Tiny Desk to Tiny Stage: How NPR's Iconic Series Inspired Local Soap Store

I think you'd be hard pressed to find someone who has never heard of NPR's celebrated program, "Tiny Desk Concerts." What started as a joke back in April 2008 has evolved into the gold standard of intimate musical performance. Over one thousand concerts have been hosted at the unassuming venue that is NPR's staff offices. Every genre and instrument you can think of- Superorganism used a bucket of water in their set- is included in this mega series of creativity. Let's take a look at what exactly makes this monumental program so special and its influence at local soap store, Sensorium Emporium.

Turn Up the Music!

It all started when NPR staffers Stephen Thompson and Bob Boilen traveled to the SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas. One artist they were particularly excited to see was Laura Gibson, a folk singer with a gentle singing style and beautiful acoustic harmonies. Unfortunately, the venue was totally unsuited to the music. With basketball games blaring and drunk patrons cheering, it was near impossible to hear the performer. Afterwards, Stephen jokingly suggested Laura should perform behind Bob's desk when she travels to D.C. so they could actually hear her performance. She agreed and this humorous, simple idea blossomed into an internationally loved series hosting hundreds of artists.

A Local Music Haven

When Chris and Beth Allen opened Sensorium Emporium in Red Bank, they wanted it to be more than just a retail space. Both longtime music enthusiasts, and Chris a musician himself, they saw it as an opportunity to provide the community with an intimate space for the arts. Inspired by both Tiny Desk and other local venues like The Water Witch, they set to work creating their vision. They carved out a space at the back of the store, built a tiny stage, added minimal sound equipment, and a local venue was born. Since opening in April 2024, they've hosted a long list of local, eclectic performers. Everything from Irish sea shanties to Dixieland jazz has graced their Tiny Stage.

Their goal, much like Tiny Desk, is to capture an intimate moment in time. In a world where everything is tailored to an audience, filtered, tweaked and preened, this simple presentation allows for an authentic performance where the music is the sole focus. No studio tricks, distracting light shows or rowdy crowds to compete with. The small space and sparce production allows the artistry to shine in a way that other local venues are lacking. And it gives musicians a much needed platform- the undivided attention of an audience. In a world where so many artists are battling to be heard, the Tiny Stage gives opportunity to local acts who want to share their creativity and passion for music in a space where people can enjoy top-notch entertainment without a bar atmosphere stealing the limelight.

Lotions and... Laughter?

Chris and Beth wanted to expand the idea of the Tiny Stage to include different types of entertainment, not just music. Well, people say laughter is the world's best medicine and hosting comedy in a soap store is in itself oddly comical. This wild idea became a great success with Sensorium Emporium hosting hilarious comedians throughout the year to sold out audiences! With an ingenious modular retail design, the layout of the store can be easily transformed for varying group sizes while keeping its intimate feel. This key feature allows audiences to experience the performances (and the laughs) on a more personal level.

What's Next?

Sometimes great experiences happen where you least expect them, and this soap store is emerging as a leader of fantastic fun and a place for human connection. While the Tiny Stage started as a platform for musicians and comedy, it's evolving into a space for many other disciplines. They've hosted tea blending, soap making and even birthday parties. The beautifully restored historical space is becoming a microcosm of culture and I for one am excited to see it, much like Tiny Desk, blossom into a beloved local gem.

Check out what's happening next at Sensorium Emporium here.

Find out more about NPR's Tiny Desk here.