music

Rent: the award winning musical now on stage at the Music Theatre of Connecticut in Norwalk

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Rent is  a rock musical with music, lyrics, and book by Jonathan Larson. It is inspired by  the 1896 opera La Boheme by Puccini.  Rent  tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive and create a life in the East Village of New York city , in the days of before gentrification and when HIV/Aids was still raging.

The young artists live in a rundown loft in Alphabet City and are months behind on their rent.  They band together to feed each other, stay warm and keep a roof over their head even when the electricity it turned off.   A former friend who now owns the building with his wealthy wife wants to evict them.  It is this pending eviction, the knowledge some of their friends are HIV positive, strengthen their bonds and their friendship to stay in the only home they have.  The story and music is both emotional and moving and you cannot leave the production without being touched by this story.

Rent stars Jacob Heimer (B’way- Beautiful) as Roger, Joe Tolentino (Regional- Rent w/ director Adam Pascal) as Mark, Cedric Leiba JR. (Tour- Rent, Miss Saigon) as Angel, Darrick Penny (Regional- Rent w/ director Adam Pascal) as Tom, LaDonna Burns (Nat’l Tour- Rent, MTC- Ghost (CT Critics Circle Award Winner)) as Joanne, Olivia Fenton (Ivoryton- Hank Williams: Lost Highway, MTC- Moon Over Buffalo) as Maureen, Gabriela Gomez (Disney Cruise- Aladdin) as Mimi, Matt Mancuso (Valley Shakespeare- As You Like It, MTC- Ghost) as Benny, and Ensemble cast includes Sadie Seelert (B’way- Mary Poppins), Leeanna Rubin (Nat’l Tour- Annie), Carlos Pérez (SToNC- The Little Mermaid), Charles Romano (Legacy- Sweeney Todd). Rent is directed & choreographed by Chris McNiff with music direction by David Wolfson. The production team also includes stage management by Theresa Stark, fight & intimacy direction by Dan O’Driscoll, scenic design by Marty Marchitto, lighting design by Scott Borowka, prop design by Claudia Ruck, costume design by Diane Vanderkroef, and sound design by Jon Damast. Ticket prices range from $45-$60 plus fees and can be purchased online.

Music Theatre of Connecticut

tickets and information https://www.musictheatreofct.com/

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Upcoming shows at the Paramount Hudson Valley in Peekskill

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The Parmount Hudson Valley is a fantastic restored theater and a fantastic venue here in Westchester County.   There is always a variety of fantastic entertainment for everyone.  Here are some of the great shows coming soon to this iconic theater

The Sixties Show – Saturday September 27th.  The Paramount Hudson Valley invites you to experience the ultimate 1960s musical re-creation concert and multi-media spectacle. Get ready to be transported back to the 1960s! This award-winning, cross-generational extravaganza is more than just a concert—it’s a dazzling Broadway-style production that transports you straight to the heart of the iconic 1960s. With note-for-note re-creations of the greatest hits, B-sides, and deep album cuts, all performed live, The Sixties Show brings the era’s sound to life. 

Mandy Patinkin in Concert:  Jukebox – Saturday October 4th   Tony-winning Broadway legend, Emmy-winning TV star, renowned for creating timeless characters in movies such as The Princess Bride, Yentl, and Dick Tracy — Mandy Patinkin presents his new show, Mandy Patinkin in Concert: JUKEBOX.

With Adam Ben-David on piano, JUKEBOX features Mandy’s own hand-picked collection of classic musical numbers, expressed as only he can through a unique mastery of word and song..This show will begin promptly at 8 PM and late seating will be done at House Manager’s discretion.

Bronx Tale Friday October 10th  Bronx-born and raised Chazz Palminteri wrote the play,  A Bronx Tale . The powerful one-man stage play depicted his childhood in the 1960s Bronx  which included witnessing a gangland killing outside his house when he was nine years old. Palminteri plays 18 characters and brought them all to life in his autobiographical play. His friends, enemies and family came alive on stage.   The play would later become a major motion picture directed by and starring Robert DiNiro and Chazz Palminteri.  We have seen this one man play in the past and it is a theatrical event not to be missed.

