Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio is once again going out on a solo acoustic tour in 2025, his first one in three years. The tour starts on March 8 in Springfield, MA at Symphony Hall and will cover a large swath of the Midwest and Southeast regions of the country through early April. It includes one New York gig on March 12 in Rochester at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre. See all tour dates listed below.
Real-time presales begin Wednesday, December 4 exclusively via treytickets.shop.ticketstoday.com. All remaining tickets will go on sale to the general public on Friday, December 6 – check venues for on-sale times. For complete details, please see trey.com/tour.
TREY ANASTASIO – SOLO ACOUSTIC TOUR 2025
MARCH
8 – Springfield, MA – Symphony Hall
9 – Boston, MA – Wang Theatre at Boch Center
11 – Wilkes-Barre, PA – The F.M. Kirby Center
12 – Rochester, NY – Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre
14 – Columbus, OH – Mershon Auditorium
15 – Milwaukee, WI – Riverside Theater
16 – Nashville, IN – Brown County Music Center
18 – Chicago, IL – Orchestra Hall
19 – Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theatre
21 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre
22 – Birmingham, AL – Alabama Theatre
23 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium
26 – Orlando, FL – Walt Disney Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
28 – Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall
29 – Savannah, GA – Johnny Mercer Theatre
30 – Charleston, SC – Gaillard Auditorium
APRIL
1 – Knoxville, TN – Tennessee Theatre
2 – Greenville, SC – Peace Concert Hall
4 – Washington, DC – Warner Theatre
5 – Red Bank, NJ – Count Basie Center for the Arts
In the most recent episode of Troy Story: A Podcast for the Collar City, Times Union Sports Columnist and writer Joyce Bassett revisits her first Bruce Springsteen show. The journalist revisits their experience at the RPI Houston Field House on November 12, 1978, when Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band performed for lucky Trojans and Engineers.
The concert was part of the band’s Darkness on the Edge of Town tour which crisscrossed the United States and Canada between May 1978 and January 1979. In the audience that night was 16-year-old Joyce Bassett—now an award-winning sports columnist and writer with the Times Union—who saw Bruce in concert for the very first time at the RPI Field House in Troy, just a mile away from her house in the city’s Frear Park neighborhood.
The show started with seats in the back rows but by the night’s end, Joyce was on her friend Patty’s shoulders in front of the stage, reaching out to The Boss.
During the episode, Joyce reflects on her memories of the Troy show and setlist, her first date with now-husband Mike seeing Springsteen in Buffalo in 1980, meeting Bruce in 2016, her favorite Springsteen show of the 40 she’s attended during the last 46 years, and how the RPI concert sparked a lifelong love of Springsteen.
The episode also features audio from the Troy concert, available via a bootleg recording called “Prove It All Night: Bruce Springsteen Live in Troy,” courtesy of JEMS—a tapers collective that began in the early 1970s responsible for this and countless other bootleg recordings of shows that have circulated by traders and later via the internet.
Troy Story: A Podcast for the Collar City, is a monthly oral history podcast produced and hosted by John Salka, who has served as Communications Director for the city of Troy and advisor for two mayors. Salka brings a firsthand perspective to the recent history of Troy amid developing strong relationships with community leaders, business owners, and residents.
The next multi-episode chapter looks back at Metallica’s first and only show in the Collar City when the band’s Damaged Justice tour took over the RPI Houston Field House on March 15, 1989. Episodes will feature world renowned drummer and Capital Region resident Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall, Category 7), former RPI student and concert security staff Eric Haskins, and then-high school student and Metallica fan Kevin O’Connell. All three attended the show that night in 1989 and share their recollections of the gig.
The full episode covering Bruce Springsteen’s performance at RPI in Troy is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.
Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band – RPI, Houston Field House, Troy – Sunday, November 12, 1978
Setlist: High School Confidential, Badlands, Streets Of Fire, Spirit In The Night, Darkness On The Edge Of Town, Independence Day, The Promised Land, Prove It All Night, Racing In The Street, Thunder Road, Jungleland, Rave On, Fire, Candy’s Room, Because The Night, Point Blank, Mona > She’s The One, Backstreets, Rosalita (Come Out Tonight), 4th Of July, Asbury Park (Sandy), Born To Run, Detroit Medley, Quarter To Three
With Phil Lentz Presents… Vol. II, New York City-based jazz composer and pianist Phil Lentz returns with his signature sound, crafting a genre-blending album with new emotional heights and technical finesse.
