Go "Behind The Stage Door" and hear first-hand stories about the music industry from the people who make it possible in Pittsburgh. Interact with Pittsburgh music leaders and legends.

We hope to see you each night of virtual storytelling, but you choose how often you can join us this week!

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND CLOSES 1-HOUR BEFORE THE START OF THE EVENT.

November 2 (7:30pm-8:15pm)– A Promoter’s Life

Do you enjoy large-scale concerts in the 70’ and 80’s here in Pittsburgh? Ever wonder who makes that happen? Now you can meet one of Pittsburgh’s prominent concert promoters, Rich Engler, of DiCesare-Engler Productions. Billboard Magazine ranked them #2 production team in the US in the late 70’s. Rich will give you the “real” stories about the concert business – including anecdotes about some of the most iconic bands and solo artists in the industry. Who insisted on a $15,000 birthday party? Which band needed required a limousine from each band member 24/7? 

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November 4 (7:30pm-8:15pm) – If These Walls Could Talk

If these walls could talk…well, tonight they will! Meet Moondog’s owner, Ronnie Esser. Moondog’s is a recipient of the prestigious "Keeping the Blues Alive" award which was given by the International Blues Foundation to recognize Ronnie’s commitment to promoting the Blues in the Pittsburgh region. We invite you inside this beloved "juke joint" -- one of the region's most significant purveyors of Blues music over the last 30 years, consistently featuring top Blues artists like Kip London. Kip will also join in, sharing his love of Blues and will even play a riff or two for you!

The Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania, a nonprofit, works to preserve and promote the Blues. They are proud to be part of tonight’s event.

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November 5 (7:30pm-8:15pm) – Rocking at the T-Bird

The Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall had humble beginnings. In 1933 this space was known as Michalski’s Café and was granted the 2nd liquor license in city of Pittsburgh after prohibition. Fast-forward, what we all know now as the Thunderbird, opened in March 2000, with local blues band The Pawnbrokers. Also, in that same year, Chicago Blues Legend John Primer, former Muddy Waters guitarist, was the first national act to take the stage. We invite you inside to learn more about this venue and the blues and rock performers who have graced this stage from current owner John Pergal. Also joining will be Ric Proudfoot. Ric has been playing acoustic and electric blues for over 40 years. Relax and enjoy a live acoustic performance by Ric.

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November 6 (7:30pm-8:15pm) – Shama Lama Ding Dong

If you are a music fan who grew up in Pittsburgh over the last 50 years, you know the name Johnny Angel. Johnny's career continues to this very day since his current band, Johnny Angel and the Halos, still perform songs from early genres to present. The legacy includes performances with iconic musicians from Chuck Berry to Pittsburgh legends The Marcels. Johnny invites you into his museum, Ginchy Stuff, to take a stroll through music history where you will recognize Chubby Checker, Little Richard, many performers from the Motown era, and Pittsburgh legends as well like the Skyliners. Johnny will also share his personal collection of memorabilia from his own shows and his experiences in the music industry.

The DOP Stories series, November 2020 - March 2021, is supported in part by: UPMC, Dollar Bank and The Benter Foundation