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Roosevelt Dime to play Ridgefield

Roosevelt Dime is a group with songs that “are catchy toe-tappers, real feel good stuff” (Sing Out Magazine). If you are in the mood for a delightful fun evening, this is the band you want to come out and hear. The quintet is Brooklyn–based and combines elements of acoustic jug-band blues, classic New Orleans soul and neo-folk to create its own sound Steamboat Soul. Among the instruments they play are banjo, electric and washtub basses, percussion, trumpet and woodwinds. The group will be at CHIRP on Tuesday, June 5, hopefully in the park, otherwise the Ridgefield Playhouse. This concert has been very generously underwritten by Ridgefield resident Bettye Turitto. Bring the whole family and grandma too for this one. Rain or shine you don’t want to miss them.

Roosevelt Dime began its career, as have many musicians, both subway and street performing in New York City. But this was not just another group to rush by on your way from here to there. Written up in the New York Times the reviewer deemed them ‘a perpetual crowd pleaser” and wrote that the band “often has commuters soulfully stomping their feet in the subway and passersby lindy-hopping in the park.” To date they have released three albums and garnered almost uniformly great reviews. You can hear some of their music by going to CHIRP’s website www.chirpct.org or visiting the band’s own www.RooseveltDimeMusic.com.

Boston Pops Holiday Concert returns to Webster Bank Arena

By MICHAEL FOLEY

 

BRIDGEPORT – Harbor Yard Sports and Entertainment, LLC has announced that a press conference and cocktail reception will be held Wednesday, May 30^th at 6:00 p.m. at Webster Bank Arena to announce the return of the Boston Pops Holiday Concert.

 

“The Boston Pops Holiday Concert is a beloved show and we’re proud to bring it back to Connecticut,” said Howard Saffan, president of Harbor Yard Sports and Entertainment, LLC.

 

Webster Bank Arena will welcome on Wednesday City of Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch, the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. Members of the Greater Bridgeport Youth Orchestra will perform.

 

“We’re very happy that the Boston Pops Holiday Concert will be coming back to the Webster Bank Arena,” said Finch. “I invite everyone to take part in this wonderful family outing to celebrate the holidays.”

 

The Boston Pops Holiday Concert last performed at the Arena in December 2008. Additional show details will be released Wednesday. Webster Bank Arena, southern Connecticut’s premier sporting and entertainment venue, is conveniently located off Interstate 95 exit 27 and Route 8 exit 1 at 600 Main Street, Bridgeport. Upcoming events include Cirque Du Soleil/Dralion, Carrie Underwood, American Idol Live and Rush.

Remember September Acoustic Rock Band Kicks off Summer at Captain’s Cove This Sunday

WHO: Remember September (www.rememberseptember.com), an upcoming 7-year-old acoustic rock band from Trumbull. Remember September has been honored to perform at major events and casino shows alongside several legendary bands and in front of thousands of fans, who have shown a warm appreciation for our music. These acts include: Train, Chicago, .38 Special, Average White Band, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, Johnny Winter, Randy Travis, John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band, The Guess Who, Steve Vai, The Spin Doctors and several others.

WHAT: Remember September plans a rousing kick off to its summer season at Captain’s Cove in Bridgeport. Going into summer, the band plans an active schedule that will encourage audiences to donate  funds or gift cards for the troops  for its 5^th annual benefit performance, August 11^th, at Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.   

WHEN:            3 p.m. – 7 p.m. show, Sunday, May 27th

WHERE:         Captain’s Cove in Bridgeport, Conn .

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Remember September’s schedule includes performances at  the  Alphabet Lounge in New York on June 2^nd, the Shake it Down Festival at Mohawk Mountain in Cornwall, Connecticut on June 16,  the Redding Summer Series on June 17^th and at New Haven’s International Festival of  Arts and Ideas on June 20^th.  Schod explains that the New Haven performance is a first for the band and will introduce Remember September to a much broader audience. During July, late August and September, the band will be playing throughout the Northeast  and New England and will include openings  with bands like  Chicago and  the Doobie Brothers in New Hampshire .

The  August 11th benefit at Walter Reed Army Hospital, now in Bethesda, will Include a catered lunch for over 300 soldiers, their families and the staff, sponsored by a military charitable organization;

The Best Bar Band in the World is coming to town: Go get 'em Southside!

Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes

Fri, 07/13/2012 - 8:00pm

Guinness Black Lager Rock Series

Having collaborated with other New Jersey artists such as Steven Van Zandt, Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi, Southside Johnny has a soul all his own! “The World’s Greatest Bar Band” prefers the energy of a live show to recording; playing hits from his albums “This Time It’s For Real,” “Havin’ A Party With Southside Johnny,” “At Least We Got Shoes,” “Going to Jukesville,” and their latest, "Pills and Ammo". Don’t miss this energetic night of honest-to-goodness pure Rock n' Roll!

Ticket Price: $57.50

 

Martin Stamm to headline Fairfield U. Jazz Ensemble's Spring Concert

By MICHAEL HORYCZUN

Fairfield - Fairfield University’s Jazz Ensemble closes out its 20^th anniversary season with an exciting Spring Concert program that features special guest artist Marvin Stamm, the critically acclaimed jazz trumpeter. The concert takes place at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 26th, at Fairfield University’s Gonzaga Auditorium. The program celebrates the genius of two distinctive musical figures, jazz giant Thelonius Monk (1917-1982) on the 30^th anniversary of his death, and the acclaimed hip hop producer and artist, J Dilla (1974-2006). The Fairfield University Gospel Choir will also perform. The Fairfield University Jazz Ensemble is directed by Brian Q. Torff, Fairfield University’s Director of Jazz and Popular Music. Student leader is Brian Haswell and Joey D’Alessio. Tickets are $5 at the door.

“Both Monk and J Dilla represent innovative artists in Black music,” said Brian Torff. “Though they are in different genres, the writing of Monk and the sampling of J Dilla indicate the creative span of jazz and hip hop. I thought it would be interesting to put them on the same program, though this has probably never been done before.”