Building on the warm reception of his 2022 debut, Lentz delivers a fresh, diverse, and uplifting listening experience that feels both timeless and unmistakably current.
Featuring standout tracks like “Play Your Melody,” “I Remember the Early Days,” and “Bebopping Along,” the album weaves jazz, pop, folk, and classical influences into a seamless tapestry, making it an instant favorite for music lovers of all backgrounds. The album’s lush arrangements blend alto saxophones, violins, and rich vocal textures, creating a soundscape that invites listeners to lose themselves in a melodic journey filled with nostalgia, joy, and introspection.
“This time, I wanted to step beyond the boundaries of traditional jazz,” Lentz shares. “Drawing in elements of folk and classical felt natural, adding layers of texture and depth to the compositions. Each track aims to capture those fleeting moments of peace and joy we all seek.”
Phil Lentz Presents… Vol. II is brought to life by a talented ensemble, including Dennis Harte on guitar, Wolfgang Lugomarsini on bass, Dave Young on drums, and features the soulful sounds of Red Heller and Richard Philbin on alto sax, with Bob Cohen’s violin adding a dynamic flair. Produced by Dennis Harte, recorded at Studio Mozart in New Jersey, and expertly mastered by Tom Hutten at Bionic Mastering, the album offers a finely crafted and resonant listening experience.
Released on November 22 on CD and across all major digital platforms, Vol. II is more than just a follow-up, but rather a testament to Phil Lentz’s artistic growth and his boundless vision for contemporary jazz.
On Wednesday, November 20, New York Public Radio, home to WNYC and WQXR, hostedits 2024 annual gala, celebrating WNYC’s 100 years on the air.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: A view of atmosphere during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)
The centennial event paid tribute to WNYC’s century of service, from its origins as New York’s first City-run radio station to its transformation into an independent, listener-supporter public radio station and global leader in audio storytelling.
NYPR produces innovative, critically acclaimed programming for local and national broadcast, on-demand and live streaming audiences. NYPR’s brands include WNYC, WQXR, WNYC Studios, Gothamist, New Jersey Public Radio, and The Jerome L. Greene Performance Space. The WNYC newsroom and Gothamist produce award-winning local journalism for New York City, New Jersey and the surrounding region. WQXR, the City’s only all-classical radio station broadcasts new and archival classical recordings and makes live performances from New York City’s esteemed performance venues available to all.
NYPR’s largest gala ever raised over $2.1 million to support its vital work providing New Yorkers trusted local, national, and international news, civic conversation, and cultural and classical music programming.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Guests attend the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Image)
The event, held at The Glasshouse, was hosted by Seth Meyers — comedian, best-selling writer, and host of NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers. Notable attendees included special guests actress Meryl Streep, actress Julia Stiles, actress Rosie Perez, actor and filmmaker John Turturro, comedians Samantha Bee and Jason Jones, Principal Clarinet of the New York Philharmonic Anthony McGill, and more.
Special musical performances featured Grammy- and two-time Tony Award nominee Shoshana Bean (currently starring in Broadway’s Hell’s Kitchen); acclaimed jazz pianist and composer Aaron Diehl; and the award-winning Young People’s Chorus of New York City, led by Francisco J. Nuñez. The evening included remarks from NYPR President/CEO LaFontaine E. Oliver and Board of Trustees Chair Timothy Williams. Attending WNYC hosts included Brian Lehrer (The Brian Lehrer Show), Alison Stewart (All of It), Latif Nasser (Radiolab), Brooke Gladstone, and Micah Loewinger (Peabody award-winning On the Media), John Schaefer (New Sounds), and WQXR hosts Annie Bergen, Elliott Forrest, and Paul Cavalconte.
