Photos & Words by: Nate Payne
Last week, Nick Offerman brought his Big Woodchuck Tour to the historic Warner Theatre in Washington DC, delivering an evening that felt equal parts concert, storytelling session, and masterclass in craftsmanship. Known for his sharp wit, warm stage presence, and lifelong devotion to woodworking, Offerman transformed the theater into something closer to a woodshop gathering rather than a traditional performance.
The stage itself reflected that balance of music and manual labor. A pair of chairs, several musical instruments, and a sturdy workbench served as the evening’s centerpiece, creating an intimate setting that invited the audience into Offerman’s world. Joining him on stage was master craftsman Lee Buchanan, whose incredible carpentry skills and easy rapport with Offerman became one of the highlights of the night.
While Offerman entertained the crowd with guitar performances and stories from his years at Offerman Woodshop, Buchanan set to work constructing a “slap stick,” one of the featured projects from Offerman’s latest book, Little Woodchucks: Offerman Woodshop’s Guide to Tools and Tomfoolery. The demonstration was both practical and theatrical. Piece by piece, Strausbaugh showed the audience how approachable the project could be, proving that woodworking does not have to feel intimidating to beginners and completed in a timely manner.
As sawdust and laughter filled the room, Offerman alternated between musical interludes and heartfelt reflections on friendship, craftsmanship, and creative purpose. He played both guitar and a homemade ukulele, bringing humor and charm to every note. His tribute to Lee was particularly memorable, as the two reminisced about their shared years working together and the culture of Offerman Woodshop—a place built as much on camaraderie as it is on craftsmanship.
The evening also opened the floor to audience questions, with attendees asking about woodworking techniques, favorite tools, and the lessons learned from years spent building side by side. Their answers were candid, often funny, and rooted in the idea that craftsmanship is less about perfection and more about patience, curiosity, care and connection with one another.
At its heart, the Big Woodchuck Tour is a celebration of making things by hand and the relationships that are also built along the way. In a city often defined by politics and urgency, Nick and Lee offered something refreshingly grounded, inspirational and up-lifting.
For more information about Nick Offerman, his books, and his workshop please visit the links below.
Nick Offerman Social Media
Nick Offerman's Big Woodchuck Tour | The Warner Theatre | Washington, DC | Nate Payne Photography | 4.15.26
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