Concert series will engage audiences

You may recognize some of the performers’ faces, but the new interactive theme of the Longboat Key Center for Arts’ 2011 concert series will produce performances the Key has never seen before.

“There is a real opportunity for performers to interact with the audience,” said concert series collaborator
Dorothy Blum. “It’s a concert, but instead of just listening, the audience gets to be part of the performance and really connect.”

The series begins at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 26, with an interactive concert entitled, “Harmony and Jazz.” Vocalist Ozanda Gray will create a collaborative experience between the performers and the audience, creating a unique sound and experience.

Arts Center favorite Al Hixon and his All-Star Jazz Band will return Thursday, Feb. 3, featuring Hixon on the drums, Johnny Varro on piano, Vince Evans on bass, Bob Switzer on the trumpet, Jim Wellen as tenor and vocals by Lorri Hafer.

You won’t be able to help but sing along with your favorite songs, as Katt Hefner belts out classics from the “Great American Song Book” at “Love those Lyrics,” Tuesday, Feb. 15.

Audience members will have the opportunity to “Feel the Beat” of rhythms from around the world when percussionist Scott Blum performs Tuesday, March 22. The diverse selection of music from different parts of the globe will give audience members an opportunity to become a part of the performance while they get a chance to play the instruments themselves.

If you want to get into the groove, Fuzion Dance Artists’ April 19 performance will not only entertain but also educate the audience by teaching them some moves at “Shall We Dance?”

All performances will take place from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design, located at 6860 Longboat Drive S. Cost of each performance is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Call 383-2345 for more information.

Contact Maria Amodio at [email protected]