Jay Blakesberg and Steve Poltz: Workingmans's Dead

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

DOORS 6:30PM / SHOW 8:00PM

21+

Workingman’s Dead is a one of a kind live performance that includes Iconic songs of the Grateful Dead performed by legendary folk singer Steve Poltz, interspersed with a Live slideshow-storytelling presentation by Renowned Grateful Dead photographer Jay Blakesberg with a heavy dose of Steve Poltz “songwriting in the moment” sprinkled on top.

The show begins with Poltz performing one of many songs written by Garcia/Hunter while a slideshow plays on the screen showing photographs of Jerry Garica from his earliest days performing until his death in 1995.  From there Blakesberg begins the slideshow/storytelling presentation about his adventure photographing the Grateful Dead experience.  Blakesberg delivers his stories in a poignant, entertaining, exciting and educational way honoring the long legacy of the Grateful Dead and what it means to be “on the bus”. Over the course of the next 180 minutes Blakesberg passes the torch to Poltz every 5-7 minutes and Poltz writes a song on the spot about what stories Blakesberg just told, which is followed by a full performance of the next iconic Grateful Dead song. Each improvisational song is written on the spot with Poltz not knowing what story Blakesberg will tell next. Along with the opening tribute to Garcia, there will be songs that will also feature the same visual treatment from the first Garcia song in tribute to Bobby Weir and Phil Lesh. Besides Blakesberg’s stories which are accompanied by archival imagery, there will be historical Grateful Dead images projected on screen while Poltz sings his heart out reinterpreting one of the great American songbooks. The rapport between Poltz and Blakesberg is a magical chemistry that is such a cosmic swirl of music, stories, visuals and improvisation that it will bring the audience to tears, laughter, outbursts of recognition, and finally reconciliation of where we are with the legacy of the Good Ole’ Grateful Dead. At the conclusion there will be no doubt that the music of this “Band beyond Description” will live on for the next 300 years as Bobby Weir has willed.

Like a Grateful Dead concert, every performance is different, but all of them are rooted in the belief of “no risk, n reward”, and this show will be full of rewards.  The performance will resonate with all fans of live music, storytelling, and the Grateful Dead, whether as a casual listener, or a deep, decades long fan.  Blakesberg says, “ it doesn’t matter how long you have listened to the Grateful Dead, if you like the music, you ARE a Deadhead”.

Songs, stories, and improvisation honoring the legacy of the Grateful Dead. All sales are final, no refunds/exchanges permitted, but tickets may be transferred through your TM Account. Garcia’s is fully ADA compliant featuring wheelchair lifts and ramps between the various levels of the venue, assisted listening devices upon request, and allows official service animals. Premium Table seating is located closest to the stage offering the most intimate music experience for guests and includes table service. Reserved Table seating is located on our main floor, behind the Premium section, and also includes table service. Both Premium and Reserved table seating is cabaret style which means you may be sitting with other fans. Private Booths are available and depending on the booth seats 1 to 4, 5, or 6 guests. General Admission/Standing Room is located around the sides of the room on an elevated level for quality viewing and easy bar access.

21 & Over Show. Must be 21+ with a valid ID to purchase alcohol.