Donovan Woods
The Centre In The Square’s OnStage series was one of my favorite series to work on—it’s the initiative that initially drew me back to the venue and ultimately inspired me to apply for a position there. Over time, I worked my way up to the role of Director, Marketing & Box Office. These shows, designed to provide an intimate concert experience with audiences of 400-700 people seated directly on the stage, allowed for a uniquely close connection between artists and fans. They also provided a platform to spotlight incredible talent—often artists who first came to Centre In The Square as openers for larger acts.
One of the standout memories from this series was Donovan Woods, who first appeared at Centre In The Square as the opener for Alan Doyle. Recognizing his brilliance, we immediately rebooked him to headline an OnStage show. The same approach led to countless memorable performances, where opening acts we believed in shone on their own.
For Donovan’s OnStage performance, Katie Pruitt opened the evening, delivering a breathtaking set. Her song Loving Her remains a favorite that I revisit often—a testament to how these shows didn’t just entertain but also left a lasting personal and emotional impact.
Donovan Woods is an incredible singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt, introspective storytelling. Beyond his solo work, he’s an acclaimed songwriter for some of the biggest names in music. His compositions have been recorded by artists like Tim McGraw (Portland, Maine), Charles Kelley of Lady A (Leaving Nashville), Billy Currington (Sweet Love), and Tenille Townes (The Most Beautiful Things). These songs resonate deeply with audiences and showcase his extraordinary gift for crafting lyrics that feel both universal and deeply personal.
Woods has also earned significant recognition for his work. He won the 2019 Juno Award for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year for his album Both Ways. His song What Kind of Love Is That was nominated for the prestigious Polaris Music Prize, and he has received multiple Canadian Folk Music Awards. While he generously shares his talents with others as a songwriter, he also keeps some of his most poignant and impactful tracks for his solo career, delighting fans with music that feels like a direct conversation.
The OnStage series provided a space for artists like Donovan Woods to shine, bridging the gap between performer and audience, and creating experiences that remain etched in memory. It’s moments like these that defined my time at Centre In The Square and solidified my passion for live music and storytelling.