The evening honored the Leon Levy Foundation, which enabled the digitization of WNYC’s archives through a generous $2.5M contribution — ensuring access to historical documents, recordings, and photographs that chronicle the institution’s public engagement and role in New York City’s history since 1924.
The ‘Black Tie optional/Centennial Chic’ gala also recognized the outstanding commitment and vision of NYPR’s Trustees, past and present, including Judith M. Carson, Peter H. Darrow, Eduardo Mestre, Mayo Stuntz, Jr., Nicki Newman Tanner, Wilma S. Tisch, Cynthia King Vance, Alan G. Weiler, and posthumous honoree Alexander Kaplan.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Seth Meyers speaks onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)
Gala Highlights included a warm and intimate cocktail hour where NYPR’s esteemed hosts and staff mingled with dedicated donors, members, and special guests. The night opened with an enchanting performance by the award-winning Young People’s Chorus of New York City, led by Francisco J. Núñez.
Comedian Seth Meyers delivered a witty and heartfelt opening monologue, including playful jabs at the room and a touching tribute to WNYC’s Alison Stewart, who recently recovered from brain surgery.
NYPR President and CEO LaFontaine E. Oliver took the stage to reflect on the organization’s extraordinary century of impact. In his remarks, he celebrated the contributions of Laura Walker, who led NYPR for 23 years, and honored long-serving staff members with over 25 years of service. Board Chair Timothy Wilkins also recognized Centennial Stewards, mentors, and predecessor chairs for their long-standing commitment.
A thrilling live auction hosted by renowned auctioneer Harry Santa-Olalla, which included a headline-grabbing $81,000 bid for a private castle retreat, contributing to the record-breaking funds raised to support NYPR’s mission.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Brian Lehrer and Rosie Perez speak onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)
Actress Rosie Perez, a devoted WNYC listener, charmed the crowd with her heartfelt reflection on the station’s impact, sharing her personal connection to public radio and her love for Brian Lehrer. Jazz pianist Aaron Diehl and bassist David Wong delivered an elegant dinner performance. Broadway star Shoshana Bean closed out the dinner program with a show-stopping rendition of “Give My Regards to Broadway” and an excerpt of “Empire State of Mind.”
The evening concluded with a lively after-party hosted by filmmaker and author New York Nico, which embodied the city’s eclectic spirit. Hip-hop artist and activist Talib Kweli took on DJ duties, as guests mingled with WNYC & WQXR hosts indulging in classic NYC treats and an open bar.
More information about programs, podcasts, and stations may be found at www.nypublicradio.org.
Photo Credit: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: LaFontaine E. Oliver speaks onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: LaFontaine E. Oliver attends the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Harry Santa-Olalla speaks onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Guests attend the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Meryl Streep attends the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Alexi Ashe and Seth Meyers attend the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Peter Shapiro (R attends the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Seth Meyers speaks onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Timothy Wilkins attends the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Brian Lehrer and Rosie Perez speak onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Shoshana Bean performs onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: <> attends the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 19: Brian Lehrer and Rosie Perez speak onstage during the New York Public Radio 2024 Centennial Gala hosted by Seth Meyers at The Glass House Tavern on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for New York Public Radio)
Swept Away, the new Broadway musical featuring the music of the beloved folk-rock band The Avett Brothers, opened on Tuesday, November 19 at the Longacre Theatre to a roaring standing ovation. The Avett Brothers joined the cast on stage for a special curtain call performance of the show’s title track.
Photo by Alyssa Greenberg
The production incorporates songs from The Avett Brothers’ 2004 album, Mignonette, and others in their catalogue, plus one new song – “Lord Lay Your Hand on My Shoulder” – written by Seth Avett expressly for the production. The principal cast members, reprising their roles from the show’s previous sold-out and critically acclaimed runs at Berkeley Repertory in 2022 and Washington DC’s Arena Stage in 2023, include Tony Award winner John Gallagher, Jr. (Spring Awakening), Tony Award nominee Stark Sands (Kinky Boots), Adrian Blake Enscoe (Apple TV+’s Dickinson), and Wayne Duvall (1984). On Friday, November 22, The Avett Brothers will again join the Swept Away principals for a performance on NBC’s Today Show.
