Wolf Trap’s Filene Center felt like home on the steamy evening of Saturday, August 16, as singer-songwriter Mary Chapin Carpenter returned to the beloved venue. It was a perfect setup for a night steeped in nostalgia and fresh musical moments.
Steve Satzberg was there to photograph the evening!
ChatGPT produced this article to accompany original photographs by Steve Satzberg.
When Mary Chapin Carpenter took the stage, the mood shifted instantly to one of heartfelt reflection and lyrical craftsmanship. Opening with “A Heart That Never Closes,” she wove through career-spanning favorites — “Passionate Kisses,” “I Feel Lucky,” “Stones in the Road,” “The Saving Things” — and showcased a selection from her new album Personal History, including “What Did You Miss,” “Bitter Ender,” “The Night We Never Met,” and “Girl and Her Dog.” With her signature storytelling, Carpenter shared personal anecdotes before tunes, giving the set both intimacy and gravitas.
Watch the official lyric video for “Bitter Ender” by Mary Chapin Carpenter on YouTube:
The encore lifted spirits even higher: Mary brought opener Brandy Clark back out for a duet on “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” a show highlight that soared with both voices in harmony. The night closed with a rollicking rendition of “Down at the Twist and Shout,” featuring Brandy and the full band — and a crowd-pleasing dance‑party energy that left the Filene Center buzzing.
The evening kicked off in a throwback style: Brandy Clark opened with a full 60‑minute set—no token slot here, but a proper hour-long spotlight that felt rare and generous in today’s touring world. She charmed with a warm presence and a voice that’s both powerful and intimate, delivering songs that clearly resonated — especially a new one titled “American Roots,” which prompted a visible, emotional response from the crowd.
Here are some photos of Mary Chapin Carpenter performing live at Wolf Trap on August 16, 2025. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Steve Satzberg.
Here are some photos of Brandy Clark opening Mary Chapin Carpenter at Wolf Trap on August 16, 2025. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Steve Satzberg.