Special guest artist Marvin Stamm has been praised for both the art and the craft of his trumpet playing throughout a distinguished career. He’s played with some of the best in the business since being discovered by Stan Kenton while attending North Texas State University. He performed with Kenton's orchestra after graduation, toured worldwide with Woody Herman, and eventually established himself as a busy jazz and studio trumpeter in New York City. He played with the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra and performed with Frank Sinatra and the Benny Goodman Sextet, among others. Stamm was also a recognized first-call studio player, and he recorded with the likes of Bill Evans, Quincy Jones, Wes Montgomery, Freddie Hubbard, Stanley Turrentine, Michel Legrand, Lena Horne, George Benson, and many others. Currently, Mr. Stamm spends much of the year touring. His activities include performing and recording as a soloist, with his jazz quartet, and in a duo with pianist Bill Mays. The two recently formed and are touring and recording with a new group, the Inventions Trio, which includes cellist Alisa Horn. Stamm also performs with symphony orchestras throughout the country.

Fairfield University’s Jazz Ensemble consists of Chris Finelli and Kyle Tzanetis, trumpet; Brian Haswell, Michael Mauro, and Camile Gomes, sax; Jenna Taylor, flute; Alicia Bissonnette, trombone, and Arthur Ashman guest trombonist; Micheal Wray, piano; Jamie Debicella and Doug Caputo, guitar; Joey D’Alessio, bass; and Jon Rivers and Chuck DeFilippo, drums.

The Jazz Ensemble’s program for the evening includes the following works: “Waves/the Diff'rence,” composed by J Dilla and arranged by Brian Torff; “Workin' On It,” composed by J Dilla and arranged by Brian Torff; “Straight No Chaser,” composed by Thelonius Monk and arranged by Joey D' Alessio (senior); “No Worries,” composed by Robert Glasper and arranged by Alicia Bissonette ( senior); “Well You Needn't,” composed by Monk and arranged by Jamie Debicella ( Graduate Student - American Studies); “Rhythm A-Ning,” composed by Monk and arranged by Brian Torff; and “Round Midnight,” composed by Monk and arranged by Brian Torff.

Gonzaga Auditorium is located in Gonzaga Hall on the campus of Fairfield University. Tickets will be available at the door of Gonzaga Auditorium the evening of the performance. For further information and directions, call (203) 254-4010 or 1-877-278-7396, or visit www.quickcenter.com

There's Plenty to Do (for you) at Beardsley Zoo This Spring!

By CARYN KAUFMAN

BRIDGEPORT- Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is pleased to release its UPDATED calendar for March, April, and May 2012, which includes highlights of upcoming programming for Summer 2012. The Zoo has fun events for the entire family all year round, most of which are free with the cost of admission. Calendar subject to change without notice. Please check BeardsleyZoo.org or Facebook for the most up to date information.   Celebrating its 90th birthday in 2012, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $12.00, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $10.00, and children under 3 years old are free. Zoo members also are admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge.    March 2012   March 21, Evening Lecture Series: Take a Virtual Trip to Yellowstone National Park, 7:00 pm Come see the home where the buffalo roam - experience the majesty of the animals and vistas of Yellowstone National Park. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This lecture, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.   April 2012 JUST ADDED! April 1, DrawOn! Noon - 3:00 pm Do you love nature, animals, and drawing? Then join the Zoo for an afternoon filled with fun to celebrate DrawOn!, a program designed to encourage the entire community to celebrate drawing and learning. On Sunday, April 1, from Noon - 3:00 pm, the Zoo will provide opportunities to explore your creativity. All supplies will be provided. All ages welcome. FREE with paid admission.   NEW DATES! April 10 & 11, Zoo Tots, 10:30 am This monthly 45-minute program for children 22 months to four years, who are accompanied by an adult, may include stories, games, activities, crafts, and live animals.  This session, entitled "Animal Tales," will feature animal tails and their functions. The cost is $10 for Zoo members and one child, and $15 for non-members and one child. To reserve a space in the program, pre-register by calling the Zoo's Education Department at 203-394-6563.   April 17 - 19, International Bat Awareness Celebration, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Come learn all about the amazing world of bats! Activities will include scavenger hunts, crafts, story times, and bat box raffles. Program will begin in the Research Station. FREE with paid admission to the Zoo.   UPDATED INFO! April 18, Evening Lecture Series: Bats, Bats, Bats, 7:00 pm Dave LaMarche from Southern Connecticut State University has studied the feeding behaviors of Vampire bats, including the colony at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo. Celebrate the AZA's Year of the Bat at the Zoo with this batty lecture. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This program, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.   April 21 & 22, Party for the Planet, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Join Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo to celebrate the 42nd anniversary of Earth Day!

Our Earth Day event is about encouraging local, organic, earth-friendly choices as a way of promoting better health for our planet and ourselves. Environmentally friendly vendors will be on hand with everything from green cleaning products and recycled fashion accessories to better lawn care for you and wildlife! We'll have live music performed by The Mudpuppies and by The Environmental Hootenanny with Tom Calliman and Ann Shapiro. Both performances are at the Peacock Pavilion. Come learn what you can do to make the planet a healthier place for you and your family.

 

JUST ADDED! April 28, Pet Awareness and Adoption Day, Noon - 3:00 pm

Join the Zoo for Pet Awareness and Adoption Day. Together with regional animal adoption and rescue organizations, you'll learn about the wonderful animals we live with every day - our pets! We'll host experts on pet care and safety, present crafts for the kids, and other surprises.  Take part and learn about caring for your family's best friend.

