Coming Up at Smalltown Society
Wednesday, April 9th: The LAB: Featuring Eileen Torrez
The LAB returns with featured artist Eileen Torrez—an Oakland-based singer-songwriter whose sound dances between folk-rock, indie pop, and soul. Known for her clever, heartfelt lyrics and dynamic musical range, Eileen explores themes of joy, survival, and meaning with both reverence and playfulness. Hosted by Smalltown Society, The LAB is a monthly gathering for songwriters, poets, and artists to share, collaborate, and connect in an intimate, creative space. Each evening begins with a featured performance and conversation, followed by an open mic for artists to share new or in-progress work. This invite-only event starts at 7:30PM. To inquire about an invitation, email us at info@smalltownsociety.com.
Wednesday, April 16th: Secret Screen Takeover – Soundtrack to a Coup d’État
Join us for Smalltown Society’s next Secret Screen Takeover in collaboration with the Hayward Community Coalition (HayCoCoa), Smalltown Society and the Chabot Cinema, as we present Soundtrack to a Coup d’État—a powerful and artfully constructed documentary that fuses rare archival footage with jazz, politics, and resistance. Set against the backdrop of the 1960 Congo crisis, the film traces how the United States and Belgium orchestrated a coup to remove democratically elected leader Patrice Lumumba, using a score of American jazz legends to chronicle the rhythm of rebellion. It’s a bold cinematic experience—part history lesson, part sonic journey—that asks urgent questions about empire, music, and memory.
The custom pre-show begins at 7 PM, featuring behind-the-scenes footage, rare performances, and music from local artists. The film starts at 7:30 PM. Admission is $5. Attendance is limited to Smalltown Society members or Chabot Secret Screen members. Not a member yet? Check out smalltownsociety.com for more info!
