Mary Crystal Wood: Singer/Songwriter
Mary Crystal Wood has been writing since 2000 with her first release in 2001. Her first album "Simple" was a collection of mostly folk tunes with one exception, the song "Nothing". On it Mary was backed by the band Rearview (Yancy Wood, Eric Smith, Will Genter and Todd Becker). She expanded upon that direction in her next cd "At Your Door". Rearview accompanied her again with the addition of solo guitarist Will Boggs. Todd Becker co-wrote "Here" and "Catch Me" was arranged by Will Boggs.
Some of her influences are Paul Simon, Chris Isaak, Kasey Chambers, Brandi Carlysle, The Band, Whiskytown, The Wallflowers, and Dolly Parton.
Mary has been a part of Artomatic in Washinton D.C. and New Song Mountain Stage Festival in Shepherdstown, W.V. She also participated in the Johnny Cash tribute concert held at Jammin Java in Vienna, Va. opening the show with "I Walk the Line".
She held a benefit concert in 2006 for Breast Cancer Research for the National Cancer Society which also included a performance by Dulcie Taylor(www.dulcietaylor.com).
Most notable was her participation in the ASCAP songwriter's showcase held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Fourteen songwriters were chosen in 8 different categories to be showcased that evening. Hosted by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Godspell) and Michael Kerker (ASCAP), it was the first showcase of it's kind held at the Kennedy Center. Lynn Revo-Cohen of WAMA also worked with Mr. Kerker and Mr. Schwartz in support of the local talent for the show. Mary's song "Simple" enchanted the crowd and was a highlight of the evenings performances.
She later attended the ASCAP's Musical Theater Workshop by Stephen Schwartz in New York, NY.
Mary is currently living in Bavaria, Germany. She made her acting debut there in March 2008 as "Grace" in the play "Hold Please" by Annie Weisman directed by Joanne Love. She was nominated for best debut performance for the Topper's Award in Heidleberg, Germany. The play also won the Topper for best costume and best set design.