Theatre!

Schedule:

  • 1pm ET: Merrimans' Play-House Open Mic Showcase featuring the Merrimans' Play-House Players
  • 6pm ET: Patti Shaffner with Buddy Pearson & Leandro Lopez Varady
  • 8pm ET: Sam Burckhardt with Jeremy Kahn + Jake Vinsel

About the Artist:

8pm ET

Sam Burckhardt with Jeremy Kahn + Jake Vinsel


Saturday night swings into high gear with an unforgettable performance at The Vickers Theatre featuring internationally acclaimed saxophonist and vocalist Sam Burckhardt alongside celebrated Chicago pianist Jeremy Kahn and acclaimed bassist Jake Vinsel. Blending jazz, blues, swing, and soulful improvisation, this powerhouse trio brings decades of experience from legendary clubs, festivals, recordings, and collaborations around the world. From Burckhardt’s rich tenor saxophone and vocals to Kahn’s masterful piano stylings and Vinsel’s dynamic bass work, audiences can expect an evening of sophisticated musicianship, irresistible rhythm, and timeless jazz energy.

6pm ET

Patti Shaffner with Buddy Pearson & Leandro Lopez Varady

Experience an unforgettable evening of world-class musicianship as vocalist Patti Shaffner joins acclaimed bassist Buddy Pearson and pianist Leandro Lopez Varady for a dynamic Jazz Fest performance at The Vickers Theatre. From soulful jazz and blues to inspired improvisation and genre-blending artistry, this trio brings together decades of performance excellence and creative passion for one captivating night of music.

1pm ET

Merrimans' Play-House Open Mic Showcase


Experience one of jazz’s most dynamic traditions as the Merrimans’ Play-House Players bring their Jazz Open Session to Three Oaks during Jazz Fest 2026. Led by Stephen Merriman (drums), Mary Merriman (bass), Titus Arko (piano), Maximilian Wilfinger (trumpet), and Andrew Fisher (vocals), this interactive performance celebrates collaboration, creativity, and the spirit of improvisation through beloved jazz standards.

Audience members are invited to listen, connect, or even join in. Musicians of all experience levels are welcome to sit in—just let us know, and we’ll work you into the session. Rooted in the democratic tradition of jazz, the open session creates space for artists to meet, respond in the moment, and make music together.

Bring your instrument, your ears, and your friends. Egos stay at the door—collaboration begins here.

All ticket purchases are non-refundable, non-exchangeable. 

The Acorn is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Turn your show experience into a memorable stay! The Loft at The Acorn offers a spacious, industrial-chic apartment above The Acorn theater. Click here for photos and rental information.

 

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Tickets

Location: Vickers Theatre
Starts 12:30pm, doors open 12:00pm

An Experience to Outlast Any Performance

No two Acorn performances are exactly the same.  Thoughtful curation brings a diverse mix of top talent to The Acorn, exposing audiences to both renowned and soon-to-be-discovered stars.

About The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts

The Acorn brings great known performers and amazing new ones to southwest Michigan.  Located in the historic featherbone factory, The Acorn’s friendly staff and volunteers, and an acoustically rich sound system combine for memorable experiences. We’re located in Three Oaks, Michigan …  just over an hour from downtown Chicago and 30 minutes from South Bend, IN.

The Acorn, a nonprofit organization, annually hosts a singer songwriter competition and a Spectacular Tournament of Playwrights. Our Open Mic nights showcase a variety of strong talent and our educational workshops include songwriting and master classes in performance.

The Acorn’s Mission

To offer a broad range of high-quality arts and education programming that nurtures cultural experience, participation and community engagement among residents and visitors of all ages and enhances the economic vitality of the region.


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