The idea is simple: A punk dad, Neal Pollack, reading from his book Alternadad and Baltimore's own Thrushes playing a set or two. All that is needed is a punk mom who provides the outlet for parents to rock out in a child friendly environment. Think it can't be done? I talk with Debbie Lee who is making it all happen.

What is Rock-N-Romps mission? Rock-n-Romp is about providing a safe, fun environment for parents and kids to see great live music together. This particular show is the first event put on by Rock-n-Romp Productions, which is an offshoot of the original Rock-n-Romp concept. With Rock-n-Romp Productions I'm going to focus on special events with more than just music, like arts and crafts, guest speakers, book releases...but all still totally family-friendly stuff. The possibilities are endless! 

Where did you come up with the idea for this? In 2001 I had a 1 year old, a new (old) house and a fairly non-existent social life. I missed seeing my favorite local bands play whenever I wanted to, and I also found it really difficult to find cool things to do with my son outside the norm (Gymboree, etc). Rock-n-Romp was born out of the desire to share the live music experience with my son, see great local music and to create a place where families could come and do the same. 

Why did you pick Red Emma's as a proper venue? Red Emma's was the perfect place to work with on this special event because author Neal Pollack is going to read from his latest book, Alternadad, so having a bookseller involved with the venue was a no-brainer. The 2640 space run by Red Emma's is such a cool, grassroots project, and we love to be involved in promoting that kind of local effort. Plus it's a great space, full of character and room to romp around in.

Who will be helping with this event? Red Emma's will be there selling copies of the book, as well as yummy coffee. Charm City Craft Mafia will also be there providing awesome arts and crafts for the kids, as well as face painting.

Have you done events like this in the past? I've been organizing Rock-n-Romps for 7 years, but this is the first ever Rock-n-Romp Production, with bonus awesomeness like arts and crafts and a guest speaker. 

Will you be having more events like this in the future? Most definitely.

Note: There are many Rock-n-Romp happening all over the country and being created. If you would like to help out please contact Debbie at: