Dark Star Orchestra, one of the country’s premier Grateful Dead tribute bands, have finalized their U.S. summer touring schedule. The tour will span both coasts and everything in between, and the band’s August slate now contains shows all throughout New York State.
Along the tour, Dark Star Orchestra is going to be performing some special this summer. For the July 21 show at the Stone Pony Summer Stage in Asbury Park, NJ the band announced today they will be recreating the Dead’s epic 9/3/77 show from nearby Englishtown, NJ. “Its proximity, only 25 miles from Asbury Park, and the fact that it was an epic outdoor show, made sense for us to choose,” notes DSO bassist Skip Vangelas. “Itâs a classic show in the GD world and one that New Jerseyans, whether Deadhead or not have never forgotten!”
A few weeks later, the band is scheduled to play Wonderland Forest in Lafayette, NY on August 9 and 10. The newly established venue located just south of Syracuse will also play host to the Biscoland festival this summer. DSO will also play The Rooftop at Pier 17 on August 11, Innovative Field in Rochester on August 21 and the Frog Alley Summer Stage in Schenectady the following day on August 22.
Special dates are dotted all throughout the summer tour, including the band’s debut at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley, CA on July 13. It marks a celebration of 40 years of the Rex Foundation and the benefit performance will see DSO offer a 40-years-to-the-day recreation of the Dead’s 7/13/84 performance from The Greek Theatre.
More information and links to ticketing info can be found here.
Sally Rogers, Claudia Schmidt, and Emma’s N Revolution will perform their second annual concert celebrating women, artists and change-makers at the 8th Step at Proctors (GE Theatre) in Schenectady on May 5.
The award-winning folk legends concert will be a part of their second annual Mother’s Day tour “Every Day is Mother’s Day”, which was formed to “lift up mothers and foremothers, trailblazers and hell raisers of all kinds,” according to Pat Humphries of the duo Emma’s Revolution.
Pat Humphries, who had a solo career as a folk singer and songwriter, recorded two albums before forming Emma’s Revolution with Sandy Opatow. Opatow had also been part of another folk duo, Petronella, when the two met. The duo is named after the statement attributed to Emma Goldman that “If I can’t dance, I don’t want to be part of your revolution”.
In 1979, Sally Rogers embarked on a full-time touring career, encouraged by the iconic Canadian singer-songwriter Stan Rogers. She traveled throughout the United States, Europe, China, Hungary, Poland, England, and Scotland thanks to more than a dozen appearances on A Prairie Home Companion. Sally is well-known for having a clear voice and for playing the guitar, banjo, and mountain dulcimer for herself. Many of these instruments are featured in her solo concerts, in her interactive school residencies, in duos with her husband Howie Bursen, and with her longtime friend Claudia Schmidt.
Also performing at the Mother’s Day tour is Michigan-based folk and jazz singer Claudia Schmidt. Ever since her first performances in the late 1970s, Schmidt has been a well-known figure in the folk and acoustic music scene. Claudia Schmidt, who’s based in Illinois, made her stage debut at AmazingRace Coffeehouse in Evanston. After she established a relationship with the fledgling record label Red House Records in 1987, she went on to record five additional albums, including a pair with Sally Rogers. It was evident that the ten tracks listed above were all folk and acoustic.
Emma’s Revolution made of Pat Humphries and Sandy O, Sally Rogers and Claudia Schmidt will come together and create their powerful four-part harmonies in their second annual concert celebrating women, artists and change-makers. The concert will kick off at 7:00 pm on May 5, at the 8th Step at Proctors (GE Theatre), 432 State Street, in Schenectady.
Tickets are $30 advance / $33 day of show / $65 Gold Circle (front center), available through 8thstep.org; or through Proctors Box Office (518) 346-6204 and at the door.
Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady has announced the return of Harbor Jam this summer at the Mohawk Harbor Amphitheater. This year’s Harbor Jam concerts will take place Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21.
This summer’s Harbor Jam weekend performance lineup includes headliners Night Fever and Hotel California, tributes to the Bee Gees and the Eagles respectively. Each night’s entertainment kicks off at 6 PM with DJ MixItUp NY on Saturday and DJ Ketchup on Sunday. The headlining performance starts at 7:30 PM. The Sunday, July 21 concert will also be followed by a special firework show.
