The Wheel at the glove| 11.16.24

11.18.24 | writing and📸by: Penny Piper 

 I’m ecstatic to write the first installation of my “Don’t tell me this town ain’t got no heart” series! I will be HIGH-lighting the exploding art scene that’s happening here in my hometown (Dorn Space, I'm coming for you next!).

Gloversville and Johnstown, NY have always been known as The Twin Cities, and although they have their differences, the common thread of expression and inspired creativity is causing a wave of community around the common love of music and the arts.

The Wheel, who is one of the Capital Region’s most authentic Grateful Dead tribute bands, played one of the coolest venues around, and it all happened here in my hometown!

The Glove Theater, at 42 North Main St., Gloversville, NY, was established in 1914 and designed by architect Linn Kinne in the Classical Revival style. The theater is a stark reminder that Gloversville was and is a bustling community filled with creativity and a passion for the arts.

My family has been enjoying this space for over 100 years. I grew up hearing stories from my mother and grandmother about the grandeur and innovation that The Glove holds onto so dearly. Back in the late 1900's (stings, doesn't it?) it was slated to be torn down and the community wouldn’t have it. The love that our people showed The Glove is a testament to our passion for the arts. If you haven’t been to a performance there please head out and support them. I promise, you will fall in love with this place. They are doing amazing things and the groups they are booking are top tier!

 My vibes reach an all time high when participating in a live “Dead” show. I say participate because it is a group effort. Jam bands really rely on the crowd to show them where to go and the crowd hangs onto every vibration from the band, spinning and swirling it into elation and joy. This is where I find my bliss and The Wheel makes all of that happen.

I have had the pleasure to see them perform several times and honestly, each time is memorable. They give you an experience. The stage is lit up with a gigantic, beautiful backdrop, the sound is tight, the talent is palpable, and the vibes are spot on. They play what Deadheads want to hear. Every song had me screaming in excitement. The set list was immaculate. The second set was a tribute to Phil Lesh, the bass player for the Grateful Dead, who became a brilliant, shining “headlight on a northbound train” when he headed home to jam at that great gig in the sky on October 25th of this year. The highlight for me was St. Stephen > The Eleven. It melted my heart, it’s rarely attempted live and they nailed it! I also need to mention the Help/Slip/Tow, Bravo!!!!

The Wheel played to us and for us and made it look effortless. They really jive together and that is, in my opinion, the key to a great band. They make sure to let us know they are just as happy to be there as we are. I am certain that the spirits of The Glove were “shakin’ them bones” right along with us. Thank you, The Glove and The Wheel for a “real good time!”

All the Best,

Penny Piper