Risa Finkel – Grist for the Mill (250 Years in Motion: A Mill, a People, a Nation)

Risa Finkel celebrates the 250th anniversary of our nation with two encore performances of her new show, Grist for the Mill, at Don’t Tell Mama on November 14 and 18 at 7:00 PM. (Show links coming soon!) Originally performed June 12-14 at Lefferts Tide Mill, the nation’s best preserved 18th century tidal gristmill, proceeds from the performances benefited the historic mill, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

With arrangements and musical direction by Paul Greenwood and Michael Rice, Rex Benincasa on drums, Ritt Henn on bass, and Mike Rosengarten on guitar, banjo, and mandolin, Grist for the Mill is directed by Geoff Stoner, with technical direction by Kelly Wohlford. Creative consultant is David Friedman.

“…it is her depth of expressiveness and attention to story that makes a lovely voice remarkable.” ~ Navida Stein, StageBuddy

“…an impressive talent for making listeners feel fully at home.” ~ Mark Dundas Wood, Bistro Awards

Risa Finkel has had a long and illustrious career. She has appeared on stages and in concert venues in New York City, on Long Island, and around the country as an actress and as a singer of music ranging from the American Popular songbook, to Broadway and opera. In addition to her love of performing and singing, Finkel has always had a great interest in story-telling. Over the years, she has found that the best way to combine all of these talents and interests is in the art form of cabaret. Grist for the Mill, originally performed at Lefferts Tide Mill, June 12-14, 2026, follows Finkel’s two sold-out shows outdoors at Long Island’s Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve: A Grand Night For Singing, June 28, 2024, and Sunday in the Park with Risa, October 20, 2024.