The event sees two fantastically talented cover bands of two of the world’s most recognizable groups. Night Fever is the largest production of the Bee Gees in the world. The group has been touring for the past ten years, from Disneyland to Russia, recreating the look and sound of the Bee Gees. Capturing a full history of the Bee Gees, Night Fever includes songs from “To Love Somebody”, “I Got to Get A Message”, “Stayin Alive”, “More Than A Woman”, “Nite Fever”, and many more.
For over three decades now Hotel California has been recreating the legendary sound of The Eagles, and thrilling audiences all over the world. The night of July 21 welcomes Hotel California for another thrilling show.
For more information on the free Harbor Jam Summer Concert at Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, click here.
The Eddies Awards have announced the 2024 winners, including Saratoga Springs artist Angelina Valente taking home the most awards for Solo/Duo Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and Album of the Year.
Photo by Joe Putrock.
Other multiple award winners include Indie pop duo SIRSY who received Eddies Music Awards for Pock/Pop Artist of the Year and Record of the Year and WEXT with Radio Station of the Year and DJ of the Year for Andy Gregory.
Merit Awards are given each year to music initiatives that don’t fit traditional categories that benefit the community. The Capital Region Blues Network was one of two recipients for its Blues in the Libraries initiative – actively promoting the careers and music of blues legends by donating books and compact discs to libraries throughout the region.
Also receiving the Merit Award were Joe Mele and Patti Quade, organizers of the Dustin Mele Memorial Concert. The event has been held annually for a decade to raise funds for local suicide prevention organizations; through the generosity of local musicians who have donated their time and talents over $125,000 has been collected.
Photo by Joe Putrock.
In all, over 200 nominees in 34 categories were celebrated during the 2024 Eddies Awards. Performing during the event were Ethan Crowley, Hold On Honeys, Cassandra Kubinski, Jocelyn & Chris, Ruth Pelham, and The Sugar Hold. DJ Trumastr spun music from—and inspired by—winners as well. Emcees were co-producer Kelly Auricchio and Eddies co-founder Jim Murphy.
“First and foremost, the Eddies were created to foster a sense of community and connection,” Murphy said in reflecting on the event, “And to show appreciation and give recognition. The awards process is an instrument to accomplish those objectives.”
The Eddies Music Awards, part of the Proctors Collaborative, are voted on by members of the local music community. For more information about the awards, visit here.
The recipients of the 2024 Eddies Music Awards:
Electronica Artist of the Year 100 Psychic Dreams Punk/Hardcore Artist of the Year Blasè DeBris
Metal/Hard Rock Artist of the Year The Erotics Live Production Crew of the Year High Peaks Event Production
Record Label of the Year Upstate Records
Music Recording Studio of the Year
White Lake Music & Post
Presenter/Promoter of the Year
Caffè Lena – Sarah Craig
Seasonal Outdoor Venues/Concert Series Music Haven Concert Series
Radio Station of the Year
WEXT 97.7, 106.1
Radio DJ of the Year
Andy Gregory
Arts Publication of the Year (print, TV or new media)
Canadian roots player Dave Gunning has announced a show at 8th Step at Proctors in Schenectady on April 19 to introduce his newest album, The Same Storm.
Dave Gunning captivates audiences by painting pictures through his heartfelt stories and compelling songwriting, humorous lyrics and stunning musical arrangements. Gunning rapidly amasses fans across Canada and abroad by blending sensitive folk and innovative arrangements to his original songs.
The Same Storm continues along a similar path similar to its predecessors. The album celebrates moments big and small, lending a voice to the folks that need it most. Dave Gunning uses his musical gift to indulge in a bit of nostalgia, but always with an eye toward the future and the stories it will bring. Gunner never shies away from tougher topics, staying true to the folk music tradition. This includes social and environmental outcries through powerful tunes.
Gunning’s knack for connecting with audiences is lifelong, preceding the skills and experience he’s earned on the road. Gunning is often referred to as a voice of Nova Scotia. He combines a finely-tuned balance of sincerity and impeccable performance that makes him one of the country’s most engaging entertainers.
Dave Gunning heads to Addy Theatre at 8th Step at Proctors in Schenectady for a show introducing and celebrating his latest album. The Same Storm is to be showcased with a night of fun, captivating talent. Gunning sets to bring the audience together in a state of love while proudly divulging into the tracks’ wonder.
“The Same Storm marks another career milestone for one of Canada’s most inspiring and accomplished singer-songwriters, a captivating performer currently nominated for two Canadian Folk Music Awards including Best Solo Artist. Self-effacing and very, very funny, he is a master of his craft: his knack for perfectly timed on-stage banter and gracious storytelling has endeared him to audiences and fellow performers alike.”
