Rehoboth Jazz Festival
When you consider taking in performances from Joe Piscopo, Charlie Thomas' Drifters and The Neville Brothers, you may anticipate quite a drive. But that's not the case.
Every year, the Rehoboth Beach Autumn Jazz Festival, to be held through Sunday, brings some of the biggest names and all-time favorites to the Delaware coast. In the past, performers including Queen Latifa, James Ingram and Al Green have taken the stage.
"And we haven't even gotten to our 25th year yet," said Leon Galitzin, vice president of the Delaware Celebration of Jazz, the group responsible for organizing the event.
When The Rehoboth Beach Autumn Jazz Festival began 19 years ago, the aim was to bring more business to the merchants and restaurants during the shoulder season. Since then, it has become an event that jazz fans look forward to months in advance.
The opening show with Charlie Thomas' Drifters is already sold out, but tickets are still available for Grammy award-winning Patti Austin, who will be taking over for Ramsey Lewis on Friday at 9 p.m., who couldn't attend because of an illness.
The weekend will come to a close Sunday at 6:30 p.m. with an All-star Jazz Jam, featuring 12 to 14 performers who come together for "... a jam unlike any jam that has ever been done before," Galitzin said. "People will walk out on a high note -- not from the food or alcohol but because of the bands," Galitzin said.
The closing party will also include an open bar, an Italian buffet -- prepared by Chef John Dileo of Casa Dileo Restaurant in Rehoboth Beach -- and cabaret seating with eight people per table.
Because of the economy, tickets will be priced $25 to $30 cheaper than last year, Galitzin said, and the majority of shows will be at the Convention Center to accommodate a larger audience.
"This is the most economical trip for the best music of the season," Galitzin said.
Tickets may only be purchased online at www. rehobothjazz.com
source: delmarvanow.com