 

NEW! April 28, Monroe Day at the Zoo, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is proud to invite ALL Monroe residents to come to the Zoo for a reduced admission fee of just $5 with proper I.D. Meet and greet with town officials, business and civic leaders, friends, and neighbors during a fun filled day to please the whole family. Spend the day visiting new animals at the Zoo and enjoying the great outdoors. For more information, please call 203-394-6565 or visit www.beardsleyzoo.org. This event is presented in partnership with the Town of Monroe.

 

May 2012

 

May 2, Evening Lecture Series: The Carnivores of Africa, 7:00 pm

Andrew Stein will discuss Lions, Cheetahs, and Leopards Oh My! Enjoy the ferocity and magnificence of Africa from the safety of your seat. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This program, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.

 

May 8 & 9, Zoo Tots, 10:30 am

This monthly 45-minute program for children 22 months to four years, who are accompanied by an adult, may include stories, games, crafts, and a live animal presentation.  This session, "Garden Critters," will explore our historic greenhouse and its collection as well as animals found in gardens. The cost is $10 for Zoo members and one child, and $15 for non-members and one child. To reserve a space in the program, pre-register by calling the Zoo's Education Department at 203-394-6563.

 

May 12, Dinosaur Day, Noon - 3:00 pm

Enjoy a day of dinosaurs and related activities at the Zoo. Dinosaur experts from around the state will bring information and artifacts on these fascinating pre historic creatures.

 

May 13, Mother's Day

Bring your mom to the Zoo on Mother's Day and her ticket is on us! Connecticut's only zoo wants to thank all those moms who work so hard throughout the year. Enjoy the special day visiting our animals or having a picnic lunch in our Peacock Pavilion.

May 16, Evening Lecture Series: Dinosaurs, 7:00 pm

Westminster biology and geology teacher Nick McDonald, who is regarded as the foremost authority on the paleontology of the Connecticut Valley, has written a new book titled "Window Into the Jurassic World." Take a giant leap back in time to visit the land of the dinosaurs. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This program, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.

 

JUST ADDED! May 19, Zoo's 90th Birthday Party! 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

It's our birthday and we're having a party! Kids of all ages will enjoy activities galore and spectacular surprises all day long. You never know who will be here with special birthday greetings and tasty treats to share... so plan to be here and bring the whole family!

 

NEW! May 20, Bridgeport Day at the Zoo, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is proud to invite ALL Bridgeport residents to come to the Zoo for a reduced admission fee of just $5 with proper I.D. Meet and greet with city officials, business and civic leaders, friends, and neighbors during a fun filled day to please the whole family. Spend the day visiting new animals at the Zoo and enjoying the great outdoors. This event is presented in partnership with Mayor Bill Finch and the City of Bridgeport. Rain date: June 10.

 

PLANNING AHEAD FOR SUMMER!

 

June 23 - 30, July 26 - 31, and August 3 - 10, Family Favorite Chris Rowlands LIVE, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm

Famous for getting everyone involved, Rowlands brings animals to life through kid-friendly songs, dance, puppets, and colorful props. Chris creatively blends music, comedy, and education to create fast paced, interactive shows that teach and inspire young people. Children are invited to wear fun hats and sing along with Rowlands on stage as he shares his self- penned songs about animals and their environment. Show is free with paid admission to the Zoo and runs 30-35 minutes.

 

July 13-15, 18-22, Connecticut Free Shakespeare presents "Romeo and Juliet"

Performance begins at 8:00 pm, Zoo opens for picnics at 6:30 pm. All shows at the Peacock Pavilion. Show cancels if inclement weather. FREE. For more information, call 203-393-3213 or visit www.ctfreeshakespeare.org.

 

August 1 - 31, Rainforest Reptile Shows

Back by popular demand! Rainforest Reptile Shows features exotic crawlers, unusual slithers, and fascinating creepers, all of which are creatures of the rainforest. Experience direct contact with live animals, artifacts, and fascinating stories about these unusual animals and their natural habitats. Meet "Fred," Rainforest Reptiles' 7-foot alligator. Show runs 30 minutes: Monday - Wednesday 12:30 pm, Thursday and Friday 10:30 am and 12:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm. Visit the Zoo Reptile Trailer, a mobile exhibit featuring 40 live animal displays, open daily from 10:00 am - 3:30 pm. Show and Reptile Trailer are free with paid admission to the Zoo.

Tony Award winner Brian Stokes Mitchell wows crowd at Westport Country Playhouse in a Benefit Concert for Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County

Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County annual benefit gala was electrifying! Tony Award Winner singer/actor Brian Stokes Mitchell gave the audience a performance of a lifetime. His story-telling performance included an eclectic array of musical theatre, show tunes, and jazz with interludes of his personal and professional experiences that included overcoming challenges to becoming a Tony Award winner and adding many TV and film credits to his long list of achievements.

Neighborhood Studios Dance II ensemble opened the evening with an up-tempo flash mob setting the mood for what proved to be an exhilarating evening for all in attendance. Stokes called the students to the stage for his final bow and pledged his commitment to “adopting” a few Neighborhood Studios Campers for the 2012 Summer Session.

One of the highlights of the evening was an encore duet performance with dear friend Tony Award Winner LaChanze (hometown, Bridgeport). The audience rose to their feet with applause as Westport had a bit of Broadway for one night only!

The evening was followed by a private reception in the Lucille Lortel Barn in which Stokes and LaChanze mingled with hundreds of audience goers until wee hours in the morning.

Neighborhood Studios is an Art Education program serving over 1,500 students with disabilities and socio and economic challenges in the Greater Bridgeport Area.

For more information, please contact Michelle Sapp, Director of Marketing & Development 203.366.3300 ext. 230 or msapp@nstudios.org

The English Beat returns to FTC

Having fallen in love with the StageOne lights after playing twelve shows over the last three years -- and one at the Klein -- the 2 tone ska/punk rockers from across the pond are back for more. The Beat (as their known in England) fuses their rhythmic roots reggae/ska core with soul, pop and some ripe old punk rock. Watching their tight, fiery live show from the dancing room in front of your seats, you’re almost in the band! It is an amazing opportunity to see the classic band perform in your FTC living room, and learn the ins and outs of the music from 10 feet away.

