Zydeco, Bluegrass, and So Much More

Written By: Mary Adair Trumbly - Highlands PAC | Issue: March 2024

Fabulous Equinox Orchestra

Highlands Performing Arts Center has long been a beacon for some of the greatest musical talent this country has produced.

For proof, look at the performances that have filled our calendar.

Starting off with a new genre for Highlands – it’s zydeco music from New Orleans. On Saturday, May 4, we’ll feature Mr. Mojo, and the Bayou Gypsies. This band brings all-original mojo music from the traditions of the Louisiana bayou. Mister Mojo, and his troupe of near-mad musical provocateurs, have poured Louisiana fire on audiences across the planet for over a quarter century.

Saturday, June 29 brings Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll to the Main Stage. Neil brings a highly entertaining look at the history of iconic music, using the best musicians and authentic Broadway/Rock & Roll artists in the world, but also tells the story of America since the 1930’s. And all the incredible influences and cultures that make up our melting pot, which influenced generations around the world.

Friday, July 5, we’ll introduce local audiences to The Texas Tenors. These classically trained, versatile tenors were recently honored to be included among the top 50 acts in the world to appear on NBC’s America’s Got Talent: The Champions. To honor the July 4th weekend, you’ll hear rousing patriotic favorites and everything from country to classical. Come celebrate with the boys and make new and lasting memories at a concert experience you’ll never forget.

On Thursday, August 15, we’ll be bringing you Chi-Town Transit Authority, a Chicago tribute band formed in 2017. The key to their success has been knitting together a highly accomplished team of long-time musicians who truly love the music of Chicago. The band guarantees the audience will have as much fun as they are having.

End of the Line is the premiere Allman Brothers tribute band – you’re invited to their concert on Saturday, September 7. They have made a name for themselves with a sound as classic and heavy as the original brothers. End of the Line carries the legacy of the Allman Brothers with poise and power. Come share the soul, the jam and the ramblin’ spirit.

Saturday, September 28, brings bluegrass to Highlands, Darren Nicholson. A Grammy-nominee and winner of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association awards, Darren has taken his own brand of mountain music around the world. He’s been a regular for years on the Grand Ole Opry, and a founding member of acclaimed bluegrass group Balsam Range. Darren Nicholson Band is known for creatively blending bluegrass, folk, gospel, and swing, into a new music experience.

Friday after Thanksgiving, November 29, it’s Mark O’Connor’s Appalachian Christmas, featuring Maggie O’Connor. The Grammy-winning composer and fiddler, Mark O’Connor has created several arrangements of Christmas classics and fashions a wonderous mixture of instrumental and vocal music in bluegrass and other American music genres. Concertgoers are treated to a fresh take on traditional Christmas songs; his renditions are playful and joyous but can be strikingly earnest too.

Monday, December 30, come to a Pre-New Year’s Eve Party and Concert with The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra from Savannah, Georgia. This recipe for 100 percent audience approval includes the favorite melodies from recent history – a dash of Motown, a shot of Country, some folk and rock sprinkled on top–and the stories behind them, serving up a musical banquet that feeds every soul.

Memberships and tickets are available online at HighlandsPerformingArts.com.