N.S. news: Songwriters circle highlights women, non-binary musicians [Video]

A new touring songwriters circle is looking to spotlight female and non-binary musicians in Nova Scotia this winter and spring.

The Small of my Heart songwriters circle kicks off at the First United Church in Truro on Saturday with a performance featuring, among other artists, Lisa MacIsaac, who helped bring the event to life.

“I knew when we started this who I’d call on,” MacIsaac said. “They’re songwriters and incredible storytellers and just the fact they’re brave enough to put their heart on their sleeves was the only requirement.”

MacIsaac, an artist from Cape Breton, co-founded Banshee Events Co., a non-profit that, according to its website, seeks to “empower women and non-binary artists.” MacIsaac said she’s seen firsthand the difficulties female and non-binary performers can face onstage.

“Everything from being onstage and having sound techs coming onstage to speak with our band members behind us about any technical questions because …