Bobby Richardson will be the guest speaker at SWIM Across the Sound's 16th Annual Celebrity Breakfast at the Holiday Inn

Event: St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound 16^th Annual Celebrity Breakfast

Date: Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Time: 7:30 AM

Location: Bridgeport Holiday Inn, 1070 Main Street, Bridgeport

For: To Benefit Cancer Patients and Their Families

Confirmed Speakers:

Bobby Richardson, Former Yankee Great, World Series MVP, 7-Time All-Star

John DiMarco, Owner, Luigi’s, Bridgeport

John Matthews, Teacher, Trumbull High School

Special Guests:

Rich Marazzi, Rules Consultant for the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays. Host of ESPN Radio’s weekly “Inside Yankee Baseball” during baseball season

Morgan Amarone, Miss Connecticut 2011

Frank Carroll, 2012 Barnum Festival Ringmaster

Bill Finch, Mayor, Bridgeport

Mark Lauretti, Mayor, Shelton

Kurt Miller, First Selectman, Seymour

Timothy Herbst, First Selectman, Trumbull

Overview:

Bridgeport- The St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound Celebrity Breakfast is set for Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at 7:30 am at the Holiday Inn, located at 1070 Main Street in Bridgeport. The event will include a silent and live auction of sports memorabilia, breakfast, sports commentary and the drawing for the 2012 SWIM Car Raffle.

Approximately four hundred fifty people are expected to attend the event to hear former Yankee great Bobby Richardson. Richardson played no small role in the Yankee baseball dynasty of his day. Batting and throwing right-handed, Richardson was an excellent defensive infielder. In 1962, arguably his best year, Richardson made the AL All-Star team, won his second Gold Glove, and came in second in the AL MVP voting, just behind teammate Mickey Mantle. He ultimately won five Gold Gloves at second base, breaking Nellie Fox's string of Gold Gloves at second base in the American League. During the 1960 World Series, Richardson put together one of the greatest single innings of offense in the history of baseball. In one inning, he hit a two-run single, followed by a grandslam. Richardson drove in 12 runs in that World Series and won the World Series MVP honor. The Yankees, however, lost to the Pirates, making Bobby Richardson the only MLB player to have been named the World Series Most Valuable Player even though he was on the losing team.

Each table sponsor will serve as a “Celebrity Waiter” for their friends and colleagues. In return, the waiters hope to earn a $100 tip from each of them that will also be donated to the SWIM. Individual tickets for the Breakfast are $100 each and a table sponsorship, which includes a table for 10, is available for $500.

The SWIM’s 2012 Car Raffle will come to a close at the Breakfast with the winning ticket being drawn at the event. This year’s prize is a 2012 Nissan Juke SL generously donated by Mario D’Addario – Cadillac, Nissan, Buick, Pontiac, GMC of Shelton and William B. Meyer, Inc. of Stratford. The Car Raffle is expected to raise approximately $60,000 to benefit the SWIM and the Mario and Irma D’Addario Hypertension Fund at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. The Fund spreads awareness and provides free blood pressure screening and information to the public every Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Wellness Booth in the lobby at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Cholesterol and glucose screenings are also provided at the booth on Wednesdays.

To sponsor a table at the Celebrity Breakfast, buy an individual ticket or to purchase a car raffle ticket, please call the St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation at (203) 576-5451. People’s United Bank is proud to support the community programs and services offered by St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound.

Elvis will rock the Catholic War Vets in Black Rock April 28th

The Catholic War Veterans on 40 Alfred Street in Bridgeport presents Donny Romines as Elvis, April 28. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. amd the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Bring your own food and snacks. Cash bar! The cost is $20 per person and includes coffee and dessert. Tickets are available now! For ticket information call Beverly at 203-650-2531 or 203-384-8629.

ERIC HUTCHINSON TO TOUR IN SUPPORT OF UPCOMING ALBUM, "MOVING UP LIVING DOWN"; WILL PLAY DANBURY

By RICK GERSHON

Burbank, CA -- Warner Bros. Records recording artist Eric Hutchinson will celebrate the April 17^th release of his latest album, Moving Up Living Down, by hitting the road. Hutchinson's North American headlining tour will kick off that evening at Denver's Bluebird Theatre and will also include shows at Highline Ballroom in New York City (May 2) and at Los Angeles' legendary Troubadour (May 19). See below for itinerary.

 

"Hutchinson is undeniably charismatic, splitting his time between keyboard and guitar, crooning about stormy romances and everyday struggles," said The Washington Post in a live review.

 

In its first month at radio, "Watching You Watch Him," the lead single from Moving Up Living Down, tied with Coldplay for #1 Most Added at the Triple A format and quickly climbed into the Top 15. It is Top 40 at Hot AC radio. Last week Hutchinson gave "Watching You Watch Him" its national television debut on "Late Show with David Letterman." You can check out his performance here.

 

Moving Up Living Down is the follow-up to Hutchinson's full-length debut album, Sounds Like This, which entered Billboard's Heatseekers chart at No. 1 and has sold more than 250,000 units. Fueled by Hutchinson's non-stop touring, numerous television appearances and the album's three radio hits - the RIAA-certified Gold single "Rock & Roll," which hit No. 1 at Triple A, and the Top 5 singles "OK, It's Alright With Me" and "Oh!" - Sounds Like This re-entered the Top 10 of the Heatseekers' chart two years after its initial release on Hutchinson's own indie label, Let's Break Records.

 

Hutchinson recorded Moving Up Living Down with producers Mike Elizondo (Eminem, Regina Spektor) in Los Angeles and Martin Terefe (Jason Mraz, James Morrison) in London. The album pre-order is now available on the iTunes Music Store. Fans who purchase "Watching You Watch Him" on iTunes will instantly receive a free download of the teaser video for "Breakdown More," another track from Moving Up Living Down, and a longtime fan favorite that originally appeared on Hutchinson's live EP, Before I Sold Out.

