Five local bands will be featured at “Something About Mary,” a music festival to be held on the beach at Willaby’s in White Stone from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 1.

According to event organizer Susan Johnson, all proceeds raise money for M.J. Anderson and her family to mitigate the costs of cancer treatment.

The lineup includes Grammy Award winners Jackie & Resa of the M.S.G. Acoustic Blues Trio, Mercy Creek, Christine Whitaker Wiggins, Midnight Coal, and DeadRise.

Anderson (also known as Mary) is the former Regional Executive for the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas and the owner of That Damn Mary Brewing Company in Hayes. She is also a singer/songwriter and the bandleader of Mary and the Janes. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2018 and opened That Damn Mary Brewing in July that same year. In 2021, her breast cancer had metastasized to the bone and brain.

Despite these setbacks, Anderson continues to move forward with her treatment and with That Damn Mary. She credits her healing with the support of her family and her “DamNation” tribe.

“M.J. is one of the most positive people I know, and her positivity has drawn countless into her circle who’ve all benefited from her energy,” said Dr. Gregg Shivers, a physician with Riverside Health System and a member of DeadRise. “I’m so excited to share in this day to show my gratitude for our friendship. How better to express this love than through music?”

Tickets include all-day admission for age 21 and over and a “Silipint” silicone pint glass. Beer, wine and food are available for purchase. Coolers and outside cups are not allowed. Festivalgoers should bring their own chairs and are asked to leave tents and pets at home. Due to limited parking, carpooling is strongly encouraged.

The festival will be held, rain or shine. Tickets are $50 and are available in advance only by emailing Marnie Leichty at msdudette@gmail.com. Space is limited.