UWA launches Second Saturdays series for downtown entertainment

LIVINGSTON, Ala.—The University of West Alabama has announced a new series of entertainment programming set for the fall. “Second Saturdays” will kick off Oct. 10 at 8 p.m. with an acoustic performance by rising star Michael Warren.

Second Saturday events will be held on the courthouse square in downtown Livingston and are open to UWA students as well as the Livingston community. There is no admission to the events. University officials say that the event will enhance programming offered by UWA for its students.

“This is a great opportunity for us to bring some really good entertainment to our students in an area that is convenient for them but also open and accessible to the community,” explained Student Activities Director Jason Gardner. “We strive to offer students programming that they can stay on campus or in town to enjoy, and we think the events we have scheduled so far are ones that they will enjoy on a Saturday night.”

The debut act for the series, Michael Warren, is a singer-songwriter from Hoover, Ala., is pursuing a music career in Los Angeles. Warren began making a name for himself on the Birmingham club scene and now has songwriter credits on songs like Jennifer Lopez’s 2012 hit “Goin’ In,” which featured Flo Rida and Lil Jon and topped Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Songs chart. He has also co-written songs for teen heartthrob Cody Simpson and British boy band JLS.

Warren has released two albums, 2006’s “Michael Warren” and 2007’s “Race to Beat the Sun.” He’s also released two EPs, which have garnered attention from major labels. His latest EP, “Battle” was released this year and is available on iTunes.

In November, Second Saturday will feature a performance by Chris Gladden, a Nashville-based performer whose national introduction was on the hit television series, “The Voice.” He is a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, fiddle, mandolin, piano, organ, bass guitar, drums, and dobro. His wide array of music includes country, rock, classical, gospel, bluegrass, jazz, blues, and celtic.

Gladden has shared the stage with artists Darius Rucker, Chase Rice, Morgan Frazier, Elevation Worship, Kim Walker, and John Mark McMillan. He has performed on the Grand Ole Opry’s live show and on ABC’s hit series, “Nashville.”

On Dec. 12, Second Saturday will feature screening of the popular Christmas film, “The Polar Express.” The film will be shown on the square, and viewers are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for a relaxing movie night.

University Cinema’s snack bar and restrooms will be open to Second Saturday-goers.
For more information on UWA’s Second Saturday series, contact Jason Gardner in the Student Activities office at 205-652-3624.