Eric Hutchinson - Spring 2012 North American Tour:

4/17 Denver, CO Bluebird Theatre

4/18 Omaha, NE Waiting Room

4/19 Des Moines, IA Wooly's

4/21 Minneapolis, MN Fine Line

4/23 Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall

4/24 Madison, WI Majestic

4/26 Detroit, MI Magic Bag

4/27 Columbus, OH The Basement

4/28 Cleveland, OH Beachland

4/30 Pittsburgh, PA Club AE

5/1 Boston, MA Paradise

5/2 New York, NY Highline Ballroom

5/4 Danbury, CT Heirloom Arts Theatre

Three-time Canadian Juno Award-winner David Francey has added a fifth Juno nomination; will play in Ridgefield this month

On Feb. 7, 2012 Francey received a nod for Roots & Traditional Album of the Year for his 2011 release, Late Edition. The Juno's are Canada's equivalent of the U.S. Grammy Awards.

The nomination comes at a time when Francey’s extraordinary songwriting talent and his equally extraordinary story are being discovered for the first time by many beyond the folk and roots milieu.

Last year, the Canadian Documentary Channel began broadcasting Burning Bright, a film that chronicles Francey’s journey as a Scottish émigré and lifelong manual labourer who rocketed to the top of the global roots scene after making a reluctant debut at the age of 45.

He didn’t even play an instrument at the time. For years, Francey had been writing poetry and setting it to music in his head while he worked. But his devotion to the working class life kept him from contemplating a career in music. He famously only quit his construction job after winning his first Juno. Now he has three Junos, two international songwriting awards, and a presence on Hockey Day in Canada. Francey will be making a repeat appearance at the Acoustic Celebration in Ridgefield on Sunday, March 18 at 4:00 P.M.

The concert takes place at St. Stephen's North Hall, 351 Main Street and tickets are available online at www.acousticcelebration.org or at Ridgefield Music, 19 Governor ST. for $22.. Remaining tickets are $25 at the door.

Sacred Heart University Choirs Present a Concert "Wondrous Love"

Saturday, March 24, 7:30 PM
Chapel of the Holy Spirit

Sacred Heart University Choirs will be performing a special Choral Concert: "Wondrous Love" in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit on the campus of Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Avenue. Performing groups will include the Sacred Heart Concert and Liturgical Choirs, Four Heart Harmony, Pioneer Choir, SHU Love and Women's Quartet directed by Dr. John Michniewicz and Galen Tate. Music includes up-tempo Spirituals and contemporary and traditional pieces by Paul Halley, Felix Mendelssohn, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Jim Papoulis, and many others.

Admission is Free and tickets are not required. For more information call 203-396-8479.

Here are some upcoming March events at the Black Rock Branch Library

Mondays 10:30 – 11:30 AM. The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Free Computer Classes for Beginners. The Black Rock Branch Library announces a series of free computer classes designed for beginners. All classes begin at 10:30 AM or and will last approximately 1 hour. Space is limited so register for one or more classes now. Call: 203 337-9676

Mondays & Wednesdays – 1:00 PM. The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Get Fit Bridgeport – The Black Rock Branch announces a physical fitness series using exercise DVD’s, that are available at the library. They are simple to use and appropriate for those who have not exercised regularly, or who need a gentler way of exercising, yet want results. The format will be 15 minute welcome and education, 30 minute walking with the video, 15 minute handout /repeat education and close. This program is free but registration required. Please call 203 337-9676 to reserve your spot. As with any exercise program, check with your doctor if you have any known health issues.

Wednesdays – 10:45- 11:45 AM. The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Little Rocks. Join us for our popular Little Rocks program for children up through age 3 with a caregiver. Stories, rhymes, music, movement, short films, and time for play are all part of the mix! Contact: Miss Bina: 203-337-9676.

Thursday, March 8th at 7:00 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: A Musical Tour of Italy with ENZO BOSCARINO Singer and guitarist Enzo Boscarino offers an all-ages musical tour of the Italian countryside, ranging from Liguria and Veneto, down the peninsula through Tuscany, Lazio, and Campania, and finishing around the islands of Sicily and Sardegna. Dubbed “a true Renaissance Man” (Martha’s Vineyard Gazette), Enzo Boscarino has shared his love of Italy’s various musical traditions with audiences in Newport, Martha’s Vineyard, and NYC, as well as with the Hartford Festival Orchestra and at First Night in Hartford. Pastries and Refreshments will be served. For more info call 203 337-9676.

Saturday, March 10th at 2:00 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Second Saturday Drop In Craft: Grassy Headed Guys Children's Area-- Join us in welcoming spring by making a Grassy Headed Guy! Decorate the guy, put some seeds and dirt together and water...watch as the seeds sprout and give your guy a nice head of GREEN hair! Easy Peasy! For all ages.... Contact Miss Bina: 203-337-9676.

Tuesday, March 20th at 6:30 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Great Movies You Might Have Missed – SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION A banker (Tim Robbins) is convicted for life for murdering his wife and her lover. He befriends a seasoned lifer (Morgan Freeman) and plans an escape in this extraordinary tale of hope, survival, and friendship inside a maximum security prison.Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Gil Bellows, James Whitmore Columbia Pictures; Directed by Frank Darabont Rated R; 142 minutes; 1994. For more info call 203 337-9676.