Hollywood Nights-the Bob Seger Experience Saturday October 11th  Get ready to rock out with Hollywood Nights – The Bob Seger Experience! This high-energy 9-piece band from New Jersey delivers an authentic tribute to Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band, bringing Seger’s unforgettable hits to life, including classics like “Main Street” “Night Moves,” “Turn the Page,” “Against the Wind,” and “Old Time Rock & Roll.” Hollywood Nights perfectly captures the energy of Seger’s raspy vocals and the rock and roll energy that defined his performances. If you missed a Bob Segar concert, this is a chance to experience the next best thing

Paramount Hudson Valley

For tickets and information https://paramounthudsonvalley.com/

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Exciting line up of shows at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester

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One of the most iconic local music venues in our area is hosting a great line up of shows in the coming weeks.

The Teskey Brothers – USA Tour 2025   with Zinadelphia    Sunday September 14th

Sam and Josh Teskey, known as The Teskey Brothers, have captured the hearts of many, reaching the kind of global success a blues band out of Melbourne could only have imagined They have released  three studio albums featuring a  soul-soaked spin on rock, folk and blues.

The Revivalists: Monday September 22
Eight-piece rock ‘n’ roll collective The Revivalists. Renowned for their live prowess, soulful alt-rock anthems, and a distinct mix of many of the classic styles of American music. The Revivalists broke through with 2015’s Men Amongst Mountains, which featured the double-platinum smash single and Billboard Hot 100 hit “Wish I Knew You.” 

Johnny Marr with Trace Mountains Friday September 26th

Johnny Marr started his career with The Smiths, beginning an amazing history as one of the most influential songwriters and guitarists in British independent music. His subsequent creative journey has seen him at the heart of The The, Electronic, Modest Mouse and The Cribs, as well as working with such names as The Pretenders, Talking Heads, The Avalanches, and the musician and composer Hans Zimmer – with whom he recorded the score and soundtrack for the most recent James Bond film, No Time To Die, including the Oscar-nominated title track created with Billie Eilish.  Should be a great show!!

Oteil and Friends Friday October 3

Oteil and Friends brings their Greatful Dead inspired sound to the Capitol. Oteil & Friends features a rotating cast of all-star musicians (including Melvin Seals, John Kadlecik, Tom Guarana, Jeff Chimenti, John Morgan Kimock, Jennifer Hartswick, Jason Crosby, Natalie Cressman, Lamar Williams Jr., and more) began touring in 2017, and continue to play shows and festivals today.

Yes – Performing “Fragile” in its entirety Sunday October 5th

The iconic progressive rock band Yes will be at the Capitol on October 5th with an epic show. They will be performing their famous album “Fragile” in its entirety! Do not miss this show.

For tickets and more information for all these show and more https://www.thecapitoltheatre.com/

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Great new live shows coming to the Paramount Hudson Valley Theater

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A great line up of live entertainment is coming soon to the historic Paramount Theater in Peekskill. 

Super 70s Show  July 25th at 8PM

The Super 70’s Rock Show is an high energy, immersive concert experience featuring the  70s rock and radio hits that defined a generation .  The show is performed with stunning musicianship and a cutting-edge visual production that brings the sights and sounds of the ’70s roaring back to life. Sounds like a great time!

JIMMY KENNY BAND- THE ULTIMATE BEACH PARTY TRIBUTE TO JIMMY BUFFETT, KENNY CHESNEY AND THE ZAC BROWN BAND August 23 at 8pm

Let’s keep the party going! The Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band have been celebrating the beach/ country sounds of Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Band, up and down the Northeast coast, Maine for over 15 years, providing a wonderful mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living vibes!  This is a great way to celebrate summer with this tribute to the king of island cool, Jimmy Buffett.

If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer on a Friday night, then you’ll love having a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band!

The Sixties Show- The Greatest 1960’s Musical Re-Creation Show on Earth

September 27, 2025 at 8:00 PM

This looks to be an amazing night at the Paramount.  What makes The Sixties Show truly unique is its flawless attention to detail. From the use of authentic vintage instruments and 1960s mod costumes to its cutting-edge multimedia presentation, this immersive experience goes beyond a simple re-enactment. Time-travel special effects, archival audio and footage, and a stunning light show transport you directly into the spirit of the ‘60s, making you feel as if you’re living the moment, not just watching it. The band, featuring current and former members of The Who, John Fogerty’s Creedence Clearwater Revival, and more, deliver an electrifying performance that resonates with fans of all ages.  Do not miss this musical experience!!

