Fiddlin’ with fire … in Fountain Park

I know we are not allowed to burn in the city of Van Wert, and especially not in one of our city parks.  This Friday, however, we have received a special ordinance waiver to allow Tom Rigney to light up Fountain Park with his electric fiddle playing.  Actually, Tom Rigney and Flambeau, his band, which consists of bass, drums, guitar and keyboard, will be lighting up the stage this Friday night beginning at 7 with their Cajun and Zydeco flavored music.

It’s actually a little difficult to classify their music.  In reading about them, you will discover the term American Roots Music, but since they hail from San Francisco, you also see San Francisco Roots Music thrown in as well as New Orleans style music.  Zydeco and Cajun are actually forms of music that originated from Creole speaking French people located in southwestern Louisiana.  The music has a blues, and rhythm and blues style characteristic to it.

Flambeau, which by the way is French for “burning torch”, brings the talents of four additionally talented musicians to the stage. You may remember from a few years back that the keyboard player is an exception Boogie-Woogie style pianist.  So, expect to hear some Boogie-Woogie thrown into the concert, as well as Cajun, Zydeco, Rhythm & Blues and who knows what else?  Add to this the fiery fiddle playing of Tom Rigney and we’ll have quite a night in Fountain Park this Friday night.

Main Street Van Wert will be serving up the food in the park.  This organization is very important to our city of Van Wert.  There have been many good things happen to downtown Van Wert in the past few years and much of it is because of the Main Street program.  It is funded by the City of Van Wert and other government sources, but is also very dependent on private donations.  So, eat heartily this Friday night and support another good cause in Van Wert as well as enjoy some wonderful music we don’t get to hear around this neck of the woods very often.

The following weeks in Fountain Park will feature Brass Transit — a tremendous Chicago tribute band — and then we arrive at the Fourth of July already.  The Lima Pops Orchestra will help celebrate America and there will be some surprises in store for that concert.  You won’t want to miss it!

I hope you have had the opportunity to see our new season just announced at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. I feel we have a very talented and entertaining array of performers coming to the PAC, starting in the fall.  Check out the website: npacvw.org or drop by the box office for information.  The exciting full season brochure is just about ready to be mailed.  It will include all kinds of fun information you can share with your friends as you prepare for which tickets to buy for your entertainment palate this year.

From Kenny Rogers to Josh Turner and so much more, 26 concert and shows will be offered for your consideration.  I’m sure we will have more and more interest from far away, so check out the selling dates.  Members have first opportunity, followed by Grand Series and Select Series buyers.

I look forward to seeing you in Fountain Park this Friday night for another beautiful night of music, brought to you by The Van Wert County Foundation.

FINÉ.