Top East Coast Tribute Bands Marquee 2016 Summer Festival

By

County Councilman Dave White
County Councilman Dave White (shown with the string bass) gets some musical instruction from bassist Paul Kurkowski as the Rose Tree Pops get ready to open the 2016 Delaware County Summer Festival series on June 15 at Rose Tree Park. Also shown are, from left, Virginia Schawacker on viola, Jackie Conway on French horn, Kurkowski, White, Anita Alexander and Helen McGoohan on violin.

When Robert Eric sings “Uptown Girl” or “New York State of Mind” at Delaware County’s Summer Festival on July 17, you’ll think it’s “The Piano Man” himself crooning on the amphitheater stage.

And when Jimmy and the Parrots belt out “Cheeseburger in Paradise” on June 30, you’ll be musically transported straight to Margaritaville.

The 42nd Delaware County Summer Festival features some of the best tribute bands on the East Coast, promising the audience amazing concerts that capture the sounds of Tina Turner, Fleetwood Mac, the Allman Brothers Band and Don Henley and The Eagles.

You’ll also be moved to kick up your heels with Philbilly, do the “Wah Watusi” with the Orlons and wave the stars and stripes for the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus.

There is no limit when it comes to the variety, quality and entertainment excellence presented at the Summer Festival. And it’s all free, outdoors under the stars, in scenic Rose Tree Park, Route 252, Upper Providence.

The 2016 Delaware County Summer Festival kicks off on Wednesday, June 15, and runs for nine fun-filled weeks throughout the summer.

This season’s concert series features 46 live performances at the outdoor amphitheater in Rose Tree Park and offers area residents the chance to enjoy a wide variety of free music with family and friends. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket, a picnic and enjoy.

Opening night will feature a performance by the Rose Tree Pops, an impressive 50-member orchestra that performs light classical music, film scores, show tunes and Big Band favorites.

After that, it’s Latin love songs, Big Band classics, ballet, reggae, swing, country, jazz, barbershop harmonies, Irish roots rock and Cajun sounds straight out of N’Awlins.

“Delaware County Council is pleased to offer this free entertainment series for our residents every summer,” said Councilman Dave White, Council’s liaison to the Department of Parks and Recreation.

“The Summer Festival is the best entertainment bargain around. It’s also a great way for us to give local performers a chance to showcase their talents.”

Snacks and refreshments are available for purchase during the concerts.  Picnics are welcome; no alcohol or pets are permitted.

The lineup of talent includes all types of music, from classical to Cajun, Motown to Broadway, doo wop to rock and pop, and everything in between.

There are theatrical presentations by the Upper Darby Summer Stage Shooting Stars (July 16) and The Brandywine Ballet (July 29).

There are shows five nights a week, on Wednesday through Sunday evenings, from June 15 to Aug. 14.

All performances begin at 7:30 p.m., with the exception of two 10 a.m. morning concerts for children: Summer Sing-Along with Peter Moses (June 22) and Steve Pullara & His Cool Beans Band (June 30).

Little campers looking for evening entertainment will also find two children’s shows on the regular nighttime schedule: Makin’ Music (July 20) and The Plants (August 7).

Parks and Recreation Director Marc Manfre said this year’s concert series features perennial Summer Festival crowd-pleasers Chico’s Vibe (June 19), Jimmy & The Parrots, (June 30) and the modern Celtic rock group Blackthorn (Aug. 11).

“We are also looking forward to presenting several new acts, such as Barefoot Bobby & the Breakers (June 17), Rumours: Fleetwood Mac Tribute (July 7), the Land of Ozz (July 23), and Forever Tina (July 14).”

Tribute bands always draw fans and big crowds are expected for Eaglemania (June 25), Robert Eric (July 17), Live at the Fillmore (July 27), and British Invasion Tribute (July 15).

Local favorites back by popular demand include the Sensational Soul Cruisers (July 6), “Bandstand” legend Charlie Gracie (July 24), and Cameo Parkway’s Original Orlons (July 10).

Special patriotic performances will take place with the Upper Darby Sousa Band (July 2) and the U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus (Aug. 10).

The final performance will take place on Sunday, Aug. 14 with a tribute to the music of Eric Clapton presented by The Core. Can you say “Layla…”

Delaware County Council presents the Summer Festival with support from local sponsors, including PECO, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., Tavola Restaurant & Bar, and more.

FOR INFORMATION: The Delaware County Summer Festival runs June 15-Aug. 14 with concerts at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays at the outdoor amphitheater at Rose Tree Park, 1671 N. Providence Road, Media, PA 19063.

There are no rain dates in case of cancellations. A schedule (see below) is posted on the county web site at www.co.delaware.pa.us. Schedules are also available in Rose Tree Park, the Media Courthouse, and in the Delaware County libraries.

For information contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at (610) 891-4455.

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