The anticipated Broadway debut of Swept Away is the latest in a highlight-filled year for The Avett Brothers. In May, they released their first new album in five years, The Avett Brothers– now a Grammy nominee for Best Recording Package – followed by an extensive US tour.
Swept Away is “a spellbinding tale” (The Washington Post) of shipwreck, salvation and brotherhood set on the high seas.
An odyssey of “mythic proportions” (San Francisco Chronicle), Swept Away features a book by Tony Award® winner John Logan (Red, Moulin Rouge! The Musical), direction by Tony Award winner Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening, American Idiot) and choreography by Tony Award nominee David Neumann (Hadestown).
The Swept Away ensemble includes Josh Breckenridge, Hunter Brown, Matt DeAngelis, Cameron Johnson, Brandon Kalm, Rico LeBron, Michael J. Mainwaring, Orville Mendoza, Chase Peacock, Tyrone L. Robinson, David Rowen and John Sygar. Swings include John Michael Finley and Robert Pendilla.
The Swept Away creative team includes Tony Award-winning set designer Rachel Hauck, Tony Award-winning costume designer Susan Hilferty, four-time Tony Award-winning lighting designer Kevin Adams, Tony Award-winning sound designer John Shivers, music arranger & orchestrator Chris Miller, music arranger & orchestrator/music supervisor Brian Usifer, music director Will Van Dyke, and casting director Jim Carnahan, Jillian Cimini, and Alexandre Bleau, CSA.
Swept Away is produced on Broadway by Matthew Masten, Sean Hudock and Madison Wells Live. Wagner Johnson Productions serve as Executive Producers.
In a move that has drawn criticism from concertgoers on social media, Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) has announced that patrons to Live Nation shows will no longer be allowed to bring in outside chairs for lawn seating.
Instead, patrons of Live Nation shows will have to pay $15 if they want to sit on SPAC’s expansive lawn.
photo by Shawn LaChapelle
While anger has been directed towards SPAC for this new policy, it should be noted that this policy exists at all venues that partner with Live Nation, and the new chair rule only affects shows put on by Live Nation at SPAC.
Personal chairs will continue to be allowed for events produced by SPAC, such as Saratoga Jazz Festival, performances by the Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as the New York City Ballet.
While deterring chairs could assist shows that are among the most packed (e.g. FarmAid and Dead and Company) some shows in recent years have seen the pathway at the back of the lawn nearly disappear in a sea of chairs with fans shuffling through dimly lit rows.
FarmAid at SPAC – photo by Derek Java
$15 not only represents the rental fee, but roughly the cost to buy a personal chair one may wish to bring into the venue. For some, the Live Nation chairs are not preferable, and SPAC has a long history of allowing blankets, chairs and other items that aid in the enjoyment of events at SPAC without having to pay additional costs beyond the ticket price. For reference, the rental chairs are 27.6” wide X 27.6” deep X 30.5” tall, per Live Nation.
A pricetag of $15 is comparable to the price of a single alcoholic beverage sold at the concesssion stands at SPAC.
FarmAid at SPAC – photo by Zak Radick
Fans on social media sounded off on the change:
“It’s over. Support local musicians and venues” said Dan Dearstyne, while Rose Brennan noted “Well, that is just unreasonable. If they cannot control ticket sales, they shouldn’t punish the patrons. Dumb decision, imho. Glad I saw Willie last year there.”
Others focused on Live Nation’s role, calling the ban on personal chairs a “money grab,” and “corporate greed,” citing the monopoly that Live Nation has on concert venues like SPAC. Tim Jeavons echoed many sentiments, saying, “In terms of greed, Live Nation makes Big Pharma look like a charity.”
Read the new rules for Live Nation shows at SPAC, as well as other events where outside chairs are still permitted.
The Caroga Arts Collective has announced that Colleen Ioele-DeCristofaro’s American Dream TV segment featuring the Caroga Lake Music Festival will air on the Travel Channel this Friday, November 22 at 7:00am EST.