Ancient Aliens Live November 08, 2025 at 7:30 PM

The ninety-minute live experience celebrates the long-running program Ancient Aliens on The HISTORY Channel and features leading Ancient Astronaut theorist Giorgio A. Tsoukalos, investigative mythologist William Henry, UK government UFO investigator Nick Pope, and ancient civilizations expert, Jason Martell, as they discuss thought-provoking extraterrestrial theories on fan-favorite topics from Ancient Egypt, ruins in Central and South America and other ancient mysteries found around the globe.  This exploration of the Ancient Astronaut theory will be a thought provoking evening for all even if you have not seen the hit television series.  Photo op packages are available to attendees.

For tickets and information. https://paramounthudsonvalley.com/events/

Paramount Hudson Valley Theater

1008 Brown Street, Peekskill NY 10566

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Upcoming events at the iconic Capitol Theatre in Port Chester.

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The Capitol Theater in Port Chester is the premier musical venue in our area.  It offers a fresh variety of live music and comedy for all tastes.   Here is a sample of upcoming events at this iconic theater.

Railroad Earth with Tom Hamilton   Saturday March 22, Doors 6pm, Show 730pm Railroad Earth’s music combines elements of bluegrass, folk, country and Celtic themes as and other  influences. Recognized as “carrying on the tradition of improvisational, genre-spanning music much like the Greatful Dead.   Railroad Earth is known for lyrical songwriting and extensive live improvisation.[

Melvin Seals & JGB  with One-Eyed Jack  Saturday, March 29th Doors: 6:30PM // Show: 8:00PM Melvin Seals and JGB is an American rockband led by Melvin  Seals. The mission of the band is to continue the musical legacy of the  Jerry Garcia Band of which Seals was a longtime member.[2]

Upcoming Shows at Garcia’s:  Garcia’s is the bar inside the Capitol and a music venue of its own.  In addition to showcasing local and regional artists, Garcia’s hosts nationally touring acts from all genres.  Live music lives at Westchester County’s true rock club,

Inside Garcia’s at the Capitol

Steely Dead Wednesday, March 19: A Seamless Blend of Steely Dan & Grateful Dead

Color TV & Wheelhouse Thursday, March 20

The Ledbetters A Pearl Jam Tribute Friday, March 21

SoulShine An Allman Brothers Experience Wednesday, March 26

Alex Cano & Emily Angell Band Thursday, April 3 Alex Cano is a nationally touring Rock/ Americana artist based in the NY Hudson Valley Region. Known for his combination of smooth baritone and powerful rock vocals, Cano’s sound ranges from high energy alternative and blues based rock ‘n’ roll, to intimate Americana/folk/roots rock. 

Stay tuned for more upcoming shows and events!

The Capitol Theatre

for tickets and information: https://www.thecapitoltheatre.com/

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Stonebridge Restaurant in Milford hosts The Island Castaways Band on July 18th

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A warm summer night, cocktails, a great seafood menu and the music of Jimmy Buffett are the perfect combination. Stonebridge Restaurant in Milford Ct. will be hosting a fun event with a real island vibe. Buffett is best known for his “island escape” music and attendees can enjoy his music as recreated by The Island Castaways Band. The fun kicks off at Stonebridge at 6pm.

The restaurant features a wide variety of delightful dishes and there is even a Pub Fare menu to enjoy with Lobster rolls, Fish and Chips, salads, burgers, Ahi Tuna Tacos and so much more.

The event will have a $10 cover charge and there will be a 50/50 raffle to benefit the Charles Island reforestation project.

So get your island vibe on at Stonebridge Restaurant and sway to the island tunes of Jimmy Buffett.

Also check the Stonebridge calendar for fun events coming up in the next few weeks.

Stonebridge Restaurant

50 Daniel St Milford Ct. website> https://www.stonebridgerestaurant.com/

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Caramoor delivers a diverse music filled summer season

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Caramoor is one of the premier live music venues in Westchester County and the surrounding area.  If you believe that Caramoor presents only classical music, then you will be pleasantly surprised.  Blues, jazz, folk, world, and bluegrass join classical music as some of the many offerings.

Situated on the former Rosen estate in Katonah, this picturesque property consists of several different venues.  There is the casual outdoor Friends Field which hosts lawn concerts.  The Venetian Theater is a large tented space which hosts some of Caramoor’s more larger concerts.

There are also smaller more intimate spaces including the indoor “Music Room” inside the Rosen house, the “Spanish Courtyard” an elegant setting that is part  of the main house, and the “Sunken Garden”.