Wednesday, March 21st at 1:00 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Food for Thought – Book Discussion. The Black Rock Branch Library’s lunchtime book club meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PM - bring your brown bag lunch, we will provide coffee, tea and dessert. Our next book up for discussion is: The Life of Pi by Yan Martel Winner of the 2002 Man Booker Prize for Fiction. Life of Pi is at once a realistic, rousing adventure and a meta-tale of survival that explores the redemptive power of storytelling and the transformative nature of fiction. It’s a story, as one character puts it, to make you believe in God. Call the library today and reserve your copy: 203 337-9676

Thursday, March 22nd at 6:30 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: The Penn Act, Racial Profiling and Secure Communities (SCOMM) – an ACLU of CT presentation Please join Sandy Staub, legal director for the ACLU of Connecticut for a discussion of these important civil liberties issues. Sandy Staub is the legal director for the ACLU of Connecticut. A graduate of Yale Law School, Sandy has given testimony on the Penn Act and SCOMM numerous times. Please come and learn more about the ACLU’s perspective on these issues. We also encourage all who attend to share their own views, experiences and opinions on these very current and vital issues. For more info call 203 337-9676.

Here are some upcoming March events at the Black Rock Branch Library

Mondays 10:30 – 11:30 AM. The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Free Computer Classes for Beginners. The Black Rock Branch Library announces a series of free computer classes designed for beginners. All classes begin at 10:30 AM or and will last approximately 1 hour. Space is limited so register for one or more classes now. Call: 203 337-9676

Mondays & Wednesdays – 1:00 PM. The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Get Fit Bridgeport – The Black Rock Branch announces a physical fitness series using exercise DVD’s, that are available at the library. They are simple to use and appropriate for those who have not exercised regularly, or who need a gentler way of exercising, yet want results. The format will be 15 minute welcome and education, 30 minute walking with the video, 15 minute handout /repeat education and close. This program is free but registration required. Please call 203 337-9676 to reserve your spot. As with any exercise program, check with your doctor if you have any known health issues.

Wednesdays – 10:45- 11:45 AM. The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Little Rocks. Join us for our popular Little Rocks program for children up through age 3 with a caregiver. Stories, rhymes, music, movement, short films, and time for play are all part of the mix! Contact: Miss Bina: 203-337-9676.

Thursday, March 8th at 7:00 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: A Musical Tour of Italy with ENZO BOSCARINO Singer and guitarist Enzo Boscarino offers an all-ages musical tour of the Italian countryside, ranging from Liguria and Veneto, down the peninsula through Tuscany, Lazio, and Campania, and finishing around the islands of Sicily and Sardegna. Dubbed “a true Renaissance Man” (Martha’s Vineyard Gazette), Enzo Boscarino has shared his love of Italy’s various musical traditions with audiences in Newport, Martha’s Vineyard, and NYC, as well as with the Hartford Festival Orchestra and at First Night in Hartford. Pastries and Refreshments will be served. For more info call 203 337-9676.

Saturday, March 10th at 2:00 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Second Saturday Drop In Craft: Grassy Headed Guys Children's Area-- Join us in welcoming spring by making a Grassy Headed Guy! Decorate the guy, put some seeds and dirt together and water...watch as the seeds sprout and give your guy a nice head of GREEN hair! Easy Peasy! For all ages.... Contact Miss Bina: 203-337-9676.

Tuesday, March 20th at 6:30 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Great Movies You Might Have Missed – SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION A banker (Tim Robbins) is convicted for life for murdering his wife and her lover. He befriends a seasoned lifer (Morgan Freeman) and plans an escape in this extraordinary tale of hope, survival, and friendship inside a maximum security prison.Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Gil Bellows, James Whitmore Columbia Pictures; Directed by Frank Darabont Rated R; 142 minutes; 1994. For more info call 203 337-9676.

Wednesday, March 21st at 1:00 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: Food for Thought – Book Discussion. The Black Rock Branch Library’s lunchtime book club meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PM - bring your brown bag lunch, we will provide coffee, tea and dessert. Our next book up for discussion is: The Life of Pi by Yan Martel Winner of the 2002 Man Booker Prize for Fiction. Life of Pi is at once a realistic, rousing adventure and a meta-tale of survival that explores the redemptive power of storytelling and the transformative nature of fiction. It’s a story, as one character puts it, to make you believe in God. Call the library today and reserve your copy: 203 337-9676

Thursday, March 22nd at 6:30 PM, The Black Rock Branch Library, 2705 Fairfield Avenue presents: The Penn Act, Racial Profiling and Secure Communities (SCOMM) – an ACLU of CT presentation Please join Sandy Staub, legal director for the ACLU of Connecticut for a discussion of these important civil liberties issues. Sandy Staub is the legal director for the ACLU of Connecticut. A graduate of Yale Law School, Sandy has given testimony on the Penn Act and SCOMM numerous times. Please come and learn more about the ACLU’s perspective on these issues. We also encourage all who attend to share their own views, experiences and opinions on these very current and vital issues. For more info call 203 337-9676.

Brother Joscephus Hits StageOne for Debut Performance

Brother Joscephus and the Love Revival Revolution Orchestra will be making their premiere appearance at Fairfield Theatre - StageOne, located at 70 Sanford St. Fairfield, on Friday, March 9th at 8pm.

Tickets for the show are $19 for members and $22 for non-members, and available for purchase at www.fairfieldtheatre.com

BroJo recently made a special Mardi Gras appearance on Fox News’ #1 morning cable show “Fox & Friends.” Check it out at http://youtu.be/sfIwiMqPwic!

Brother Joscephus and the Love Revival Revolution Orchestra is a 10-piece Explosion of Righteousness, blending New Orleans party music, Secular Gospel (that's right, gospel w/out the religion), Soul, R&B, and Roots Rock into a feel-good gumbo of love. The band began performing in late 2007 and has gathered quite a following due to acclaimed performances at the Discover Jazz Festival, Clearwater Festival, Crawfish Fest and multi-show runs in New Orleans during JazzFest.

Brother Joscephus recently signed with booking agent Fleming Artists and will be releasing their third album, tentatively titled The Secular Gospel, in Summer 2012.

