By LEIGH C. MERRIFIELD
News & Journal Editor
The Cultural Foundation of Harrison County is dedicated to fostering an art-rich environment in the area and this year initiated a four-part series of “Grand Performances”, featuring talented musical artists representing diverse genres. Upcoming is the fourth and final offering of the 2016-2017 season, and once again, it promises to be “grand”!
On Monday, May 8th, the theater at Robert C. Byrd High School will open its doors to welcome what is expected to be a large audience to witness the presentation of The Fabulous Equinox Little Big Band, a high-energy, 11-piece orchestra based in Savannah, Georgia. Led by saxophonist Jeremy Davis and complemented by the vocals of trombonist Clay Johnson (also known as “Mr. Showtime”), this seasoned group of musicians will bring to the stage a phenomenal performance of some of the greatest songs and best original arrangements of music made popular by familiar singers from several eras.
Attendees can look forward to hearing renditions of some great American classics and perhaps singing along to tunes of legendary entertainers like Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. as well as Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, The Four Seasons and maybe even a Michael Buble number! With sophisticated classics … some Motown … and perhaps a little country … plus more … the variations span several decades and should appeal to more than one generation.
Georgette Griffith has also organized an invitational art show and sale by local West Virginia artists that will be included in the evening. Featured will be artwork donated to the Cultural Foundation by Daniel and Meredith Rogers of Clarksburg, who recently acquired a portion of the art collection of Daniel and Ellen White Pollack and will share it with those attending. Any sales from this collection will benefit the Cultural Foundation’s Community Arts Grant program, which last year helped to fund 20 Harrison County arts organizations.
In addition, thanks to sponsorship by Lisa Lang, owner of About You Monograms in Bridgeport, all RCB students will enjoy a mini-matinee concert by The Fabulous Equinox Little Big Band along with a discussion with orchestra members about professional careers in music.
This year’s inaugural “Grand Performance” series was made possible by the Barbara B. Highland Fund for the Arts. An area resident and patron of the arts, Mrs. Highland’s generous provision funds opportunities like these that encourage an appreciation of all art forms.
Although season tickets for all four Grand Performances were sold in advance with special pricing, individual tickets for this final presentation are still available. Ticket prices are $35 for adults and $10 for children. To purchase tickets for this May 8th show, call 304-669-7045 or visit online at www.theculturalfoundation.org.