Quest for connection makes for dynamic storytelling

“My story begins …” says Scott Johnson, singer, songwriter, psychologist, and owner of Northwoods Music of Superior as he starts his personal account of his search for his birth parents.

At the beginning of his story, when he considered initiating a search for his birth mother, he gave her the name “Juno.” As a fan of the movie, he wanted her to be more than “Biological Mom.”

Scott’s adult son encouraged him to seek out his birth parents, and his family was supportive of this uncertain endeavor.

Scott didn’t begin his search for his birth parents until he was in his 40s and his adoptive parents had passed away. Scott felt his adoptive parents would not have been supportive of the search — perhaps even offended.

As with any search of this nature, the outcome is unpredictable.

Scott’s account of his journey through song and narration is a powerful story of a grown man’s navigation through the system of closed adoptions of the ‘60s; and, of his emotional struggle with “what if?” What if I can’t find her? What if she doesn’t want to meet me? What if she’s not alive anymore? What if I’m too late?

Scott’s recounting of events brings together a picture of a process full of ups and downs, successes and failures. Scott brings humor to his story by incorporating anecdotal and descriptive events of real life characters he encounters and interacts with through his search. He is able to engage the audience and draw them in as only a great story teller can.

Scott’s performance not only includes a narrative account of his search and outcomes, but also original songs written by Scott that were inspired by his quest for “Juno.” Scott performs with drummer, Greg Tiburzi and violinist, Kassi Couture. His acoustic guitar sounds accompanied by the right amount of muted percussion, violin and backup vocals make for an intimate night filled with music, humor and incredible storytelling.

If you have the opportunity to see his show live, it is an evening well spent and a story you won’t soon forget.

Scott performs his quest for a biological connection at 7 p.m. March 2 at Teatro Zuccone in downtown Duluth. Cost is $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

Tags: community, books, entertainment