“...Brother Joscephus and the Love Revival Revolution Orchestra is a love party like you've never seen." - TimesUnion.com

“Funky, free-wheeling unit looks and sound as if they just stepped off a Big Easy 2nd line from heaven." – Ryan Snyder, YES! Weekly

“Great original music like Brother Joscephus is just what today’s music scene needs…just awesome!” - Murf Reeves, DJ, WWOZ, New Orleans

Direct from Ireland - Celtic Nights – Journey of Hope at the Quick Center

By MIKE HORYCZUN

FAIRFIELD: Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, Fairfield University’s Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts presents Direct from Ireland - Celtic Nights – Journey of Hope, an evening filled with the power and majesty of music and the hypnotic fury of dancing feet at 8 p.m., Friday, March 9TH. Tickets are $45, $40 and $35.

Direct from Ireland - Celtic Nights – Journey of Hope features some of the finest male and female voices of the Celtic world, showcased against a thundering backdrop of expert dancing and musicianship. Presented by the producers of the smash hit “Gaelforce Dance” that brought audiences around the world to their feet, Celtic Nights – Journey of Hope is a brand new, glittering production, featuring six of Ireland’s most prominent vocal talents, complimented by six of its most accomplished step dancers. The results paint an exhilarating picture of a proud people who dared to dream big and doggedly carved out a home in the New World. 

Celtic Nights – Journey of Hope weaves together the lilting melodies and plaintive lyrics of the rich Celtic heritage of a people struggling to find their place in a changing world. In this stirring tale of the Celtic experience, the audience is invited to travel on this journey of hope throughout an evening filled with traditional ballads and vivid choreography.

Drawn from the history and folklore of Ireland and her Celtic cousins, Celtic Nights tells the story of a people leaving and arriving, their lives spent in a world of ships, trains and planes, coaches, horses, and on foot, moving on the surface of a foreign land, searching for a better place. The show takes us to a different place every eight minutes, filling us with laughter, sadness, melancholy, a sense of who we are and who our children will grow up to be, passing the mantle of the legacy of our forefathers through music, song, dance and storytelling with pride and passion.

The influence of the old music on what became American sounds - whether it be Bluegrass, Appalachian, Country and Western or the great songs and ballads from Shenandoah to the songs of The American Civil War - is part of the Celtic Nights experience. Many traditional favorites, “Danny Boy,” “Isle of Hope,” “Galway Bay,” “Isle of Innisfree,” “My Love Is in America,” and “May We Never Have to Say Goodbye,” are included in the evening’s repertoire. The cast consists of three male and three female vocalists, two musicians, and six of Ireland’s most talented international dancers, all guaranteed to leave the theatre ringing to the sounds of Celtic music old and new. Beautiful imagery and costumes enhance the two-hour showcase. Songs are sung with the audience, becoming a part of the story on stage. The evening captures the essence of a great people from a small Island and their journey of hope and desire.

Tickets are available through the Quick Center Box Office: (203) 254-4010, or toll-free 1-877-ARTS-396. (1-877-278-7396). Tickets can also be purchased online at www.quickcenter.com.

Master Chorale to present three newly released works in Newtown

The Connecticut Master Chorale, under the direction of Tina Johns Heidrich, will present a concert on Sunday, March 11, at 3pm at St. Rose of Lima Church in Newtown.

The performance will feature “Te Deum” and“Gloria”, two newly released works by the popular and prolific composer Karl Jenkins and another recent release from one of the founding fathers of film music, Miklós Rósza, the “King of Kings Choral Suite”.

“Te Deum” and “Gloria” are vibrant, passionate and superbly crafted works that reveal his multifaceted talent. “Te Deum” was composed in 2008 to celebrate Liverpool’s year as the European Capital of Culture. His jubilant and celebratory setting of the traditional Latin text perfectly demonstrates Jenkins’ remarkable ability to create unique music that is enjoyed by everyone.

Originally commissioned for performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall, Jenkins’ setting of the “Gloria” is an uplifting work that opens with dramatic brass fanfare and melodic, expressive choral harmonies. Jenkins’ lyrical music is always emotionally engaging, whether joyful and filled with excitement or reflective and touching.

Classically trained, Jenkins worked successfully in jazz and media advertising for many years and won awards and attention for “Diamond Music”, used by the DeBeers Diamond Merchants, and“Adiemus”, which was used in a Delta Airlines commercial. Since that time he has found international recognition creating gorgeous, vibrant choral music that transcends conventional musical boundaries.

Miklós Rósza’s “King of Kings Choral Suite” is based on his original film score for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s great 1961 movie “King of Kings” and was only released in 2010. Composed in the golden age of motion picture epics, his work is astonishing in its power and majesty, filled with awe inspiring dramatic movements that serve to illuminate and enhance this classic adaptation of the life of Christ for the big screen.

The Hungarian composer is regarded as one of the greatest film score composers of all time. In a career that lasted over fifty years, this movie industry legend won three Oscars and was nominated sixteen times. One of the most respected and popular composers working in Hollywood, his credits include music for almost 100 films from all genres.

The Chorale will be accompanied by the Connecticut Master Chorale orchestra and Joseph Jacovino on organ.
The Connecticut Master Chorale is an ensemble of 55 vocalists in their 13^th year of singing in Western Connecticut. In addition to their regular three-concert season, the Chorale has performed by invitation at the White House, Lincoln Center, Madison Square Garden, West Point Military Academy and three times at Carnegie Hall.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Please call (203) 743-0473 for ticket purchase and visitwww.cmchorale.org for more information.

Check out what's happening downtown at Two Boots

By ROB SULLIVAN

Something is always happening at Two Boots and, of course, during February Mardi Gras is the restaurant’s big theme. And why wouldn’t it be? After all, no place in Bridgeport, Connecticut lives and breathes ‘Nawlins like Two Boots.

But there’s more happening than Mardi Gras this month at Two Boots!

How about a great night out for Valentines Day? The special is an incredible dinner for two. The cost is $75 total for two people, which includes, appetizer, two entrees or one pizza, a bottle of wine, dessert, coffee and two tickets to see Grease at the fabulous Bijou Theatre. Reservations required. The show times for Grease are 6:30 and 9:00. What could be more romantic than that?

