This Saturday night, Ventura’s Restaurant & Pizzeria in Fairfield will host singer-songwriter Cagan Goldstein for his debut performance at the venue. Known for his high-energy covers and heartfelt originals, Goldstein has built a strong regional following with his engaging live shows and versatile style. His stop at Ventura’s is one of 13 performances this month, reflecting his rising presence in the local music scene.
The show runs from 9 p.m. to midnight in Ventura’s bar area, offering guests a chance to enjoy live music in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Located at 100 E. Main Street, Ventura’s is a longtime favorite for its Italian-American eats and community vibe.
We caught up with Cagan to ask some questions about Saturday’s performance:
Q.What made you decide to add Ventura’s in Fairfield to your performance lineup this month?
A. I found out Ventura’s was having live music when I saw Neil & Shannon advertise one of their shows there (check them out by the way, they are always a pleasure to see!) I had a great time playing at the Mansion House, and I thought it would be fun to play in Fairfield again, so I reached out to Ventura’s and they booked me!
Q. How does playing in a new venue—like Ventura’s—compare to more familiar spots?
A. When I play in Adams County, I often see faces I recognize in the audience, so it tends to feel decently familiar. I hope for something like that at Ventura’s, even though it’s a new venue. Symbols of inclusivity, like the pride flags at Ploughman, are always a good sign for a new venue!
Q. Do you have any pre-show rituals or routines to get in the zone before a performance?
A. I like to have a meal, nap, then shower before I leave for the venue. In that order! I don’t usually like to eat right before I sing, although sometimes I end up doing that if I don’t manage my time well.
Q. How do you choose what songs make the cut for a new crowd like the one at Ventura’s?
A. I usually figure that out once I’ve started playing! I pretty much always play the four originals on my EP, Sweet Completeness (available for purchase on CD at my shows and at Sweet Repeat Records, and streamable on all major streaming platforms and YouTube). If those are received well, I have more originals I can throw in! Same with the covers. I know a ton of songs by Ben Folds, Todd Rundgren, and Taylor Swift. I usually play one song by each artist- if they hit, there will be a lot more where that came from! I love covering 2000’s and current songs, especially pop and pop rock, but if that’s not hitting, I know a good amount of classic rock and some classic country from my time as the keyboardist for Shane Masters in West Virginia (check him out too!)Recently at Pilger Ruh in Gettysburg, I had someone shout “play more old people music” (her words, not mine!) after I played Bus Stop by the Hollies, so I ended up playing almost an hour of unplanned 60’s and 70’s songs. If the classics are hitting at Ventura’s, I have them in my repertoire, and I enjoy them too!
Q. What would make your debut at Ventura’s a success in your eyes—what are you hoping to feel walking off that stage?
A. I know I’m doing well if people are paying attention to what I’m playing, and especially if they are singing along. Tips are a good indicator too! I’m hoping to feel that I’ve given my audience a fun time when I walk off that stage!
Whether you’re a loyal fan or hearing him for the first time, Cagan Goldstein’s performance promises a fun and memorable night in the heart of Fairfield.