– The 8th Step
Doors for the show open at 7pm, and tickets range from $27-40. For more information on Dave Gunning’s upcoming show in Schenectady on April 19 and to purchase tickets, click here.
ABBA’s music was center stage at Proctors in Schenectady on Thursday, April 11, as ABBA The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA, began their tour and kept the Swedish disco pop legacy alive. The show was riddled with outfit changes, energy and music to get the audience out of their seats, and the closest you can get to the real thing.
As the lights dimmed, the band walked out to crowd cheers. The setlist was filled with ABBA favorites including “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” and “Lay All Your Love On Me,” as this tribute band brought the excitement with them. Following each era of ABBA’s music were an outfit change including bright colors, sparkles and patterns. There was a mixture of dancing and singing throughout the evening, followed by acoustic songs that brought tears to the audience’s eyes.
To finish an extraordinary night of 70’s favorites, “Dancing Queen” got everyone out of their seats. As the band left the stage, the crowd danced their way to the exit, hearing the audience comment “They were so amazing,” and “I forgot it wasn’t ABBA.”
This was truly a night none will forget, with songs stuck in our heads for years to come.
Proctors Theatre in Schenectady is proud to host Golden Oldies Spectacular on April 13. The show is headlined by the Doo Wop Project and includes a multitude of talented, authentic acts.
The Doo Wop Project consists of five Broadway stars from smash hit shows like Jersey Boys and Motown: The Musical. This supergroup of Broadway stars transforms hits from the classic and modern American songbook into revamped renditions of your favorites. The group is excited to play hit-songs from the classic American squalls of Doo Wop, Motown, and other golden oldies.
The Golden Oldies Spectacular sees four other spectacular acts including co-headliners The Brooklyn Bridge, who perform a slew of 1950s defining hits. Also performing in the event are The Capris, Bobby Brooks Wilson, and E’stefano DiStanto. Together, the acts set to encapsulate the authenticity and originality of the 50s and 60s music boom.
The Golden Oldies Spectacular takes place 7 pm on April 13 at Proctors Theatre in Schenectady. Tickets range from $45 to $75 and can be purchased on the Proctors Theatre website. To learn more about the upcoming show and to purchase tickets, click here.
The Eighth Step at Proctors is presenting the dynamic folk group Jamcrackers at 7:30 pm on Saturday, March 23.
Jamcrackers is Adirondack folksingers Dan Berggren, Peggy Lynn, and Dan Duggan on harmony vocals, guitar, and virtuoso hammered dulcimer. Performing a mix of original and traditional songs and tunes, the uber-talented trio brings strong songs, tight harmonies, and lively tunes to the stage through Peggy and “the Dans’ ” energy and warm voices.
National hammered dulcimer champion Dan Duggan is known for his wizardry on the instrument and his flat-picking guitar licks. Peggy Lynn sings in her bluesy alto about strong women and life in the North Country, and Dan Berggren’s songs and stories give voice to the spirit of hard-working folks and inspire care of our beautiful planet.
Caffé Lena states: “They sing of nature, strong women, healthy communities and peace, backing their rich vocal blend with world-class hammered dulcimer, banjo, and guitar,” while the Adirondack Museum praises their “Beautifully crafted songs, powerful vocals, and tight arrangements.” They at once bring us back to the days of mountain men, strong mountain women, settlers, and Gilded Age visitors, and take us forward to tomorrow’s issues shaping the future of our beloved mountains and beyond. The trio’s original and traditional music echoes the timeless beauty of the still-remote, forever wild pine and lake-studded wilderness.
Tickets are $27 advance / $29 day of show / $45 Gold Circle (Priority Seating and 6:30 Meet & Greet onstage), available through The Eighth Tix/Info Line at (518) 434-1703 (Visa/MC/Disc/AmEx), online, through Proctors Box Office (518) 346-6204.
Proctors and theRep have announced their show lineup for the 2024-2025 season. After hosting “The Not So Late-Night Show” on Feb. 26, the Proctors Collaborative hosts John Gray and Lydia Kulbida were joined by Philip Morris, Proctors CEO, and Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill, producing artistic director of theREP, to announce the remarkable shows coming to the MainStage at Proctors in Schenectady and the Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany.