But Two Boots features entertainment and great specials every night of the week. Weren’t we just talking about Mardi Gras? Well, you can get a taste of Cajun Country every Tuesday because it’s Dixieland Tuesday. That’s right. There’s Dixieland music all day long plus ½ price jambalaya and ½ price hurricanes all day long, too.

Every Wednesday customers can check out E1 Youth Inc/Teen Expo, which is something you won’t find anywhere else. They are a local improve group comprised of local kids aged 13-19. And they are very funny. They start and 5 p.m. and when they leave the stage at 7 p.m. it’s time to show your stuff at Open Mic night. And don’t forget that each Thursday is Comedy Night with The Original Thursday Night Laugh.

Of course, Two Boots is noted for its great live music every Friday and Saturday and February is no exception. On Friday Feb. 17 check out Sexagon and on Feb.24^th its that hugely popular local band, What Up Funk? This Saturday there are two great California bands hitting the stage as The Voodoo Fix and The Mystery Lights bringe their talent to the East Coast. And of course every Sunday is Karaoke Sunday.

So what about Mardi Gras? You guessed it Two Boots is the place to be as Shaka and the Soul Sisters invade. Don’t forget to enjoy a wide variety of Louisiana beers and $3 hurricanes! Two Boots is right in Bijou Square and is a co-host of the Bijou Square Block Party. You just can’t go wrong! Call 331-1377 for more info.

Venues, performers set for BlackRock Rocks Mardi Gras

BLACKROCK ROCKS PRESENTS 7^TH ANNUAL MARDI GRAS FUNDRAISER THIS SATURDAY

 

On Saturday, February 18 from noon to last call, BlackRock Rocks will present its 7^th Annual Mardi Gras fundraiser at multiple venues in the heart of Black Rock, including Acoustic Café, Neutral Ground and LuLu's Hot Spot.

 

Starting off this musical event will be HOE and Twiddle at Neutral Ground, Ada Pasternak at LuLu’s Hot Spot, and the Primate Fiasco at Acoustic Café. PJ Pacifico will play at LuLu’s Hot Spot at 4:30 pm, Renard Boissiere has returned from New Orleans to join his band Nardy Boy on stage at Acoustic Café at 5:30 pm, followed by Cosmic Jibaros at 6:30 pm at Neutral Ground. Darian Cunning will take over Neutral Ground at 9:30 pm, Grit Gamble and the Pandemonium featuring Tim and Eric of The Alternate Routes will be at Acoustic Café at 10:30 pm, and Nigel Hall with The AB's featuring members of the Sam Kininger Band will rock Neutral Ground at 11:30 pm until closing time.

 

Also playing this all-day, all-night party are Big Moon, I Anbassa, Psychedelphia, Iron Chicken Foot, Dr. Caterwauls Cadre of Clairvoyant Claptraps featuring The Cygnet Sisters, John Torres, Separate Incidents, Steve Detroy Trio, TC & The Speakers, Graylight Campfire, String Fingers and Symphonic Bodega. Emceeing the event is area personality Mike Falzone, who will share his humor, music and world views.

 

The event will include New Orleans-inspired dishes and drink specials, a facepainter, and a French Quarter Photo Booth. Raffle tickets will also be on sale throughout the event, for the chance to earn prize packages like Gathering of the Vibes Weekend Camping Tickets, Catskill Chill Weekend Camping Tickets, massage and dining gift certificates and tickets to Taj Mahal at the Ridgefield Playhouse.

 

This year’s beneficiaries will be Original Works, Inc. (originalworksinc.net) and Music 4 More (www.music4more.org). Original Works, Inc. offers substantive arts experiences for youths from the Bridgeport region, in dance, music, theater and film while the participants work with professional artists in creating, developing, and performing original artistic productions.

 

Music 4 More provides financial and in-kind resources to sustain and foster under-funded music programs in schools and communities nationwide. This year, BlackRock Rocks will have an instrument drive leading up to the Mardi Gras celebration, to support Music 4 More.

 

Gently used instruments will be collected to help a public school music program in Bridgeport. Instruments will be accepted through Friday, February 17th at Turnpike Music Garage, 1485 Black Rock Tpk, Fairfield, (203-368-6874). Donors should bring their Turnpike Music receipt to BlackRock Rocks Mardi Gras on February 18^th, and show it at the door. To thank them for their donation, BlackRock Rocks will give donors 10 free raffle tickets, which will increase their chances of winning unique prize packages awarded throughout the celebration.

 

Adult tickets are $25 for admission to all venues throughout the event. Tickets can be purchased at the Acoustic Café through Thursday, February 16 for a discounted price of $20. Children are welcome at Mardi Gras until 8:30 pm, with ages 12-20 entering for $5, and children under 12 entering for free.

 

Acoustic Café and LuLu's Hot Spot are located at 2926 Fairfield Avenue, and Neutral Ground is across the street at 2931 Fairfield Avenue. The Fire Engine Pizza Company, run by Marty’s Pizza owner, Marty McCarthy, will be on the same block to feed the revelers, but will not require a wristband.

 

More information and upcoming announcements, including the final performance schedule, can be found at www.blackrockrocks.com. Additional updates will also be made to the group’s event page on Facebook, and Twitter updates will be posted throughout the event. Questions can be directed to BlackRock Rocks at info@blackrockrocks.org.

 

BlackRock Rocks is a group of local musicians, artists and avid supporters of both, which presents musically-focused events. BlackRock Rocks Mardi Gras, to date, has donated over $15,000 for the revitalization of New Orleans, LA and Bridgeport, CT. Previous years’ beneficiaries include Original Works, Inc., the Uptown Music Theatre & Swinging with the Cool School, American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the Higher Ground Fund and the Tipitina’s Foundation.