Friday Night Sessions
Winter Songwriter Series — Final Round
Thursday, February 27 | 8:00 PM | Doors open at 7:00 PM
Pay What You Can (suggested $15)
The Bunker Performance Lounge & Cafe | 104 Wellington Street, Stratford
The Winter Songwriter Series wraps up with the third and final night of this three-part Friday Night Sessions run—bringing three songwriters together on one stage for an intimate evening of original music and shared stories. This songwriter-in-the-round format invites the audience into the creative process, with each artist taking turns performing and offering insight into the songs they’ve written.
This closing night features a thoughtful mix of experience, perspective, and storytelling from three Ontario-based artists.
Woody Woodburn
Originally from Mississauga and now based in Rockwood, Ontario, Woody Woodburn’s musical journey began in the Canadian music scene of the mid-1990s. Drawn to the small-town lifestyle of his Cape Breton roots, Woody brings a grounded, honest approach to songwriting shaped by lived experience. His songs focus on real moments and shared struggles, delivered with a powerful voice and a sense of familiarity—like reconnecting with an old friend through music.
Julia Godden
At just 21, Julia Godden has already spent years performing across Ontario. Hailing from Acton, she’s been playing shows since the age of 14, appearing at restaurants, farmers’ markets, festivals, fall fairs, open mics, concert halls, and as a busker. Her indie-folk songwriting draws directly from her own experiences, paired with a strong vocal range and an easy stage presence. Julia has released three singles to date and performed at Cicada Fest in 2024, with influences that echo artists like Phoebe Bridgers, Joni Mitchell, and Noah Kahan.
Barry James Payne (String Bone)
Barry James Payne is the singer-songwriter behind String Bone. Born in London, Ontario, his musical path has taken him through Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal before settling in Stratford. His writing blends Folk, Alt-Country, Blues, and Rock, often rooted in Americana and Canadiana traditions. Payne’s songs explore social issues alongside personal stories of love, loss, and memory. A longtime core member of the Celtic-roots band Rant Maggie Rant, he has performed in theatres and festivals across Canada and the U.S., produced albums, and shared stages with many respected Canadian artists.
Join us for the final night of the Winter Songwriter Series—an evening built around original songs, shared stories, and a listening-room experience that brings artists and audience closer together.
At The Bunker, we’re proud that the majority of ticket revenue goes directly to the artists. To support our mission and keep the music going, a minimum $10 purchase per person from our menu is required during ticketed shows.
With limited seating, we kindly ask all ticket holders to arrive no later than 15 minutes before showtime to ensure your spot. Reserved seating may be released 15 minutes after the show begins. If seats are no longer available, refunds may be issued in person. Please note: no refunds are issued for no-shows.