Hear are some upcoming events for June 2024 which you should consider attending:

Saturday June 22:  Jazz at Lincoln  Center with Wynton Marsalis  (Venetian Theater)

Sunday June 23:  Chamber Fest (classical) (Venitian Theater)

Thursday June 27: Abeo Quartet  (Classical) (Spanish Courtyard)

Friday June 28:  Roomful of Teeth (vocalists) (Friends Field)

Saturday June 29:  American Roots Music Festival (various artists and genres) (throughout the property)

Caramoor also features guided house tours, afternoon tea and meditation.  A free shuttle brings guests to and from the Katonah Metro North station on concert days.

For more information and tickets:

https://caramoor.org/

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photos by Caramoor. Spanish Courtyard photo credit, Caramoor and Gabe Palacio

Magnifique! The Baker’s Wife now on stage at the Ridgefield Theater Barn

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The set of the Baker’s Wife

The Ridgefield Theater Barn presents another outstanding musical. The Baker’s Wife is a musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and the book by Joseph Stein, based on the 1938 French film of the same name by Marcel Pagnol and Jean Giono. The musical premiered in the West End of London in 1989 for a short run but, toured the United States but unfortunately it was  never produced on Broadway.  Now  it is  on stage at the Ridgefield Theater Barn in Ridgefield Ct.

Stephen Schwartz  has an impressive resume with his work on such hits as  Godspell, Pippin, and Wicked.  He has also penned the music and lyrics for movies such as The Hunchback Of Notre Dame, The Prince of Egypt and Enchanted.

The story of The Baker’s Wife is set in a small remote village in rural France that has recently lost its only baker.  The villagers are miserable without fresh bread until Aimable (Joe Harding) the baker and his much younger wife, Genevieve (Claire Simard) move to the village and open a bakery.   The villagers rejoice but the audience soon learns about the tensions and issues between many of the citizens.

It is not long before Genevieve realizes that she is not happy with her life and wonders why she is in this village married to man many years older.  When a new man comes into her life, her world, the village, and the bakery is turned upside town.   She runs away with her new love and the bakery ceases operation.   The villagers now have a common cause and they rally to the baker and work together to reunite the baker and his wife.

The two act, two hour production moves along quickly and the audience is drawn into the story immediately.   The songs are catchy and memorable, and the vocal performances by the large 17 member cast are captivating.   The set design is beautiful and the band (now located to the side of the stage) was wonderful.  Direction by Rena Gavigan was first rate and the entire production was high quality that one would see in a much larger venue.    Music direction is by Sarah Fox.

The show runs through June 22, 2024 . Check out their website for the 2024/25 season as well as donate to the Barn as it has recently undergone many improvements.

The Ridgefield Theater Barn https://ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org/

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Fleetwood Mask, the most authentic Fleetwood Mac Tribute band live at the Palace Theater in Stamford on March 2nd

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Fleetwood Mask the only Fleetwood Mac tribute band endorsed by Mick Fleetwood (founding member of Fleetwood Mac) is coming to the Palace Theater on March 2nd 2024.  Tickets are on sale now.   

This is an incredible music experience that takes you through the history and the extensive catalog of music from one of the world’s most famous and well loved bands.  The audience will enjoy the band’s many hits as well as deep cuts from their discography.

Mick Fleetwood himself tells us to “get excited” for a performance that accurately captures the magic of the band.  Each Fleetwood Mask set includes historically accurate stage equipment and instruments (including original pieces used on tour by Fleetwood Mac), period correct  wardrobe, and set lists that replicate the various tours throughout the band’s long history.

Fleetwood Mask members include embers include Claudette Rodrigues (Stevie Nicks), Barbara Martin (Christine McVie), Mark Blasquez (Lindsey Buckingham), Paul Jones (John McVie), Don Oberempt (Mick Fleetwood).

Tickets start at only $29 which is amazing considering the quality of this must see performance.  

The Palace Theater is a local treasure and a fantastic venue for live music.   The Theatre, a 1,636-seat  venue built as a vaudeville house and opened in 1927.. It was restored and re-opened in 1983 for live theatre, opera, dance, comedy and concerts, plus art exhibitions in the Gallery.  We have been to live performances here and can attest to the fantastic acoustics and the clarity of the sound during live performances. 

There is an amazing slate of live performances coming up at the Palace.  Lee Brice (country music star), Irish Comedy tour, Matt Fraser (psychic medium), and country music group Lady A (platinum hit –Need You Now).  Check the Palace website for updates and more information.

For tickets>>https://palacestamford.org/Online/default.asp

The Palace Theater

61 Atlantic St Stamford Ct      Box office  203 325 4466

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