Originally part of The American Dream Network, the feature offers a look at the unique cultural experiences cultivated by the Caroga Lake Music Festival, spotlighting the vibrant arts scene, historic Sherman’s Park, and the natural beauty of the Caroga Lake region.
“Having this segment broadcast on the Travel Channel is an extraordinary opportunity to share the magic of Caroga Arts with a national audience,” said Kyle Price, Founder & Artistic Director of the Caroga Arts Collective. “We are deeply grateful to Colleen Ioele-DeCristofaro for her outstanding work and to the Travel Channel for showcasing our story.”
Audiences nationwide can tune in live or set their DVRs to experience this special presentation celebrating music, community, and the stunning Adirondack setting—including the historic Sherman’s— that inspires the Caroga Lake Music Festival.
Founded in 2012, Caroga Arts presents over 50 performances and community events each year, welcoming more than 150 artists from around the world to the Southern Adirondacks. Caroga Arts focuses on revitalizing the region through community outreach, partnerships with local businesses and non-profit organizations, and arts education programming for youth and adults.
Gary Lucas (Jeff Buckley, Captain Beefheart) has released over 50 acclaimed albums as a leader or co-leader to date and toured in over 40 countries worldwide since cutting his teeth as a featured soloist and member of Captain Beefheart and the Magic Band. Gary may be best known for co-writing and playing on Jeff Buckley’s “Grace” album (Jeff thanked him in the liner notes for “magical guitarness”)— but those who have heard him live in whatever context he is playing in are still shaking their heads in amazement and trying to pick their jaws up from the floor!
In 1989, Lucas formed his longtime band GODS AND MONSTERS, featuring a revolving cast of stellar players orbiting Lucas’s incendiary guitar playing electric and acoustic. The December 22 performance at the Colony Woodstock will serve as the debut for the latest iteration of the band. In the words of the acclaimed guitarist, GODS AND MONSTERS is now “a psychedelic power trio” featuring the rock-steady propulsive bass of Ernie Brooks (Modern Lovers, Arthur Russell) and the exploding nebula of drummer extraordinaire Calvin Weston (James “Blood” Ulmer, Lounge Lizards).
Gary Lucas’ varied works have generated critical acclaim that is second to none in the world of guitaring. Rolling Stonecalls him “one of the best and most original guitarists in America” and his trio “a 21st Century Cream.” UK music bible Melody Maker labels him “a true axe god” while MOJO Magazineproclaims him “the psychedelic guitarist for the post-modern set.” The New York Times says Lucas “plays guitar like Salvador Dali paints…guitarist with a global beat.” His work has also received praise from many musicians, from Lou Reed and Bruce Springsteen to Nick Cave and Leonard Bernstein. You can stream Lucas’ extensive discography here on Spotify.
Show opener Spaghetti Eastern Music is the genre-leaping solo project of Woodstock-based guitarist/keyboardist and NYSMusic contributor Sal Cataldi. Spaghetti Eastern Music marries funky, acid jazz-fueled guitar instrumentals and ambient soundscapes with bare-bones acoustic ballads straight out of the Nick Drake school. Cataldi debuted the project with the critically acclaimed 2016 album, “Sketches of Spam,” followed by numerous singles and EPs.
The New York Times says Cataldi “has a beat unmistakably his own” while Time Out New York praises his “delicate guitar work and the hauntingly moody atmosphere he conjures.” His music has been called “beautiful and unique” by WFUV’s Mixed Bag and “charmingly melodic and off-center” by WFMU.Hudson Valley One has called Spaghetti Eastern “part Sergio Leone fever dream, part Ravi Shankar raga, a whirling dervish of musical creation… a must-see” while Chronogram Magazine calls his music “cool, melodic, inspired and transcendent, a wave of sonic warmth and light.” Look for his music here at Spotify
Colony Woodstock is located at 22 Rock City Road, Woodstock – for information and tickets to Gary Lucas and Gods and Monsters, visit here.
The Palace Theatre, in partnership with the City of Albany’s 2024 Cash for Coats Drive, welcome the Nolanauts on Friday, November 8.
