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| Photo courtesy of Gathering on the Green. |
A tradition since 1994, Gathering on the Green brings the best in performing arts to the ’burbs. Set in Mequon’s Rotary Park, the multiple-day festival will feature headliners Daryl Stuermer (of Genesis) and Dionne Warwick (the Psychic Friends Network lady). Not to downplay her fame, she is one of the most charted female vocalists of all time, but if you are from my generation, you might remember those ubiquitous and hilarious commercials.
The much-anticipated Warwick will perform with the Florentine Opera & Gathering on the Green Orchestra at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 16. Warwick was a serious hit-maker from the ’60s throughout the ’90s with over 50 chart-topping hits, including my favorite, “That’s What Friends Are For.” Warwick is also well known for her humanitarian efforts as a U.N. Global Ambassador, specifically in the fight against AIDS.
Other highlights on Saturday night are the TAIKO Drummers from Japan (playing Friday and Saturday at 5 p.m.) and the Harris Bank fireworks show.
Daryl Struermer will play a fusion of his music with Genesis renditions accompanied by vocalist Amy Keys on Friday, July 15 starting at 8 p.m. Stuermer is not just a famous and talented guitarist, he’s also a Milwaukee native and resident. But he’s been touring the world crowds with Phil Collins and Genesis since 1978, so that’s probably why you haven’t seen him around town. He also does his own songwriting for solo albums.
Keys has sung backing vocals for pop and rock legends like: Sting, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Seal, Neil Young, Chaka Khan, Al Green, Tina Turner, Patti LaBelle, Natalie Cole, Donna Summer, Diana Ross and many others. Funk and soul duo Jamit will conclude the night on Friday.
There will also be a 5K run this year in conjunction with the festival beginnig Saturday morning at 8 a.m. The park will then reopen at 4 p.m. with children’s activities before the evening’s lineup of music.
Single tickets are $45, $30 and $20. Tables and two-day passes are also available. Tickets are available online at and by phone at (262) 236-0510.
One more not to miss: Port Washington Fish Day – the world’s largest one-day Fish Fry right in downtown Port Washington! There is much more to experience beginning at 10 a.m. with a parade, classic car show, carnival and fireworks to conclude the day of family fun. For more information, click here.
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