Pictured: AEA Actor, Joshua Redfield and local actress Emily Curro
The first show of the KeyBank Subscription Series at Proctors, Some Like it Hot, is set in Chicago when Prohibition had everyone thirsty for excitement. Some Like It Hot is the “glorious, big, high-kicking” story of two musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels, they catch a cross-country train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime.
Next, in December, Proctors is bringing a musical based on one of the greatest entertainers of all time, Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Schenectady as MJ, the multi-Tony award-winning new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own.
Starting in 2025, the MainStage will host another show, Parade, in January. Leo and Lucille Frank are a newlywed Jewish couple struggling to make a life in the old red hills of Georgia. When Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime, it propels them into an unimaginable test of faith, humanity, justice, and devotion.
In February, a theatrical event unlike anything else will be coming to the MainStage with Life of Pi. Based on the novel that sold more than 15 million copies and became a worldwide phenomenon, Life of Pi is an epic story of perseverance and hope that speaks to every generation and also “gives new life to Broadway” according to The Today Show.
Following Life of Pi, Proctors will bring a corn-fed, corn-bred American musical to the MainStage with Shucked in March- a musical that is sure to satisfy the fan’s appetite for a great musical theater. In April, they will welcome a love letter to the theatre with Funny Girl. This bittersweet comedy is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on stage. Everyone told her she’d never be a star, but then something funny happened—she became one of the most beloved performers in history.
Last, Proctors will host the Disney classic Beauty and the Beast in June. Fans will witness Disney’s newly reimagined 30th-anniversary production of the musical – filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love.
In addition to the shows in the KeyBank Broadway Series, Proctors will also offer three subscriber exclusive add-ons with Hadestown in October 2024, Come From Away in March 2025, and Clue in May 2025. Proctors subscribers can choose a crossover show from theREP’s 2024-2025 season.
Starting in September, theREP kicks off the 2024-25 season, presented by OverIt, with Seared by Theresa Rebeck. Brilliant, hot-headed chef Harry scores a mention in a food magazine with his signature scallops, and his business partner Mike finally sees profits within reach. The only problem? – Harry refuses to recreate his masterpiece for the masses. For an extra treat, scallops will be cooked live on stage each night.
Just in time for the holidays, A Sherlock Carol by Mark Shanahan will begin in November. Reunite with the characters you love from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens, now brought together in this hilarious holiday whodunit filled with intrigue, suspense, and a helping of holiday cheer.
Starting the rest of the season in 2025 is The Lehman Trilogy by Stefano Massini. Weaving together nearly two centuries of family history, this grand theatrical event charts the humble beginnings, outrageous successes, and devastating failure of the Lehman financial institution that would ultimately bring the global economy to its knees.
In April, theREP will feature their 2023 NEXT ACT! New Play Summit winner with the world premiere of Rosie is Red And Everybody is Blue by John Spellos. Rosie is unhappy–and when Rosie is unhappy, everybody else is too! Her unemployed son has moved back in, her brother-in-law came to visit for a week and is showing no signs of leaving, the bills are mounting up and the only one that seems to listen to her is her husband—whose ashes live in the urn on the fireplace mantel.
Last in theREP’s upcoming season is Once by Enda Walsh with music and lyrics by Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová in July. Over one fateful week, an unexpected friendship quickly evolves into an inspirational musical collaboration. As the music soars to powerful new heights, the unlikely connection is deeper and more complex than an everyday romance. Subscribers to theREP 2023-2024 season presented by OverIt can choose a crossover show from the KeyBank Subscription Series at Proctors.
black woman shout and jumping
Subscriptions for the 2024-25 KeyBank Broadway Series at Proctors and the 2024-25 season at theREP presented by OverIt go on sale on Feb. 27. Subscriptions are available through the Box Office at Proctors, in person or through the phone at (518) 346-6204 Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Single ticket on-sale dates have yet to be announced for the upcoming season.
The Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra have announced it is time for “Animaniacs- IN CONCERT.” The show takes place February 24, 8pm, at MainStage at Proctors.
Animaniacs is an iconic, animated, Warner Bros series from the early 90s. The show includes the classic, energetic hits of the show’s soundtrack coupled with the wonderful, majestic talent of the Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra.
This tour stop of Animaniacs: In Concert stars the show’s original Emmy-Winning composer, Randy Rogel, on piano and the voice talents of Emmy winner Rob Paulsen.
Fans of all ages will experience “Animaniacs” like never before-especially those who grew up watching the series. The show is for adults and kids alike.
Voice Actor Rob Paulsen
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit AtProctors.org.