The free performance enjoines funk music lovers in the Capital District to support CA$H FOR COATS, with donations of $25 or more garnering an invite to a special VIP Reception area with complimentary food provided by The Hollow Bar + Kitchen.
The Cash for Coats program is a community-based initiative designed to collect funds to purchase new winter clothing items for Albany school children in need. Donations can be made the following ways.
Nolanauts is a fast rising, high octane, 10-piece rockin’ funk collective fired up about celebrating the joyful historical and contemporary fire of New Orleans music, sharing it with fans of all ages while creating a vibrant party atmosphere wherever they go. The ensemble features passionate, committed musicians of different generations playing music by Crescent City legends, from 50-60-year- old chestnuts to more contemporary songs.
Starting with a livestream presentation at The Linda WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio in Albany, fans, NoLaNauts have performed at such mid-size venues as Frog Alley in Schenectady, Putnam Place in Saratoga Springs, Lark Hall in Albany (including an opening slots for NOLA legends, Glen David Andrews & John “Papa” Gros), Cohoes Music Hall in Cohoes, NY and at the Rye Bread Music & Arts Festival. The band dropped their debut original single “Early Warning” in February 2023 and has three upcoming singles set for release throughout 2024.
The Palace Sessions is a live music series featuring some of our favorite regional & national acts performing in different spaces within the historic performing arts center. The Palace Sessions was conceived in 2020 through a partnership with the City of Albany & Mirth Films as an outlet to provide live music to the Capital Region (and entertain ourselves!) during a time when venues were closed and live music was difficult, if not impossible to come by as well as raise money to support the Palace Theatre.
The Palace Sessions lives on with free live performances in the Palace Lobby, open to the public and aired online.Past Palace Sessions performers include moe., Eastbound Jesus, Annie in the Water, Thomas Nicholas, Moriah Formica, and more… To enjoy past episodes of the Palace Sessions online, visit here.
Utica’s Stanley Theatre will present the premiere of the holiday comedy “The Christmas Letter” – written by Ilion, NY native Michael Cunningham – on Saturday, November 9.
The film features scenes filmed in Utica and surrounding towns.
Directed by Tori Hunter, the movie follows Joe Michaels, a man determined to top his wealthy friend’s extravagant holiday letter by creating unforgettable experiences with his family.
“I was born and raised in Ilion and had always dreamed of bringing something back to the valley in some way,” Cunningham said. “And while I didn’t build a factory, I did create a story which was built on my life here, so it only made sense to film here. The Utica/Rome/Mohawk Valley region has so much to offer filmmakers. There is a vast palette of unique landscapes and buildings imbued with character and history, and the people are the best.”
This festive film reunites Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid, the iconic duo from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
“I don’t think it really hit me that this was all happening until I heard Brian Doyle-Murray deliver one of my lines for the first time,” Michael Cunningham said. “It was magical. And then having the likes of Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid add their legendary comedic talents just made the whole experience even more surreal.”
Film Utica played a key role in supporting the production of “The Christmas Letter” by assisting with local logistics and helping to secure filming locations. Their involvement helped bring portions of the movie to life, including scenes shot at The Stanley Theatre.
“The premiere of “The Christmas Letter” marks the culmination of many years of work with what is now Film Utica – our local film commission,” Utica Mayor Mike Galime said. “With Oneida County joining in support for this premiere, we could not be more delighted. The sets and scenes of The Christmas Letter are a clear example of how partnering on local trades, including within the arts, are part of our regional renaissance.”
The screening of “The Christmas Letter” at The Stanley Theatre is an opportunity for families to enjoy a festive movie together as they begin their holiday celebrations.
“We are thrilled to support the premiere of “The Christmas Letter” at the Stanley Theatre,” Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said, “This film not only showcases the incredible talent of a local writer, but also highlights the beauty and charm of several beloved locations here in Oneida County. By contributing to this event, we are investing in and promoting our local arts community and celebrating the unique stories that make our region special. We look forward to seeing our home shine on the big screen.”
Tickets are just $5 and are available for purchase in person at the box office or by phone at 315-724-4000 (will call only).
